Unlike typical long-distance trains, this Vande Bharat Express will feature chair car seating instead of sleeper facilities, making it suitable for daytime travel.
For this year’s Diwali and Chhath festivals, India will witness the launch of its longest-ever Vande Bharat Express, which will cover 994 kilometers in just 11.5 hours, running between Delhi and Patna. Specially introduced for the festive season, the train will feature chair car seating instead of sleeper berths and will operate over eight trips during the season. The service is set to begin on October 30 from Delhi. Until now, the longest Vande Bharat route was the New Delhi-Varanasi service, which spans 771 kilometers and has been operational since 2019.
The first Vande Bharat Express, was kicked off on February 15, 2019, with a ceremonial launch by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the New Delhi-Varanasi route.
Longest Vande Bharat Express Dates, timings and fare
The Vande Bharat Express will run between Delhi and Patna on November 1, 3, and 6, with return services from Patna to Delhi on October 31, and November 2, 4, and 7. Departing from Delhi at 8:25 am, it will reach Patna by 8 pm. From Patna, the train will depart at 7:30 am and arrive in Delhi at 7 pm. Key stops along the route include Kanpur Central, Prayagraj, Buxar, and Arrah.
According to reports, the fare for the SC chair car on the Delhi-Patna Vande Bharat (train number 002252) will be Rs 2,575, while the AC executive chair car will cost Rs 4,655, with meals and tea included in the fare.
The Vande Bharat trains are intended to replace older Shatabdi train services, providing faster and more efficient travel options. With the addition of sleeper coaches in the near future, the service aims to enhance comfort for long-distance travellers.