The much-awaited Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper service is expected to begin operations later this month, adding a faster overnight rail option between Karnataka’s capital and Mumbai.
The proposed service will connect KSR Bengaluru with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai. It is planned to operate six days a week in both directions, although the final timetable is yet to be officially announced.
The train is expected to cover the journey in around 16 hours, significantly reducing travel time compared with the existing direct Udyan Express, which takes roughly 22–24 hours.
The proposed route includes stops at Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan. Recent reports indicate that the route is likely to pass through Kalaburagi rather than Hubballi.
The service will be India’s second Vande Bharat Sleeper train, following the launch of the Howrah-Kamakhya Vande Bharat Sleeper service earlier this year.
The Bengaluru-Mumbai sleeper service is expected to strengthen overnight connectivity between two major economic centres while offering passengers a faster and more comfortable long-distance travel option.
