Even as the Indian Railways continues to witness overwhelming passenger response to the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express trains across the country, anticipation is building around the rollout of its long-distance sleeper variant, which promises greater comfort and overnight travel options. Though no official launch date has been announced, railway sources indicate that the sleeper version may take to the tracks within the next few months.
Meanwhile, there is good news for rail passengers in Gujarat. A brand-new Vande Bharat Express — equipped with air-conditioned chair car coaches — will commence operations between Sabarmati (Ahmedabad) and Veraval (Gir Somnath) starting May 27, 2025.
New route aimed at boosting religious tourism and regional connectivity; train to stop at major cities like Rajkot and Junagadh
The new Vande Bharat Express will be virtually flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his two-day visit to Gujarat. The service is expected to significantly cut down travel time and enhance onboard amenities for commuters heading to the coastal town of Veraval, which is home to the revered Somnath Temple — one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva.
The semi-high-speed service will improve regional rail connectivity while also catering to the growing number of pilgrims and tourists traveling to the Gir Somnath district.
Five intermediate halts, eight coaches, six-day-a-week operation; return journey scheduled on same day from Veraval
According to Indian Railways, the new Vande Bharat train will run six days a week, excluding Thursdays. It will operate under train number 26901 when departing from Sabarmati and 26902 on its return journey from Veraval.
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Departure (Sabarmati): 5:25 AM
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Arrival (Veraval): 12:25 PM
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Return Departure (Veraval): 2:40 PM
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Arrival (Sabarmati): 9:35 PM
The train will halt at Viramgam, Surendranagar, Wankaner, Rajkot, and Junagadh, catering to a wide cross-section of passengers in central and western Gujarat. The rake will consist of eight air-conditioned coaches offering modern seating arrangements, onboard infotainment, bio-vacuum toilets, and enhanced safety features.
