As part of the process of modernizing its network, Indian Railways is making various services available to passengers. As part of this, it is running 'Vande Bharat' trains targeting premium passengers and 'Amrit Bharat' trains for general passengers at low ticket prices. Let's know in detail the main differences between these two trains and their special features. According to the Times of India article.. As of July 2026, 162 Vande Bharat Chair Car services, 2 Vande Bharat Sleeper services and 72 Amrit Bharat services are available across the country.

Coach construction and amenities

Vande Bharat trains run with fully air-conditioned (AC) facilities. It includes Chair Car and Executive Chair Car classes. Recently, a Vande Bharat Sleeper variant was also introduced for long-distance journeys. The first sleeper service started between Howrah-Kamakhya on January 22 this year.

On the other hand, Amrit Bharat train is designed with completely non-AC facilities. It is suitable for those who travel long distances at a low cost. Usually, an Amrit Bharat train has 11 general class coaches, 8 sleeper class coaches, a pantry car and two special coaches for the disabled.

Technology and speed

Vande Bharat train does not rely on conventional engines, but works on self-propelled technology. Its design speed is 180 km per hour, but depending on the track conditions, it travels at a speed of 160 km per hour.

Amrit Bharat trains run on push-pull technology. That is, there are two engines in front and behind the train. This gives the train rapid acceleration. Its maximum operating speed is 130 km per hour. This is faster than conventional express trains, but lower than Vande Bharat.

Fare details

There is a huge difference between these two trains in terms of fares, which is very important for passengers. For a journey of 991-1,000 km, the basic fare for second class in Amrit Bharat is around Rs. 324, while the sleeper class fare is Rs. 538 (excluding other charges). In

the same Vande Bharat Sleeper, the basic fare is calculated at Rs. 2.40 per kilometre in 3AC class. That is, a journey of 1,000 km will cost around Rs. 2,400 excluding GST.

Amenities and safety

Priority has been given to the safety and comfort of passengers in both the trains. Vande Bharat trains have advanced features like 'Kavach' security system, CCTV cameras, automatic doors, emergency alarms, talk-back systems. 

Amrit Bharat trains have also been equipped with CCTV cameras, improved toilets, LED lighting, Type-A, Type-C charging sockets, fire prevention systems, emergency talk-back systems, etc.

Overall, Indian Railways has introduced Vande Bharat trains for those who want speed, AC comfort, and a premium travel experience, and Amrit Bharat trains for the common man who wants to travel with modern amenities at a low cost.