The train through the Pir Panjal has changed how people reach the valley. Here is how the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat works and how to build it into your trip.
For generations, getting from Jammu to the Kashmir valley meant a long day on the highway, waiting out landslides and traffic at Banihal. Then, in June 2025, a train began running from Katra to Srinagar — through tunnels under the Pir Panjal and across the Chenab river on the highest railway arch bridge in the world.
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat has quickly become one of the most popular ways to reach the valley, especially for travellers combining Mata Vaishno Devi with Kashmir. This is how it works and how we build it into trips.
The route and stops
The Vande Bharat runs on the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. The service runs as trains 26401 and 26402 (one pair of numbers in each direction), with scheduled halts at Banihal and, since late October 2025, a short halt at Reasi.
The journey takes around three hours, compared with six to eight hours or more by road depending on traffic and weather. Timings and the number of daily services have changed since launch, so always check the current schedule on the official IRCTC or NTES apps before you plan your day.
What you see on the way
The line is an engineering landmark, and the views are reason enough to take it:
- The Chenab Bridge near Reasi, an arch bridge high above the river — the highest railway arch bridge in the world.
- The Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Long tunnels under the Pir Panjal range, including stretches of several kilometres.
- The valley floor after Banihal, where the landscape opens into fields, willows and poplars on the way to Qazigund, Anantnag and Srinagar.
Sit on the side with the larger windows and keep your camera ready in the Reasi section.
How to book tickets
- Book on IRCTC (website or app) as soon as your dates are fixed. Seats on this route sell out quickly in peak season — April to June, Diwali, Christmas and New Year.
- Choose your class. The train has Chair Car and Executive Chair Car seating. Fares are set by Indian Railways and change from time to time; check the current fare when you book.
- Carry ID. Security checks at Katra and Srinagar stations are thorough, similar to airport screening. Arrive at least an hour early.
- Have a plan B. If the train is full or cancelled because of weather, the road via the Jammu–Srinagar highway is the alternative. We can switch you to a car at short notice.
Luggage and practical tips
- Pack light. Luggage allowances and security rules are stricter than on many Indian trains. A medium suitcase and a day bag per person is ideal.
- Expect screening of bags and passengers at the station. Some items that are allowed on other trains may not be allowed here.
- Food is served on board, but carry water and a snack for the security wait.
- Winter travel: the train has made winter journeys more reliable, but heavy snow can still disrupt services. Keep a buffer day before an onward flight.
Getting to Katra and from Srinagar station
- To Katra: Katra is about an hour and a half from Jammu by road, or reachable by direct trains from many Indian cities. If you are arriving by air into Jammu, we meet you at the airport and drive you to Katra.
- From Srinagar station: the station is at Nowgam, on the southern edge of the city. Your driver will meet you there and take you to your hotel or houseboat in about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.
How to plan Vaishno Devi with Kashmir by train
The train makes it easy to combine the yatra and the valley in one journey without a long road day in between.
- Day 1 – Arrive in Jammu or Katra. Rest, and register for the yatra.
- Day 2 – Vaishno Devi. Trek or take the helicopter or ropeway options to the Bhawan; return to Katra.
- Day 3 – Train to Srinagar. Morning Vande Bharat to Srinagar; afternoon shikara ride on Dal Lake.
- Days 4–6 – Kashmir. Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg.
- Day 7 – Fly home from Srinagar.
Our Vaishno Devi with Kashmir follows this pattern. Tell us your dates on Create Your Trip and we will check train availability before we confirm the plan.
Train or road: which should you choose?
- Choose the train if you value speed and predictability, want to see the bridges, and are travelling light.
- Choose the road if you have lots of luggage, are a large group with your own vehicle, want to stop at Patnitop or Nathatop on the way, or could not get train seats.
Either way, the journey into the valley is part of the story you will take home.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Katra to Srinagar Vande Bharat take?
Around three hours, compared with six to eight hours or more by road.
Where does the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat stop?
The scheduled halts are Banihal and, since late October 2025, Reasi. Always check the current timetable on IRCTC or NTES before travel.
How do I book the Vande Bharat to Srinagar?
Book on the IRCTC website or app. Seats sell out in peak season, so book as soon as your dates are fixed.
Is there a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar?
Check current services on IRCTC. Many travellers take a train or flight to Jammu or Katra and connect to the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat.
Can I combine Vaishno Devi and Kashmir by train?
Yes. Visit Vaishno Devi from Katra, then take the Vande Bharat to Srinagar the next morning to begin your Kashmir trip.
Sources checked on 13 October 2026: News On AIR — New halt at Reasi for the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat · Kashmir Life — Katra to Srinagar in about three hours · IRCTC