4 days ago
Katra - Srinagar Vande Bharat Express begins operations from June 7: Key details
On June 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Udhampur–Srinagar, Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), a 272km allweather rail corridor, ahead of launching the region's first Vande Bharat Express. The train route traverses breathtaking Himalayan terrain, including iconic engineering marvels: the soaring Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and India's inaugural Anji Khad cablestayed bridgeDEFINED TIMINGS:The semihigh-speed Vande Bharat service runs six days a week (excluding Tuesdays for train 26401/02 and Wednesdays for 26403/04)advertisementTrain 26401 (Katra - Srinagar)
Departs Katra: 8:10 AM - Arrives Srinagar: 11:08 AM (no service on Tuesdays)Return: leaves Srinagar at 2:00 PM, reaches Katra by 4:58 26403 (Katra - Srinagar)Departs Katra: 2:55 PM - Arrives Srinagar: 5:53 PM (no service on Wednesdays)Return: leaves Srinagar in early morning, reaching Katra around 8:00 PMSome sources note slight variations in schedule, but both trains stop at Banihal, with possible future haltsTICKETING AND ONBOARD COMFORTTwo travel classes are available:AC Chair Car: Rs 715AC Executive Chair Car: Rs 1,320Interestingly, IRCTC briefly listed Chair Car tickets at Rs 660 as part of a promotional fare before INCLUDEClimate-adaptive design: heating systems, defrosting windshields, insulated lavatoriesPassenger convenience: rotatable airline-style seats, charging portsModern amenities: onboard WiFi, infotainment, tray tables, support racks, and rail safety system 'Kavach'Vegetarian meals with local delicacies are offered PILGRIMAGE AND TOURISMadvertisementBy reducing travel time by up to 2–3 hours, the Vande Bharat Express profoundly impacts pilgrims bound for Vaishno Devi in Katra and tourists heading to Srinagar's lakes and gardens. The train's swift pace also ensures reliable connectivity during monsoons and heavy snowfall when road travel becomes REA FOR KASHMIR TRAVELThe launch of the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express symbolises more than just swift travel, it represents a transformative step in unifying Kashmir with the rest of India. Enhanced economic opportunities, tourism growth, and dependable yearround access make this train a game-changer not just for pilgrims but for everyone in the can now look forward to a safe, swift, comfortable, and weather-resilient journey through some of India's most spectacular Watch
