Vande Bharat Express to Connect Srinagar and Katra: Regular Services Begin June 7

June 5, 2025 | Srinagar/Jammu : In a significant boost to regional connectivity and religious tourism, Northern Railway has announced the commencement of regular Vande Bharat Express services between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra starting June 7, 2025. The semi-high-speed trains will operate six days a week, strengthening links between the Kashmir Valley and the revered pilgrimage destination in Katra.

This development marks a new chapter in rail transport for Jammu & Kashmir, offering faster, more comfortable travel for both locals and pilgrims visiting the famous Vaishno Devi shrine.

Two pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains—Train Nos. 26404/26403 and 26401/26402—will run on the Srinagar–Katra–Srinagar route, with Banihal as an intermediate stop.

Train Nos. 26404/26403 (Srinagar – Katra – Srinagar)

• Frequency: Six days a week (Except Wednesday)

• 26404: Departs Srinagar at 08:00 AM → Banihal at 09:02 AM → Arrives Katra at 10:58 AM

• 26403: Departs Katra at 2:55 PM → Banihal at 4:40 PM → Arrives Srinagar at 5:53 PM

Train Nos. 26401/26402 (Katra – Srinagar – Katra)

• Frequency: Six days a week (Except Tuesday)

• 26401: Departs Katra at 08:10 AM → Banihal at 09:58 AM → Arrives Srinagar at 11:08 AM

• 26402: Departs Srinagar at 2:00 PM → Banihal at 3:10 PM → Arrives Katra at 4:58 PM

Enhancing Accessibility and Comfort

The launch of these services is expected to greatly benefit pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters, offering a faster and more reliable option compared to road travel. With panoramic views of the Himalayan terrain, modern onboard facilities, and reduced travel times, the Vande Bharat Express is poised to become a preferred mode of transport on this scenic route.

Railway officials stated that the launch aligns with the broader goal of boosting tourism and providing world-class transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.

The introduction of Vande Bharat trains on the Srinagar–Katra route is being hailed as a milestone in improving intra-state mobility. It also underscores the Indian Railways’ continued commitment to expanding rail services in the Union Territory, bringing development and economic opportunities to the region.