India’s First Vande Bharat Express Reaches Kashmir: Katra to Srinagar Route Begins Operations

In a major milestone for Indian Railways, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir welcomed its first-ever Vande Bharat Express on June 7, 2025. The semi-high-speed train, operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, marks a new chapter in enhancing connectivity and boosting tourism in the Kashmir Valley.

This is the first time a Vande Bharat Express has entered the region, bringing faster travel, greater comfort, and modern amenities to passengers in northern India. The IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) has also officially opened ticket bookings for this new route, giving travelers a fresh and faster alternative to reach the Valley.

Train Number 26401: A New High-Speed Link from Katra to Srinagar

The newly launched Train No. 26401 Vande Bharat Express departs from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station at 8:00 AM and arrives at Srinagar Railway Station by 11:00 AM, covering a distance of 190 km in just 3 hours. With its semi-high-speed capabilities and minimal stops, this service promises a smooth, comfortable, and time-saving experience for both locals and tourists.

The train will run six days a week, excluding Tuesdays, allowing regular connectivity without significant disruption.

Affordable Fares for a Premium Experience

Railway officials have kept the pricing reasonable while offering modern onboard facilities:

• Chair Car: ₹715 (excluding GST and booking charges)

• Executive Class: ₹1,320 (excluding GST and booking charges)

Passengers can book their tickets via the IRCTC website or app, with the flexibility to book up to 120 days in advance as per Indian Railways’ standard reservation rules.

Boost to Tourism and Regional Growth

The launch of the Vande Bharat Express in Jammu and Kashmir is expected to significantly benefit tourism, especially for devotees visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra and for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of Srinagar. It also marks a key achievement in Indian Railways’ push to modernize the network and bring semi-high-speed connectivity to remote and strategic regions.

This historic development not only improves travel times but also strengthens India’s efforts toward regional integration and economic upliftment through improved infrastructure.