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ToggleKatra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express: Route, Schedule, Fare, and Highlights (2025)
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated on June 6, 2025, is a groundbreaking step in transforming rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. As part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, this semi-high-speed train connects the holy town of Katra (base of Vaishno Devi shrine) with the beautiful city of Srinagar in just 3 hours. It is not only a leap in transport convenience but also a marvel of modern engineering.
🚆 Route and Schedule
The train runs on a scenic 189 km stretch between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar Railway Station (SINA), with a halt at Banihal. Two train pairs operate daily, except for specific weekly off days:
| Train No. | Route | Departure | Arrival | Off Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26401 | Katra → Srinagar | 08:10 AM | 11:08 AM | Tuesday |
| 26402 | Srinagar → Katra | 02:00 PM | 04:58 PM | Tuesday |
| 26403 | Katra → Srinagar | 02:55 PM | 05:53 PM | Wednesday |
| 26404 | Srinagar → Katra | 08:00 AM | 10:58 AM | Wednesday |
💰 Fare Details
The Vande Bharat Express offers two classes: AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car.
Train 26401 / 26402:
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AC Chair Car: ₹715
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Executive Chair Car: ₹1,320
Train 26403 / 26404:
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AC Chair Car: ₹660
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Executive Chair Car: ₹1,270
Katra to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express Stoppages
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express runs between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar Railway Station (SINA), making limited stops to ensure a fast and efficient journey.
Train Route Stoppages:
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Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) — Starting point
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Banihal — En route halting station
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Srinagar (SINA) — Terminal station
Summary:
The train has only one intermediate stop at Banihal, which is a crucial gateway connecting Jammu with the Kashmir Valley, before reaching Srinagar.
🚉 Key Stoppage: Banihal – The Gateway to Kashmir Valley
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express makes a vital halt at Banihal, an important town located in the Ramban district of Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an elevation of around 1,702 meters (5,584 feet), Banihal serves as the gateway to the Kashmir Valley from the Jammu region.
Why Banihal is Important
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Strategic Location: Banihal is situated near the Banihal Pass, which connects Jammu to the Kashmir Valley through the Jawahar Tunnel — one of the longest road tunnels in India.
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Railway Connectivity: The Banihal railway station acts as the critical junction on the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), bridging the Jammu region with Kashmir via rail for the first time in history.
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Engineering Marvels Nearby: Close to Banihal lies the famous Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, which is a spectacular feat of engineering, enhancing the connectivity of this mountainous terrain.
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Local Attractions: Banihal offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and serves as a starting point to explore picturesque spots like the Banihal Pass, Sheshnag Lake, and Verinag Spring—a natural freshwater spring known for its historic significance and beauty.
Passenger Experience at Banihal Stop
The brief halt at Banihal allows passengers to witness the transition from the plains of Jammu to the lush and scenic Kashmir Valley. The station is equipped with basic passenger amenities, ensuring comfort during the stop.
🏗️ Engineering Marvels on the Route
This train operates through some of India’s most impressive railway infrastructure:
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Chenab Bridge: World’s highest railway arch bridge (359 m above the riverbed)
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Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge
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36 tunnels & 943 bridges: Designed to withstand earthquakes and harsh winters
These structural masterpieces ensure year-round, all-weather access to the Kashmir Valley, a region previously cut off during extreme winters.
✨ Key Features of the Train
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express offers a premium travel experience:
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Comfortable reclining seats with executive rotatable options
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Large panoramic windows
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Onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment
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Automatic doors, bio-vacuum toilets
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Centralized heating for cold weather
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Hot meals and beverages served onboard
📅 Ticket Booking
Tickets are available via:
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IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app
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Authorized railway counters
Advance reservations are strongly recommended due to high demand from pilgrims, tourists, and local travelers.
🏞️ Why This Train Matters
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is more than just a fast train—it’s a symbol of national integration, economic upliftment, and modern infrastructure. It significantly reduces travel time, boosts tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, and offers a safe, fast, and scenic ride through the Himalayas.
📹 Watch: Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Inauguration
Planning a trip to Vaishno Devi or the Kashmir Valley? The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express should be your first choice.
