Kashmir, better known as heaven on Earth, is probably on the bucket list of every Indian who has watched a 90s Bollywood film. With scenery straight out of a framed photograph, the state offers visitors unparalleled experiences. Moreover, since Kashmir has been an essential destination in the Indian tourist industry for many decades, reaching the city isn’t difficult, especially if you are travelling from the capital city of Delhi. Many Delhi to Kashmir trains offer regular connectivity to this mesmerizing place. So, gear up to enjoy a mesmerising visual train journey to this winter wonderland full of scenic vistas. Here, we have covered all the essential details to know before booking your train tickets:
Overview Of The Journey
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While some flights are flying between Delhi and Kashmir, they may not always be the most economical way to reach the valley. If you want a more economical way to go to Kashmir from Delhi, trains are perhaps the most viable option. The distance between Delhi and Kashmir is approximately 643 Kms. Unfortunately, at the time, Kashmir does not have a railway station. Until one is constructed, the next best option is to reach Jammu Tawi railway station, which lies at a distance of about 330 kilometres from Kashmir Valley. There are some public transport options available from Jammu station to reach Kashmir Valley.
To make planning your Kashmir trip a bit easier, we’ve compiled a list of all significant trains that travel between the two cities. However, before we jump into the details of this train, let us learn a bit more about the train route from Delhi to Kashmir.
Also Read: Best Hotels In Kashmir
Best Train Options From Delhi To Reach Kashmir
Here, we will be discussing trains between Delhi and Jammu. This route is a popular one, and thus, close to 45 trains are running between these stations. In this article, we will be discussing the six fastest trains between Delhi and Jammu:
1. SVDK Vande Bharata
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A recently started train, the SVDK Vande Bharata travels between New Delhi and Katra, the home of the famous Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. The train is dedicated to bringing the pilgrims to Katra, as there was no direct train between the two cities. While Katra is the last station on the train’s route, it stops at Jammu before reaching there and is the fastest train between the two cities.
Time Taken: 6 Hours and 38 Minutes
Departs From Delhi At: 6:00 AM
Arrives In Jammu At: 12:38 PM
Operational Days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Fares: Rs 1160 for seat in Chair Car and Rs 2358 for seat in Executive Car
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2. New Delhi-Jammu Premium Express
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Another special train running between two cities, the NDLS JAT Premium Express is the second fastest train on this route. The secret behind its quick journey? It has no scheduled halts after starting its journey from New Delhi. Thanks to its special status, getting a ticket on the NDLS JAT Premium Express, especially during the peak tourism season is a difficult task.
Time Taken: 9 Hours
Departs From Delhi At: 9:50 PM
Arrives In Jammu At: 6:50 AM
Operational Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Fares: Rs 1316 for a berth in sleeper class, Rs 3488 for a berth in 3 tier AC and Rs 5012 for a berth in 2 tier AC
Related Post: Things To Do In Kashmir
3. Jammu Rajdhani
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Whenever the term “Rajdhani” is associated with a train, it becomes almost obvious that it will be quick and it will be efficient. The Jammu Rajdhani is among the most comfortable locomotives travelling between Delhi and Jammu.
With complimentary meals, bedding, and a concierge on board, you will be made to feel right at home as you make your way away from it.
Time Taken: 9 Hours and 5 Minutes
Departs From Delhi At: 8:40 PM
Arrives In Jammu At: 5:45 AM
Operational Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Fares: 3-tier AC seats cost Rs 1640, 2-tier cost Rs 2305, and first class tickets cost Rs 2640
4. Delhi Sarai Rohilla Udhampur AC Express
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The pocket-friendly alternative to The Jammu Rajdhani, The Delhi Sarai Rohilla Udhampur AC Express may not feature a pantry car, but still gets the job done.
Covering the distance between Delhi and Jammu in just over9 hours, this is one of the most punctual trains on this route. All you need to do is show up on time with a packed dinner!
Time Taken: 9 Hours and 10 Minutes
Departs From Delhi At: 10:15 PM
Arrives In Jammu At: 7:25 AM
Operational Days: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday
Fares: 3-tier AC seats cost Rs 980, 2-tier cost Rs 1390, and first class tickets cost Rs 2335
Related Post: Lakes In Kashmir
5. Uttar Sampark Kranti
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Another train that was started to make reaching Katra easier for devotees, the Uttar Sampark Kranti Express, is known for its punctuality. This train, like its predecessor on this list, also does not have a pantry car. This means the travellers on board are expected to make arrangements for their own meals. With that said, this train is perfectly timed for those who have to attend office/college, before leaving for their trip.
Time Taken: 9 Hours and 25 Minutes
Departs From Delhi At: 8:50 PM
Arrives In Jammu At: 6:15 AM
Operational Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Fares: Sleeper class tickets start at Rs 835, 3-tier AC seats cost Rs 1010, 2-tier AC seats cost Rs 1430 and first class tickets cost Rs 2415
6. Shri Shakti Express
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For those who don’t find the timing of Uttar Sampark Kranti convenient, Shri Shakti Express is the perfect alternative. The train leaves from Delhi over three hours before the Uttar Sampark Express and takes the same time to reach Jammu.
The train boasts a pantry car for weary travellers who didn’t have time to pack dinner with them.
Time Taken: 9 Hours and 25 Minutes
Departs From Delhi At: 5:30 PM
Arrives In Jammu At: 2:55 AM
Operational Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Fares: 3-tier AC seats cost Rs 1010, 2-tier AC seats cost Rs 1430 and first-class tickets cost Rs 2415
Related Post: Places To Visit In Kashmir
How To Reach Kashmir From Jammu
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After enjoying a scenic journey to Jammu, it is time to head to Kashmir for an unforgettable trip. There are three ways to reach Kashmir from Jammu, which are explained below:
By Flight:
The fastest way to reach Kashmir is via flight. Many airlines offer economical and direct flight options from Jammu to Srinagar.
By Bus:
You can also reach Srinagar from Jammu by JKSRTC buses. These are affordable options that take around 6 hours to complete the journey and take you to the destination.
By Taxi
Another option to reach Srinagar from Jammu is by renting a cab or taxi. This option offers you more flexibility to enjoy the scenic on-the-road vistas.
Advantages Of Train Travel To Jammu
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Still considering the train option? Here are the top advantages of train travel to Jammu:
- The first and foremost advantage of train travel to Jammu is its economical fare. The ticket price of a train is far more affordable than the flight fares.
- Trains are considered a safe and convenient option even in bad weather. The road routes from Delhi to Jammu remain open even in heavy snowfall.
- Trains journey also are an eco-friendly option as they produce less pollutants than cars and planes. It also helps in reducing carbon footprints, as well as traffic on the road.
Related Post: Kashmir Travel Tips
Alternatives Travel Options To Kashmir
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Apart from Delhi to Kashmir trains, there are a few more travel options to make Kashmir hassle-free. These are as follows:
Flights
Flights are the most popular travel option to reach Kashmir. You can book your flight to Srinagar’s international airport. Several direct flights are available from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Mumbai to Jammu, from where you can continue your journey to Srinagar.
Bus
If you want to travel to Kashmir by road, then buses are the most convenient and budget-friendly option. There are several private and state buses that you can book for a comfortable journey according to your budget.
Bike
Many people who love bike road trip, explore Kashmir on their bikes. The roads are well-connected and offer seamless biking experience complimented with mesmerising vistas.
You May Also Like To Read: Here’s What Makes Kashmir A True Heaven On Earth
There you have it, the six superfast reasons to visit Kashmir. However, it is worth noting that the fares mentioned in this article are mere estimates. Most modern trains are dynamically priced. This means the ticket prices change with the availability of seats. With that said, these fares were calculated assuming 50% of the seats in the train are booked. Plan your trip to Kashmir with TravelTriangle and enjoy vacationing!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Delhi To Kashmir Trains
Are there direct trains from Delhi to Srinagar?
No, there are no direct trains available from Delhi to Srinagar. You have to take a train to Jammu and then extend your journey from there to Srinagar by flight or bus.
How long does it take to reach Srinagar from Jammu by road?
It will take around 5 to 6 hours to reach Srinagar from Jammu via NH 244A and NH 44. There are many buses or cab services available to cover this distance.
What is the cost of train tickets from Delhi to Jammu?
The cost of train tickets from Delhi to Jammu varies with each train and its class. For 1A, you can expect the fare to be around 2500 INR, 2A for 1500 INR, 3A for 1000 INR and SL for 500 INR.
Which is the fastest train for this route?
The fastest train for this route is the Jammu Rajdhani (12425), which takes around 8-9 hours to reach Kashmir.
How far is Srinagar from Kashmir?
Srinagar and Kashmir are separated by a distance of approximately 380 kilometres. Since both cities are located in a hilly area, getting around can take much longer. In this case, reaching Srinagar from Kashmir can prove to be a drive of about 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
How many trains run between Kashmir and Delhi?
None. The closest railway station to Kashmir that connects to Delhi is the Jammu Tawi railway station. From Jammu Tawi, travellers will have to reach Kashmir by road. The absence of a railway station in the valley is one of the most common reasons for the popularity of flights as a mode of transport to reach the valley.
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Sakshi Awasthi, an ardent traveler by heart is a Research Scholar from the University of Delhi. Unveiling the untold story of historical sites and encountering the impeccable beauty of nature, turned her to be a Travel Blogger. Currently, working as a Senior Content Writer with TravelTriangle.
