Indian Railways is preparing to open ticket bookings for the much-awaited Vande Bharat Express, which will soon connect Katra in Jammu to Srinagar in Kashmir. This semi-high-speed train promises to improve connectivity in the region, offering passengers a comfortable and fast journey with stunning views along the route.
The train will operate between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Nowgam station in Srinagar, covering a distance of approximately 150 km in just 3.5 hours. Travellers will not only benefit from reduced travel time but also experience the thrill of riding along one of the world’s highest railway tracks, making the journey both scenic and memorable.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the service on April 19, and the Northern Railway Zone will oversee its operations.
Ticket Booking and Train Details
Passengers will soon have the option to book tickets through online and offline platforms. The train will be equipped with:
- One Executive Class coach
- Seven AC Chair Car coaches
- A total seating capacity of 530 passengers
Key Stations Along the Route
The Vande Bharat Express is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, which aims to strengthen Kashmir’s integration into India’s railway network. The train will make stops at 18 major stations, ensuring better accessibility for local commuters:
- Reasi
- Bakkal
- Dugga
- Sawalkote
- Sangaldan
- Sumbar
- Khari
- Banihal
- Shahbad Hillhalt
- Qazigund
- Sadoora
- Anantnag
- Bijbehara
- Panzgam
- Awantipora
- Ratnipora
- Kakapora
- Pampore
Expected Ticket Prices
While the official fares have not yet been announced, reports indicate the following expected prices:
- AC Chair Car – Approximately Rs 1,600
- Executive Chair Car – Approximately Rs 2,500
Initially, the train will operate between Katra and Srinagar, with plans for an extension to Jammu’s Tawi Railway Station in the future. This expansion is expected to further enhance railway connectivity in the region, making travel more convenient for passengers.
