'It used to take 3 hours by flight from Katra to Srinagar, but now travel is affordable and easy with the Vande Bharat train. This connection is a significant step in linking Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India, massively boosting tourism as travelers can now effortlessly journey from Kanyakumari to Kashmir.' Expressed by Mahesh Kumar at Srinagar Station, who eagerly awaited the Vande Bharat train.
Simplified Journey from Katra to Srinagar
With the activation of the Chenab Rail Bridge, travelers can now complete the journey from Katra to Srinagar in just 3 hours for a fare of 700 Rupees. The inaugural run of the first Vande Bharat train connecting Jammu and Kashmir to the rest of India started at 8:10 AM from Katra, reaching Banihal at 10:05 AM, and finally arriving in Srinagar at 11:02 AM.
Source: aajtak
The train passengers appeared thrilled as they relished the beauty of Kashmir’s landscape from the windows. While some partied onboard, others cheered 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai.' The most thrilling moment was when the train crossed the world-renowned Chenab Bridge. It was a short, one-kilometer trek, yet a remarkable experience for the travelers.
During the journey, a couple celebrated their child's birthday, cutting the cake right atop the Chenab Bridge. Vande Bharat has become a new tourist attraction for both devotees visiting Vaishno Devi and tourists venturing into Kashmir's scenic landscapes.
10-Hour Trip Now Down to Just 3
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Chenab Bridge on Friday, followed by a green signal to Vande Bharat. Saturday saw the opening of ticket bookings via IRCTC’s website. The Vande Bharat train offers two classes, chair car for 715 Rupees and executive class for 1320 Rupees.
Read Also:
Operating six days a week, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat halts only at Banihal currently, though more decisions are pending. The journey that once took 10 hours is now a matter of mere 3 hours. Despite snowfall cutting Kashmir from the rest of India and closing National Highway-44, travel to Kashmir remains hassle-free and exhilarating with this train.
Source: aajtak
Runs 6 Days a Week
Currently, two trains operate along the route between Katra and Srinagar. The first departs at 8:10 AM from Katra and arrives in Srinagar at 11:10 AM, returning at 2:00 PM from Srinagar and reaching Katra by 5:05 PM. This train does not run on Tuesdays. The second departs at 2:55 PM from Katra, reaching Srinagar by 6:00 PM, departing the next day at 8:00 AM from Srinagar, and returning to Katra by 11:05 AM on Wednesdays.
Passenger Neetu Kapoor shared, 'Our dream of having this train in Kashmir has been realized. Vande Bharat was needed here because journeying to Srinagar took up much time and involved a road journey through Banihal. Now, the train saves significant time, boosting tourism in Kashmir, the heaven on earth.'
This express train is equipped with top-notch amenities. Heated silicone pads and pipes prevent water from freezing in winter. For passenger comfort, heaters are installed in washrooms and coaches. Bio-vacuum toilets save water and ensure cleanliness like aircraft standards. Seats rotate 360 degrees, and charging points provide comfort-enriched travel experience.
