Katra to Srinagar train to start on June 7; Timings, prices and everything you need to know

June 5, 2025 by News Desk

The Vande Bharat Express train between Katra and Srinagar is all set to begin its commercial operations for the public from June 7, following its formal inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) opened advance bookings for the train on Thursday afternoon, drawing interest from passengers eager to experience high-speed rail travel through the scenic stretch of Jammu Kashmir.

According to officials from Northern Railway, two Vande Bharat trains—numbered 26401 and 26403—will operate daily on the route, completing a total of four trips between Katra and Srinagar each day.

Train 26401 will depart from Katra at 8:10 AM and reach Srinagar at 11:08 AM. It will make the return journey the same afternoon, departing from Srinagar at 2:00 PM and arriving in Katra by 4:58 PM. This service will not run on Tuesdays.

Train 26403, on the other hand, will leave Katra at 2:55 PM and reach Srinagar at 5:53 PM. The return journey for this train is scheduled for the following morning, departing Srinagar at 8:00 AM and reaching Katra by 10:58 AM.

This train will not operate on Wednesdays.

The journey between the two locations, which takes just under three hours, will initially include only one halt at Banihal. Officials have indicated that more stops may be added in the future as operations are fine-tuned based on passenger demand and logistical feasibility.

Ticket prices have been set at ₹715 for Chair Car (CC) class and ₹1,320 for the more premium Executive Class (EC). Onboard services will include vegetarian meals, with the addition of select dishes from local Kashmiri cuisine to provide travelers with a taste of the region.

The trains are specially designed to endure the harsh winters of Kashmir and are equipped with anti-freezing technology to prevent water lines and bio-toilets from freezing in sub-zero temperatures.

Heating systems have also been installed in coaches to maintain passenger comfort during the colder months. Other features include 360-degree rotating seats and charging points for electronic devices.

Railway officials said the introduction of the Vande Bharat train on this route will significantly enhance connectivity in the region and promote religious tourism.

The service is expected to ease travel for pilgrims visiting prominent sites such as the Kheer Bhawani Temple, Martand Sun Temple, and those embarking on the Amarnath Yatra.