How to Reach Kashmir: Best Routes by Train, Flight, and Road

One can reach Kashmir by train in a budget-friendly and scenic way. Even though there is no direct train to Srinagar, the nearest major railway station is Jammu. Here' s what you need to know:

1. Major Railway Stations Near Kashmir

   Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT): It is the most convenient station for travelers heading towards Kashmir and is about 270 km from Srinagar.

   Udhampur Railway Station (UHP): About 200 km from Srinagar, it is closer to the mountains.

2. Popular Train Routes
   

   
   Delhi to Jammu Trains:
   -  Jammu Rajdhani Express: Fast and comfortable with limited stops.
   - Shri Shakti Express: Overnight journey with convenient timings.
   - Jhelum Express: Budget-friendly option.
   
   Mumbai to Jammu Trains:

   - Jammu Tawi Bandra Express: A convenient weekly train.
   - Vivek Express: A longer route but connects efficiently.
   - Golden Temple Mail: Reliable daily service with multiple amenities.
   
   Kolkata to Jammu Trains:
   - Himgiri Express: Connects Kolkata directly to Jammu Tawi.
   - Sealdah Express: Another great option with regular schedules.
   
   Chennai to Jammu Trains:
   - Andaman Express: Long-distance train connecting Chennai and Jammu.
   - Himsagar Express: One of the longest routes in India, connecting the south to the north.
   
   Time Taken:
   Traveling to Kashmir by train requires reaching Jammu Tawi, the nearest major railway station. From Jammu, further travel to Srinagar is by road. Here’s the time breakdown from four major Indian cities:
   - Delhi to Jammu Tawi:  12–14 hours by train, plus ~6–8 hours by road to Srinagar.
   - Mumbai to Jammu Tawi:  32–36 hours by train, plus ~6–8 hours by road.
   -  Kolkata to Jammu Tawi:  42–45 hours by train, plus ~6–8 hours by road.
   - Chennai to Jammu Tawi:  50–55 hours by train, plus ~6–8 hours by road.
    Trains like the Rajdhani Express or Duronto Express provide comfortable and faster options for long distances.

3. Tips for Train Travelers

   Tickets should be booked well in advance particularly during tourist seasons.

   Take a sleeper or AC classes for a cozy journey.

   Plan your break over journey in Jammu to spend some days there for sightseeing and then proceed to Srinagar.

Reaching Kashmir by Air is the fastest and easiest mode of reaching here. The primary tourist entry airport is Srinagar International Airport.

1. Srinagar International Airport
   

   Located: about 15 km from the city center of Srinagar

   Facilities: latest facilities, cafes, lounges, and local handicraft shops are available.

   Major Airlines Flying : IndiGo, Air India, GoAir, and SpiceJet offer a wide range of daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chandigarh to Srinagar.

2. Best Season for Flight Travel
   

   Winter (December to February): Explore snow-covered landscapes
   Spring (March to May): Witness blooming tulips and pleasant weather.
   Air travel not only saves time but also offers breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayan range. If you're wondering how to reach Kashmir by flight, this is your best bet for a hassle-free experience.

3. Time taken
   

   Air travel is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kashmir. Srinagar has its own airport, Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities.
   - Delhi to Srinagar: ~1.5 hours (non-stop flights available).
   - Mumbai to Srinagar: ~2.5–3 hours (non-stop or via Delhi).
   - Kolkata to Srinagar: ~2.5–3 hours (typically with a stopover in Delhi).
   - Chennai to Srinagar: ~4–5 hours (with stopovers in Delhi or Mumbai).

   Direct flights may be limited, and most routes involve layovers in cities like Delhi or Mumbai.

For adventure seekers and nature lovers, traveling to Kashmir by road is an adventurous experience. The journey offers picturesque views of mountains, rivers, and valleys.

1. National Highways and Scenic Routes
   

   NH-44: Connecting Jammu with Srinagar through Udhampur, Banihal, and Anantnag.
   Mughal Road: This is an ancient route with spectacular views that connects Jammu to Shopian.

2. Best Season for Road Travel
   

   Summer (April-June): Clear roads and pleasant weather.
   Autumn (September-November): View the radiant fall colors.

3. Self-Drive versus Hired Vehicles
   

   Self Drive: Best suited for experienced drivers who are familiar with mountainous terrain.
   Hired Vehicles: Taxis and buses are readily available and are a safer option.

4. Time Taken
   

   Delhi to Srinagar: ~12–14 hours (~800 km).
   Mumbai to Srinagar: ~34–36 hours (~2,100 km).
   Kolkata to Srinagar: ~40–42 hours (~2,000 km).
   Chennai to Srinagar: ~50–52 hours (~2,700 km).
   While road travel allows you to enjoy breathtaking views, it’s important to check weather conditions, especially in winter, as snow can disrupt roadways.

Each mode of transport has its own unique benefits, catering to different preferences and budgets.

What is the best way to travel to Kashmir?
The best depends on your priorities. Flights are the fastest, trains are economical, and road trips offer scenic beauty.

Can I take a direct train to Kashmir?
No, there is no direct train to Srinagar. The nearest station is Jammu Tawi, from where you can proceed by road.

How safe is it to travel to Kashmir by road?
Spring (March to May): Generally safe. Melting snow may cause occasional landslides or slippery roads. Check weather updates.
Summer (June to August): Very safe. Roads are dry and well-maintained, making it the best season for road travel.
Autumn (September to November): Safe. Dry roads and pleasant weather, but start early to avoid evening fog.
Winter (December to February): Risky. Heavy snow can block roads, and black ice may make driving hazardous. Always check forecasts and road conditions.

Which airlines operate flights to Kashmir?
IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate regular flights to Srinagar.

Train, flight, and road all link to Kashmir, ensuring that no traveler can find a single path that does not suit them. Each journey has its charm-the scenic rail route, the swift air travel, or adventurous drive. Plan your trip now and indulge in the unmatched beauty of Kashmir.