How To Reach Kashmir From Delhi
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi: By Flight, Train, Bus & Car
Kashmir, known as “Paradise on Earth”, is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in India. Every year, thousands of tourists travel from Delhi to Kashmir to enjoy its valleys, lakes, gardens, and snow-covered mountains. But the big question is: how to reach Kashmir from Delhi?
The good news is that there are multiple options – by air, train (via Jammu or Katra), bus, or road trip by car. Recently, with the introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains and better road connectivity from Katra railway station, travel has become even smoother.
In this guide, we will cover all the routes, including flights, trains (Jammu Tawi & Katra), buses, and road trips, so you can choose the best option for your trip. For more detailed information about Kashmir, check our dedicated guide: Kashmir Travel Guide
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi – An Overview
The distance from Delhi to Srinagar (Kashmir) is around 850–900 km. Depending on the travel mode, it can take 1.5 hours by flight or 18–30 hours by train/road.
- By Flight (Air Travel) – Quickest way, just 1.5 hours.
- By Train (Jammu Tawi or Katra) – Budget-friendly but requires a road trip afterward.
- By Bus – Cheapest, but long and tiring.
- By Car – Perfect for adventure and scenic drives.
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi by Flight (Air Travel)
Why Choose Flight?
Flights are the fastest and most convenient way to reach Kashmir. Direct flights connect Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Srinagar International Airport (SXR).
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Go First, Air India, SpiceJet
- Cost: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 one way
- Tip: Book early during peak tourist seasons (April–June, December–January).
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi by Train
Delhi to Jammu Tawi by Train
Jammu Tawi is the main railway station for passengers heading to Kashmir. From Jammu, you’ll need to continue by road to Srinagar (approx. 260 km, 6–7 hours).
Popular Trains from Delhi to Jammu:
- Jammu Rajdhani Express (12425) – Fast & premium
- Shalimar Express (14645) – Daily service
- Vaishno Devi Express (12413/14) – Good for pilgrims
- Jammu Mail (14033/34) – Budget option
Delhi to Katra by Train (via Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station)
Apart from Jammu, another important station is Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station (SVDK), which is about 80 km closer to Srinagar than Jammu.
- Delhi to Katra Distance by Train: 650 km
- Delhi to Srinagar Distance via Katra: 750 km (train + road)
Katra is especially convenient for pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi temple, but it’s also a good stop for travelers heading towards Kashmir. From Katra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Srinagar (6–7 hours).
Vande Bharat Express (Delhi to Jammu/Katra)
The Vande Bharat Express is the newest and fastest option for train travelers:
- New Delhi – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express (22439/40)
- Travel Time: 8 hours
- Frequency: 6 days a week
- Features: Comfortable seating, onboard meals, modern facilities
- New Delhi – Jammu Vande Bharat Express
- Travel Time: 8–9 hours
- Fastest train to Jammu, very popular among tourists.
✅ With Vande Bharat, you can comfortably reach Jammu or Katra in under 9 hours, then continue to Srinagar by road.
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi via Train + Road
Since there is no direct train to Srinagar, you need to combine train and road travel:
- Take a train from Delhi → Jammu Tawi or Delhi → Katra.
- From there, continue your journey by:
- Private taxi – Comfortable, best for families.
- Shared cab – Budget-friendly option.
- Bus – Cheaper, but longer travel time.
The road journey from Jammu/Katra to Srinagar via NH44 passes through Udhampur, Patnitop, Ramban, and Banihal. The route is scenic but can face delays due to landslides in winter.
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi by Bus
- Delhi to Jammu by Bus: 12–14 hours
- Jammu to Srinagar by Bus: 7–8 hours (JKSRTC and private buses available)
Bus travel is budget-friendly but not very comfortable for long journeys. It is mostly preferred by solo travelers and backpackers.
How to Reach Kashmir from Delhi by Car
A road trip from Delhi to Kashmir is adventurous and scenic.
- Distance: 850–900 km
- Travel Time: 18–24 hours (with breaks)
- Route: Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Ludhiana → Jalandhar → Pathankot → Jammu → Srinagar
Road Trip Tips:
- Drive carefully in hilly areas after Jammu.
- Avoid winter snow-blocked routes unless you are experienced.
- Stay overnight in Jammu, Patnitop, or Udhampur for a relaxed trip.
Best Way to Reach Kashmir from Delhi – Quick Comparison
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 1.5 – 2 hrs | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 | Time-saving, comfort |
| Train (Jammu/Katra) + Road | 14 – 16 hrs | ₹1,000 – ₹2,500 | Budget-friendly, families |
| Vande Bharat (Delhi–Katra) | 8 hrs (train) + 6 hrs (road) | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | Fastest train + road |
| Bus | 20 – 24 hrs | ₹800 – ₹1,500 | Cheapest, backpackers |
| Car | 18 – 24 hrs | Depends on fuel/tolls | Adventure lovers |
Additional Travel Tips
- Always check weather updates, especially in winter.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer, as Kashmir nights can be cold.
- Pre-book hotels in Srinagar during peak seasons.
- Try to experience both Srinagar and nearby gems like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.
- For more ideas, visit our detailed Kashmir Travel Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the fastest way to reach Kashmir from Delhi?
The fastest way is by flight from Delhi to Srinagar, which takes only 1.5–2 hours.
2. Is there a direct train from Delhi to Srinagar?
No, there is no direct train to Srinagar. You can take a train from Delhi to Jammu Tawi or Delhi to Katra and then continue by road to Srinagar.
3. Does Vande Bharat train go to Kashmir?
The Delhi–Katra Vande Bharat Express runs up to Katra in Jammu & Kashmir. From Katra, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Srinagar.
4. How much time does it take to reach Kashmir from Delhi by road?
A road trip from Delhi to Srinagar takes around 18–24 hours, depending on stops and road conditions.
5. What is the cheapest way to reach Kashmir from Delhi?
The cheapest way is to take a train from Delhi to Jammu and then continue by shared cab or bus to Srinagar.
6. Are buses available from Delhi to Kashmir?
Yes, buses are available from Delhi to Jammu. From Jammu, you can take state-run or private buses to Srinagar. Direct Delhi to Srinagar buses are rare.
7. How far is Kashmir from Delhi by train?
Delhi to Jammu by train is about 580 km. From Jammu, Srinagar is about 260 km by road.
8. Can I reach Kashmir by car from Delhi?
Yes, you can drive from Delhi to Kashmir. The distance is around 850–900 km, and the journey takes about 20 hours. It is a scenic and adventurous trip.
9. What is the average flight cost from Delhi to Srinagar?
Flight fares usually range between ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 one way, depending on the season and how early you book.
10. Which is better: flight or train for Kashmir travel?
- Choose a flight if you want speed and comfort.
- Choose a train (like Vande Bharat) if you want a budget-friendly and scenic journey, followed by a road trip.
Conclusion
So, how to reach Kashmir from Delhi? You have multiple options:
- Flights if you want speed and comfort.
- Trains (Jammu Tawi or Katra, including Vande Bharat Express) if you prefer a budget-friendly and scenic journey.
- Bus if you’re on a low budget.
- Car if you love adventure and road trips.
With better train connectivity through Katra station and the introduction of Vande Bharat Express, reaching Kashmir has become faster and easier than ever. Choose the option that best fits your style, and get ready to experience the magical beauty of Kashmir.