How to Reach Katra to Srinagar?

So, you’ve wrapped up your trip in Katra—did the Vaishno Devi Yatra, ate way too much rajma chawal, and probably bought a few souvenirs you didn’t really need. Now the next big question: “how to reach srinagar from katra?”

Good news—you’ve got plenty of options now, including something brand new and super exciting: a direct train between Katra and Srinagar. Let’s break it all down like we’re planning this trip together.

First things first: Distance & Time

• Distance: Around 240–260 km by road.
• Time by road: 7–9 hours depending on traffic and stops.
• Time by train: Just about 3 hours (yes, seriously).

Basically, you can either make it a long road trip with dhaba stops or hop on the shiny new Vande Bharat train and reach Srinagar before lunch.

Option 1: The Brand-New Train (Vande Bharat Express 🚄)

This is the game changer. In June 2025, the Vande Bharat Express started running directly between Katra and Srinagar.

• Travel Time: About 3 hours.
• Route Highlights: The train crosses the world’s highest Chenab Bridge, passes through the Banihal Tunnel, and gives you postcard-worthy valley views.
• Comfort: Heated interiors (yep, it’s built for freezing Kashmiri winters), reclining seats, Wi-Fi, infotainment screens, the works.
• Fares: Chair Car ~₹715, Executive Class ~₹1,320.

Train Timings (as of now):

• Katra → Srinagar: Leaves around 8:10 AM, reaches ~11:15 AM.
• Srinagar → Katra: Leaves around 12:45 PM, reaches ~3:55 PM.

This is honestly the fastest, easiest, and most scenic way to travel now. Perfect if you don’t feel like spending an entire day on the road.

Option 2: By Road (Taxi or Bus)

If you’re the road trip type, this is still a solid choice.

Taxis / Private Cabs

• Time taken: 7–8 hours.
• Cost: Around ₹6,000–₹9,000 for a private cab. Shared taxis are cheaper.
• Why choose it: You can stop for chai, Maggi, or just random selfies with mountains in the background. Total freedom.

Buses

• Time taken: 9–10 hours.
• Cost: ₹600–₹1,000.
• Why choose it: Cheapest option, but less comfy than a cab.

Pro tip: Don’t eat too heavy before hitting those winding mountain roads. Rajma chawal + hairpin bends = bad combo.

Option 3: Flight (via Jammu)

Not in the mood for long journeys? Fly.

1. Take a taxi from Katra to Jammu Airport (50 km, about 1.5 hours).
2. Catch a flight to Srinagar (1 hour).

• Total time: About 3–4 hours including transfer.
• Cost: Usually ₹2,500–₹6,000.
• Bonus: The mountain views from the plane window are insane.

The Road Route (If You Drive/Take a Cab)

Here’s what the journey looks like if you go by road:

• Katra → Udhampur: Rolling hills, greenery, and dhabas.
• Udhampur → Ramban: The Chenab river keeps you company. Roads are curvy—hold on tight.
• Ramban → Banihal: Through the famous Jawahar Tunnel.
• Banihal → Srinagar: Suddenly the valley opens up—apple orchards, fields, and snow-capped peaks. It feels like stepping into a movie scene.

Best Time to Travel

• Summer (Apr–Jun): Great weather, perfect for sightseeing.
• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Scenic, but risk of landslides.
• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Golden chinar leaves make Srinagar magical.
• Winter (Dec–Mar): Snowy and stunning, but check road/train updates before traveling.

Food Stops on the Way

No trip is complete without food, right? On the Katra–Srinagar route, you’ll find plenty of options:

• Maggi & chai at mountain stalls (classic combo).
• Rajma chawal at roadside dhabas.
• Fresh apples and kehwa once you enter the valley.

Trust me, sipping kehwa after hours on the road (or even on the train) is pure bliss.

Quick FAQ

Q: Is there a direct train from Katra to Srinagar?
Yes! The new Vande Bharat Express covers the journey in about 3 hours.

Q: How long does it take by road?
Around 7–9 hours depending on stops and traffic.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to travel?
Buses are the cheapest, but the train offers better comfort for a reasonable price.

Q: Which is the best option overall?
If you want speed → Train.
If you want flexibility → Cab.
If you want the fastest scenic aerial views → Flight.

Final Thoughts

So now you know exactly how to reach Katra to Srinagar—whether you want to roll through the mountains by road, zip across in the new Vande Bharat train, or fly over the peaks.

If you ask me, the train is a total winner right now. It’s fast, comfortable, and you still get to enjoy the valley views without feeling car-sick. But hey, if you’re into road trips, that first glimpse of Kashmir after the Jawahar Tunnel is something special too.

✨ From Question Miles: We keep travel simple. If this guide helped, stick with us—we’ve got more easy, no-fuss travel tips coming your way.