Exciting news for travelers and Kashmir enthusiasts—Indian Railways is about to revolutionize travel to the northernmost region of India. In a landmark announcement, a Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to connect New Delhi with Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, in just 13 hours. This new train service is expected to launch in January 2025 and promises to make the journey between the two cities faster, more comfortable, and more affordable than ever before.
A New Era in Kashmir Connectivity
Currently, traveling from Delhi to Kashmir takes roughly 20 hours by train, but the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper will drastically cut down this time to under 13 hours. The train, which will be manufactured by BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited), is designed for longer, overnight journeys and is equipped with modern amenities. The prototype of this innovative sleeper train was unveiled in September 2024 by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, signaling a new era in rail travel to Kashmir.
Expanding Horizons: From Delhi to Baramulla
Initially, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train will run between New Delhi and Srinagar, covering a distance of about 800 km. However, Indian Railways has plans to extend the route further north to Baramulla, bringing even more areas of Kashmir within easy reach. This direct rail connection to Srinagar is expected to boost the local economy and tourism, offering travelers a much-needed alternative to expensive flights and long road journeys.
Transforming Travel to Kashmir
The upcoming New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to transform how people travel to Kashmir, offering speed, comfort, and convenience. By departing New Delhi at 7:00 PM and arriving in Srinagar at 8:00 AM the next morning, passengers will enjoy a restful overnight journey. The train will stop at key stations, including Ambala Cantt Junction, Ludhiana Junction, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Sangaldan, and Banihal.
Affordable Ticket Options for All Travelers
The train will offer three types of accommodations to cater to different budgets and preferences:
- AC 3 Tier (3A): ₹2,000
- AC 2 Tier (2A): ₹2,500
- AC First Class (1A): ₹3,000
These affordable rates make the Vande Bharat Sleeper train a cost-effective option for those looking to visit Kashmir, whether for leisure or business.
Why This Train is a Game-Changer
- Cutting Travel Time: The Vande Bharat Sleeper will reduce the current 20-hour journey to just 13 hours, saving passengers valuable time.
- Tourism Boost: With its fast and efficient service, the train is expected to attract more tourists to Kashmir, giving a significant boost to the local economy and tourism industry.
- Comfortable Overnight Travel: Designed for long-distance travel, the sleeper train offers modern amenities and comfortable sleeping berths, ensuring passengers arrive in Srinagar well-rested.
- Better Connectivity: This new train service is part of a broader effort to improve Kashmir’s connectivity with the rest of India, making it easier for people from across the country to explore the stunning beauty of the valley.
Looking Ahead: The USBHL Project
The New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train will operate on the USBHL (Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link) project, which is currently in progress. Once completed, this project will further enhance connectivity to the region, making it easier and faster to travel to even more remote parts of Kashmir.
Conclusion
The launch of the New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train marks a significant milestone for Indian Railways and the future of travel to Kashmir. With its promise of speed, comfort, and affordability, this new service is sure to make the valley more accessible than ever before. Whether you’re planning a spiritual journey to Vaishno Devi, an adventure in the mountains, or simply want to experience the beauty of Kashmir, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is set to be the perfect way to get there.
