NewsGate Press Network

For decades, the idea of stepping onto a train in Jammu and arriving directly in Srinagar belonged to the realm of ambition rather than reality.

That ambition became history on Thursday the 30th of April 2026 when union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the extended Srinagar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express service up to Jammu Tawi Railway Station, directly linking Jammu and Kashmir by passenger train for the very first time.

A single seamless rail corridor now connects two of the region’s most iconic destinations, promising not just faster journeys but a transformation in how people, commerce, and tourism flow across this breathtaking landscape.

Jammu Tawi stands as one of the most important railway stations in northern India, serving as a crucial gateway that connects the Union Territory with the rest of the country.

The extension of the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express to Jammu Tawi marks another step towards integrating the region more closely with the national rail network, boosting tourism, facilitating trade and enhancing overall connectivity.

Following is the railway tima table for this special train

The Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will have two daily pairs (except certain days) and connecting the cities in under 5 hours via Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. Key services include Train 26401 (06:20 Jammu) and 26403 (13:20 Jammu), offering 20-coach, high-speed connectivity with top safety and passenger amenities.

Jammu Tawi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Timetable

Train 26401 (JAT – SINA):

    • Departure: 06:20 (Jammu Tawi)
    • Stoppages: SVDK (08:05/08:10), Reasi (08:28/08:30), Banihal (09:56/09:58)
    • Arrival: 11:10 (Srinagar)
    • Frequency: 6 days a week (Except Tuesdays)
  • Train 26403 (JAT – SINA):
    • Departure: 13:20 (Jammu Tawi)
    • Stoppages: SVDK (14:50/14:55), Banihal (16:40/16:42)
    • Arrival: 18:00 (Srinagar)
    • Frequency: 6 days a week (Except Wednesdays)

Srinagar to Jammu Tawi Vande Bharat Timetable (From April 30, 2026)

  • Train 26404 (SINA – JAT):
    • Departure: 08:00 (Srinagar)
    • Stoppages: Banihal (09:00/09:02), Katra (11:05/11:10)
    • Arrival: 12:40 (Jammu Tawi)
    • Frequency: 6 days a week (Except Wednesdays)
  • Train 26402 (SINA – JAT):
    • Departure: 14:00 (Srinagar)
    • Stoppages: Banihal (14:58/15:00), Reasi (16:34/16:36), Katra (17:05/17:10)
    • Arrival: 18:50 (Jammu Tawi)
    • Frequency: 6 days a week (Except Tuesdays)

Key Details:

  • Duration: Approximately 4 hours 50 minutes.
  • Stoppages: Katra (SVDK), Reasi, and Banihal.
  • Key Amenities: Kavach anti-collision system, CCTV, GPS passenger information, and automatic doors.