The newly inaugurated Katra-Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express trains have experienced an extraordinary surge in demand, with all seats fully booked until June 10-12, 2025. This unprecedented booking frenzy follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dedication of the transformative Srinagar-Jammu rail link to the nation on June 6, 2025.
Designed to enhance connectivity between the pilgrimage hub of Katra and the breathtaking Kashmir Valley, the high-speed rail service has quickly captured the attention of travelers, particularly pilgrims and tourists eager to explore the region. Despite recent challenges facing the tourism sector, following Pahalgam attack. The two Vande Bharat trains—numbered 26401 and 26403—have become the preferred choice for many. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) mobile app has reported no available seats in either the Chair Car (CC) or Executive Class (EC) categories, reflecting a strong interest in this new travel option.
Commencing operations on June 7, both trains have maintained punctual schedules, departing from Katra at 8:10 AM and 2:55 PM and arriving in Srinagar without delays. Over the weekend, the services operated at full capacity, with a significant number of passengers being pilgrims returning from the revered Mata Vaishno Devi cave shrine. This iconic site attracts millions of devotees each year, and the new rail link is expected to further boost religious tourism by providing seamless access to Kashmir’s stunning attractions.
The rapid sell-out of tickets is particularly noteworthy given the recent decline in tourist traffic to Kashmir following a terror attack in Pahalgam and military skirmishes between India and Pakistan. These events had raised safety concerns, leading to a temporary dip in visitor numbers. However, the strong demand for the Vande Bharat trains indicates a resilient interest in exploring the Kashmir, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities such as ergonomic seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and enhanced safety features, the Vande Bharat Express presents an attractive travel option. Covering approximately 200 kilometers in under four hours, it offers significant time savings compared to road travel, which can take six to eight hours. The route also features the picturesque Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, adding a scenic highlight to the journey.
Local businesses Kashmir are optimistic about the rail link’s potential to revive tourism and stimulate economic activity. “The Vande Bharat trains are a game-changer for Kashmir,” said a local in Srinagar. “With faster connectivity, we’re seeing renewed interest from tourists, and we hope this momentum continues.”
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