The Vande Bharat Express connecting Delhi to Srinagar represents a game-changer in the history of rail travel in India, providing an unbroken high-speed overnight service between the national capital and the centre of the Kashmir Valley. For years, passengers undertaking the Delhi–Srinagar route depended on hours-long road travels or multi-legged train-and-road journeys. Now, with the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, the entire 800-kilometer journey unfolds in under 13 hours, blending cutting-edge train technology with breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Whether you’re planning a family retreat in the apple orchards of Jammu or a solo adventure among Srinagar’s houseboats, this luxury train service promises comfort, speed, and memorable experiences.
Route Overview: From Delhi to the Heart of Kashmir
The Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express runs through some of North India’s most legendary landscapes. Starting from New Delhi (NDLS) at 7:00 PM, the train snakes its way north, stopping strategically at:
- Ambala Cantt Junction (9:30 PM – 9:35 PM)
- Ludhiana Junction (11:30 PM – 11:35 PM)
- Kathua (2:00 AM – 2:05 AM)
- Jammu Tawi (3:00 AM – 3:10 AM)
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (4:00 AM – 4:10 AM)
- Sangaldan (6:00 AM – 6:05 AM)
- Banihal (7:00 AM – 7:05 AM)
By 8:00 AM, you reach Srinagar, prepared to discover the famous Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and snow-covered mountains beyond. This direct train ride does away with transfer hassles, allowing you to book Vande Bharat Express tickets in one shot and settle into a restful overnight journey.
Journey Experience: Luxury Meets Efficiency
Travelling on the Delhi Srinagar Vande Bharat is not just a commute—imagine it. Every trainset boasts sleek aerodynamic exteriors and well-appointed AC coaches that glide over the recently upgraded tracks. While dusk gives way to star-filled skies, people travel in ergonomically designed seats that fold easily into cozy berths for overnight sleep. Spacious panorama windows encourage views of the curving Chenab River Bridge, one of the globe’s highest rail bridges, and advanced suspension systems reduce vibration to guarantee a peaceful slumber.
Within the train, calming ambient lighting and climate control ensure a comfortable cabin environment, no matter the spring cold in the Vale or summer heat in the plains. A personal attendant service takes care of meal orders, so you can try local specialties or opt for tried favorites. For those who want to remain connected, onboard Wi-Fi and charging points at each seat accommodate business users and social media fans alike.
Timings and Schedule: Precision on the Rails
One of the greatest selling points of the Vande Bharat Express Delhi to Srinagar is its punctuality. Leaving on the dot at 7:00 PM from New Delhi, the train does not leave each station until it is ready to depart and maintains tight turnarounds with negligible dwell time:
Station | Arrival | Departure |
New Delhi (NDLS) | — | 7:00 PM |
Ambala Cantt Junction (UMB) | 9:30 PM | 9:35 PM |
Ludhiana Junction (LDH) | 11:30 PM | 11:35 PM |
Kathua (KTHU) | 2:00 AM | 2:05 AM |
Jammu Tawi (JAT) | 3:00 AM | 3:10 AM |
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) | 4:00 AM | 4:10 AM |
Sangaldan (SNGN) | 6:00 AM | 6:05 AM |
Banihal (BAHL) | 7:00 AM | 7:05 AM |
Srinagar (SINA) | 8:00 AM | — |
With the average speed exceeding 60 km/h with mountain segments, the train travels the whole distance in approximately 13 hours, a plunge from traditional express trains or car travel. Regular departures and a predictable weekly schedule also help with travel planning since you can count on the Vande Bharat schedule to coordinate with local excursions, check-in times with hotel stays, and airport connections.
Classes and Fares: Comfort for Every Budget
Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express serves a variety of travelers in three air-conditioned classes:
- AC 3-Tier (3A): Suitable for price-sensitive family groups and friends, 3A provides premium three-tiered berths with privacy curtains, generous luggage racks, and common washrooms. Estimated fare: ₹2,000 per head.
- AC 2-Tier (2A): Ideal for couples or single travelers looking for more space, 2A offers two-tier berths, personal reading lights, individual bedding, and cleaner bathrooms. Approximate fare: ₹2,500 per person.
- AC First Class (1A): The ultimate luxury on wheels, 1A boasts lockable cabins, ample seat space, luxurious upholstery, and free meals. Approximate fare: ₹3,000+ per person.
Advance booking through IRCTC unlocks early bird discounts and flexible cancellation policies. Traveling during off-peak weekdays can further reduce ticket costs and guarantee berth preferences, making it easy to match the Delhi Srinagar train journey with your budget and comfort priorities.
Onboard Amenities: A Touch of Train-Tech Excellence
From high-speed internet to gourmet meals, the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express defines modern rail hospitality:
- Culinary Delights: Select from North Indian thalis, Kashmiri specialty cuisine, or continental food. Dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) can be reserved in advance online.
- Digital Displays & GPS Info: Live location updates, announcements of next station, and on-board entertainment messages keep you connected and entertained throughout the night.
- Bio-Vacuum Toilets: Smell-free, water-saving toilets at every coach end provide hygiene and comfort at high altitude.
- Wi-Fi & Charging Points: Remain connected with free Wi-Fi (dependent on network coverage) and multiple USB/AC charging points at each seat.
- Attendant Service: Attendant staff help with luggage, berth allocation, and meal service, mirroring five-star hotel practices on trains.
All these amenities combined make the Saudi travel experience on the Delhi Srinagar Vande Bharat not only a mode of transport but a fully serviced experience.
Booking Tips: How to Book the Best Seats
To get the best class and berth on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express:
- Book Early: IRCTC booking is available 120 days ahead. Try to book during the first week of opening.
- Opt for Tatkal If Necessary: For spontaneity, Tatkal quotas open a day prior to departure at 10 AM, albeit with increased fares.
- Select Lower Berths: While travelling with senior family members, book lower berths in 3A/2A for convenient access.
- Check Seasonal Demand: With peak tourism season (May–July) witnessing quick sell-outs, plan with shoulder months (March–April or September–October) for improved availability.
- Use IRCTC App Alerts: Turn on notifications for waitlist and platform change updates.
Scenic Highlights: A Photographer's Dream
The Delhi Srinagar Vande Bharat ride is also a feast for the eyes. Some impressive highlights include:
- Chenab Bridge: At 359 meters over the riverbed, this steel arch bridge gives breathtaking views—perfect for a window-side picture.
- Banihal Hills: As the train climbs the Pir Panjal range, pine woods shrouded in mist and rocky outcrops appear on either side.
- Dabdab Tunnel: One of India’s longest railway tunnels, cutting through the mountains—a marvel of engineering to see from your berth.
- Early-Morning Kashmir Panorama: Just before Srinagar, the first rays of dawn illuminate terraced fields, orchards, and the Indus River meandering below.
Pack a compact tripod and a wide-angle lens to capture these moments. For safety, always follow crew instructions when standing near coach doors for rail photography.
Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Overnight Trip
- Pack Light: Bring light blankets if you want extra warmth—train blankets are available but can be of variable thickness during winter months.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle; while bottled water is available for purchase onboard, stop-town tap water can be used to refill.
- Dress in Layers: The plains might be warm when boarding, but weather in the Kashmir hills drops precipitously.
- Security Inspections: Have IDs and tickets ready for regular onboard checks by railway security.
- Health Measures: If susceptible to motion sickness, take lower berths and have ginger candies ready.
Avoid the Rush: Best Time to Visit Kashmir
The flexibility of the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express means that it is possible to travel throughout the year, but for best weather and crowd conditions:
- March–May: Srinagar’s Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden’s blooming tulips and comfortable temperatures (~10–20 °C).
- June–August: Best time for houseboat stays and Gulmarg day excursions, but with increased fares and tourist traffic.
- September–November: Fewer tourists, biting air, and fall colors surrounding Dal Lake.
- December–February: Best for skiing and snow sports fans; make sure to pack heavy woolens and inquire about periodic rail disruptions due to snowfall.
Pre-advance planning for local festivals (like Tulip Festival, Shikara Festival) can be invaluable but means very early reservations.
Discovering Srinagar: More than the Train Journey
Having arrived in Srinagar, your journey really starts. Must-see sites easily accessible from the Srinagar railway station are:
- Dal Lake & Shikara Cruises: Paddle through floating gardens, sunset views, and waterborne village life.
- Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh feature Persian-influenced terraces with views of the lake.
- Old City & J&K Market: Explore narrow streets for handmade Pashmina shawls, walnut wood inlay, and saffron.
- Gulmarg & Pahalgam Day Trips: Take a taxi or a mini-bus tour to these hill stations for skiing (winter) or meadows (summer).
- Local Cuisine: Try Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, or street-food treats such as Harissa and Noon Chai.
Local tour operators frequently bundle Vande Bharat train travel with hotel accommodations, making logistics easy and assuring smooth transfers from platform to houseboat or hotel.
Conclusion: A Paradigm Shift in Kashmir Connectivity
The Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is a train but also signifies India’s resolve to further connectivity, tourism, and economic development in Kashmir. By slashing travel time, elevating onboard experiences, and offering competitive fares, this service invites both domestic and international travelers to discover Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty with unprecedented ease. Whether you’re a first-time visitor enchanted by Dal Lake or a seasoned mountain explorer charting new routes, the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express stands ready to redefine your travel story. Get your tickets well in advance, pack your wonder, and gear up for a night-long trip that connects the heart of India to the dreamscapes of the Himalayas.
How to book Kashmir tour online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at brownchinartourtravels@gmail.com
People Also Ask
What is the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express?
The Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is India’s semi-high-speed overnight train linking New Delhi (NDLS) with Srinagar (SINA) in under 13 hours, combining modern coaches, onboard Wi-Fi, and bio-toilets.
How can I book Vande Bharat Express tickets from Delhi to Srinagar?
You can book Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express tickets on the IRCTC website or mobile app up to 120 days in advance. Tatkal booking opens one day before departure at 10 AM IST.
What is the schedule of the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat?
The train departs New Delhi at 7:00 PM, stops at Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Katra, Sangaldan, and Banihal, and arrives in Srinagar at 8:00 AM the next day.
How long is the Delhi to Srinagar train journey?
Covering about 800 km, the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express completes the trip in approximately 13 hours, significantly faster than conventional trains or road travel.
What are the fare details for the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Fares start at around ₹2,000 for AC 3-Tier, ₹2,500 for AC 2-Tier, and ₹3,000+ for AC First Class. Prices may vary based on demand, season, and booking window.
Which classes are available on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express?
Three air-conditioned classes: AC 3-Tier (3A), AC 2-Tier (2A), and AC First Class (1A), each offering berth arrangements, reading lights, and charging points.
Does the Vande Bharat Express offer onboard meals?
Yes—choose North Indian thalis, Kashmiri specialties, or continental fare. Meals can be pre-booked online or ordered from the attendant during the journey.
Is there Wi-Fi available on the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi is provided, subject to network coverage in tunnel-prone sections of the Pir Panjal range.
Can I get a refund or cancellation on Vande Bharat tickets?
Standard IRCTC cancellation rules apply: full refund (minus a nominal fee) if canceled more than 48 hours before departure; partial refund up to 3 hours before.
What is the Tatkal quota on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Tatkal tickets open one day prior to departure at 10 AM IST. Tatkal fares are 1.5× to 2× the regular fare, depending on class.
Are lower berths guaranteed for senior citizens on the Vande Bharat?
IRCTC offers lower-berth preferences for passengers above 60, subject to availability at booking time. Enter this request in the “Preference” field.
Does the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express run daily?
Yes, it operates daily, ensuring consistent connectivity between New Delhi and Srinagar.
What are the major halts between Delhi and Srinagar?
Key stops include Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Katra (Vaishno Devi), Sangaldan, and Banihal before reaching Srinagar.
How safe is traveling on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat?
The train is equipped with CCTV, bio-toilets, fire-retardant interiors, and trained onboard staff, ensuring a secure journey through the mountains.
Can I carry pets on the Vande Bharat Express?
No—IRCTC’s current rules do not permit pets or animals in passenger coaches, except for certified service animals.
Are QR code tickets accepted on the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Yes, you can show the e-ticket QR code on your smartphone to the ticket examiner; printing is optional.
What is the best time to travel on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Spring (March–May) offers pleasant weather and blooming tulips, while autumn (September–November) showcases crisp air and fewer crowds.
How much luggage can I carry on the Vande Bharat Express?
Passengers can carry up to 70 kg of luggage free: 40 kg in coach racks and 30 kg in the guard’s luggage van (restricted to bulky items).
Does the Vande Bharat Express have power outlets at every seat?
Yes, each berth features individual USB and AC charging points for phones, laptops, and other devices.
What are the scenic highlights on the Delhi–Srinagar route?
Don’t miss the Chenab Bridge, Pir Panjal foothills near Banihal, and dawn vistas over Kashmir’s terraced fields and Dal Lake.
Are ticket alterations allowed on a confirmed Vande Bharat reservation?
No—to change date or class, you must cancel the existing ticket (with applicable charges) and rebook afresh.
Can I upgrade my ticket on the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Upgrades aren’t supported post-booking. Cancel and rebook in your desired class to secure an upgrade.
How do I check the live running status of the Delhi–Srinagar Vande Bharat?
Use the “Live Train Status” feature on the NTES or NTI app, entering train number 22428 (NDLS–SINA) or 22427 (return).
Is there a senior citizen discount on Vande Bharat Express fares?
Yes, senior citizens receive a 40% concession on AC classes, automatically applied at IRCTC checkout for passengers aged 60+ (women) and 58+ (men).
Which platform does the Delhi to Srinagar Vande Bharat depart from at New Delhi?
It usually departs from Platform 18 or 19 at New Delhi (NDLS). Always verify on your ticket or station display boards before boarding.
