Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is so beautiful that it epitomizes its gorgeous landscapes, calm valleys, white mountains, and ancient cultural heritage. Situated at the northmost end of India, this is a common tourists’ destination offering one all adventure, spirituality, and history under one umbrella. Whether you are an adventure trip traveler, a romantic couple, or a family vacationer, reaching Kashmir is excitingly the most fun-filled part of your journey. In this complete travel guide, we will discuss all about the best routes and transportation options of how to reach Kashmir and will give you all the tips to make your travel experience hassle-free.
Why Visit Kashmir?
Before talking about how to reach Kashmir, one needs to know the reasons for including this destination in your travel list. Kashmir is known for its:
Scenic Beauty: Snow-capped mountains, green meadows, serene lakes like Dal Lake, and beautiful hill stations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg.
Mixed Culture: Kashmir has culture that goes thousands of years back because of the influence of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam in their ancient times. One learns the traditional handicrafts, Kashmiri dishes, and architectural wonders Shankaracharya Temple and Mughal Gardens.
Trekking: Trekking into the Himalayas, skiing on slopes in Gulmarg: many more adventure activities. Several pilgrimages, one is to Vaishno Devi temple, Amarnath Cave, and Hazratbal Shrine.
Now that we have aroused your interest, let’s see how you can reach Kashmir from different parts of India and abroad.
Best Ways to Reach Kashmir
The routes to Kashmir vary based on your location, convenience, and budget. The most common methods of reaching Kashmir are through the sky, train, and road. Let’s explore each of them in detail.
1. By Air: The Fastest Way to Reach Kashmir
Most common and time-efficient entrance to Kashmir is by air. Srinagar International Airport, popularly known as Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, is the principal airport to the Kashmir Valley. It is well connected to New Delhi, Mumbai, Jammu, and Chandigarh.
Flights to Srinagar
From Delhi: Approximately 1.5 hours to get to Srinagar from New Delhi. Delhi has multiple flights on a daily basis to Srinagar, making it one of the easiest routes to get to this region.
From Mumbai: There are connecting flights to Srinagar from Mumbai that involve taking connecting flights either from New Delhi or Jammu.
From Jammu: You may take a direct flight if you already in Jammu to get to Srinagar, which takes about 30 minutes.
The following flight durations include Chandigarh to Srinagar is 1.5 hours by flight
Flight Operator of Srinagar
- Air India
- Spice Jet
- Goair
- IndiGo
Well, in spite of abundance of air tickets, advisable to do advance booking due to rush hour of tourist people during these months so that fares may remain moderate and one don’t find higher price last minute.
Things to Remind About
Weather Forecast: Winter time may result in heavy snowfall which may cause a delay sometimes even cancellation and thus look into the weather reports before finalizing your trip to Srinagar.
Baggage Limitations: Flight restrictions for incoming flights to Srinagar may include the limitation on the baggage carried. It would then demand prior planning while packing.
2. By Train: A Glimpse of Beauty and a Pleasurable Voyage to Kashmir
Although no train to Kashmir directly runs, the nearest railway station is in Jammu. Bus and taxi facilities are available from Jammu to reach Srinagar that is 270 km away from Jammu and it takes about 6-7 hours.
Trains to Jammu
Jammu is well connected by rail to all the major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Kolkata. The railway station of Jammu Tawi is the central place from where all the trains move towards Kashmir and get back.
From Delhi: There are plenty of daily trains to Jammu, the most comfortable being Shalimar Express and Jammu Rajdhani Express.
From Mumbai: From Mumbai, Nanded Express and Mumbai-Jammu Tawi Express have regular trains for Jammu.
Kolkata: Also, trains from kolkata to Jammu exist apart from above trains: Howrah Jammu Tawi Express.
Jammu to Srinagar via Road
From Jammu, you can take a cab or bus or rent a vehicle to reach Srinagar. The car drive to Srinagar is scenic and meanders one through lush green valleys with terraced fields and the mountain roads. It took approximately 6–7 hours depending on the traffic and weather.
Things to Remember
Travel Time: Though train journey is quite comfortable, you will have to take time for the extra journey it takes to reach Srinagar from Jammu by road.
Road Conditions: The road conditions, however, in winter times, are quite harsh and thus challenging between Jammu to Srinagar. Always advisable to check the road conditions ahead of time.
3. By Road: The Last Scenic Road Journey to Kashmir
It’s definitely rewarding if you enjoy long road trips. This long journey by road gives you a feel of the changing Indian landscape and natural beauty. You have two major routes for approaching Kashmir by road.
Route 1: Delhi to Srinagar
The most common road routes from Delhi to Srinagar are on NH44, National Highway 44. The total distance is about 870 kilometers. It will take almost 15-18 hours, taking into account stoppages and road conditions.
Delhi to Jammu: Around 600 km
You start by traveling from Delhi to Jammu, which takes 10–12 hours.
Jammu to Srinagar (approximately 270 km): From Jammu, you travel to Srinagar. This usually takes 6-7 hours.
Route 2: Leh to Srinagar
If already in Leh, then Leh to Srinagar by road is through the Zoji La Pass. Much picturesque but fraught with high-altitude passes and threat of landslide when monsoon rains begin.
Things to Know
Road Conditions: Roads leading to Kashmir are very twisty, and throughout the winter season, the road gets struck by more than enough snowfall and ice, which makes it pretty challenging while driving. Please check your road conditions before you venture out.
Travel Essentials: You must carry your identification documents, permits-if any-vehicle-related documents, etc.
Fuel and Rest Stops: All journeys require a stop for food and refueling. Plan them wisely.
4. By Bus: Cost-effective and Comfortable Travel
For budget travelers, traveling by bus can be a very good option. Regular buses operate between Jammu and Srinagar so that anyone can reach that region economically.
Jammu to Srinagar via Bus
The JKSRTC is a state government-owned bus service that runs regular bus services from Jammu to Srinagar. These are affordable, too, yet very cheap. Services include sleeper and semi-sleeper buses. It is possible to take up to 6 to 7 hours.
Private Bus Service Providers
There are numerous private bus service providers, which run between Jammu to Srinagar also. These are somewhat comfortable and sometimes faster but not really cheap as government’s bus services.
Things to Remember
Bus Timings: In advance, it would be better to know the bus timings because weather conditions or political disturbances may stop the services.
Comfort: The buses are cheap, but the long journey by road is not that comfortable as for air travel or a train, mainly for distances long enough.
The Best Time to Visit Kashmir
Touring Kashmir is possible all year round. The best time depends on the following:
Summer: If one wants to have lush green landscapes and nice weather, along with flowers; then summer is the best season to visit.
Monsoon (July to September): It is the worst peak travel season since it’s raining heavily; although greenery looks so beautiful, it influences traveling plans.
Autumn (October to November): The autumn is fine weather in Kashmir and the colorful foliage is really stunning.
Winter (December to February): The destination for the snow lover during these winter months is Kashmir, particularly to indulge in ski and snow sports at the renowned Gulmarg.
Final Thoughts
Whether you fly into the valley, take a train, hit the road or catch a bus, traveling to Kashmir can be the adventure of a lifetime. Whatever be your mode, the valley’s beauty spells magic and it will be well worth making the effort. Plan your trip, book transportation early, and check the weather so that there will be no inconvenience. Kashmir is an unforgettable destination which promises to offer memories that will last forever.
Safe travels to this beautiful Valley of Kashmir!
How to book Kashmir tour online?
Contact Brown Chinar at +91 6005039532/+91 9906188874 or Email us at brownchinartourtravels@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I reach Kashmir from Delhi?
You can reach Kashmir from Delhi by air, train, or road. The fastest option is to take a direct flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar). Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and then drive to Srinagar (around 6 hours by road).
2. What is the best way to reach Kashmir?
The best way to reach Kashmir is by air. Srinagar’s Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, making it the most convenient option.
3. How far is Srinagar from Jammu?
Srinagar is about 270 kilometers (168 miles) from Jammu, and it takes around 6-8 hours by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
4. Is there a direct flight to Kashmir?
Yes, there are direct flights to Srinagar from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Amritsar, among others.
5. How can I reach Kashmir by train?
To reach Kashmir by train, you need to board a train to Jammu and then travel by road to Srinagar. The Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest major railway station to Srinagar.
6. How do I reach Kashmir by bus?
You can take volvo buses or state-run buses from major cities like Delhi, Jammu, and Chandigarh to Srinagar. The journey from Delhi to Srinagar takes around 18-20 hours.
7. How can I reach Kashmir by road from Delhi?
By road, Kashmir is approximately 900 kilometers (559 miles) from Delhi. You can drive or take a bus via NH1 to Jammu, and from there, continue your journey to Srinagar.
8. Is it safe to travel to Kashmir by road?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Kashmir by road, especially from Delhi to Jammu and Srinagar. However, always check road conditions before traveling, as weather and security situations may affect travel plans.
9. How can I reach Kashmir from Bangalore?
To reach Kashmir from Bangalore, the fastest option is to take a direct flight to Srinagar. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and travel by road to Srinagar.
10. Are there trains from Delhi to Srinagar?
Currently, there are no direct trains to Srinagar. However, you can take a train to Jammu, the nearest railway station, and then take a bus or taxi to Srinagar.
11. What is the distance between Srinagar and Leh?
Srinagar is about 430 kilometers (267 miles) from Leh, and it takes around 12-15 hours by road through the Srinagar-Leh Highway.
12. Can I drive to Kashmir in winter?
Driving to Kashmir in winter is possible, but it can be challenging due to snow and slippery roads. Make sure your vehicle is equipped for snow conditions, and check weather forecasts and road closures before traveling.
13. What is the best time to travel to Kashmir by road?
The best time to travel by road to Kashmir is during the summer months (April to October) when the weather is mild and road conditions are ideal. Avoid winter months due to heavy snowfall and road closures.
14. How do I reach Kashmir from Mumbai?
The quickest way to reach Kashmir from Mumbai is by taking a direct flight to Srinagar. You can also take a train to Jammu and then drive to Srinagar.
15. Are there any direct flights from Chennai to Kashmir?
Yes, there are direct flights from Chennai to Srinagar. However, flights may have layovers in other cities depending on the airline.
16. How far is Srinagar from Amritsar?
Srinagar is approximately 220 kilometers (137 miles) from Amritsar, and it takes around 6-7 hours by road.
17. How do I reach Kashmir from Ahmedabad?
The fastest way to reach Kashmir from Ahmedabad is by taking a direct flight to Srinagar. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and then travel by road to Srinagar.
18. How do I travel to Kashmir from Jammu during the Amarnath Yatra?
During the Amarnath Yatra, pilgrims can travel to Pahalgam or Baltal from Jammu via buses, taxis, or other organized transport services.
19. What are the road conditions from Jammu to Srinagar?
The road conditions from Jammu to Srinagar are generally good, but can be affected by weather, especially during winter. National Highway 44 (NH44) connects the two cities.
20. Can I visit Kashmir by bike?
Yes, many adventure enthusiasts travel to Kashmir by bike. The Jammu to Srinagar route is popular for a motorcycle tour but requires careful planning, especially during winters.
21. How do I reach Kashmir from Kolkata?
The quickest way to reach Kashmir from Kolkata is by taking a direct flight to Srinagar. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and then drive to Srinagar.
22. Are there any flights to Kashmir from Goa?
There are no direct flights from Goa to Srinagar. However, you can take a connecting flight via Delhi or Mumbai.
23. How do I reach Kashmir by air from Hyderabad?
From Hyderabad, the most convenient way to reach Kashmir is by taking a direct flight to Srinagar. Alternatively, you can take a connecting flight via Delhi.
24. How do I reach Kashmir from Chandigarh?
To reach Kashmir from Chandigarh, you can either take a flight to Srinagar, or travel by road (around 6-8 hours) or train via Jammu.
25. Can I reach Kashmir from Nepal by road?
Reaching Kashmir from Nepal by road is possible, though it involves crossing the Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh regions, followed by the journey to Jammu and then Srinagar. The total distance is approximately 1,000 kilometers and may take 20-24 hours.
