When snow or landslides shut the Jammu-Srinagar highway, the Vande Bharat is the trip students and jobseekers are glad they booked. The 20-coach Jammu Tawi to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express was flagged off by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on 30 April 2026, and regular runs began on 2 May.
What runs, and on which days
Two pairs of trains operate on the route, according to Kashmir Life, citing a Press Information Bureau release:
- 26401/26402: six days a week, except Tuesdays.
- 26403/26404: daily except Wednesdays.
Railway officials say the service cut travel time between the two cities to under five hours. Departure times and fares are not given in the reports we read, so check the current timetable and live fare on IRCTC or the Indian Railways enquiry system before you plan.
Why it matters in winter
PIB described the train as a reliable all-weather option, particularly in winter months when the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway is frequently disrupted by snowfall and landslides. The trains are designed to operate in temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius, and Chair Car fares, including meals, were described as lower than air travel and many road options.
How popular is it?
Very. Kashmir Life reported 44,727 travellers in the first ten days, and more than 5,600 on 10 May with occupancy above 98 per cent. The Tribune later reported nearly 3.75 lakh passengers across the two train pairs. Seats go fast, so book early for weekends and holidays.
Sources: Kashmir Life; The Tribune.
File photo: Katra railway station. Lillottama / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).
