A Third Vande Bharat for the Valley
In a significant development for regional infrastructure, the Ministry of Railways has given the green light for a third Vande Bharat train service connecting Jammu Tawi and Srinagar. The announcement, shared by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, confirms
the new service will operate as train numbers 26407/26408. This move comes in response to high demand, as the two existing Vande Bharat trains on this route have been running with full occupancy since they became fully operational. The first services were launched in June 2025, initially between Katra and Srinagar, and were extended to Jammu Tawi in April 2026, creating a direct, modern rail link between the two principal cities.
The Route and Key Stoppages
The new service will traverse the landmark Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a monumental engineering project that has integrated the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India's railway network. Responding to popular demand, the third train will now include a stop at Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur station, a crucial addition for residents of the area. The existing Vande Bharat trains on the 269-km journey between Jammu and Srinagar already have scheduled stops at stations including Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. This route famously includes passage over the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, offering passengers breathtaking views.
Schedule and Travel Time
While the exact timetable for the new 26407/26408 service is yet to be released, the existing services provide a clear benchmark for what passengers can expect. The current trains have drastically cut the arduous 8-11 hour road journey to under five hours. For instance, the 26401 Vande Bharat Express departs Jammu Tawi at 6:20 AM and arrives in Srinagar at 11:10 AM, taking approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes. The return service, 26402, leaves Srinagar at 2:00 PM and reaches Jammu Tawi at 6:50 PM. Another service, 26404, leaves Srinagar at 8:00 AM, arriving in Jammu at 12:45 PM. These services typically run six days a week. The addition of a third train will provide more flexible travel options throughout the day.
Booking Information and Expected Fares
Tickets for Vande Bharat services can be booked through the official IRCTC website and mobile app. Based on the existing services, passengers can choose between two classes: AC Chair Car (CC) and Executive Chair Car (EC), which offers wider, more spacious seating. Fares for the AC Chair Car typically start around ₹715, while Executive Class seats are priced from approximately ₹1,320, inclusive of catering charges. Bookings usually open 60 days in advance, and given the high demand, travelers are advised to plan their journeys ahead of time. The introduction of a third service is expected to help ease the booking rush.
Onboard Experience and Special Features
The Vande Bharat trains on this route are specially designed for the region's climate and terrain. They are equipped with advanced heating systems to handle cold temperatures, ensuring passenger comfort throughout the year. Onboard amenities include large windows for panoramic views, rotating seats, Wi-Fi for connectivity, and an infotainment system. The coaches feature modern, airline-style interiors, sliding doors, and a public information system. Recently, the maximum permissible speed on the Katra-Banihal section was increased to 100 kmph, which will further reduce travel time and enhance the overall journey experience.
