A Direct and Faster Connection
The new Vande Bharat Express will operate on the crucial Jammu Tawi-Srinagar route, a link that has transformed travel to the region. This service, designated train numbers 26407/26408, follows the successful launch of two existing Vande Bharat trains
on the same corridor. Those services, which began in June 2025 and were extended to Jammu Tawi in April 2026, have been running with full occupancy, highlighting the immense demand for reliable rail connectivity. The existing trains cover the 269-kilometre distance in approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, a significant improvement over road travel. The third train will help absorb the heavy passenger rush and offer more travel options.
The Udhampur Stopover and Route
Responding to popular public demand, the new service will include a key stop at Udhampur, officially known as Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan station. This was confirmed following requests from local residents and officials to better integrate the important city into the high-speed network. The current Vande Bharat route from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar includes stops at Udhampur, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. The addition of another train with a dedicated Udhampur halt will enhance accessibility for a wider population, including military personnel stationed in the area and their families.
The Engineering Marvel You'll Ride On
This journey is not just about speed; it's a ride across one of the world's most impressive engineering feats: the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). This 272-km project, declared a National Project in 2002, navigates the rugged Himalayan terrain with numerous tunnels and bridges. The highlight is the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, standing 359 meters above the riverbed—taller than the Eiffel Tower. Recently, a Vande Bharat train successfully completed a trial run over this bridge at nearly 100 kmph, a milestone that paves the way for faster services. This all-weather link provides a dependable alternative to the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which is often closed due to landslides and snowfall.
What It Means for Tourism and the Economy
The impact of Vande Bharat extends far beyond passenger convenience. The service has been credited with a surge in tourism, making the valley more accessible and appealing to travellers who were previously hesitant due to the long and arduous road journey. Travel agents and hoteliers have noted a direct correlation between the train's launch and increased tourist footfall, which provides a major boost to the local economy. Furthermore, the reliable rail link is a game-changer for local trade, allowing Kashmir's signature products like apples, dry fruits, and handicrafts to reach national markets more efficiently. This connection is seen not just as a mode of transport, but as a vital economic lifeline for the region.
The Onboard Experience
For travellers, the Vande Bharat offers a modern and comfortable journey. The semi-high-speed trains are equipped with amenities like AC chair cars, an onboard pantry, large windows for scenic views, and Wi-Fi. In response to high demand on the Kashmir route, the Railways had already increased the number of coaches on the existing trains from 16 to 20. The journey itself is an experience, passing through picturesque mountains and valleys, making the travel part of the vacation itself. With faster and safer travel, it redefines the entire experience of visiting one of India's most beautiful destinations.
