Service Overview & Route
The Northern Railway zone is now operating the much-anticipated Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, commencing its commercial runs on May 2, 2026.
This service extends the existing route from Katra to Srinagar, offering a faster and more convenient rail link between the two key cities. In total, four Vande Bharat services, forming two pairs of trains, will traverse the approximately 270-kilometer route. These services are identified by train numbers 26401/26402 and 26404/26403. The journey is designed to be efficient, with an approximate travel time of just 4 hours and 50 minutes, significantly reducing previous travel durations and enhancing connectivity across the region.
Key Stoppages Detailed
During its transit between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar, the Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express makes strategic stops at three important railway stations. These crucial halt points are Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK), Riasi, and Banihal. For train numbers 26401/26402 and 26404/26403, these stations are vital for passenger boarding and alighting, connecting the Vande Bharat to significant pilgrimage and local destinations along its path. The inclusion of Riasi and Banihal ensures better accessibility for communities in these areas, integrating them more effectively into the wider rail network.
Frequency and Coach Configuration
The Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to run with a substantial 20-coach configuration, designed to accommodate a significant number of passengers. This modern fleet comprises both AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car options, offering varying levels of comfort and service. In terms of operational frequency, train number 26401/26402 will be active on all days of the week with the exception of Tuesdays. Complementing this, train number 26404/26403 will operate throughout the week, excluding Wednesdays. This staggered schedule ensures a high level of service availability for travelers throughout most of the week.
Departure and Arrival Timings
The train's timetable offers two distinct services from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar. The first service, train number 26401, departs Jammu Tawi at 6:20 AM, reaching its destination in Srinagar by 11:10 AM. The second service, train number 26403, leaves Jammu Tawi at 1:20 PM, arriving in Srinagar at 6:00 PM. The return journeys are equally well-timed. Train number 26402 departs Srinagar at 2:00 PM, arriving back in Jammu Tawi at 6:50 PM. Conversely, train number 26404 starts its return trip from Srinagar at 8:00 AM, reaching Jammu Tawi by 12:40 PM. These timings are effective from May 2, 2026, and are based on a route via Katra, Reasi, and Banihal.
