Winter has a way of pulling people towards the mountains. Snow-covered views make hill destinations especially tempting this time of year. And what’s better than Kashmir? Often called the “mini-Switzerland”
of India, the valley turns magical in the winter season with snow-laden peaks that look straight out of a fairy tale.
While many travellers reach Kashmir by road or flight, there is another experience that can make your trip special touch: the Baramulla to Banihal train journey. This route on the Kashmir Railway is known for its breathtaking views and in winter, it turns magical something reminiscent to “Polar Express.”
Recently, an Instagram video gave viewers a glimpse of this journey during peak winter. Shot from inside the train, the clip shows snow-covered fields, white mountains and frozen stretches of land passing by outside the window.
Baramulla–Banihal Train Journey: A Ride That Feels Like A Snow Safari
The Baramulla–Banihal route cuts through the heart of the Kashmir Valley. Along the way, passengers get sweeping views of the Pir Panjal range. When winter sets in, the entire landscape changes. Snow blankets everything.
One of the highlights is the Pir Panjal Tunnel which runs for over 11 kilometres (India’s longest). When the train exits the tunnel, Kashmir Valley’s snow-covered peaks often leave passengers glued to the windows. The train passes through stations such as Qazigund, Anantnag and Srinagar that showcase Kashmiri meadows and homes.
Why Winter Makes This Journey Special
Snowfall adds a whole new layer to the experience. Tracks, platforms and open fields are often buried under thick snow, sometimes reaching nearly half a metre. On some days, passengers even get to watch fresh snow falling as the train moves ahead.
Comfort And Connectivity When Roads Shut
Winter often disrupts road travel between Jammu and Srinagar due to snowfall. During such times, the Baramulla–Banihal train becomes more than just scenic, it is reliable. The trains are fitted with snow-clearing systems and heated coaches.
Large windows allow uninterrupted views while warm interiors make the journey cosy.
What Makes The Vistadome Coach Worth It
For those who want to take the experience up a notch, select services on this route offer Vistadome coaches. These come with glass roofs and wide windows that give near 360-degree views of the valley.
The coaches also feature rotating and reclining seats, Wi-Fi, infotainment systems and an observation area.
How To Book Vistadome Coach Tickets
If you want the best experience on the Baramulla–Banihal route, travelling in a Vistadome coach is worth considering.
For the Budgam (BDGM) to Banihal (BAHL) section on train number 04688, ticket prices are as follows:
One-way fare: Rs 940 in AC chair car seating
Round-trip fare: Rs 1,880 that covers the scenic 90 km stretch via Srinagar, Awantipora, Anantnag and Qazigund
Step-By-Step: How To Book Tickets
Visit the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website or authorised railway booking apps.
Select “Budgam (BDGM)” as the departure station and “Banihal (BAHL)” as the destination.
Choose your travel date and select train number 04688.
Pick the Vistadome or AC Executive class (EV).
Enter passenger details and complete payment via UPI, card or net banking.
Save the e-ticket or digital PNR for travel.
The service runs daily except Fridays with morning departures being the most popular. Travellers are advised to check live train status during winter due to weather-related delays.
