Kashmir is a breathtaking travel destination, but getting there can be confusing for first-time visitors. Whether you’re arriving by air, train, or road, understanding Kashmir’s transport hubs will make your journey smoother. Here’s a complete guide to Kashmir’s airports, railway stations, and transport options to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Airports in Kashmir
1. Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar Airport – SXR)
- Location: Srinagar, 12 km from city center
- Type: International & Domestic Airport
- Flights Available: Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Jammu.
- Facilities: Lounge, food courts, taxi services, prepaid cab counter.
- Tips:
- Arrive at least 2 hours early due to high security checks.
- Prepaid taxi service available at the airport for hassle-free travel.
2. Jammu Airport (Jammu Civil Enclave – IXJ)
- Location: 8 km from Jammu city.
- Type: Domestic Airport
- Flights Available: Direct flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
- Best For: Travelers who want to visit Vaishno Devi before heading to Kashmir.
- Transport: Direct taxis and buses available from Jammu to Srinagar (8-10 hours journey).
Upcoming Airport:
- The government is planning to upgrade Srinagar Airport to full international status to improve tourism.
Railway Stations in Kashmir
1. Nowgam Srinagar Railway Station (Nearest to Srinagar City)
- Location: Nowgam, 11 km from Srinagar.
- Type: Domestic railway station.
- Connected to: Banihal via the Banihal-Qazigund rail tunnel.
- Best for: Travelers coming from Jammu by train, then continuing by train to Srinagar.
2. Jammu Tawi Railway Station
- Location: Jammu city.
- Major Train Routes:
- Delhi to Jammu: Jammu Rajdhani, Shalimar Express.
- Mumbai to Jammu: Swaraj Express.
- Kolkata to Jammu: Jammu Tawi Express.
- Best for: Tourists arriving by train from all over India.
- Transport: Direct trains available to Katra and then to Srinagar.
3. Banihal Railway Station (For Kashmir Connectivity)
- Location: Banihal, Jammu & Kashmir.
- Special Feature: Connected to Nowgam (Srinagar) via India’s longest railway tunnel (11 km long).
- Best for: Budget travelers who want to travel affordably from Jammu to Srinagar.
4. Vande Bharat Express (Delhi to Srinagar via Katra)
- New direct train service connecting Delhi to Srinagar.
- Route: Delhi → Jammu → Katra → Banihal → Srinagar.
- Offers fast, comfortable travel with modern amenities.
- Best for travelers preferring train travel over flights.
How to Travel by Train to Kashmir?
- Travelers can now take Vande Bharat Express from Delhi to Katra and then continue to Srinagar via Banihal.
- Alternative: Take a train to Jammu Tawi, then continue via Katra and Banihal to Srinagar.
Road Transport & Bus Services in Kashmir
1. Srinagar to Gulmarg/Pahalgam/Sonmarg by Road
- Srinagar to Gulmarg: 50 km (1.5-hour drive).
- Srinagar to Pahalgam: 95 km (2.5-hour drive).
- Srinagar to Sonmarg: 80 km (2-hour drive).
- Best Way to Travel: Book a cab with Wintsum Tour and Travels for a stress-free journey.
2. Local Transport in Srinagar
- Auto-rickshaws & taxis – Best for short distances.
- Local buses – Budget-friendly option.
- Shikara rides – Available for Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake transport.
Best Ways to Reach Kashmir from Major Cities
| City | Best Route to Reach Kashmir |
|---|---|
| Delhi | Flight to Srinagar / Vande Bharat Train to Katra + Train to Srinagar |
| Mumbai | Direct flight to Srinagar / Train to Jammu + Train to Katra and Srinagar |
| Bangalore | Direct flight to Srinagar |
| Kolkata | Direct flight to Srinagar / Train to Jammu + Train to Katra and Srinagar |
| Chandigarh | Flight to Srinagar / Direct Road via Jammu |
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Kashmir is easier than ever, thanks to improved air, rail, and road connectivity. Whether you choose to fly, take a scenic train journey, or enjoy a road trip through the mountains, this guide ensures you have a smooth travel experience.
Book your Kashmir trip with Wintsum Tour and Travels for seamless travel arrangements!
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