A major proportion of the Kashmir tour package depends upon your selected mode of commute. Airways are expensive, whereas buses are the economical option.

This article shares a brief and detailed guide on how you can reach Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir, from any corner of the world. From the air route to the national highways, we will let you know which mode of transportation is best for you.

How to Reach Srinagar By Air?

Reaching Srinagar by air is the most convenient and hassle-free mode of commute. From Delhi, it roughly takes 1:30 hours to board in Srinagar, and we consider it from Kanyakumari, it takes 4-5 hours.

Jammu & Kashmir has two major airports, one is Jammu Airport (IXJ) situated in Jammu, which is 250 km away from Srinagar. The other one is Srinagar Airport, which is the sensible option if you are not planning to include Jammu in your itinerary.

Most of the flights are direct, and unlike roadways and trains, there is no requirement to interchange. Just board your flight, and you are good to go; however, to make significant savings on your ticket booking, it is advisable to book 10-15 days earlier. During the summer holidays, make sure to book the tickets 1-2 months earlier to avoid an unnecessary hike in prices.

• Suitable For: Family, couples, elderly people, and large groups of friends
• Costing: High (₹4,000-₹10,000 depending upon location)

How to Reach Srinagar By Train?

Trains have always been the preferred mode of travel to enjoy the serene Kashmir delight tour, making your voyage economical and comfortable at the same time. However, there is no direct railway route to reach Srinagar, you can either board a train to Katra railway station and take a taxi to reach Kashmir.

Or the other option is to book the Vande Bharat Express (26403) or (26401) from Katra that takes you to the newly inaugurated Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). The journey itself offers the most tranquilizing train ride experience in India. 

As the train passes through 359, a high bridge, and strolls you through the surrounding Himalayas and snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. Making it the most beautiful way to start your vacation in Kashmir.

• Suitable For: Family, friends, solo travelers, or a person with a lower budget.
• Costing: Medium(₹2,500-₹4,000)

How to Reach Srinagar By Bus?

Buses are the most economical option for budget travelers. You can either book a private bus or government roadways buses by JKSRTC. You can book them from the ISBT near your location, and the journey usually takes 24-26 hours from Delhi itself.

Tickets can also be booked on RedBus, Paytm, and Make My Trip for added convenience. For this long journey, it is advisable to get the AC bus with wi-fi coverage to easily pass the time.

Buses usually drop you at Pantha Chowk Bus Stand, which is the main entry point in Srinagar. 

• Suitable For: Friends, solo travelers, or a person with a lower budget.
• Costing: Economical(₹1,500-₹3,000)

How to Reach Srinagar Via Road?

You can also drive to Srinagar in your personal car through the NH44 highway from Delhi. This route takes 22-24 hours to reach Srinagar but the journey won’t be as comfortable as you think.

Constant stops, non-stop driving, and tiredness can ruin the trip, and choosing this mode of transportation might not be sensible if you are going with the family. Moreover, you need to have proper documentation and ensure your vehicle meets all the legal standards, as there will be multiple checkposts before entering Kashmir.

The tunnels and roadways are quite smooth, especially in the Patnitop and Udhampur area. The views and backdrops accompany you throughout the drive, making your trip memorable. However, we would recommend avoiding using the road during the monsoon as landslides and slippery roads are quite common.

• Suitable For: Friends, solo travelers, or a person with a lower budget.
• Costing: Medium(₹2,500-₹3,000)

Options to Commute in Kashmir

Once you reach Kashmir, you will discover how different the local mode of transportation is compared to metropolitan cities. There are no such things as Uber, Ola, and Rapido, and in some areas, horse carts are still a thing.

The basic mode of public transport is shared taxis that are popularly known as sumo cars among locals and autos. They are readily available and can easily be booked for an entire day to visit some of nature’s best crafted places, like Dal Lake or Gulmarg.

You can also utilize a minibus for a more economical option that takes you through the best places to visit in Srinagar. And of course, we cannot forget the shikara ride that makes the entire Kashmir trip fulfilling. 

Final Words

These were all the possible modes of commute to reach Srinagar, along with budget and level of comfort. Now it’s up to your preference whether you want to have a quick land or enjoy serene beauty along the way.

Kashmir has always been the capital of scenic beauty and cultural charm. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags now and visit the most heavenly place that replenishes your soul.

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