India’s ambitious rail expansion has reached a new milestone with the launch of the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir. Inaugurated on June 6, 2025, this new route connects Katra to Srinagar via the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge.
This advanced train route cuts travel time to just under three hours across 189 kilometers, offering passengers a seamless and breathtaking journey through the Himalayas. Built to endure harsh weather, the train features winter-ready technology such as heated windshields, insulated systems, and climate-resilient engineering.
A highlight of the route is the Chenab Bridge, standing 359 meters above the river and stretching over 1.3 kilometers. Passengers also pass through the 12.75 km-long T-50 tunnel, showcasing India’s engineering excellence.
The service is set to boost both tourism and pilgrimage in the region, offering visitors a faster, more comfortable, and incredibly scenic option to reach the Kashmir Valley. This is more than just a railway—it’s a symbol of connectivity, progress, and the growing accessibility of India’s northernmost destinations.
The Vande Bharat to Kashmir marks a significant step forward for infrastructure, sustainability, and the promotion of domestic tourism across South Asia.
