Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the inaugural Vande Bharat express from Jammu to Srinagar from Jammu Tawi railway station a short while ago. This train (number 26403 / 26404), between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, has now been extended up to Jammu Tawi.
Indian Railways has also decided to augment the number of coaches in Vande Bharat express from eight to 20 based on huge demand from pilgrims to Vaishno Devi shrine, tourists to Kashmir valley and local passengers.
The extended Jammu Tawi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will be operated regularly from May 2, 2026. Two pairs of services will operate across the corridor, covering a distance of around 266 km.
The first service (Train No. 26401) departs Jammu Tawi at 0620 hours, halts at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal, arriving at Srinagar at 1110 hours. On its return leg (Train No. 26402) leaves Srinagar at 1400 hours and reaches Jammu Tawi by 1850 hours. This pair runs six days a week, except Tuesday.
The second service (Train No. 26404) departs Srinagar at 0800 hours, halts at Banihal and Katra, and arrives at Jammu Tawi by 1240 hours. On its return leg (Train No. 26403) departs Jammu Tawi at 1320 hours and reaches Srinagar by 1800 hours. This pair runs six days a week, except Wednesday.
Together, the two pairs ensure that passengers have a morning and an afternoon Vande Bharat option from both ends of the corridor on five days of the week, except Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
