Vande Bharat Brings Kashmir Closer, Faster — And Full of Hope
Over 50,000 passengers travelled since May 4 as tourists, traders and families embrace J&K’s rail revolution
Srinagar: From easing long and exhausting road journeys to triggering a fresh tourism rush into the Valley, the newly introduced Vande Bharat Express is rapidly emerging as a game changer for Jammu and Kashmir, with officials saying more than 50,000 passengers have already travelled on the train since May 4.
The sleek train service connecting Kashmir with Jammu has not only reduced travel fatigue but has also infused new energy into tourism, trade and everyday mobility, offering residents and visitors a faster, safer and more comfortable alternative to the often unpredictable highway journey.
Officials associated with the railways said the response has exceeded expectations, particularly from tourists arriving in Kashmir during the peak spring season. “The occupancy has remained exceptionally high since operations began. A significant percentage of passengers are tourists visiting the Valley,” an official said.
The train service has become especially popular among families, elderly passengers and travellers who earlier had to endure traffic congestion, landslides and weather-related disruptions on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
For many visitors, the journey itself has now become part of the Kashmir experience.
“The train ride was breathtaking. Passing through tunnels, mountains and valleys felt like watching a live postcard,” said Ritika Sharma, who travelled to Kashmir with her family this week. “Earlier we were hesitant because of the long road journey, but Vande Bharat has made travel extremely convenient.”
Another tourist, Aman Verma, said the service has changed perceptions about travelling to Kashmir. “This is probably one of the most beautiful train journeys in India. It saves time and feels very modern and comfortable,” he said.
A group of tourists from Maharashtra said the train has encouraged more families to plan Kashmir vacations. “People now feel the Valley is more connected and accessible than before,” said Sneha Patil.
Local traders and business owners also believe the service could provide a major boost to the region’s economy by improving connectivity and increasing tourist footfall.
Hotel owners in Srinagar and Gulmarg said bookings have witnessed a noticeable rise in recent days, with many tourists preferring rail travel due to affordability and comfort.
“This is more than just a train service. It is changing movement patterns and bringing confidence among travellers,” said a hotel owner in Srinagar.
Officials believe the growing popularity of the train could significantly reduce dependence on road transport during peak tourist seasons while also helping the local economy through smoother movement of people and goods.
Beyond tourism, the service is also bringing emotional relief to families divided between Jammu and Kashmir, making travel shorter, more reliable and less physically demanding.
For students, patients, traders and daily travellers, the train is increasingly becoming a symbol of accessibility and integration — one that many in the Valley describe not merely as transport, but as a long-awaited lifeline on tracks.
