Srinagar, Kashmir: The lower reaches of the Kashmir Valley, along with its plains, witnessed the season’s inaugural snowfall already, casting a spell that transformed the region into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Both residents and tourists rejoiced as the mountains, train tracks, and roads embraced a fresh layer of snow, creating picturesque scenes reminiscent of a winter fairy tale. Plan your Kashmir trip in winter to enjoy the experience of the India’s Snow Trains.
Update: Snow Trains Coming to Kashmir – A Game-Changer in Polar Express-Like Experiences
Indian Railways is set to revolutionize travel to Kashmir with two exciting new train services designed to conquer the icy terrains and deliver unparalleled comfort, similar to the iconic Polar Express experience.
1. Centrally Heated Sleeper Train – New Delhi to Srinagar
For the first time, a centrally heated sleeper train will connect New Delhi and Srinagar. This 13-hour journey is a visual treat, traversing the snow-capped landscapes of Kashmir and crossing engineering marvels like the 359-meter-high Chenab Bridge.
Features:
- Centrally heated coaches for sub-zero temperatures
- Comfortable sleeping arrangements (No second-class sleeper)
- Heated water tanks with silicon pads to prevent freezing
- Modern toilets with warm air ducts for enhanced comfort
2. Vande Bharat Express – Katra to Baramulla
An 8-coach Vande Bharat Express, specially equipped for harsh winter conditions, will run between Katra and Baramulla, cutting travel time drastically.
Highlights:
- Completion of the 246 km journey in just 3.5 hours, compared to over 10 hours by road
- Chair car seating with centrally heated coaches
- Loco pilot cabins equipped with heating elements to prevent frost on the windshield
- Enhanced toilet facilities and climate-adapted interiors
Seamless Connectivity:
Passengers can now travel from New Delhi to Katra via an existing Vande Bharat Express and transfer to the new service to reach Srinagar or Baramulla.
These trains promise to redefine winter travel in India, offering both comfort and a magical journey through Kashmir’s snowy wonderland. Perfect for families, adventurers, and those seeking a Polar Express-like experience, these services are expected to begin operations in early 2025.
Stay tuned for updates on ticket pricing, timings, and bookings!
2024:
Amidst the flurry of social media posts showcasing the stunning snow-laden landscapes, the spotlight was stolen by images of trains gracefully navigating the whiteout hills, valleys, and fields. Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, shared a mesmerizing view of a passenger train traversing the snow-covered Baramulla-Banihal section on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. The scene, reminiscent of the “Polar Express,” illustrated the crucial lifeline the train provides during heavy snowfall when conventional roads become impassable.
The closure of major highways, like Srinagar-Jammu, Mughal road, and Srinagar-Leh, due to snow accumulation highlights the vital role of the rail route in Kashmir. With road closures posing challenges, the train becomes a lifeline, ensuring the uninterrupted movement of essential goods, services, and people across the Kashmir Valley. Its reliability during winter weather not only sustains economic activities but also preserves community connectivity and mitigates the impact of isolation caused by adverse conditions.
The Polar Express Experience:
The journey through the Banihal-Baramulla train route, can affectionately be called as the “Polar Express,” offers a magical experience through snow-clad hills, valleys, and fields. As the train winds its way through the whiteout landscape, passengers are treated to panoramic views that evoke a sense of wonder and awe. The rhythmic chug of the train becomes a symphony amidst the serene silence of the snow-covered surroundings.
Embarking on the journey from Banihal during the winter season transforms the railway route into a winter wonderland, adorned with snow-covered landscapes. The picturesque scenes and snow-clad terrain add a magical touch to the entire experience:
Banihal-Qazigund Railway Tunnel (Banihal):
The winter journey begins as the train exits the Banihal-Qazigund Railway Tunnel, unveiling a pristine winter landscape.
Qazigund:
The station and surroundings are blanketed in a layer of snow, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
Sadura:
Passing through Sadura, passengers witness snow-covered hills and valleys, enhancing the visual spectacle.
Anantnag:
Anantnag, draped in winter white, showcases the beauty of the region amidst snow-covered fields.
Bijbehara:
The train traverses through a winter wonderland, with snow-laden trees and landscapes on display.
Panzgom:
The elevated regions feature glistening snow, providing passengers with panoramic views of the snowy surroundings.
Awantipora:
Historical ruins amidst snow-covered terrain add a unique charm to the winter journey.
Kakapora:
The route continues through snow-covered valleys, creating a picturesque scene.
Pampore:
Pampore’s saffron fields are transformed into a winter spectacle, offering a different perspective during this season.
Srinagar:
The summer capital, now adorned in winter white, showcases the beauty of the Zabarwan Range against the snowy backdrop.
Budgam:
The hilly regions display a winter landscape, with snow-dusted trees and hillsides.
Nadigam:
The journey continues through snow-covered terrain, creating a serene and tranquil ambiance.
Mazhom:
Descending through the snow-covered valley, rural settlements are nestled amidst the winter scenery.
Pattan:
Snow-covered fields and hills surround the route as the train progresses through the winter landscape.
Hamre:
The low hills and rural scenery are transformed into a winter idyll, with snow enhancing the beauty of the surroundings.
Sopore:
Agricultural fields and rural landscapes, now covered in a blanket of snow, contribute to the winter charm.
Baramulla:
The journey concludes in Baramulla, offering passengers a complete winter experience, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and valleys.
Kashmir Local Train Timetable
Traversing the railway route from Banihal to Baramulla in winter provides a captivating journey through a snow-laden Kashmir, showcasing the region’s natural beauty in its most enchanting form.
