How to Reach Kashmir: Flights, Trains and Road Routes

The easiest way to reach Kashmir is to fly into Srinagar, about an hour and a half from Delhi by air. The rail link now runs through the Himalaya from Jammu and Katra to Srinagar on Vande Bharat trains, and the national highway from Jammu is an option in good weather. Once in Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg are day trips or short drives.

Getting to Kashmir has become easier in recent years, but weather, road closures and seasonal demand still shape the journey. This guide explains your options by air, rail and road, how long each takes and how to get around the valley once you arrive. Before travelling, check the latest local advisories.

The short answer

By air

Srinagar's Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport has non-stop flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jammu and several other cities, with more connections via Delhi. It is about 30 to 45 minutes from Dal Lake. Security checks at Srinagar airport are thorough, including checks at the entrance, so arrive well before departure on your way home. Morning flights are more reliable in winter, when fog and snow can cause delays.

By rail

The Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail link now connects the Kashmir valley with the national network. Vande Bharat trains run between Katra and Srinagar in about three hours, and a service from Jammu Tawi takes about five hours, crossing the Chenab bridge and running through long tunnels. From Delhi, fast trains reach Katra and Jammu, where you change. Seats on the Kashmir trains are in high demand, so book as soon as reservations open, and check current timetables, which can change by season.

By road

The national highway from Jammu to Srinagar is about 250 kilometres, usually six to eight hours. Tunnels near Banihal have shortened the route, but landslides, snow and traffic can close it for hours or days, especially in winter and the monsoon. The Mughal Road via Poonch and Shopian is an alternative in summer but closes in winter. Drive in daylight and check road status before setting out.

Drive times within the valley

Getting around

A private car with a local driver is the most practical way to travel in the valley. In some areas, local taxi unions operate their own vehicles for sightseeing, for example in Pahalgam and Sonamarg, and outside cars may not be allowed beyond certain points. Your driver will know the rules. In Srinagar, shikaras on Dal Lake are a pleasant way to get around the old houseboat areas. Our Enchanting Kashmir Sojourn includes a driver and local guides.

Delhi to Srinagar by rail

A rail journey from Delhi usually means a fast daytime train to Katra or Jammu, a night there, and the Vande Bharat to Srinagar the next morning. It takes longer than flying, but it suits travellers who want to visit the Vaishno Devi shrine near Katra, or who prefer to avoid flights. The mountain section, with its tunnels and bridges, is a highlight in its own right.

Combining Kashmir with Ladakh

In summer, the road from Srinagar to Leh crosses the Zoji La pass via Sonamarg and Kargil, usually over two days with a night in Kargil. The pass is closed for several months in winter, and opening dates depend on snow clearance. Many travellers drive in from Srinagar and fly out of Leh, which helps with acclimatisation to Ladakh's higher altitude.

Budget options

The train is often the best value from Jammu and Katra, and Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport buses run on the highway. Flights from Delhi are cheapest when booked early and outside school holidays. Sharing a car and driver with another family brings down sightseeing costs in the valley.

Checking conditions before you go

Weather and local conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Before travelling, check official advisories, road status and the opening of attractions such as meadows and gondolas. A local driver or planner will have up-to-date information and can adjust the route if a road or site is closed.

Season and booking

April to October is the main season, with tulips in early spring, green meadows in summer and autumn colours in October. December to February brings snow in Gulmarg, cold nights and occasional flight and road disruption. Flights and trains fill quickly around Indian summer holidays and long weekends. Read our month-by-month guide to Kashmir before booking.

Your first day

Srinagar sits at about 1,600 metres, so take the first afternoon easy. Check in to your houseboat or hotel, take a shikara ride on Dal Lake at sunset and save the Mughal gardens and old city for the next day. In winter, make sure your room has heating.

Travelling with parents

Flying is the easiest option for older travellers. Choose a houseboat or hotel with easy access, as some houseboats are reached by shikara and steps. Gulmarg's gondola involves queues and cold air at the top, so carry warm layers. Avoid long drives on the same day as your flight.

For couples

Couples often split the trip between a Dal Lake houseboat and a cottage in Pahalgam or Gulmarg. Food lovers can follow Kashmir's Culinary Trails and Traditions, with wazwan, kahwa and visits to local bakeries.

Practical tips

Carry a postpaid SIM, as prepaid connections from outside the region generally do not work. Keep ID handy for checkpoints. Carry some cash, as card acceptance and ATMs can be patchy outside Srinagar. Read our 7-day Kashmir itinerary and Kashmir planning guide to plan the rest of your trip.

A BagPackerMe planner can arrange the whole journey privately, with one named planner, WhatsApp support throughout and vegetarian and Jain food planned in.

Your questions, answered

What is the best way to reach Kashmir?

Flying into Srinagar is the quickest option, with non-stop flights from Delhi and several other cities. The rail link from Jammu and Katra to Srinagar is a scenic alternative, and the highway from Jammu works in good weather.

Is there a train to Srinagar?

Yes. Vande Bharat trains run through the mountains between Jammu or Katra and Srinagar, crossing the Chenab bridge. From Delhi, take a train to Jammu or Katra and connect. Seats sell out quickly, so book early.

Will my prepaid SIM work in Kashmir?

Prepaid connections from outside Jammu and Kashmir generally do not work there, while postpaid connections usually do. Carry a postpaid number or check the current rules with your mobile operator before travelling.

How far is Gulmarg from Srinagar?

About an hour and a half to two hours by road. Pahalgam and Sonamarg are each roughly two and a half to three hours from Srinagar, depending on traffic and weather.