Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Train Now Operational: What You Need to Know Before Boarding

India’s rapidly expanding Vande Bharat Express network has officially reached Jammu & Kashmir, with the recent launch of the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat train. The route is being hailed as a major boost for pilgrims and tourists alike, as it connects key religious destinations such as Vaishno Devi and Amarnath with a fast, modern, and comfortable rail option.

Ticket & ID Rules: What’s Mandatory

To board the Vande Bharat Express, travelers must carry a valid ticket and a government-issued photo ID. The ID must exactly match the name mentioned on the ticket — any mismatch can lead to penalties or denial of boarding.

Acceptable ID documents include:

Aadhaar Card

PAN Card

Passport

Voter ID Card

Whether booking your ticket online via IRCTC or at an offline counter, the submission of ID details is compulsory. If you’re booking a ticket for someone else, ensure that their correct ID information is entered during the booking process, as TTEs (Travelling Ticket Examiners) routinely verify identities during the journey.

Why the Srinagar–Katra Route Matters

This route is of special significance as it connects two of the holiest sites in North India: Vaishno Devi and Amarnath. The new Vande Bharat train drastically reduces travel time, offering electric engines, modern coaches, and a smoother, faster ride compared to conventional trains.

Aside from pilgrimage traffic, the route is expected to boost tourism and local economies across the region, opening doors to more accessible travel for both locals and domestic travelers from across India.

Final Tips for Passengers

Travelers are advised to double-check their ID documents and ticket details before boarding. Even a minor mismatch could disrupt your journey. Carry a physical or digital copy of your ID, and ensure the name is spelled exactly as in your ticket.

The Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express stands as a symbol of progressive infrastructure and national integration, making spiritual and scenic travel in Jammu & Kashmir smoother than ever before.