How to reach Kashmir
Kashmir, often known as Heaven on Earth, is a destination that has attracted tourists for years. Nestled in the northern most region of India, this is a scenic land. Moreover, It is famous for its pristine landscapes, great mountains, and rich cultural remains. While Kashmir's allure is undeniable, the journey to reach here can be an adventure in itself. In this guide, we'll explore various routes to reach Kashmir by air, train, bus, and car. Further, also ensure that your path to heaven is not just scenic but well planned.
Flying to Kashmir is the most easy and time saving way to firstly begin your journey. Kashmir boasts two main airports Srinagar Airport and Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
Srinagar Airport, also known as Sheikh ul Alam Airport, is the gateway to Kashmir by air. Situated about 12 kms from the heart of Srinagar city. This airport firstly serves as the main point of entry for tourists and travelers. It offers both domestic and limited foreign flight options. That further makes it reachable from major cities across India.
To embark on your journey to Kashmir, You need to book a flight to Srinagar Airport. Many airlines operate regular flights to Srinagar from major Indian cities. That include Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Be sure to book your tickets well in advance, mainly during the peak tourist season. That further falls during the summer months.
Upon reaching at it's airport, You'll be firstly greeted by the stunning view of nearby mountains. The airport, is not as vast as some major airports. But it offers, needed facilities for example baggage handling, car rentals, and taxi services. Be ready for a thorough security check. This region maintains stringent rules.
Kashmir come across extreme weather conditions, with heavy snowfall during the winter months. During November and March, it's crucial to be aware of potential weather related flight issues. In this period, flights may be delayed or canceled due to adverse weather. So it's better to stay tuned with your airline and make plans for any sudden issues.
However, Kashmir doesn't have its own railway network. The nearest major railway station is Jammu Tawi. From Jammu, you can continue your journey to Srinagar and its other parts by road.
The main railway station that firstly serves as the entrance to Kashmir is Jammu Tawi Station. It is in the city of Jammu, and well connected to major cities across India. That further include Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. Once you reach Jammu, you have many options to continue your journey into Kashmir's heart.
Before embarking further, You'll need to book a train ticket to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Indian Railways offers a range of options. They are sleeper class, 3 tier AC, 2 tier AC, and even first class AC. You may choose as per your comfort level. It's better to make your bookings well in advance, mainly during peak tourist seasons.
Upon arrival at Jammu Tawi Railway Station, You will be greeted by the charming locals. After that, enjoy its pleasant climate. The station offers waiting areas, food stalls, and transport options. That will further help you to continue your journey into Kashmir.
Touring to Kashmir by bus offers a thrilling option. It further allows you to immerse yourself in diverse views and culture of north India. Many state run and private buses offer bus services to Srinagar from various cities.
The first entry point to Kashmir by bus is Jammu. That is well connected to various parts of India through a wide road network. Jammu firstly serves as the entrance to the Kashmir Valley. It is where most tourists' bus journeys to this pleasant region begin further.
To commence your journey by bus, you need to book a bus ticket to Jammu. There are various bus operators and types of buses. That include govt run buses, private lavish coaches, and sleeper buses. It's better to book your tickets in advance, mainly during the peak tourist season. The peak tourist season usually falls during the summer months.
Upon arriving in Jammu, You will find yourself between the hills and a pleasant climate. Jammu boasts a well maintained bus terminal, the General Bus Stand. Here you can alight from your long bus journey. The terminal firstly offers various amenities. That further include food stalls, restrooms, and ticket counters for onward travel to Srinagar.
Traveling to Kashmir by car offers the freedom to create your travel plan. You can have the ease to explore the region at your own pace. However, be ready for long hours of driving and challenging terrain. Mainly, if you are coming from distant cities for example Delhi or Manali.
However, reaching Kashmir by car needs careful route planning. The primary entry point to Kashmir by road is Jammu. Its a city well connected to various parts of India through a wide road network. To plan your route, consider factors for example distance, road conditions, and best time to visit. The most common route is from Delhi to Jammu, which covers about 600 kms.
Before starting on your Kashmir journey, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. This meanwhile contains checking the engine, tires, brakes, and fluids. Carrying needed tools, a spare tire, and a basic toolkit can be very helpful. All these things are further needed in case of sudden breakdowns. Don't forget to carry your vehicle's papers, like registration, insurance, and driver's license.
The road journey from Delhi to Jammu takes you through diverse landscapes. They include the plains of Punjab and the Shivalik hills. Along the way, make stops at various cities and towns to break up the journey. Meanwhile, you can explore local culture and sample regional cuisine. Famous pitstops are for example Amritsar, Pathankot, and Udhampur.
A drive from Jammu to Srinagar is an integral part of your road trip to Kashmir. The route further takes you along the Srinagar Jammu Highway, also known as National Highway 44. It is famous for its stunning vistas of the Himalayan mountains, lush valleys, and Jhelum River. While the journey can be long, the scenic beauty further makes it an enjoyable experience.
Weather plays a main role when touring to Kashmir by car. The region enjoys heavy snowfall during the winter months. It may lead to road blocks and travel disruptions. Therefore, it is crucial to plan your trip during the summer or early autumn months. That will give you a smoother and safer journey.
Kashmir, with its stunning natural beauty and rich culture, is a great destination. It deserves a place on each tourists' bucket list. You may choose to reach here by air, train, bus, or car. The journey itself is an adventure. In short, each mode of transport offers its unique joys. That further allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures. Above all, they are things that make Kashmir a unique gem of India.
Firstly, remember to plan your trip well in advance. Consider factors for example weather conditions, road blocks and duration of your stay. It doesn't matter that how you choose to reach Kashmir. You are bound to be charmed by its stunning beauty and the warmth of its people. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready for an enjoyable journey to Kashmir.
