Northern Railway Introduces Vistadome Coach on Budgam–Katra Route to Boost Kashmir Tourism | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Rail travel through the Kashmir Valley has received a significant upgrade with Northern Railway introducing a Vistadome coach on the Budgam–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra special train, aimed at enhancing passenger experience, strengthening connectivity and promoting tourism in the region.

The development follows the extension of the Budgam–Banihal special train service up to Katra, which became operational on February 11, 2026. Operated by the Jammu Division of Northern Railway, the extended route is expected to benefit both local residents and visitors by providing a reliable alternative to road travel, particularly in areas where weather and terrain often disrupt surface connectivity.

Earlier terminating at Banihal, special train numbers 04688 and 04687 now run up to Katra, improving access across key destinations in the Union Territory. Railway officials said the move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen transport links in regions that remain vulnerable to road closures during winter months.

The service recorded strong public response on its first day, carrying more than 600 passengers.

The key feature of the upgraded train is the addition of the Vistadome coach, designed for panoramic sightseeing. Equipped with large glass windows and a transparent roof, the coach offers uninterrupted views of the Valley’s mountains, rivers, tunnels and valleys during the journey.

Passengers on the route also pass major engineering landmarks, including the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.

While Vistadome coaches already operate on tourist circuits such as the Konkan Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, this marks their first introduction in the Kashmir Valley. Railway authorities described it as a step toward promoting experience-based travel while improving comfort and safety.