Srinagar, November 5, 2026- In a major relief for passengers travelling between the Kashmir Valley and Jammu region during the festive season, Northern Railway has announced special unreserved train services between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra on November 5 and 6, 2026.
The special train service has been introduced by the Jammu Division of Northern Railway in view of the anticipated increase in passenger movement during the Diwali festive period. The additional services are expected to provide greater convenience to local residents, pilgrims, tourists and other travellers planning journeys between the two destinations.
The special arrangements aim to accommodate the additional rush, particularly passengers making last-minute travel plans, while providing an alternative and convenient mode of transportation.
Special Train Numbers and Schedule
According to the railway announcement, Train Nos. 04690 and 04689 will operate between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra in both directions on November 5 and 6.
Train No. 04690, Srinagar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Unreserved Special Express, will depart from Srinagar Railway Station at 11:45 AM on both days.
During its onward journey, the train will connect important stations, including Anantnag and Banihal, before reaching Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station at 3:30 PM on the same day.
Similarly, Train No. 04689, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Srinagar Unreserved Festival Special Express, will depart from Katra at 4:00 PM on November 5 and 6.
On its return journey, the train will reach Banihal at approximately 6:25 PM, followed by Anantnag at 7:00 PM, before arriving at Srinagar Railway Station at 7:45 PM.
The two services will provide passengers with a direct rail connection between the Kashmir Valley and the important pilgrimage destination of Katra.
Relief for Pilgrims, Tourists and Local Residents
The special train service is expected to benefit a wide range of passengers, particularly devotees travelling to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine during the festive period.
Katra serves as the base camp for pilgrims undertaking the annual pilgrimage to the holy shrine, attracting visitors from different parts of the country throughout the year. With the festive season bringing additional passenger movement, the special railway arrangement is expected to improve travel convenience.
The service will also benefit residents of Srinagar, Anantnag and surrounding areas who need to travel towards Jammu for personal, professional and other purposes.
For passengers travelling with families, the additional train option can provide greater flexibility and help reduce dependence on other modes of transport during periods of increased demand.
Unreserved Service for Passenger Convenience
Railway authorities have clarified that the special trains will operate entirely in the unreserved category. Passengers are required to purchase valid unreserved tickets before boarding the trains.
Travellers have been advised to check the latest operational information, departure timings and other details before commencing their journeys.
For assistance and railway-related enquiries, passengers can contact Railway Helpline No. 139, use the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) application or visit the official Indian Railways website.
Strengthening Rail Connectivity Between Kashmir and Jammu
The introduction of special services reflects Northern Railway’s efforts to manage increased passenger demand and improve connectivity between important destinations in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Srinagar–Katra rail connection is particularly significant for residents, tourists and pilgrims, as it provides an important transportation link between the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region.
Additional services during festive occasions can help distribute passenger traffic, provide more travel options and improve the overall passenger experience.
With the special unreserved trains operating on November 5 and 6, Northern Railway aims to make festive travel more convenient for passengers travelling between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.
The initiative is another step towards improving railway services and ensuring better connectivity for people across Jammu and Kashmir during periods of increased travel demand.
