JAMMU, August 11, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the new Vande Bharat Express train service connecting Amritsar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra on August 10, 2025, marking a significant enhancement in connectivity for pilgrims and tourists visiting the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir. This high-speed train, the fifth Vande Bharat service in the region, will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays, offering a faster and more comfortable travel option between these two key destinations.
The Vande Bharat Express, train numbers 26405 (Amritsar to Katra) and 26406 (Katra to Amritsar), is designed to cater to the growing demand for efficient rail travel in the region. The service is expected to reduce travel time significantly, making it easier for devotees and visitors to access the holy shrine in Katra from Amritsar, a major cultural and religious hub.
The train’s introduction aligns with India’s push for modernized rail infrastructure, offering amenities such as ergonomic seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and enhanced safety features, ensuring a premium travel experience.According to posts on X, the train’s schedule and operational details have been well-received, with the service anticipated to boost tourism and pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir. The exclusion of Tuesdays from the schedule allows for regular maintenance to ensure consistent performance. This launch is part of the broader expansion of the Vande Bharat network, aimed at connecting culturally and spiritually significant locations across India with high-speed rail services.
