Kashmir rail journey gets a scenic upgrade with Vistadome coach on Budgam–Katra route

A Vistadome coach on the Budgam–Katra train offers panoramic views of Kashmir’s mountains, rivers and iconic railway bridges. (Image: PTI)

• Vistadome coach added to Budgam–Katra train for panoramic Kashmir views
• Train extension boosts connectivity and tourism in Kashmir Valley
• First Vistadome service in Kashmir offers scenic travel and comfort

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Rail travel through the Kashmir Valley has received a major scenic upgrade with Northern Railway introducing a Vistadome coach on the Budgam–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra special train, a move aimed at boosting tourism and improving connectivity in the region.

The development follows the extension of the Budgam–Banihal special train up to Katra, which came into effect on February 11, 2026. Operated by the Jammu Division of Northern Railway, the upgraded service offers passengers an immersive travel experience through some of Kashmir’s most dramatic landscapes—without the challenges of mountain road journeys.

#WATCH Katra, Jammu & Kashmir: To promote tourism and connectivity, a Vistadome coach has been attached to the Budgam-Katra special train. pic.twitter.com/p5ew11r3TT

— ANI (@ANI) February 11, 2026

Budgam–Katra train extended to improve connectivity

Previously terminating at Banihal, special train numbers 04688 and 04687 have now been extended to Katra, strengthening rail connectivity for both local residents and tourists. Railway officials said the move is part of a broader effort to improve access in areas where road connectivity remains limited, particularly during harsh weather conditions.

The newly extended service completed its first day of operations on February 11, carrying over 600 passengers, reflecting strong demand for the route.

Vistadome coach offers panoramic views of Kashmir

The highlight of the upgraded service is the addition of a Vistadome coach, designed to offer uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. Fitted with wide glass windows and a transparent roof, the coach allows passengers to take in panoramic views of mountains, rivers, valleys and tunnels along the route—all from the comfort of their seats.

Travellers on the Budgam–Katra route can also witness major engineering landmarks, including the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.

Railways focus on tourism and passenger experience

Explaining the initiative, Northern Railway Principal Chief Commercial Manager Parveen Panday said the addition of the Vistadome coach aligns with Indian Railways’ service-oriented approach.

“Indian Railways has a mantra, of service, and we are working under that very principle... We are providing this service to the local people so that they can connect from one station to another. There are several stations here where road connectivity is not good... This will provide them with a good facility... This will also boost tourism... During snowfall, Kashmir used to get cut off, facilities couldn't reach there, people couldn't reach there, but this time not only did we transport passengers there but we also delivered a substantial amount of goods there... A Vistadome coach has been attached to this train. It is open on all sides so that people feel like they are in the midst of nature. People will have a very good experience in it...,” Panday told ANI.

Officials noted that during periods of snowfall—when Kashmir often faces disruptions—the rail network has played a crucial role in transporting both passengers and essential goods, reinforcing the importance of reliable rail connectivity.

First Vistadome service in Kashmir

While Vistadome coaches are already popular on tourist routes such as the Konkan Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, this marks their first introduction in the Kashmir Valley, representing a significant upgrade in passenger comfort and sightseeing amenities.

The move mirrors Indian Railways’ broader push toward experience-driven travel. In recent months, similar initiatives include the Train Safari in Uttar Pradesh through Dudhwa forests and the revival of the Bengaluru–Mangaluru Vistadome service following line electrification.

A new perspective on travelling through Kashmir

Railway officials believe that extending the Budgam–Katra service and adding a Vistadome coach will strengthen tourism, improve regional mobility, and offer travellers a new way to experience Kashmir’s natural beauty.

For tourists eager to explore the Valley without navigating winding mountain roads, the upgraded rail journey promises a safer, smoother—and far more scenic—alternative through one of India’s most visually striking regions.