Delhi, the bustling capital of India, is well connected to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir, known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. This route is popular among tourists seeking the serene beauty of the Himalayas, as well as business travelers and weekend adventurers.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Srinagar, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on travel times, costs, and tips to help you plan your journey confidently.

Getting from Delhi to Srinagar – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Delhi to Srinagar is limited due to the region's terrain and security considerations, but nearby railheads offer partial connectivity. This mode is less direct but can be combined with road travel for an adventurous trip.

• Nearest major railway station:

  Jammu Tawi is the closest major railhead to Srinagar, about 270 km away. Trains from Delhi to Jammu Tawi run frequently, with journey times around 10–12 hours.

• Train options and classes:

  Popular trains include the Jammu Rajdhani Express and the Jammu Mail, offering AC and sleeper classes. Ticket prices range from ₹500 to ₹2,000 depending on class.

• From Jammu to Srinagar:

  After reaching Jammu, travelers must take a bus or taxi for the mountainous 7–9 hour drive to Srinagar via NH44, which is scenic but can be challenging in winter.

• Booking tips:

  Book train tickets well in advance through IRCTC, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals to secure preferred classes.

• Challenges:

  The Jammu to Srinagar road can be affected by landslides or snowfall in winter, causing delays. Night travel on this stretch is not recommended due to road conditions and security checks.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to travel from Delhi to Srinagar, though the journey is long and can be tiring. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Bus types and operators:

  Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) and private Volvo buses operate from Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Srinagar. Options include sleeper and semi-sleeper coaches.

• Duration and cost:

  The bus journey takes approximately 18–22 hours covering around 850 km, with fares ranging from ₹900 to ₹1,500 depending on the bus type.

• Route details:

  Buses travel via NH44 through Punjab and Jammu, passing scenic but winding mountain roads after Jammu. Frequent stops allow for refreshments and rest.

• Booking and tips:

  Tickets can be booked online via JKSRTC or through travel agents. Boarding early at ISBT Kashmiri Gate is advisable to avoid last-minute rush.

• Considerations:

  Night buses may be uncomfortable for some travelers due to road conditions and security checks. Carry water and snacks as stops can be irregular.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Srinagar offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic views along the way. This option suits travelers comfortable with long drives on varied terrain.

• Route and distance:

  The most common route is via NH44, covering approximately 850 km. The drive usually takes 15–18 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Road conditions:

  The Delhi to Jammu stretch is mostly smooth highways, including toll roads. The Jammu to Srinagar section involves mountainous roads with hairpin bends and occasional landslides, especially in winter.

• Stops and amenities:

  Key rest stops include Karnal, Ambala, Ludhiana, and Jammu. Fuel stations and eateries like Haldiram’s and local dhabas are available en route.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in the Jammu-Srinagar sector due to security checks and poor visibility. Carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile signals can be weak in hilly areas.

• Permits and safety:

  Indian citizens do not need special permits, but carry valid ID. Check weather forecasts and road status before departure, especially during winter and monsoon seasons.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Srinagar from Delhi, especially for tourists and business travelers looking to save time.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Multiple airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and Go First operate daily direct flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) to Srinagar Airport (SXR).

• Flight duration and cost:

  The flight takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Ticket prices range from ₹2,000 to ₹6,000 depending on booking time and season.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights at least 2–3 weeks in advance to get better fares. Use airline apps or aggregators like MakeMyTrip and Cleartrip for deals.

• Airport facilities and transfers:

  Srinagar Airport is about 12 km from the city center. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for onward travel.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be delayed or canceled during heavy snowfall or fog in winter. Check weather updates and flight status before traveling.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Srinagar, focusing on convenience and comfort.

• Book your tickets early:

  Whether flying or taking a train, secure your tickets at least 2–3 weeks in advance via IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute price hikes.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Delhi airport or railway station at least 2 hours before departure to complete security and boarding formalities smoothly.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry warm clothing, especially in winter, snacks, water, and necessary medications. For road travel, include a power bank and physical maps.

• Plan local transport in Srinagar:

  Pre-book taxis or use app-based cabs from the airport or Jammu railway station to your accommodation to avoid haggling and delays.

• Stay updated on weather and road conditions:

  Check local news and official websites for any travel advisories, especially during monsoon and winter seasons.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers of local police, hospitals, and your accommodation for quick assistance if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety checks:

  Jammu-Srinagar highway has security checkpoints; carry valid ID and cooperate with authorities to ensure smooth passage.

• Food and water:

  Prefer bottled water and eat at clean, popular eateries during road travel to avoid stomach issues. Delhi airport and Srinagar have good food options.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for trains and official airline websites or trusted aggregators for flights. Avoid third-party sellers to prevent scams.

• Local commute:

  In Srinagar, use prepaid taxis or Ola/Uber for safe and reliable transport. Avoid unregistered taxis, especially at night.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light if traveling by bus or train due to limited storage space. For flights, check baggage allowances to avoid extra charges.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling Jammu-Srinagar road during heavy snowfall or monsoon landslides. Flights may face cancellations in adverse weather.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Srinagar depends on weather and road conditions, impacting comfort and safety.

Summer months (April to September) offer pleasant weather and open roads, making travel easier. Winters can be harsh with snow affecting road and air travel.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Delhi (8–11 AM and 5–8 PM) to reduce delays when starting your journey.

• Steer clear of major festival weekends like Diwali and Eid when trains and flights are heavily booked and roads congested.

• Plan flights or road travel during daylight hours to enjoy scenic views and ensure safety on mountainous roads.

• Check weather forecasts for fog or snowfall that can disrupt flights and road conditions, especially from November to February.

Arrival at Srinagar & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Srinagar, travelers are greeted by breathtaking views of Dal Lake and the surrounding mountains. The city offers a mix of traditional Kashmiri culture and modern amenities.

Local transport includes prepaid taxis at the airport and railway station, as well as app-based cabs. Popular stay areas include Lal Chowk, Boulevard Road near Dal Lake, and Rajbagh, all offering easy access to attractions like Mughal Gardens and Shankaracharya Temple.

Conclusion

Flying remains the most efficient and comfortable way to reach Srinagar from Delhi, especially for those short on time. It offers quick transit, multiple daily flights, and hassle-free transfers to the city.

For travelers seeking adventure and scenic road experiences, driving or taking the train to Jammu followed by road travel to Srinagar can be rewarding. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on this memorable journey to the heart of Kashmir.