Kashmir is also known as "Paradise on Earth" because of its natural beauty. It is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. This place is famous for its breathtaking beauty, lush valleys, snow-capped mountains, and serene lakes.
It is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This beautiful valley is well connected by air, rail, and road to the capital of India - Delhi. Depending on your preferences, many options exist to reach Kashmir from Delhi.
1. By Air
This mode of travel is the fastest and easiest way to reach Kashmir from Delhi. There are many flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) to Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (Srinagar). The journey is about 1.5 hours, so it surely saves time to travel between these two places.
Aerial views of the valleys will be an entirely new experience for everyone. From an aeroplane, one can see snow-covered mountains and beautiful valleys.
Airlines: Major airlines like Air India, IndiGo, GoAir, and Vistara operate daily flights on this route.
Cost: Airfare typically ranges between ₹3,000 and ₹8,000. It is best to book early for lower rates, especially during peak seasons.
2. By Train
There is no direct train from Delhi to Srinagar. You must travel to Jammu via train and then continue to Kashmir by road. Jammu railway station has many trains from Delhi station. The train journey is relaxing and offers many mesmerizing views as it passes through hills.
Train Options: Trains like the Shalimar Express, Jammu Rajdhani Express, and Vaishno Devi Express operate regularly between these stations.
Duration: The train ride from Delhi to Jammu takes 8-12 hours, depending on the train. From Jammu, the journey to Srinagar takes another 7-8 hours.
Cost: Train tickets are relatively affordable, costing between ₹2,000 and ₹3,000. The train is more of a
budget-friendly option.
3. By Road
The road is the best option for those who want to enjoy every moment of traveling. The journey between Kashmir and Delhi is quite long, but it is filled with the beauty of nature. At every moment, you will witness beautiful landscapes and snowy hills.
The distance between Delhi and Kashmir is approximately 850km, which takes around 20 hours. Below is the best suitable route to travel-
Route: The road trip takes you through Delhi → Ludhiana → Jalandhar → Pathankot → Jammu → Srinagar.
If you want to travel by road, you can choose between a self-driving car, a rental vehicle, or a bus. If you are traveling on your own, be cautious about the road condition in hills.
4. By Private Taxi or Cab
It is not easy to drive in hilly roads, hence hiring a taxi is the best option. There are many rental vehicles available for all kind of preferences and group sizes. Rental taxi gives the benefit of traveling safe without any worry about driving. You can also take breaks or enjoy any scenic spot whenever you want.
5. By Bike
Many travellers like thrills and adventure while traveling. Bike travel is the best option for such travellers. A road trip from Kashmir to Delhi is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. The bike route is the same as a road trip. Though traveling via bike can be difficult, it is important to travel only with a well-maintained bike.
Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Kashmir
Kashmir is worth visiting every season. You can choose any weather that suits your preferences. Here is a guide to help you to choose the right weather for your journey -
Spring (March-May): This season is best for witnessing blooming flower valleys and lush greenery. The weather is pleasant. Tulip Garden in Srinagar is a must-visit in this season.
Summer (June-August): This season is best for traveling to avoid the summer heat of Delhi and other regions. You can enjoy activities like trekking and houseboat stays.
Autumn (September-November): This season is cool and refreshing. The Chinar trees during autumn are magical with their golden hues.
Winter (December-February): Winters make the entire region into a snowy wonderland. It is the best time to enjoy skiing and winter sports in Gulmarg.
Conclusion
All the traveling modes between Kashmir and Delhi are mesmerizing and memorable. All routes offer stunning views and unique traveling experiences. The traveling mode depends on your travel preferences, time, and budget. It is important to choose the right weather depending on your traveling mode. Every journey is filled with natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable memories. Once you visit, you will know why Kashmir is called “Paradise on Earth.”