Vistadome coach adds charm to Katra–Vaishno Devi rail journey

In a move set to delight pilgrims and tourists alike, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has added a vistadome coach in the special train running on the Budgam-Banihal route that has been extended to pilgrimage destination of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Katra, railway officials said on Wednesday.

The travel between the Kashmir valley and Jammu region’s Katra by the train (04688/04687) has turned the journey into a panoramic spectacle.

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On its very first day, more than 600 passengers boarded the train and were treated to breathtaking views through the coach’s glass roof and wide transparent windows.

As the train wound its way through the mountains, passengers soaked in uninterrupted vistas of valleys, rivers, and tunnels. The journey also offered a rare glimpse of two engineering marvels — the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River and the iconic Anji Khad cable-stayed bridge.

Passengers, including locals and visiting tourists, expressed gratitude to the Railways for what they described as a “historic step” that significantly improves connectivity from Banihal to Katra while adding a unique travel experience.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal said the initiative is aimed at enhancing passenger experience through scenic travel while simultaneously promoting tourism in Kashmir. The enthusiastic response from passengers on day one, he noted, reflected the success of the initiative.