Northern Railway Expands Scenic Vistadome Train Service to Katra for Kashmir Tourists
In a significant move to elevate the travel experience for visitors to the Kashmir Valley, Northern Railway has officially extended its special tourist train service. Previously operating between Budgam and Banihal, the train now runs up to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Katra, effective from Wednesday. This expansion is designed to provide enhanced facilities for both local residents and tourists, aiming to make journeys more comfortable and visually captivating.
Panoramic Vistadome Coach Offers Unmatched Views
The train, identified as 04688/04687, features a state-of-the-art panoramic Vistadome coach that was originally launched on the Budgam-Banihal route. It was inaugurated on October 19, 2023, by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. According to Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu Division, the Vistadome coach is equipped with wide glass windows and a transparent roof, allowing passengers to enjoy a 360-degree view of Kashmir's breathtaking natural scenery.
This innovative design enables travelers to witness majestic mountains, serene rivers, and intricate tunnels throughout their journey, creating a memorable and engaging experience. The extension to Katra is expected to significantly promote tourism in the region by making train travel more appealing and accessible.
Boosting Tourism with Enhanced Comfort and Visual Appeal
The initiative focuses on improving the overall travel infrastructure in Kashmir, leveraging the popularity of Vistadome coaches on other scenic routes like the Konkan Railway and Darjeeling. By extending the service to Katra, a key pilgrimage and tourist destination, Northern Railway aims to attract more visitors and support local economies. An official spokesperson emphasized that the move is part of broader efforts to enhance connectivity and provide world-class amenities for tourists exploring the valley.
The Vistadome train not only offers practical benefits but also transforms the journey into an immersive visual adventure, encouraging travelers to explore Kashmir's natural beauty in a unique way. This development is seen as a step forward in making train journeys in the region more comfortable, memorable, and conducive to tourism growth.
