There is a regular AC and Non-AC Bus Service from Delhi to Srinagar and Jammu to Srinagar.From Jammu, book a seat in the daily bus service of J&K State Road Transport Corporation to Srinagar for Rs. 215 for ‘A class’ coach, Rs 299 for Tempo Traveller or Mazda coach and Rs. 155 for semi-deluxe coach per seat starting from Jammu Railway Station and Tourist Reception Centre (6km from Railway Station). Or hire a taxi from the nearby taxi stand for Srinagar where the rates are approved by State transport authority for every vehicle. Jammu to Srinagar is 298 km mostly hilly road. On reaching Jajjarkotli, 40 km from Jammu, stop for a tea break. Travlling via tourist resorts like Kud and Patnitop,125 km from Jammu, comfortable hotels and tourist bungalow & JKTDC are available. Pilgrims ai Mata Vaishnodeviji can start off from Katra,connected by a 15km bypass to National Highway 1A. Generally, the next stop for lunch break is Ramban, 153 km crossing via Banihal village, 190km, you reach Jawahar tunnel at an altitude of 3000 meters, built in 1956.
On other side of the tunnel, change in the air and charismatic view of the nature is the first feeling of Kashmir. Further down,Qazigund is a short stopover for early passing vehicles. The road then leads to Khanabol crossing and from where a straight road passed through partly lined Poplar trees. Crossing Avantipora,capital of Kingdom in 9th century and then to Pampore, with vast saffron fields,finally the city of lakes and shikaras,Srinagar awaits to be explored, enjoyed and cherished.
Although Jammu - Sririagar offers full adventure, it can be quite tiring at times being a single approach road into the valley, which has huge columns of traffic both heavy & light.The road frequently gets blocked due landslide during the winter season. Travel sickness is common on this 9 to 12 hours journey. |
