JAMMU: To enhance the travel experience for tourists visiting Kashmir Valley, Northern Railway has extended a special train — which earlier operated between Budgam and Banihal — up to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Katra, from Wednesday.The train (04688/04687) features a panoramic Vistadome coach and was launched on the Budgam-Banihal route by Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnav and J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Oct 19, 2023.An official spokesperson said the move aims to provide improved facilities for both locals and tourists.Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal, said the Vistadome coach features wide glass windows and a transparent roof, offering passengers a 360-degree view of Kashmir’s scenic landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and tunnels. The extension will promote tourism by making train journeys more comfortable, memorable, and visually engaging, allowing travellers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty throughout the journey.Vistadome coaches are very popular on scenic tourist routes like the Konkan Railway and Darjeeling.
