Srinagar Railway Station (also known as Banihal–Baramulla rail line) is used by travellers arriving from Jammu side by train. The station is located in the Nowgam area, approximately 6–8 km from Dal Lake and the main tourist belt. This guide covers exact taxi fares, auto-rickshaw rates, and the easiest ways to get from the station to Dal Lake and other parts of Srinagar.
Srinagar Railway Station to Dal Lake — Taxi Fares
| Mode | Distance | Time | Fare (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private taxi (Sedan) | 6–8 km | 15–20 min | ₹350–500 | Per vehicle (fits 3–4 pax) |
| Private taxi (SUV/Innova) | 6–8 km | 15–20 min | ₹500–700 | Per vehicle (fits 5–7 pax) |
| Shared cab | 6–8 km | 20–30 min | ₹100–150/person | Wait for cab to fill up |
| Auto-rickshaw | 6–8 km | 20–30 min | ₹120–200 | Bargain needed; metered auto rare |
| City bus (local) | – | 30–45 min | ₹15–25/person | Infrequent, no luggage space |
Station to Other Key Srinagar Destinations
| Destination | Distance from Station | Private Taxi | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dal Lake (Tourist Belt) | 7 km | ₹350–500 | 15–20 min |
| Lal Chowk (City Centre) | 5 km | ₹250–350 | 10–15 min |
| SXR Airport | 16 km | ₹700–950 | 30–40 min |
| Shalimar Garden | 15 km | ₹600–800 | 25–35 min |
| Hazratbal Shrine | 10 km | ₹450–600 | 20–25 min |
| Gulmarg (direct) | 65 km | ₹2,800–3,500 | 2 hrs |
| Pahalgam (direct) | 100 km | ₹3,200–4,000 | 2.5–3 hrs |
About Srinagar Railway Station
Srinagar is served by the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) — one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. Trains currently run between Banihal and Baramulla. From Jammu, you travel by train to Banihal, then change to the USBRL service to Srinagar (Nowgam station). The full Jammu–Srinagar rail link via Banihal Tunnel is operational and expanding.
The station is located at Nowgam, Srinagar — in the western suburbs of the city, about 6–8 km from the Dal Lake tourist area. When you exit the station, you’ll find a taxi stand to the right. Always negotiate or confirm the fare before getting in.
Arriving by Train vs Arriving by Flight — Which is Better?
| Train (Jammu → Srinagar via Banihal) | Flight (direct to SXR) | |
|---|---|---|
| Journey time (from Delhi) | 12–14 hrs total (train + 2 hr Banihal leg) | 1.5 hours |
| Scenery | Spectacular — Pir Panjal mountains, tunnels, viaducts | Aerial view of Himalayas |
| Cost (from Delhi) | ₹600–1,800/person (3AC to Banihal) + local leg | ₹2,500–8,000/person (advance to last-minute) |
| Luggage convenience | More luggage space on train | Standard airline limits (15–20 kg check-in) |
| Best for | Budget travellers, train enthusiasts, scenic experience | Time-sensitive trips, families with small children |
How to Pre-Book Your Station Transfer
The best way is to call us on +91-7006540538 or WhatsApp with your train number and expected arrival time at Srinagar (Nowgam) station. We’ll arrange a named driver at the exit gate. The transfer can be the start of your full Kashmir tour package — no need to book cab separately for each leg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the train go directly to Srinagar from Delhi or Mumbai?
Not yet directly. You take a train from Delhi/Mumbai to Jammu Tawi (JAT), then another train or cab to Banihal, then the USBRL train to Srinagar (Nowgam). Alternatively, many travellers take the overnight train to Jammu and then a private cab or Volvo bus to Srinagar (270 km, 5–6 hrs via Banihal Tunnel).
Is there a prepaid taxi counter at Srinagar Railway Station?
As of 2026, there is a taxi stand outside the station but the prepaid counter system is less structured than at the airport. Negotiate firmly or use a pre-booked cab. Fares to Dal Lake should not exceed ₹500 for a standard sedan.
Can I take an auto-rickshaw from the station to Dal Lake?
Yes — auto-rickshaws are available outside the station. The fare should be ₹120–200 for the 6–8 km trip. Bargain before boarding as meters are rarely used. Good option for solo travellers with light luggage.