Travelling to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine has become more convenient for passengers from Gujarat and neighbouring states. Indian Railways has extended the Sabarmati–Jammu Tawi Express to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, giving pilgrims a direct rail connection to the town that serves as the main base for the shrine.
Daily Train Service and Timings
Train number 19223 leaves Sabarmati at approximately 10:25 AM and is scheduled to reach Katra at 6:55 PM the following day. The journey takes around 33 hours.
The return service, train number 19224, is scheduled to depart Katra at 4:50 AM and reach Sabarmati the next day. Passengers should check the official railway timetable before travelling, as timings can change.
Three Additional Stops in Jammu Region
The extended service includes new halts at Samba, Bari Brahmana and Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan railway station in Udhampur. These stops are expected to improve rail access for local residents, students, traders, workers and military personnel.
The route passes through important stations including Bathinda, Firozpur, Jalandhar and Pathankot, connecting passengers from several parts of northern and western India.
What It Means for Pilgrims
Katra is the principal starting point for pilgrims travelling to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the Trikuta Hills. Previously, passengers using this service had to end their rail journey at Jammu Tawi and arrange onward transport to Katra.
The extension removes that additional transfer for travellers using this train, making the journey more straightforward for families and groups visiting the shrine.
Advice for Travellers
Before booking, passengers should confirm the train number, timetable, seat availability and current running status through official railway services. Pilgrims should also plan their onward journey from Katra according to their arrival time and any shrine-related arrangements.
