To reach Ranchi from Bandipora, you must first exit the Kashmir valley. Take a taxi to Jammu Tawi railway station. From there, you can catch a train to Ranchi Junction. Alternatively, fly from Srinagar to Ranchi via Delhi.
Total Distance: 2100 km by road, 1600 km air distance.
The train journey is long; carry books or entertainment.
October to March for pleasant weather.