Is the road open all year?

The highway can close during heavy snowfall in winter.

No, Indian citizens do not need a permit to visit Srinagar.

Flying from Amritsar to Srinagar is faster but more expensive.

Yes, ATMs are available in major towns along the route.

What is the best vehicle?

An SUV is recommended for the mountain terrain.

Dera Baba Nanak

Srinagar

Bus Driving

Dera Baba Nanak to Srinagar

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Dera Baba Nanak to Srinagar spans roughly 450 km, primarily following NH 44 through Jammu. You will traverse the challenging terrain of the Banihal Pass and the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel. This route is best undertaken by road, as there is no direct rail link to Srinagar from Punjab. Expect a long drive of 12 to 14 hours, often requiring a stopover in Jammu. The landscape shifts dramatically from the plains of Punjab to the high-altitude valleys of Kashmir.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 450 km; straight-line air distance is 240 km.

Fastest Way

Private taxi takes 13 hours, depending on tunnel traffic.

Cheapest Way

Public bus from Jammu to Srinagar costs around 800 INR.

Compare Dera Baba Nanak to Srinagar Routes

Bus

Connecting

Duration

16 hours

Avg Price

1200-2000 INR

Operator

JKSRTC

Route

Dera Baba Nanak to Jammu, then bus to Srinagar

Book your JKSRTC bus ticket from Jammu to Srinagar in advance.

Driving

Direct

Duration

13 hours

Avg Price

6000-10000 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Dera Baba Nanak - Pathankot - Jammu - Udhampur - Banihal - Srinagar

Start your journey at 4 AM to avoid heavy traffic near the Jawahar Tunnel.

Travel Tips

Tunnel Traffic
The Chenani-Nashri tunnel significantly reduces travel time; stay in your lane.
Clothing
Carry heavy woolens even in summer, as temperatures drop significantly in the mountains.
Connectivity
Only postpaid mobile connections work in Jammu and Kashmir; carry a local SIM if needed.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness during the ascent to Banihal.
Permits
Keep your identity documents accessible at all times for security checkpoints.

Safety Tips

Landslide Alerts
Check local news for landslide updates on the Jammu-Srinagar highway before departing.
Driving Caution
The mountain roads are narrow and winding; avoid overtaking on blind curves.
Night Driving
Avoid night travel on the mountain stretches due to poor visibility and potential rockfalls.
Emergency Help
Keep the contact number of the nearest tourist police station saved.