India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Kupwara, known as "The Crown of Kashmir," is located in North Kashmir, about 90 km from Srinagar. It is well-connected by road and rail, making it accessible from major cities in Jammu & Kashmir. However, there is no direct air connectivity to Kupwara, so travelers need to take a flight to Srinagar and then travel by road.
By Air (Fastest & Most Convenient Option)
The nearest airport to Kupwara is Srinagar International Airport (SXR).
Distance from Kupwara: 90 km
Travel Time to Kupwara: ~3 hours by road
Transport Options from Srinagar Airport:
Flights to Srinagar Available From:
Best Option from Srinagar Airport to Kupwara:
By Train (Affordable & Scenic Option)
Kupwara does not have a railway station, but the nearest major railhead is Baramulla Railway Station (BRML).
Distance from Kupwara: 70 km
Travel Time to Kupwara: ~2.5 hours by road
Major Trains to Baramulla Railway Station:
Train Name |
Route |
Travel Time |
Banihal–Baramulla DEMU |
Banihal - Srinagar - Baramulla |
~3 hours |
Jammu–Baramulla Express |
Jammu - Srinagar - Baramulla |
~7 hours |
Local Transport from Baramulla Railway Station to Kupwara:
Trains to Jammu (Alternative Option)
If direct trains to Baramulla are unavailable, take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT) and continue by road (320 km, ~8 hours).
By Road (Scenic & Convenient Option)
Kupwara is well-connected via NH1 (Srinagar-Baramulla-Kupwara Highway), making it accessible from Srinagar, Jammu, and Baramulla.
Major Road Routes to Kupwara:
Route |
Distance |
Travel Time |
Srinagar → Kupwara |
90 km |
3 hours |
Jammu → Kupwara |
320 km |
8–9 hours |
Baramulla → Kupwara |
70 km |
2.5 hours |
Anantnag → Kupwara |
120 km |
4 hours |
Pahalgam → Kupwara |
140 km |
4.5 hours |
Gulmarg → Kupwara |
110 km |
3.5 hours |
Bus & Taxi Options:
JKSRTC Buses – Government-run buses available from Srinagar, Baramulla, and Anantnag.
Private Taxis & Shared Cabs – Easily available from Srinagar & Baramulla.
Fare Range: ₹500-₹4,000 (depends on route & vehicle type).
Best Road Route:
By Helicopter (For Special Permits & VIP Travel)
There are no direct helicopter services to Kupwara, but charter flights can be arranged from Srinagar for high-profile travelers.
Helicopter Route (For VIP Travelers):
Booking: Available through private charters & government permits.
Best Travel Option Based on Your Preference
✅ Fastest Way: Flight to Srinagar + Taxi to Kupwara
✅ Most Affordable: Train to Baramulla + Bus to Kupwara
✅ Most Scenic Route: Road trip via NH1 (Srinagar → Kupwara)
✅ Best for Budget Travelers: Train to Jammu → Bus to Kupwara
✔️ Book Flights & Trains Early (especially during peak tourist & apple harvest season).
✔️ Check Weather & Road Conditions (monsoon & winter may affect travel).
✔️ Carry Warm Clothes in Winter (especially for nearby hill stations).
✔️ Choose Shared Cabs or Public Transport for budget-friendly travel.