India is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, and natural wonders coexist with vibrant cities.
Kulgam, located in South Kashmir, is well-connected by road and rail, making it accessible from major cities in Jammu & Kashmir. However, there is no direct air connectivity to Kulgam, so travelers need to take a flight to Srinagar and then travel by road.
By Air (Fastest & Most Convenient Option)
The nearest airport to Kulgam is Srinagar International Airport (SXR).
Distance from Kulgam: 67 km
Travel Time to Kulgam: ~2 hours by road
Transport Options from Srinagar Airport:
Flights to Srinagar Available From:
Best Option from Srinagar Airport to Kulgam:
By Train (Affordable & Scenic Option)
Kulgam does not have a railway station, but the nearest railhead is Anantnag Railway Station (ANT).
Distance from Kulgam: 35 km
Travel Time to Kulgam: ~1 hour by road
Major Trains to Anantnag Railway Station:
Train Name |
Route |
Travel Time |
Banihal–Baramulla DEMU |
Banihal - Srinagar - Anantnag - Baramulla |
~2.5 hours |
Jammu–Baramulla Express |
Jammu - Srinagar - Anantnag - Baramulla |
~6 hours |
Local Transport from Anantnag Railway Station to Kulgam:
Trains to Jammu (Alternative Option)
If direct trains to Anantnag are unavailable, take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT) and continue by road (250 km, ~6 hours).
By Road (Scenic & Convenient Option)
Kulgam is well-connected via NH44 (Srinagar-Jammu Highway), making it accessible from Srinagar, Jammu, Anantnag, and Pulwama.
Major Road Routes to Kulgam:
Route |
Distance |
Travel Time |
Srinagar → Kulgam |
67 km |
2 hours |
Jammu → Kulgam |
250 km |
6–7 hours |
Anantnag → Kulgam |
35 km |
1 hour |
Pulwama → Kulgam |
45 km |
1.5 hours |
Pahalgam → Kulgam |
65 km |
2.5 hours |
Shopian → Kulgam |
40 km |
1.5 hours |
Bus & Taxi Options:
JKSRTC Buses – Government-run buses available from Srinagar, Anantnag, and Pulwama.
Private Taxis & Shared Cabs – Easily available from Srinagar & Anantnag.
Fare Range: ₹500-₹3,000 (depends on route & vehicle type).
Best Road Route:
By Helicopter (For Special Permits & VIP Travel)
There are no direct helicopter services to Kulgam, 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 Kulgam
✅ Most Affordable: Train to Anantnag + Bus to Kulgam
✅ Most Scenic Route: Road trip via NH44 (Srinagar → Kulgam)
✅ Best for Budget Travelers: Train to Jammu → Bus to Kulgam
Final Travel Tips
✔️ 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.