The road trip from Jammu, the winter capital, to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of India’s most strategically important and scenically dramatic journeys. This drive takes you from the plains of Jammu into the heart of the Kashmir Valley. For anyone planning this momentous trip, understanding the driving distance and time from Jammu to Srinagar is of utmost importance. This comprehensive 2026 guide provides updated information on the route, travel duration, road conditions, and crucial safety advice.
Jammu to Srinagar Drive: A Quick Overview
The driving distance from Jammu to Srinagar is approximately 250 kilometres. This journey is primarily on National Highway 44 (NH44). Thanks to the development of several new tunnels, including the Chenani-Nashri Tunnel and the Banihal Qazigund Road Tunnel, the travel time has been significantly reduced. Under normal conditions, the drive now takes about 6 to 8 hours.
The Primary Route: National Highway 44 (NH44)
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH44) is the only all-weather road that connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India, making it the sole route for this journey.
Route Description: Jammu -> Udhampur -> Chenani -> Ramban -> Banihal -> Qazigund -> Srinagar
- Jammu to Udhampur: The journey begins by heading north from Jammu on NH44. This is a wide, multi-lane highway, and the drive is relatively smooth.
- Udhampur to Ramban: After Udhampur, you will pass through the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel (Chenani-Nashri Tunnel). This 9.2 km long tunnel bypasses the treacherous Patnitop section, saving several hours and making the journey safer. After the tunnel, the road winds through the mountains towards Ramban.
- Ramban to Banihal: This is the most challenging and landslide-prone section of the highway. The road here is narrow in places and requires very careful driving.
- Banihal to Srinagar: The journey becomes much smoother after you pass through the new 8.5 km long Banihal Qazigund Road Tunnel. This tunnel bypasses the Jawahar Tunnel and the ‘Khooni Nala’ area, reducing the distance by 16 km and travel time by over an hour. Once you exit the tunnel at Qazigund, you have entered the beautiful Kashmir Valley. From here, it’s a relatively straight and scenic drive to Srinagar.
Analysing the Driving Time from Jammu to Srinagar
The 6-8 hour travel time is a significant improvement but remains highly variable.
Factors That Heavily Influence Travel Time:
- Road Closures: The highway, especially the Ramban-Banihal stretch, is highly susceptible to closures due to landslides during rains and avalanches during heavy snowfall. The road can be closed for hours or even days. It is absolutely essential to check the official traffic updates before starting.
- Traffic Convoys: For security reasons, civilian traffic movement is often regulated and may be halted to allow the passage of security force convoys. This can lead to long waiting times.
- Weather Conditions: Heavy snowfall in winter or torrential rains in monsoon can make driving conditions extremely difficult and dangerous.
- Traffic Jams: The narrow sections of the highway can get easily clogged, leading to long traffic jams.
Realistic Time Breakdown:
| Segment | Estimated Driving Time |
| Jammu to Chenani-Nashri Tunnel | 2 – 2.5 hours |
| Tunnel to Banihal Qazigund Tunnel | 3 – 4 hours (highly variable) |
| Tunnel Exit (Qazigund) to Srinagar | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Total Journey Time | 6.5 – 8.5 hours (can be much longer) |
Crucial Tips for the Jammu-Srinagar Drive
This is not an ordinary highway drive. Safety and preparation are paramount.
- Check Traffic Status: This is the most important step. Before leaving, check the official Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police social media handles or websites for the latest updates on highway status (whether it is open one-way, two-way, or closed).
- Start Very Early: Begin your journey from Jammu at the break of dawn (around 5-6 AM). This helps you cover the difficult sections in broad daylight and stay ahead of potential traffic build-ups.
- Hire a Local Driver: If you are not an experienced mountain driver, it is strongly recommended to hire a local taxi. Local drivers are experts in navigating this challenging terrain and are aware of the current conditions.
- Carry Essentials: Due to the unpredictability of the journey, always carry extra food, water, warm clothing, and any essential medicines. You could be stuck for many hours.
- Vehicle Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in perfect mechanical condition. Check brakes, tyres, and engine thoroughly before the trip.
Best Time to Travel
The most reliable time for this road trip is during the summer and autumn months (May to October). The weather is generally clear, and the risk of road closures is lower, though landslides can still occur during summer rains. Winter travel (December to March) is extremely challenging due to heavy snowfall and should only be undertaken if absolutely necessary and with proper preparation.
For those interested in the history of the region, our guide to the Indus Valley Civilization provides context on the ancient roots of this part of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Jammu to Srinagar by road?
The road distance between Jammu and Srinagar is approximately 250 kilometres via the National Highway 44. This is the only road that connects the two cities.
How long does the journey from Jammu to Srinagar take?
Thanks to new tunnels, the travel time has reduced to about 6 to 8 hours in ideal conditions. However, the journey is highly unpredictable and can take much longer due to traffic jams, security checks, and road closures caused by landslides or snowfall.
Is the Jammu-Srinagar highway safe for tourists?
The highway is safe in terms of security, with a heavy presence of army and police personnel. The primary risks are natural, related to the challenging mountainous terrain. It is crucial to check the road status before travelling and preferably hire a local, experienced driver.
What is the best time of year to drive from Jammu to Srinagar?
The best and most reliable time for the road trip is from May to October, when the weather is stable and the chances of road blockages are minimal. Winter travel is extremely difficult and often disrupted by heavy snow.
Can I do this drive in my own car?
Yes, you can, but it is recommended only if you are a very experienced driver, comfortable with long hours of driving on treacherous mountain roads. For most tourists, hiring a local taxi is a safer and less stressful option.