There’s nothing quite like the allure of an authentic Indian train ride. There’s a constant feeling of nostalgia attached. India has beautiful train routes that add to the country’s beauty because of its varied terrain. To maximize passenger experience, Indian Railways has added Vista dome carriages to certain trains.
These coaches have huge glass windows and glass ceilings that allow a 360-degree view of the journey. The Vistadome coaches have an observation lounge and revolving seats. Additionally, these coaches have Wi-Fi and a digital entertainment system installed. Vistadome coaches have been introduced onto 45 trains by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) thus far.
1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, one of India’s most well-liked hill towns, offers everything a seasoned traveler could possibly need. Shimla will never let you down, offering everything from pulsating markets and historical structures to breathtaking views and hip eateries. In 2008, the 95.5-kilometer narrow-gauge railway line connecting Kalka and Shimla was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Beginning in 2019, you can travel to Shimla with the Him Darshan Express. There are six Vistadome coaches on the train.
Train: Train Number 52453/54 and Train Number 52459/60 Kalka – Shimla Express
2. Madgaon, Goa
Indians’ preferred beach vacation spot is still Goa. Goa is an amazing place, well-known for its vibrant nightlife, sand beaches, Portuguese architecture, and verdant surroundings. The famous Mumbai to Goa route takes you through the picturesque Konkan region and the Western Ghats. Take the Mumbai-Madgaon Express and experience the splendor of nature as the train travels over historic bridges, eerie tunnels, and captivating waterfalls.
Train: Train Number 12051/52 Mumbai – Madgaon Express
3. Kevadiya, Gujarat
The Statue of Unity has greatly increased Kevadiya’s popularity very quickly. At 597 feet tall, it is the highest statue in the world. The Statue of Unity in Gujarat, built-in Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s honor, was listed among the world’s best locations in Time magazine’s second annual edition. Constructed on the islet of Sadhu Bet in the Narmada area, close to the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the statue is renowned for its association with the Kevadia Zoological Park.
Train: Train Number 20947/48 Ahmedabad – Kevadiya Express and Train Number 20949/50 Ahmedabad – Kevadiya Express
4. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Araku Valley is tucked away in Vizag, rising almost 2,990 feet above sea level. Its many tunnels, gardens, rivers, waterfalls, and orchards are under the watchful eye of the Eastern Ghats. Its abundant greenery is enhanced by the Sunkrimetta and Anantagiri restricted forests as well as large coffee plantations. Araku provides visitors with a vast array of activities, ranging from strenuous trekking options to tranquil locations for strolling. To put it mildly, the rail line via Kirandul connects Vizag and Araku and is just wonderful.
Train: Train Number 18551/52 Visakhapatnam – Kirandul Express
5. Dooars, West Bengal
Dooars, which means “door” in the literal sense, serves as a doorway to Bhutan, a neighboring country. It is bound by the River Sankoshi on the west and the River Teesta on the east. Elephants, bison, leopards, barking deer, rhinos, and migratory birds are all drawn to this area by the good weather. You can also wander leisurely around the area’s tea gardens. For those who enjoy history, there’s the Buxa fort. Dooars is a few hours’ drive from New Jalpaiguri, which is accessible via the Vistadome train seen below..
Train: Train Number 15777/78 Alipurduar – New Jalpaiguri Express
6. Pune, Maharashtra
Prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime as you board the Deccan Queen Express. The Mumbai-Pune Vistadome trip is one of the most beautiful rail lines in India, passing past lush hills, meandering rivers, and deep valleys of the picturesque Western Ghats. Pune is well-known for its hill forts and treks. In addition to parks, lakes, and historical sites, it boasts a vibrant nightlife and a booming food scene.
Train: Train Number 11007/08 Mumbai – Pune Express, Train Number 12123/24 Deccan Queen Express
7. Mangalore, Karnataka
Known for its delicious food, Mangalore, formerly known as Bengaluru, is a coastal town with some of the quietest and cleanest beaches in all of India. The train ride from Bengaluru to Bengaluru passes through the captivating Western Ghats and is incredibly gorgeous. The train leaves from Sakleshpur and arrives at Nettana. Situated atop the Brahmagiri mountain, the Siribagilu station is a major attraction along this route.
Train: Train Number 16539/40 Yeswantpur – Mangalore Express and Train Number 16575/76 Yeswantpur – Mangalore Express
8. Haflong, Assam
One of the first few services the Northeast Frontier Railway launched was the Vistadome route from Guwahati to Haflong. The discriminating tourist can expect many thrills in Haflong, the lone hill town in Assam. Haflong is a trendy destination for vacationers because of its gorgeous scenery, cotton clouds, rolling green valleys, and majestic hills, to name a few.
Train: Train Number 05888 Guwahati – New Haflong Tourist Special Train
