India has some of the world’s most breathtaking and remarkable train travels thanks to its huge geography and sophisticated rail system. The country’s varied natural beauty and cultural values may be seen from a unique vantage point as Indian trains wind through mountains, woods, valleys, deserts, and beaches.
Train travel in India can be both breathtaking and epic, with experiences ranging from luxury carriages gliding across the Thar desert to toy trains roaring through the Himalayas. Take a ride on one of these amazing roads to experience the remarkable diversity of India.
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1. The Himalayan Queen – Kalka to Shimla
The 96 km narrow gauge track that runs from Kalka to Shimla, one of India’s most famous hill railways, offers breathtaking views as it climbs more than 2000 meters into the Himalayan foothills. The railway, which the British completed in 1903, is a feat of engineering, featuring 919 curves, 864 bridges, and 103 tunnels over its treacherous course.
The Himalayan Queen travels through verdant pine woods and quaint colonial villages in five hours, with plenty of time to take in the breathtaking mountain views thanks to the train’s leisurely speed. It is best to travel the route in March through November when the skies are clear and blue. For the finest views, make sure to ask for a window seat!
2. The Vivek Express – Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari
The Vivek Express, which runs from Dibrugarh in the tea-growing region of Assam to Kanyakumari at the southernmost point of the peninsula, is the longest rail line in India. 4470 kilometers of nonstop railway activity through India’s amazing diversity in more than 80 hours.
From the beaches of Goa to the rhino reserves and tea plantations of Assam, and from the Western Ghats to the spice hills of Sri Lanka, the shifting landscapes seen from the Vivek Express are beautiful. Every stop offers a different geography, language, dress code, and cuisine, making it a cultural experience as well. There is a pantry car and sleeper class accommodations aboard the train.
3. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The 2-foot narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also referred to as the “Toy Train,” was finished in 1881 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, it travels 88 kilometers and gains almost 7,000 feet of height. Along the way, it goes through terraced tea plantations on foggy hillsides, verdant forests, and tumbling waterfalls.
The old steam trains continue to move slowly, frequently gliding down narrow ledges and negotiating sharp bends that let passengers take in the mesmerizing views of the mountains. The seasons of spring and autumn are the best for perfect weather. Make reservations on the first-class Observation Car with its unique viewing gallery for an even more atmospheric experience.
4. The Desert Queen Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
The night time Desert Queen train travels five hours between the blue city of Jodhpur and the golden city of Jaisalmer, offering a sample of Rajasthan’s exotic desert culture. The train is embellished with vibrant textiles, ethnic handicrafts, and exquisitely carved wooden sleepers, all in keeping with the traditional Rajasthani aesthetic.
Look out over the Thar desert’s dunes against the lowering sun as the train leaves Jaisalmer. Awaken to expansive views of the dry terrain before reaching Jodhpur, which is dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort. Savor local fare like daal bati churma while traveling with traditional music and dance performances. A trip that blends luxury, exploration, and heritage.
5. The Deccan Odyssey
The Deccan Odyssey, one of India’s most opulent rail trips, connects many of Maharashtra and Goa’s most significant historical and cultural sites. The polished timber and brass fittings of the royal carriages transport one back to the time of the princely states.
The itinerary, which spans seven nights, includes stops at beaches, tropical spice plantations, pilgrimage sites like Nashik and Kolhapur, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta and Ellora caves. In between tours of the attractions, passengers can unwind in the restaurant and spa carriages of the train. Experience India’s deep south like never before with the Deccan Odyssey, which offers a unique blend of tradition, nature, adventure, and food.
6. The Maharaja’s Express
If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury rail travel, the Maharaja’s Express is always ranked among the most luxurious trains in the world. Sophisticated textiles, sculptures, and artwork adorn the staterooms and suites of the 23 carriages, which comfortably accommodate 88 guests. At each location, guest chefs provide delectable cuisine.
The two week-long routes, which include alternatives like Mumbai to Delhi or Kolkata to Delhi, travel via northwest and central India. Visits to the Taj Mahal and Ranthambore National Park are included in Maharaja’s Express trips, which also include tiger safaris, temple visits, steam train excursions, and cultural events that provide a sense of India’s magnificence.
7. The Matheran Hill Railway
About 100 kilometers from Mumbai, in the serene Sahyadri mountain range, sits Matheran, a charming hill station filled with colonial houses. Starting in Neral, this small gauge train ride climbs 14 kilometers to Matheran while offering stunning views of the valley.
The experience is made even more enjoyable by the lack of traffic noise, honking, and congestion that characterizes Indian cities as the train trundles past forested slopes and rock cliffs on its steep ascent. Since cars are not allowed in Matheran, it is a peaceful haven. For a quick escape into nature, take a ride on this antique train.
8. The Kangra Valley Railway
Known as the “Kangra Toy Train,” this railway winds through the gorgeous Kangra Valley, which is encircled by the Dhauladhar mountains. The picturesque narrow gauge train travels 163 miles between Pathankot and Jogindernagar, passing through historic stations and across more than 900 bridges and 200 tunnels.
The train wheezing past flowing waterfalls, tea gardens, apple orchards, and small cottages as it approaches the valley divided from the Kullu Valley by mountain ranges is one of the most picturesque sections between Kangra and Nagrota. The Kangra Valley Railway is the best method to fully immerse yourself in Himachali culture.
9. The Konkan Railway
Between Mumbai and Mangalore, the Konkan Railway follows the craggy Konkan coastline, offering a magnificent ride through beaches, estuaries, coconut trees, and fishing communities. The 760 km long course passes through challenging terrain and features more than 90 tunnels and 2000 bridges.
Among the highlights are the 6.5-kilometer-long Karbude tunnel, which is the longest on the route, and the Sharavati River Bridge at Honnavar, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views. The voyage vividly depicts India’s varied coastline, which is peppered with seaside temples, National Parks, and the allure of the tropical Divar Island.
10. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Located in Tamil Nadu and connecting the hill stations of Mettupalayam and Ooty since 1908, the 46-kilometer Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a masterpiece of British engineering. The blue and cream locomotives wind their way gently through the Nilgiri Hills’ forest, passing through land that is not reachable by road and up to 2,203 meters.
Together with the breathtaking sights of tea estates, thick bamboo woods, and waterfalls, the train ride offers an insight into the lives of the indigenous tribal communities. On this UNESCO World Heritage railway, you may fully experience the magnificence of the hills and vegetation by taking a ride in the first class observation carriage.
Conclusion
India’s vast train system is more than just a way to get around—it’s a draw! Here, train travel offers constantly shifting scenery that highlights the natural and cultural wonders of the nation. Indian trains offer the ideal viewpoint on this incredibly varied location, with everything from luxurious carriages gliding past forts and deserts to steam locomotives chugging through mountain valleys. Which of these well-known rail excursions would you take on during your upcoming excursion?
