18 Different Types of Trains in India: From Express to Luxury

India’s Vast Railway Network

Our country has more than 12,000 types of trains that run daily and creates one of the biggest connecting transportation networks in the world. Stretching across every corner of the country, the Indian Railways operates numerous trains, that connect remote villages to bustling urban cities. From luxury to economical, Indian railways have many different types of trains that  are suitable for people from all walks of life.  

Diversity of Indian Trains

The country has a range of trains that reflect its rich culture and dynamic economy. It also embodies the impact of technology on the railway system. Whether you want a quick ride for a short business trip or dream of a roller coaster ride through verdant scenery, the Indian Railways would not fall short of options. Here are the 18 signature types of trains in India that support a massive chunk of the population and make traveling across this great nation unforgettable for everyone.

18 Different Types of Trains in India: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Rajdhani Express

The Rajdhani Express is one of the top train services in India, linking the powerful city of Delhi to other major cities. It is popular for speed, punctuality, and comfort. Rajdhani trains have first-class, second-class, and third-class AC accommodations, along with free meals and bedding services. This name has become a benchmark of its own among on the long and winding railway system.

2. Duronto Express

The Duronto Express trains are specially crafted for long-distance journeys with nonstop services to shorten journey time across two cities. They are painted cheerfully and have facilities such as air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned sleeper classes, onboard catering, and seating arrangements to make traveling more comfortable.

3. Shatabdi Express

These Shatabdi express trains service various metropolitan cities and regional hubs during the day. All the compartments in these types of trains are air-conditioned and exclusively have chair car and executive class seating. On its routes, the train serves free meals and beverages.

4. Gatimaan Express

Among all the locomotives, this is a semi-high-speed train called the Gatimaan Express that runs between Delhi and Jhansi. It moves at 160 km per hour and offers a glamorous coach ride from boarding to de-boarding at the final destination. It also features plush interiors with select onboard entertainment and fine dining.

5. Vande Bharat Express

The Vande Bharat Express is the ultimate in contemporary trains in India. Carrying an edge over other types of trains, this newly introduced and air-conditioned, semi-high-speed train also has reclining seats, infotainment systems, and automatic doors, making it an experience worth having.

6. Humsafar Express

With many different types of trains available, the Humsafar Express stands out as it consists of all three-tier AC coaches. It is designed to travel long distances and has modern amenities like CCTV cameras, bio-toilets, and charging points, making it a travel experience full of comfort and economical for any traveler. 

7. Tejas Express

Country’s first privately run train, the Tejas Express, is meant to offer a premium travel experience, setting it apart from other types of trains in India. Individual infotainment screens, reclining seats, and an excellent catering service highlight some of the train’s USPs, which redefine travel by train in India.

8. Maharaja Express

The Maharaja Express magnifies every bit of luxury. It is almost impossible to beat its opulence. It offers everything from plush suites to gourmet dining to curated excursions at heritage sites. Check this one out of all the different types of trains since it is ideal for a traveler who wants to discover India’s grandeur in style.

9. Samjhauta Express

The Samjhauta Express, which operates between India and Pakistan, symbolizes peace and diplomacy. Although it doesn’t run consistently, it remains integral to Indian railway history.

10. Jan Shatabdi Express

Much less expensive than Shatabdi Express, Jan Shatabdi offers travel benefits for budget travelers needing accommodation and seating options in AC and non-AC formats. This train connects small towns and cities with a promise of punctuality and efficiency. 

11. Garib Rath Express

As its name implies, the Garib Rath, which means ‘Chariot of the Poor,’ offers rate-friendly options for AC travel. The presence of AC three-tier coaches in these trains makes traveling long distances via train easier.

12. Kavi Guru Express

Named after Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Kavi Guru Express holds a special significance. It runs train links for geographies associated with the poet and Author’s legacy, establishing connections between potential cultural and historical destinations.

13. Sampark Kranti Express

Sampark Kranti trains connect all state capitals with New Delhi in the most efficient and convenient manner. These trains have been designed to be the fastest, with limited stops. These types of trains provide an AC and sleeper-class solution to make travel less expensive and less time-consuming.

14. Suvidha Express

The Suvidha Express trains operate for last-minute travelers, and these trains offer dynamic pricing for on-demand travel. They run mainly through peak seasons, so one has to be ready to pay their price because these trains are comfortable with almost all modern facilities.

15. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway’s introduction is one for the books. It has been declared a part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list—a captivating journey as one moves along the beautiful hill stations in Tamil Nadu. A tourist favorite, the travel experience remains incomplete without a ride on its vintage steam engine up narrow-gauge tracks.

16. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, most popular as the Toy Train, is declared another World Heritage site by UNESCO. It runs through awe-inspiring scenery and breathtaking views in West Bengal. Its slow pace and its old-world charm manage to render a nostalgic experience.

17. Yuva Express

Directed toward young travelers, Yuva Express connects major cities in a budget-friendly and speedy manner. It is equipped with air-conditioned coaches and comfortable seating arrangements.

18. Metro Train

Metro trains have transformed public transport in India’s megacities and metropolises, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Under modern conditions, they offer commuters air-conditioned coaches along with frequent services and thus provide the fastest and most convenient way to travel.

Order Delicious Food with Swiggy for a Tasty Train Journey!

Traveling in India would be void without delighting in some sumptuous cuisines. With Swiggy’s partnership with IRCTC, online food delivery in train from your desired locations while traveling is easy. Be it fast food, something healthy, or from a local  kitchen, Swiggy now makes delivery of fresh and hygienic meals, including lunch and dinner in train right at your seat. Just use the Swiggy app, enter your train details, and then choose from a great range of cuisines. 

Conclusion

India’s railway network is a combination of historical and innovative approach. One such treat is the Vande Bharat Express, and on the other side, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway- the two extremes from state-of-the-art technology to a well-preserved historical train. They complement India’s rich cultural and technological developments. Whatever journey you aspire- from cheap to luxurious, adventurous to comfy- India has its rail ticket on the table for you!

FAQ

1. What are express trains, and how are they different from passenger trains?

Express trains are faster and have fewer stops than passenger trains. Hence, they are better for traveling long distances, providing more speed and comfort. Passenger trains are slower trains serving smaller stations. 

2. What are luxury trains in India, and who can travel on them?

Among the regular trains, there are some types of trains that can make your heart skip a beat. The Maharaja Express and the Palace on Wheels, loaded with grandeur, have the best facilities and organized travel. These trains are open to anyone willing to pay the premium fares for a royal journey.

3. What are the most commonly used types of trains in India?

Express, passenger, and suburban trains are often found on Indian rail tracks. They cater to people’s daily commute and long-distance travel needs at very low or affordable prices.