Discover the Most Beautiful Train Journeys in India

Rail transport in India is the largest and oldest in the world, with 68,536 km of track and 7,216 stations. This massive infrastructural organization not only provides transportation necessities but also some of the most gorgeous and unforgettable traveling avenues. In India specifically, train travel is quite special owing to the fact that it has the flexibility of passing through stunning scenery and deep cultures, and it has options for almost every pocket, thus making it appealing to all classes of persons, both Indians and international. Let’s talk about some beautiful train journeys in India that you can add to your travel list.

What Makes Indian Train Journeys Unique?

With a population of over a billion, a common person’s need to commute for work, leisure, and business becomes a necessity. But train travel hasn’t remained need-based for a long time now. Beautiful train journeys in India have been a crowd-puller, and travelers seek this experience.

• Diverse Landscapes: Feast your eyes on the magnificence of the mountains, green meadows, deep forests, and sand dunes.
• Cultural Immersion: Learn more about India through local food as you travel, conversations with fellow passengers, and a peek into people’s lives. 
• Affordable Travel: Everyone can indulge in trips on luxury trains or in the cheaper classes. Find options for budget-friendly sleeper coaches or choose convenience with AC cabins with privacy. 
• Historic Legacy: Some of these routes are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, which provide tourists with a view of India’s rich history.

The Top 10 Most Beautiful Train Journeys in India

1. Himalayan Queen (Kalka to Shimla)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you through 102 tunnels and over 800 bridges, offering panoramic views of the Shivalik Hills. The toy train ride is a feast for the eyes, especially in winter when snow blankets the mountains.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling)

Known as the “Toy Train,” this iconic journey through tea plantations and mist-covered hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range makes it an extraordinary sight.

3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Mettupalayam to Ooty)

This train ride is another UNESCO-listed marvel that takes you through the Western Ghats, showcasing lush forests, tea gardens, and waterfalls. The steep ascent and picture-perfect views makes it rank high on any must-visit-places.

4. Konkan Railway (Mumbai to Goa)

The Konkan Railway hugs the rugged coastline between Mumbai and Goa, featuring around 2,000 bridges and over 90 tunnels. Travelers can enjoy views of beaches, coconut groves, and fishing villages along this picturesque route that spans approximately 760 km.

5. Kashmir Railway (Jammu to Baramulla)

Dubbed the “Paradise on Earth,” this journey offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, verdant valleys, and serene rivers. The train’s engineering marvels add to the magnificence of one of the best scenic train routes in India.

6. Araku Valley Railway (Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley)

This journey takes you through 58 tunnels and over 80 bridges, offering breathtaking views of coffee plantations and misty valleys. The Araku Valley is a hidden gem that showcases the natural beauty of Andhra Pradesh.

7. Mandovi Express (Mumbai to Madgaon)

The Mandovi Express runs along the scenic Konkan coast, offering stunning views of rivers, greenery, and quaint villages. It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers. It runs through gorges and over bridges along the Arabian Sea.

8. Dooars Voyage (Siliguri to Alipurduar)

This journey through the Dooars region in West Bengal offers a mesmerizing view of tea gardens, dense forests, and wildlife sanctuaries. Keep an eye out for elephants and other wildlife along the route.

9. Goa Express (Vasco da Gama to Londa)

This train journey takes you through the Western Ghats, offering spectacular views of waterfalls, forests, paddy fields, palm trees laden with coconuts, and charming villages. It’s particularly enchanting during the monsoon season.

10. Matheran Hill Railway (Neral to Matheran)

This narrow-gauge railway takes you to the car-free hill station of Matheran. The ride through dense forests and sharp curves is both thrilling and picturesque.

Pro Tips for a Memorable Train Journey

1. Choose the Right Season

Think ahead of time to arrange your trip in the right season to see nature’s full swing. For instance, monsoons improve the green foliage along the Konkan Railway, while winters let you enjoy the snow on the Himalayan Railway.

2. Pack Essentials

A travel pillow, blanket, snacks, water bottle, and first aid kit would be some of the essentials to name a few. Remember to bring a camera to take photos of the marvelous scenery.

3. Book in Advance

Trains that cover the busy routes may not have vacancies for long; therefore, you should book your tickets beforehand to ensure a good seat.

Savour Scenic Train Journeys with Meals Delivered Straight to Your Seat via Swiggy!

A train travel experience is incomplete without some good food. In a unique partnership between Swiggy and IRCTC, passengers get the convenience of meals and all kinds of food delivery in train straight to their seats. From traditional local meals to good old burgers and pizzas, to dinner or lunch in train, Swiggy guarantees its customers the best grub to savor while sightseeing for pleasure or traveling for any other reason. A quick click to download the app on your phone or visit the website will allow you to follow the user-friendly steps to place your food order.

Conclusion

Exploring India by train is one of those experiences which can leave you spellbound in many different ways. This will give you an insight into the real lives of people in close proximity. The sheer casual nature of train travel allows passengers to communicate and share freely while also providing personal space and privacy. So, consider going on one of these unforgettable routes and head out to enjoy some breathtaking and beautiful train journeys in India.

FAQ

1. Are there luxury trains available for scenic routes in India?

Yes, India offers luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels, Maharajas’ Express, and Deccan Odyssey that cover scenic routes with world-class amenities.

2. Can I order food for breakfast, lunch, or dinner while traveling on scenic train routes?

Absolutely! With Swiggy’s tie-up with IRCTC, you can order meals for any time of the day, delivered directly to your seat.

3. What should I pack for these train journeys?

Pack comfortable clothing, a travel pillow, snacks, water, and a good book or camera to make your journey enjoyable and memorable.