Gujarat: A Mosaic of Culture and Wildlife
The first honour goes to the state of Gujarat, celebrated as one of the top destinations to visit. Lonely Planet highlights its incredible diversity, labelling it 'best for salt flats and wild lions'. This recognition invites travellers to look beyond
the usual and discover a state that offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Imagine the surreal expanse of the Rann of Kutch, a vast white salt desert that comes alive during the Rann Utsav with folk music, dance, and vibrant handicrafts. This is a place where you can walk on an endless canvas of white under a moonlit sky. For wildlife enthusiasts, Gujarat is home to the Gir National Park, the last remaining abode of the Asiatic lion. A safari here offers a thrilling opportunity to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Beyond these highlights, Gujarat's appeal lies in its deep-rooted history, from the ancient Harappan site of Dholavira to the architectural marvels of Ahmedabad's old city and the UNESCO-listed Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A Journey Through the Clouds
The second Indian entry is not a place, but a journey: a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Popularly known as the 'Toy Train', this iconic experience has been named one of the world's top 25 travel experiences for 2027. Constructed between 1879 and 1881, the railway is a marvel of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magic of the Toy Train isn't about speed; it's about slowing down. As Lonely Planet points out, the two-hour journey covering the 14 kilometres between Darjeeling and Ghum is the entire point. The train chugs along winding tracks, navigating sharp curves and passing through bustling markets and serene landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills. Key moments like the spiral at the Batasia Loop are a photographer's delight. The DHR director, Rishav Choudhary, noted that this recognition is a significant achievement that reflects the hard work put into preserving this slice of railway heritage.
Two Sides of Modern Indian Travel
The inclusion of both Gujarat and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway speaks volumes about the current travel trends that Lonely Planet's experts have identified. On one hand, Gujarat represents the appeal of a large, multifaceted region offering everything from wildlife to history and crafts. It encourages a deeper, more immersive exploration of a single state. On the other hand, the Toy Train highlights a growing desire for slower, more meaningful travel experiences, where the journey itself is the destination. Together, these two accolades paint a picture of India as a destination that caters to a wide range of modern travellers. It celebrates both the grand, sweeping landscapes and the small, nostalgic moments. This dual recognition confirms that whether you're seeking adventure across vast deserts or a gentle ride through misty mountains, India has a world-class experience waiting for you.
