The Vande Bharat Premium
India's Vande Bharat trains have revolutionised rail travel with faster journey times and modern amenities like large windows perfect for sightseeing. However, this premium experience comes at a cost, with tickets often priced significantly higher than
other express trains. For the traveller whose main goal is to witness the scenic beauty of a route rather than prioritise speed, paying extra may not be necessary. Several other trains ply the same tracks, offering equally mesmerising views at a fraction of the price.
Kerala's Coastal Charm: Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod
The Vande Bharat route from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod is celebrated for its stunning vistas, tracing the length of Kerala through lush greenery, serene backwaters, and glimpses of the Arabian Sea. A chair car ticket on this train can cost upwards of ₹1,500. For a much cheaper alternative, consider the Malabar Express (16629) or the Parasuram Express (16650). A sleeper class ticket on these trains for the same route can be booked for around ₹350, and a second-sitting ticket on the Ernad Express (16606) can be as low as ₹215. While these trains take longer, they offer the same views of the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary's backwaters and the iconic Bharathapuzha river crossing near Shoranur. The journey is a visual treat, showcasing 'God's Own Country' in all its glory.
Deccan Views: Chennai to Mysuru
Connecting two of South India's major cultural hubs, the Chennai-Mysuru Vande Bharat route offers views of the Deccan Plateau's rolling hills and farmlands. A ticket costs around ₹1,300 for a chair car. A direct and almost equally fast alternative is the Shatabdi Express (12007), which has comparable fares but can sometimes be slightly cheaper. For significant savings, the Kaveri Express (16021) is an excellent choice. An overnight train, its sleeper class tickets are priced around ₹310, and a daytime journey on the MAS-MYS Superfast Express (12609) has second-sitting fares as low as ₹190. These trains offer the same journey through paddy fields and coconut groves, particularly beautiful during the monsoon season.
The Vistadome Alternative: A Sightseer's Special
For those who want an enhanced viewing experience without committing to Vande Bharat, the Vistadome coach is a fantastic option. These coaches, attached to regular express trains, feature panoramic glass windows and rotating seats, designed specifically for sightseeing. In South India, they are famously available on the Bengaluru-Mangaluru route, which traverses the magnificent Western Ghats. The journey through the Sakleshpur-Subramanya Road ghat section is renowned for its numerous tunnels, bridges, and waterfalls. A seat in a Vistadome coach (booked as 'EV' or Executive Class) on trains like the Gomateshwara Express (16576) costs around ₹1,525. While not strictly 'cheap', it offers a specialised viewing experience that many travellers find to be excellent value for money.
Smart Tips for Scenic, Budget-Friendly Journeys
To make the most of your budget-friendly scenic train trip, a little planning goes a long way. For daytime travel, the Second Sitting (2S) class is the most economical option and perfect for soaking in the views. Always try to book a window seat well in advance to guarantee the best vantage point. If your travel plans are flexible, consider journeying during the monsoon season (June to October), when the landscapes, especially in the Western Ghats and Kerala, are at their most vibrant and green. Finally, keep track of different train options on your desired route using railway apps, as schedules and prices can vary. Sometimes, a lesser-known express or passenger train can be a hidden gem for both your wallet and your eyes.
