Embark on a journey through India's stunning landscapes and diverse culture with these 10 Incredible Train Journeys. Discover scenic views and adventure like never before. Read on for a ride you won't
soon forget!
India, a land of diverse landscapes and rich culture, offers some truly unforgettable train journeys. Forget the airplane, chaps! Hop on a train and witness the beauty of this incredible country unfold before your very eyes.
From the snow-capped Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these train routes promise breathtaking views and a healthy dose of adventure. So, pack your bags, grab a window seat, and get ready for a ride you won't soon forget!
We've compiled a list of 10 such incredible journeys that are bound to leave you spellbound.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train):
Affectionately known as the "Toy Train," this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a charming journey through the foothills of the Himalayas. Imagine chugging along narrow gauge tracks, passing through lush green tea gardens, and catching glimpses of the majestic Kanchenjunga peak.
The pace is leisurely, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. And the best part? The train whistles and playful interaction with locals along the way add a touch of old-world charm this route takes you from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, covering a distance of about 88 kilometers.
The entire journey offers panoramic vistas of tea estates and the stunning Himalayan range, making it a photographer's delight. Don't forget to try the local Darjeeling tea at one of the many stations along the way. This truly is a delightful experience, for all ages.
This train is a must if you want to explore some scenic views.
Kalka-Shimla Railway:
Another gem on UNESCO's World Heritage list, the Kalka-Shimla Railway is a visual treat. This historic route takes you through the Shivalik mountain range, passing through numerous tunnels and over picturesque bridges.
The scenery is simply stunning, with pine forests, quaint villages, and the crisp mountain air adding to the experience. The journey from Kalka to Shimla covers approximately 96 kilometers. It is renowned for its engineering marvels, including over 100 tunnels and several impressive bridges.
As the train ascends, the temperature gradually drops, offering a welcome respite from the heat of the plains. Make sure to keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking views at every turn. This train Journey is a marvelous experience.
This is one of the most beautiful routes and is frequently chosen by forieners during their stay in India as well.
Konkan Railway:
The Konkan Railway is an engineering marvel that traverses the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats. This route offers a diverse landscape, with views of the Arabian Sea, lush green hills, and numerous rivers and streams.
The journey is a treat for the senses, as you witness the beauty of the Konkan region. The railway stretches from Roha in Maharashtra to Mangalore in Karnataka covering a distance of about 741 kilometers. It is known for its numerous tunnels and bridges, including the tallest viaduct in India.
The route passes through the states of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, offering a glimpse into the diverse cultures and traditions of the region. Pack some snacks and enjoy the scenic beauty as you travel through this unforgettable railway line.
This is a truly unique experience by Indian railways.
Mandapam-Rameswaram Route:
This train journey is unique as it takes you over the Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge. The experience of travelling over the bridge with the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean on either side is simply mesmerizing. The route connects Mandapam on the mainland to Rameswaram Island.
The journey offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding coastline. Rameswaram is a significant pilgrimage site, and the train journey adds to the spiritual experience. The sight of the waves crashing against the bridge is a sight to behold.
This route definitely provides a memorable travel, especially for visitors. This train route adds to a memorable expirience.
Desert Queen (Jodhpur-Jaisalmer):
Experience the magic of the desert with the Desert Queen train journey. This route takes you through the heart of Rajasthan, passing through vast stretches of sand dunes and quaint desert towns. The journey offers a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage and the life in desert of this region.
The train journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer is relatively short, but it offers a unique experience of travelling through the Thar Desert. The golden sand dunes, traditional villages, and vibrant culture of Rajasthan make it an unforgettable trip.
Keep an eye out for camels and other desert wildlife along the way. Experiencing the vastness of the desert and getting to meet the locals in the area makes this a memorable experience.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway:
Similar to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Kalka-Shimla Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway provides a beautiful experience through the hills. This route will take you along steep curves and tunnels and is a great and scenic place to be enjoying the views with friends and family.
Himalayan Queen:
This iconic train connects Delhi to Kalka and is often used as the first leg of the journey to Shimla via the Kalka-Shimla Railway.
While the Himalayan Queen itself doesn't traverse mountainous terrain for its entire journey, the views as it approaches Kalka are quite lovely, offering a preview of the hills to come.
The train is known for its punctuality and is a comfortable way to travel from Delhi to the foothills of the Himalayas.
Island Express (Kanyakumari-Trivandrum):
This train journey offers a delightful experience through the lush greenery of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. As the train travels, you'll be treated to views of coconut groves, paddy fields, and tranquil backwaters. The journey provides a glimpse into the serene beauty of South India.
The route connects Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, to Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. This route is renowned for its scenic beauty and is a favorite among nature lovers. The journey is relatively short, making it a perfect day trip.
Goa Express (Vasco da Gama-Londa):
Though the entire Goa Express route is extensive, the stretch between Vasco da Gama (Goa) and Londa (Karnataka) is particularly scenic. This section takes you through the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls, lush forests, and deep valleys.
The Dudhsagar Falls, one of India's tallest waterfalls, is a major highlight on this route. The falls are particularly spectacular during the monsoon season. The train journey is an adventurous experience.
Chennai-Ooty Route:
The Chennai-Ooty route is known for its views of the countryside and the slow climb to the mountains. After the initial run from Chennai, the train goes from Mettupalayam to Ooty and continues over to the hills through windy roads and is a great and scenic way to spend some time.
These train journeys offer more than just transportation; they offer an experience. They allow you to connect with the beauty of India's landscapes, its culture, and its people. So, ditch the ordinary and embark on one of these incredible train adventures. You won't be disappointed!.
