Specific childhood memories will stay with us forever. Many of us remember those thrilling train journeys we took with our families before flying became commonplace. In the golden age of train travel, we would buy our favourite comics and snacks, play card games, and sip chai while admiring changing landscapes. India has a diverse topography, and a train trip offers fantastic sights and experiences. Before embarking on your journey, it’s always wise to check the Train Running Status to stay updated on delays or schedule changes. If you want to go back in time and enjoy a slower pace, then prepare yourself for these amazing train journeys.
1. Mumbai to Goa (Konkan Railway)
Mumbai to Goa (Konkan Railway) Train Journeys in India
Goa is the ideal destination for a quick break from Mumbai’s hectic lifestyle. A train ride from Mumbai to Goa is a completely different experience from flying. The scenic and unique route includes some incredible natural wonders, such as the Sahyadri Ranges and the Arabian Sea. It also features tunnels and small rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and bridges. You will be amazed by the scenery throughout. Remember to bring your camera if you’re a photographer, as there are photo opportunities every few seconds.
2. Bangalore to Goa
Bangalore to Goa Train Journeys in India
The scenic route is a must for any nature lover, especially during monsoon season. The Dudhsagar Falls are a highlight of the Bangalore-Goa train route. It is at its best during and after the monsoon. Trains usually slow down near the waterfalls, allowing travellers to take in the beauty and snap some fantastic photos. The train route between Bangalore and Goa isn’t just about the waterfall. The train route from Bangalore to Goa is not just about the waterfall. You will also pass through stone tunnels and see the beautiful changing landscapes.
3. Vasco Da Gama in Londa
Vasco Da Gama to Londa Train Journeys in India
Travel enthusiasts and nature lovers will enjoy the train ride from Goa’s Vasco de Gama to Karnataka’s Londa. Moreover, this route offers stunning views of lush green fields, dense forests, and Goan villages. It passes along the magnificent Western Ghats and spectacular Konkan Coast. If you travel during the monsoon, you can enjoy some mesmerizing sights. The lush green hills and waterfalls are a stunning backdrop to the waterfalls.
4. Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
Jaisalmer to Jodhpur (Desert Queen) Train Journeys in India
If you’re visiting the state of Rajasthan and want to experience its vibrant culture, the Desert Queen Train will take you from Jaisalmer all the way to Jodhpur. The 6-hour journey takes you through different landscapes that will leave you breathless. You can also see some locals dressed in traditional clothing at scattered settlements along the way.
5. Kalka to Shimla
Kalka to Shimla (Himalayan Queen) Train Journeys in India
Attention, nature lovers! You can’t miss this scenic train journey. The Himalayan Queen, which runs between Kalka and Shimla, is a train that is more like a small toy that runs on a narrow gauge. The Himalayan Queen train starts in Kalka and travels 96 km upwards. It offers passengers stunning views of lush forests, rugged mountains, and valleys with milky-white falls, beautiful flowers, and tranquil hill stations. The journey is fantastic as the train crosses 864 bridges through 102 tunnels and follows 919 curves. On the way, you can see some fantastic sights and hamlets that you would not otherwise be able to see. In 2008, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since the toy train has limited seating, passengers should Check PNR Status well in advance to confirm their bookings.
6. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Nilgiri Mountain Railway Train Journeys in India
Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which runs between Mettupalayam & Ooty, promises to be one of the most scenic journeys you can take in India. The train has a unique feature: it is powered by steam locomotives and travels at speeds between 15-30 km/h. The journey begins on the plains, with paddy fields flanking both sides. The train enters the Nilgiri Mountain Range after covering approximately 7 km. The route is a scenic delight with its majestic mountains, deep valleys, and tea gardens. Around 250 bridges are located along the route, as well as 16 tunnels. There are also multiple curves and hairpin turns. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers the most scenic route to the hill stations of Ooty or Coonoor.
7. Island Express from Kanyakumari (Trivandrum)
Kanyakumari to Trivandrum (Island Express) Train Journeys in India
The train journey between Kanyakumari and Trivandrum, despite being a relatively short 2-hour trip, is one of the most scenic in the country. The route takes you through some of the most beautiful areas in Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, and Kerala. You can see villages, temples, and churches along the way. In addition to palm trees, coconut trees, paddy fields, and densely green forest-like areas, you will also pass through lush, green, and densely covered forests. This short but exciting train ride is the best way to see the beauty of these popular locations in southern India.
8. New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway)
New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling (Darjeeling Himalayan Railway) Train Journeys in India
Toy trains from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling are among the most spectacular train rides in India. This scenic route will take you through a variety of landscapes. The toy trains start in Jalpaiguri before passing through Siliguri. Sukhna and Kurseong. The journey is a unique experience, with lush forests, tea fields, cold air, and snow-capped Kanchenjunga. The train passes the Batasia Loop, a popular viewing point that offers panoramic views of the whole town. The toy train is one of the top attractions in the Darjeeling area, even though it moves slowly and through multiple loops and zigzags. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 1999.
9. Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur (Chilka Route)
Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur (Chilka Route) Train Journeys in India
The scenic train route between Brahmapur and Bhubaneshwar, which takes three hours to complete, is perfect for nature lovers. On one side are the Eastern Ghats, while on the other, the Chilka Lake. You will be glued to your train window as you enjoy the beauty of the lush green mountains and the serene lake. Chilka Lake is a lagoon with brackish water. It’s also the most significant wintering ground for migratory bird species in the Indian Sub-Continent. You may be lucky enough to see some birds along the way. Photographers should always have their cameras ready to capture the beautiful lake and changing landscapes.
10. Jammu to Baramulla Railway (Kashmir Valley Railway)
Jammu to Baramulla (Kashmir Valley Railway) Train Journeys in India
This 356 km route between Jammu and Baramulla, which is built on mountainous terrains and significant earthquake zones, is one of the most scenic and challenging projects in the Indian Rail System. The train travels through many picturesque towns in the Kashmir Valley, giving a glimpse of the life of Kashmiris. On the way, you can see many high-altitude passes, tunnels, and snow-capped mountains. You will also pass over 700 bridges. A 13-hour trip is enjoyable because of the topographical variety. The region is known for its frigid winters and heavy snowfall. Keep it in mind as you plan your trip.
Conclusion
There are many more scenic train routes to India. Some of the most popular routes include Matheran-Neral, Visakhapatnam-Araku Valley, Guwahati-Silchar, and Ratnagiri-Mangalore. Train journeys are great because they allow you to see places you would not otherwise be able to visit. When it comes to experiencing the true beauty of India, a train journey is the way to go. Book your train tickets and hotel rooms in advance, keeping in mind the weather conditions.
