Train journeys in India

A train in India is just so much more than just a mode of transport. It's like staying in a hotel on wheels. Don't believe me? Just check out the following 15 amazing Indian train journeys you will want to take. In fact, anyone who likes to travel and take in new experiences must experience the adventure of Indian trains - they're unlike any other.

If you've never made a trip by rail in India then you're missing out. From the intense dash you experience while running between trains, to the joy of seeing a new city spread itself before your eyes, an Indian rail journey is one of those things that make a holiday so memorable.

Reaching every nook and hole is now accessible thanks to the Indian Railways, which only requires taking a train. We had very fond memories of train rides, especially when we were little.

Even now, we all like reading a book while seeing the beautiful scenery outside the glass window. Here is a list of the 15 Best Train Trips in India if you are one of those people that treasures lovely

1) Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (New Jalpaiguri - Darjeeling)

If you're looking for a truly unique train experience, you've come to the right place. What better way to experience the natural beauty of India than from the comfort of a train?

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or Toy Train as it has been nicknamed, has been operational since 1881. It runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The total distance covered by this railway is 80 kilometres, and it passes through towns like Kurseong and Ghoom. Ghoom Railway Station at 7400 feet above sea level is the highest point in this route.

The Batasia Loop is a 10-minute stop on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway that will take your breath away. You'll get to admire the breathtaking views from the train, including the town of Darjeeling and Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest mountain. The small engine pulling the coaches through picturesque landscapes and hilly terrain is a sight to behold and it is an experience that you will remember forever.

2) Palace on wheels

If you love history and want to see some of the most beautiful places in India, take a trip on the Palace on Wheels. The carriages have been refurbished as replicas of the original saloon carriages of the Maharajas.

You'll have your choice of international cuisine, so you can eat just about anything you want! You can relax in the library, have a drink at the bar, or just retreat into your extensive cabin and watch the tapestry of the Rajasthan countryside unfold.

The Palace on Wheels is a luxurious train that travels through Rajasthan, India. It's an initiative by the Indian Railways in collaboration with Rajasthan Tourism Cooperation to promote tourism in the state of Rajasthan. The original train started in 1982 but was relaunched with new decor and itinerary in 2009.

3) Mandovi Express

What's better than a 12-hour train ride to the beautiful state of Goa? A 12-hour train ride to the beautiful state of Goa while you eat, drink, and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Mandovi Express, named after River Mandovi, is a train that runs daily between Mumbai and Goa. The journey covers a total distance of 580 kilometres and takes around 12 hours. It's jointly managed by both Konkan and Central Railways and comes with pantry facilities!

This express train departs from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and arrives at Madgaon Junction, giving passengers a break from their chaotic daily life. The view from this journey is an interesting mix of panoramic vistas accompanied by the call of nature—and it's all yours for just one ticket price!

4) Deccan Odyssey

A luxurious train called the Deccan Odyssey transports passengers through time.

This boisterous jamboree can take you to locations where time seems to have stopped, crafting intriguing itineraries to slake your wanderlust. Admire the beauty of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, Pench in Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Little Rann of Kutch, and Sasan Gir in Gujarat; take in the architectural magnificence of Hampi, Bijapur, and Aihole in Karnataka; and Jodhpur and Udaipur in Rajasthan. You can also explore imposing caves and temples in Maharashtra. A truly exceptional experience is promised when travelling with Deccan Odyssey to these alluring locations.

With the cutting-edge amenities of the multi-cuisine restaurant, well-stocked bar, high-tech conference cart, and spa & massage cabin onboard, expect to be pampered. Deccan Odyssey is more than just a train trip; it is a magical journey that you have been missing out on your entire life.

5) Delhi Jaisalmer Express ( Delhi - Jaisalmer)

Delhi Jaisalmer Express is one of the most popular train routes in the country. This extraordinary route takes you through the vast desert and exudes a spiritual charm. It covers a total distance of 920 kilometres, starting from Delhi and ending in Jaisalmer. The travel time of the train is approximately 18 hours.

The jagged terrain accompanied by the camels and the inhabitants is a visual treat that gives you an experience of a desert safari. The region is carpeted with golden sand that depicts sheer magnificence and ignites the imagination. The timings are convenient and the journey is comfortable.

The train runs on daily basis so you can explore this place at your own pace.

6) Maharaja Express

The "Maharajas Express" train is the proud recipient of the "World's Leading Luxury Train" award at the annual World Travel Awards seven years in a row. The Royal Scotsman in the UK, the Orient Express in Europe, and the Blue Train are currently rated higher than it.

The Maharaja Express is thought to be our nation's priciest luxury train. This train offers upscale meals, a lounge, a bar, internet access, and private bathrooms. You can enjoy the opulent royal lifestyle on the train from Mumbai to Delhi. The Tourism Corporation and Indian Railway jointly run the Maharaja Express.

The Maharajas Express travels throughout North, Central, and Western India on 4 different Journeys (each with a distinctive name), and passengers can choose from four different categories of Cabins & Suites when making their reservations. One travel lasts for three nights, while the other three last for six nights apiece.

The Taj Mahal, a jungle safari in the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, and spending time with colourfully decorated elephants in Jaipur are some of the experiences shared by all 4 journeys.

7) Nilgiri Passenger (Mettupalayam - Ooty)

The majestic hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu is traversed by the 1000 mm-long, meter-gauge Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Children love the fleet of steam locomotives on this line, which they affectionately refer to as "the Toy Train."

The only toy train that runs between Mettupalayam and Ooty is the Nilgiri Passenger. To get there, this train travels through tunnels, bridges, and rural landscapes. Before arriving in Ooty, the "Queen of Hills," the train must negotiate narrow rails and ascend steep inclines. This train ride effortlessly combines solitude and tranquilly.

Over the course of five hours, the train travels 46 kilometres across undulating hills, verdant meadows, and views of forested mountains. Localities with red-tiled roofs pop up from the greens, and the train occasionally pauses at adorable small hill stations. On this journey, you will be waved through Mettupalayam, Kellar, Coonoor, Wellington, Lovedale, and Ootacamund, reaching a maximum elevation of 4,363 feet.

8) The Golden Chariot

The Pride of Karnataka, Glimpses of Karnataka, and Jewels of South are the three itineraries that Golden Chariot runs on, making it the first luxury train in south India. The train passes by the historical, ecological, artistic, and architectural wonders of Karnataka and the surrounding area.

In the states of Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Pondicherry, this railway connects the popular destinations. It enables tourists to enjoy the appeal of lesser-known Indian locations. The Golden Chariot became Asia's top luxury train in 2013, claiming that distinction.

The Golden Chariot schedule includes sightseeing at each location as well as special events like an evening safari in Bandipur National Park, a tour of a Chikmangalur plantation, a Bollywood evening, onboard cultural presentations, and others.

9) Glass Train

The Vishakapatnam – Araku Valley route is the true embodiment of nature. The Government has introduced the glass train so that the tourists can immerse in the scenic beauty of this region. This train departs from Vishakapatnam and reaches Araku Valley via Borra caves.

The glass train operates daily and takes around 4 hours to cover a distance of 116 kilometres. Presently, there is only one coach which is the executive chair car. The Vistadome train ride is an experience of a lifetime where they can escape from the monotony of urban life.

10) Mandovi Express ( Mumbai - Pune)

If you're planning on taking a trip from Mumbai to Pune, we want to let you in on a little secret: the train ride is breathtaking. The trains that run between these locations pass through some of the most unusual hill stations brimming with breathtaking scenery. They travel through roaring waterfalls and spotless villages, providing the most breathtaking experience possible.

The trains travel the route in around 3 hours, stopping at the important rail hubs of Karjat, Lonavala, and Thane. The majority of trains run frequently and have pantry facilities.

11) Kangra Valley Railway ( Pathankot - Kangra )

If you're looking for a train journey that is unlike any other, the Kangra Valley Railway is an excellent choice. The train journey starts in the foothills of the Himalayas and ascends in a zigzag fashion, providing stunning views of the impressive Dhauladhar Range.

It makes sense given that this road offers travellers a taste of the bizarre beauty of rural India. Due to the steep hills the train must traverse, it takes about 5 hours to go the distance. The majority of passengers on this train are locals, and there are very few visitors who choose to take it. If you're travelling alone, this is a great chance to meet people and learn more about the area.

12) Goa Express (Vasco Da Gama-Londa)

Ah, the train ride from Vasco da Gama to Londa! What a treat!

This is a journey that will make your heart overflow with breathtaking scenery. Sit by the window and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, rocky terrain, and picturesque locations. The waterfall, which contributes to this ride's compelling attractiveness, is the main feature.

One of the best trains operating on this rail line is the Superfast Goa Express. The Dudhsagar Waterfalls are only crossed by just one passenger train every day. The train travels the 75-kilometer journey on schedule and features both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned carriages.

Posted On : 11/11/2022

Written By : Goan Gypsy Girl