India is a country with a diverse range of cultures, traditions, and topographies. There is no scarcity of spectacular natural beauty in this country, from the soaring Himalayas in the north to the tropical coastlines in the south.
Train travel is undoubtedly the best way to experience it all. Taking a train to such destinations in India is a surreal experience that gives you the chance to experience local culture while enjoying a close-up view of the country.
Here are some of India’s most popular train routes that should be on everyone’s bucket list and train ticket booking for each of these journeys can always be done in just a few clicks by using the redRail app:
The Palace on Wheels
This luxury train takes you on a 7-day journey through the heart of Rajasthan, one of the most vibrant and culturally rich states in India. The train stops at iconic destinations such as Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur, allowing you to explore the rich history and culture of the region. The Palace on Wheels offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a host of other amenities, making it the perfect option for those looking for a more comfortable and upscale travel experience.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
This train to Darjeeling from Siliguri runs through the foothills of the Himalayas. The journey takes around 8 hours and offers stunning views of the mountains, tea gardens, and villages. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its narrow gauge tracks, tight curves, and steep gradients, making for a thrilling ride.
The Deccan Odyssey
This luxury train takes you on a journey through the heart of Maharashtra and Goa, covering iconic destinations such as Mumbai, Aurangabad, and Goa. The train offers a range of luxurious amenities, including comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and a spa. The Deccan Odyssey is a great option for those looking to experience the rich culture and history of Maharashtra and Goa in comfort and style.
The Matheran Hill Railway
This train runs from Neral to Matheran, a small hill station located near Mumbai. The journey takes around 2 hours and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats, the beautiful forests, and the charming colonial-era architecture. The Matheran Hill Railway is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in India.
The Golden Temple Mail
This train runs from Mumbai to Amritsar, covering a distance of 1,965 km in just under 40 hours. The route passes through some of the most culturally rich states in India, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab. The Golden Temple Mail is a great option for those looking to experience the diversity of India’s culture in one journey. Train ticket booking for the Golden Temple Mail can be easily done through the redRail App or website.
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway
This train runs through the Western Ghats, a mountain range in southern India, from Mettupalayam to Udhagamandalam. The journey takes around 4 hours and offers stunning views of the mountain ranges, tea gardens, and waterfalls.
The Himsagar Express
This train runs from Jammu Tawi to Kanyakumari, covering a distance of 3,726 km in just under 80 hours. The route passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in India, including the Himalayas, the Thar Desert, and the Western Ghats. The Himsagar Express is a great option for those looking to experience the diversity of India’s geography in one journey.
The Konkan Railway
This train route from Mumbai to Mangalore runs along the western coast of India. The journey takes around 8 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, lush green forests, and picturesque villages. The Konkan Railway is known for its winding tracks, which make for a scenic and exciting journey.
The Kanyakumari Express
This train runs between Trivandrum and Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. The journey takes around 8 hours and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. The Kanyakumari Express is a great option for those looking to explore the southern coast of India and the diverse culture of the region.
The Kalka-Shimla Railway
This train runs through the foothills of the Himalayas, from Kalka to Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. The journey takes around 5 hours and offers breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and valleys. The Kalka-Shimla Railway is known for its narrow gauge tracks and is considered one of the most scenic train routes in India.
In conclusion, a variety of train routes are accessible in India to serve various travel needs and tastes. These routes provide an opportunity to experience the nation’s rich culture and natural beauty, offering anything from luxurious train excursions to affordable alternatives.
So, whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned veteran, these railway routes are a must-see for anybody exploring India. You can easily book your train tickets for any of these train routes by visiting the redRail website or downloading the app from the PlayStore or the Apple App Store.