Are you ready for an epic adventure through some of India’s most scenic railway routes? Get ready to be blown away by lush greenery, rolling hills, and breathtaking vistas as we go on a journey through the top 10 greenest railway routes in the country. From the misty mountains of the Western Ghats to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these routes promise an unforgettable ride through nature’s paradise. Besides checking the train tickets availability, you can also find out which are the best greenest railway routes in India.
Explore India’s Top 10 Greenest Railway Routes
When planning a visit to explore the greenest railway routes of India, it’s essential to ensure a smooth travel experience by checking your train PNR status beforehand. By staying informed about your PNR status, you can plan your journey effectively and make the most of your adventure along India’s scenic railway routes. Below are some of the best greenest railway routes of India.
1. Sakleshpur – Subramanya Rail Route
Our first stop takes us to the mesmerising Sakleshpur – Subramanya Rail route in Karnataka. As the train chugs along, you’ll be treated to stunning views of dense forests, sparkling streams, and majestic waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings as you journey through the lush greenery of the Western Ghats.
2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Next up, we’re headed to the Nilgiri Mountains of Tamil Nadu aboard the iconic Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This UNESCO World Heritage route winds its way through verdant tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and charming hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor. Get ready for a scenic ride through some of South India’s most picturesque landscapes.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Now it’s time to venture into the enchanting hills of Darjeeling aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train.” This narrow-gauge route offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, emerald green valleys, and fragrant tea gardens. Don’t forget to snap some selfies with the iconic Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery along the way.
4. Matheran Hill Railway
Moving on to Maharashtra, we’re hopping aboard the Matheran Hill Railway, India’s smallest and only pedestrian hill station. This narrow-gauge route winds its way through dense forests, steep cliffs, and breathtaking viewpoints, offering passengers a glimpse of the stunning Western Ghats. Keep your camera handy as you soak in the beauty of this tranquil paradise.
5. Kangra Valley Railway
Next, we’re heading to the picturesque Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh aboard the Kangra Valley Railway. This narrow-gauge route takes you on a journey through terraced fields, pine forests, and meandering rivers, with the majestic Dhauladhar Range as a backdrop. Keep an eye out for the historic Kangra Fort and the scenic Pong Dam along the way.
6. Kalka-Shimla Railway
Time to explore the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh aboard the Kalka-Shimla Railway. This UNESCO World Heritage route takes you on a journey through pine-covered hills, charming hill stations, and quaint villages, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas at every turn. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Shimla’s colonial architecture and vibrant markets during your visit.
7. Araku Valley Railway
Now it’s time to head south to Andhra Pradesh and explore the scenic beauty of the Araku Valley aboard the Araku Valley Railway. This picturesque route takes you through lush green valleys, coffee plantations, and tribal villages, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don’t forget to sample some delicious local cuisine and interact with the friendly locals along the way.
8. Neral-Matheran Toy Train
Moving on to Maharashtra, we’re hopping aboard the Neral-Matheran Toy Train, which takes you on a journey through dense forests, steep cliffs, and serene waterfalls. This narrow-gauge route offers stunning views of the Sahyadri Range and the picturesque hill station of Matheran, making it a favorite among nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
9. Konkan Railway
Explore the stunning Konkan coastline aboard the Konkan Railway, which stretches from Maharashtra to Karnataka and Goa. This scenic route takes you through lush green valleys, picturesque villages, and pristine beaches, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea along the way. Whether you’re admiring the breathtaking landscapes or indulging in fresh seafood delicacies, the Konkan Railway promises an unforgettable journey through one of India’s most beautiful regions.
10. Vizag – Araku Valley Railway
Last but not least, we’re venturing to the scenic beauty of Andhra Pradesh aboard the Vizag – Araku Valley Railway. This breathtaking route takes you through lush green valleys, coffee plantations, and tribal villages, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some delicious local cuisine and interact with the friendly locals along the way.
Significance of Exploring Greenest Railway Routes
Below you will find some advantages of exploring the greenest railway routes of India.
- Stunning Scenery: These green routes traverse some of the most picturesque landscapes in India, offering breathtaking views of lush green forests, serene water bodies, and majestic mountains. It’s a visual treat for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
- Relaxing Travel Experience: Unlike crowded highways or noisy airports, train travel along green routes offers a more relaxed and leisurely experience. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the rhythmic clickety-clack of the train as it meanders through verdant landscapes.
- Cultural Insights: Along the way, travellers get the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of India’s diverse regions. From quaint villages to bustling towns, each stop along the route offers a glimpse into local customs, traditions, and cuisine.
Conclusion
India’s top 10 greenest railway routes that promise an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most beautiful and pristine landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a scenic escape, these routes have something for everyone. So why wait? Pack your bags, hop on board, and let the adventure begin.