Ever wondered where you might end up if you took a walk down on one of India’s longest railway platforms? Well, it’s quite the trek! India, known for its extensive railway network, boasts some of the longest platforms in the world. So, book your train tickets, grab your walking shoes, and let’s begin a journey to explore the top 10 longest railway platforms across this vast country.
List of Longest Railway Platforms in India
1. Gorakhpur Junction
Starting with a bang, Gorakhpur Junction tops our list with the world’s longest railway platform. Stretching over a whopping 1,366 metres, this platform in Uttar Pradesh is like a never-ending pathway in the realm of railways. Walking from one end to the other feels like a mini expedition, where you witness the bustling life of one of India’s busiest stations.
2. Kollam Junction
Down south in Kerala, Kollam Junction holds the fort with a platform measuring 1,180.5 metres. This sprawling platform not only supports the heavy traffic of passengers heading to and from Kerala’s backwaters but also offers a tranquil view of the palms swaying in the coastal breeze—a truly serene waiting spot.
3. Kharagpur Junction
Kharagpur in West Bengal comes next with a platform that spans 1,072.5 metres. Famous for its contributions to India’s railway history, walking this platform feels like traveling through time, with echoes of countless stories and journeys that have started here.
4. State Entry Road
Though not a traditional railway station, the State Entry Road platform in Delhi deserves a special mention. It stretches around 1,046 metres, serving as a crucial part of Delhi’s rail network, directing countless travelers through the heart of India’s capital.
5. Bilaspur Junction
In the heart of Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur Junction’s platform, which measures a solid 802 meters, is a critical node in Central India’s railway system. It’s a hub of activity and a vital link for travelers exploring the region or passing through to other parts of India.
6. Jhansi Junction
Jhansi’s platform, extending 770 metres, stands as a gateway between different parts of India. Located in Uttar Pradesh, it’s a pivotal point in the railway network, bustling with stories of both the past and the fast-paced present.
7. East Coast Junction
At East Coast Junction, the platform stretches out to 738 meters, facilitating the heavy traffic along one of India’s major coastal railway lines. It’s a lengthy stop that gives you a glimpse of the diverse dynamics of Indian rail travel.
8. Sonpur Junction
In Bihar, Sonpur Junction boasts a platform of 716 metres. Known for hosting one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia, the platform is not just a stop but a cultural festival on its own during fair season.
9. Navapur
Navapur’s unique platform, which is about 700 metres long, is interesting because it’s split between two states: Maharashtra and Gujarat. Walking down this platform, you’re literally strolling from one state to another—a geographical fun fact that delights many!
10. Amritsar Junction
Amritsar Junction’s platform, stretching 653 metres, ends our list. While it may not be the longest, the view of the Golden Temple in the distance and the spiritual aura makes it a memorable stop.
Conclusion
India’s railway platforms are more than just transit points, they are places where millions of stories unfold every day, from heartfelt goodbyes to joyous reunions. These long platforms, with their hustle and bustle, serve as the lifeblood of the country’s travel system. So next time you find yourself on one of these platforms, take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Whether casual traveller or visiting the platform for the first time, exploring these platforms offers a unique slice of Indian life and an unusual bragging right. So, book your train tickets, pack your patience and set off on a platform adventure that’s sure to be full of surprises and rich in experiences.
