India, known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks, is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful railway stations. These stations are more than mere transit points—they blend history, architecture, and grandeur, reflecting the country’s diverse heritage. Whether it’s the colonial charm or modern elegance, these railway stations are an architectural feast for the eyes. You can book train tickets and explore these magnificent railway stations. In this blog, we’ll explore ten of India’s most beautiful railway stations, where history meets art and travel becomes a mesmerizing experience.
India’s Most Beautiful Railway Station.
Below, you will find impressive railway stations in India.
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai
Architectural Style: Victorian Gothic Revival
Opened: 1887
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
One of India’s most iconic railway stations, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly known as Victoria Terminus), is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens, the station’s architecture is an eclectic mix of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian styles. Its grand turrets pointed arches, and detailed stone carvings are reminiscent of a cathedral, making it an architectural masterpiece. CSMT is not only a functional hub but also a landmark that symbolizes Mumbai’s colonial past and its bustling modernity. At night, the station lights up, revealing its majestic beauty in all its glory. Besides its majestic architecture, it offers a great service for passengers commuting daily by train. With the advancement of technology, booking train tickets, checking PNR status, and accessing other services are now easily managed at railway stations.
2. Howrah Junction, Kolkata
Architectural Style: Neo-Classical
Opened: 1854
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Howrah Junction, one of the oldest and busiest railway stations in India, boasts a splendid neo-classical design. The station is spread over a large area with 23 platforms, making it the largest railway complex in India. The red-brick façade, tall windows, and grand arches give it a regal look, harking back to the colonial era. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, Howrah Station offers a breathtaking view, especially from the iconic Howrah Bridge. Its historical significance and architectural grandeur make it one of India’s most stunning railway stations.
3. Ghum Railway Station, Darjeeling
Architectural Style: Colonial
Opened: 1881
Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal
Perched at an elevation of 7,407 feet, Ghum Railway Station is the highest railway station in India and part of the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The station is quaint, with colonial-style architecture that blends seamlessly with the surrounding misty hills. The toy train rides through the picturesque landscapes and lush tea gardens is a highlight for travellers, making Ghum station a serene and beautiful stop on the journey to Darjeeling. The simplicity of the station contrasts with its historical significance and natural beauty.
4. Chennai Central Railway Station
Architectural Style: Gothic Revival
Opened: 1873
Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Chennai Central is one of the most prominent railway stations in South India, known for its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture. Its red-brick exterior, tall clock tower, and symmetrical design make it an architectural gem. The station’s design combines Indo-Saracenic elements with Victorian influences, making it both visually stunning and historically important. As a major transportation hub, Chennai Central serves millions of passengers, but its architectural beauty ensures it remains one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.
5. Vijayawada Junction
Architectural Style: Modern
Opened: 1888
Location: Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Vijayawada Junction is a key railway station in southern India, renowned for its modern infrastructure and aesthetic appeal. The station’s architecture has evolved over the years, incorporating a sleek and functional design that blends modernity with traditional elements. The main building features large glass panels and a contemporary design, making it stand out among India’s railway stations. The station is well-maintained, and its cleanliness and passenger amenities add to its charm.
6. Barog Railway Station, Himachal Pradesh
Architectural Style: Colonial
Opened: 1903
Location: Solan, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the scenic hills of Himachal Pradesh, Barog Railway Station is part of the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway. The station is small but charming, with a colonial-style building that complements its natural surroundings. Barog is famous for being located near one of the longest tunnels on the Kalka-Shimla route. The lush greenery, cool mountain air, and serene environment make it a peaceful stop for travellers. Its scenic beauty and historical significance make Barog a must-visit for railway enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
7. Jaisalmer Railway Station
Architectural Style: Rajputana
Opened: 1962
Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Jaisalmer Railway Station is a gateway to the golden city of Rajasthan and reflects the architectural style of the region. Built-in the traditional Rajputana style, the station’s yellow sandstone façade blends with the desert landscape, giving it a fort-like appearance. The station’s design mirrors the majestic forts and palaces of Jaisalmer, making it a unique and visually stunning railway station. The intricate stonework, arches, and domes transport passengers to a bygone era of royalty and grandeur, making the station itself a tourist attraction.
8. Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station
Architectural Style: Mughal and Awadhi
Opened: 1914
Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station is a striking example of Mughal and Awadhi architectural styles. The station’s name, “Charbagh,” refers to the four gardens that once surrounded the building, symbolizing the Mughal garden design. Its imposing white domes, minarets, and large courtyards are reminiscent of a grand palace, giving it a royal ambience. The station’s symmetrical design and intricate detailing make it one of the most beautiful railway stations in India. The blend of traditional and colonial influences makes Charbagh a true architectural marvel in the heart of Uttar Pradesh.
9. Cuttack Railway Station
Architectural Style: Kalinga
Opened: 1901
Location: Cuttack, Odisha
Cuttack Railway Station showcases the rich Kalinga architectural style, a hallmark of Odisha’s ancient temples. The station’s building is adorned with intricate carvings, temple-like spires, and traditional motifs, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. The station was recently renovated to include more traditional elements, giving it a unique look among Indian railway stations. Its location in one of Odisha’s oldest cities adds to its historical charm, making it a cultural and architectural landmark in the state.
10. Mysore Junction Railway Station
Architectural Style: Neo-Classical
Opened: 1870
Location: Mysore, Karnataka
Mysore Junction is a beautiful neo-classical station, reflecting the grandeur of Mysore’s royal heritage. The station’s design is elegant, with clean lines, arches, and large windows that allow natural light to flood the building. Mysore is known for its majestic palaces, and the station’s architecture is in harmony with the city’s regal character. The well-maintained platforms, green surroundings, and historical significance make Mysore Junction a charming and beautiful railway station.
Conclusion
India’s railway stations are more than just transportation hubs; they are a testament to the country’s rich history, culture, and architectural brilliance. From colonial-era masterpieces like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Howrah Junction to the serene beauty of Barog and Ghum, these stations offer travellers a glimpse into India’s architectural heritage. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a frequent traveller, visiting these railway stations is an experience in itself, blending travel with art and history. These ten stations stand as monuments to India’s evolving landscape, where the past and present coexist beautifully. So, what are you waiting for? Book your train tickets to Mysore, Lucknow, Chennai, and other cities on redRail website or application, where you can see beautiful railway stations.