Railway in India offers the chance to see a diversity of landscapes and cultures and provides travellers with an opportunity to travel with ease and reliability. The length of the route is often more extensive than for cars, making them ideal for adventurous travellers who would like to see many different places.
Visitors benefit from a larger space and an ability to travel at a slower speed than with other forms of transportation. In addition, many modern travellers use the train as a way to better understand the country they are visiting. This guide will assist travellers in finding the most benefit from their travel experience in India, including the best routes, highlights, experiences on board, and reasons why rail travel is ideal for long-distance travel.
Why India’s Train Journeys Stand Out
Indian railways connect major cities, tourist areas, pilgrimage towns and rural belts in a continuous network. Each region offers a distinct visual identity, so tourists witness a changing terrain every few hours. Scenic train routes in India offer mountain views, coastal curves, river valleys, tea plantations and desert landscapes in a single journey. Tourists also find heritage rail lines that still operate with vintage engineering and narrow-gauge tracks. These routes preserve history while supporting modern tourism.
Long distance trains continue to evolve with upgraded coaches, improved catering and cleaner stations. Passengers get better security, confirmed digital reservations and practical amenities. All these factors support a predictable and transparent travel experience.
5 Best Train Journeys in India
India supports one of the world’s most extensive and diverse rail networks, and train travel is a unique way to explore the country’s varied landscape and culture. Here are five of the best train journeys in India, each with unique charm and appeal.
1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the most iconic mountain train routes in India. You ride on narrow gauge tracks that climb steep gradients through forests, small settlements and tea gardens. The train passes Ghum which is one of the highest railway stations in India. The slow pace gives you time to take in the Himalayas without rushing. People prefer this route because the journey is a mix of engineering and nature. Heritage train journeys in India don’t get this combination.
Train Journey Time: 4 hours
2. Konkan Railway
The Konkan Railway route ranks among the best train journeys in India for its coastal scenery. The train crosses rivers, cliffs, tunnels and long bridges while running parallel to the Arabian Sea. Due to the climate of the region, lush greenery is seen throughout the year. Travelers experience rapidly changing scenery as the line cuts through the hills and descends into the flat coastal belt. Many travelers prefer this route over road travel as the rail turns are smoother and more predictable. The Mumbai to Goa route also offers continuous connectivity and competitive journey times.
Train Journey Time: 12 hours
3. Palace on Wheels
Palace on Wheels, one of the finest train journeys in India, allows passengers to travel between the states of Rajasthan, where all of India’s kings once ruled over a part or a part of it. It will take you to the cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Bharatpur to give travelers an idea of the state’s unique culture and history. This specially designed train has every modern day comfort and luxury you could ever dream of, while at the same time it truly exhibits the royal lifestyle of which it was named after.
4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway operates with steam engines on a rack-and-pinion system. This technique allows the train to climb inclines that normal engines cannot handle. The route includes waterfalls, misty valleys, tunnels and forested areas that seem untouched. Many travelers call this tour the most atmospheric mountain rail experience in South India. The train climbs over 40 km at a slow pace, giving time to absorb the surroundings. Families, photographers, and nature hikers love this trail because it balances accessibility with remarkable scenery.
5. Himalayan Queen
The Kalka–Shimla route is a favourite among those who want comfortable and scenic hill travel. Over 100 tunnels and many bridges make for a visual treat. The train passes through pine forests, small stations, colonial buildings and hill towns before reaching Shimla. This route has high tourism demand as it saves you from long mountain roads. Many consider this route reliable throughout the year as the line operates even in light snow.
Tips for Choosing the Best Train Journeys in India
Travelers benefit depending on the type of route, season of travel, type of coach and timing of the train. Mountain trains run at slow speeds, so travelers should plan for extra time. Coastal trains offer the best views during daylight hours, so booking a daytime departure adds value. Desert trails are more comfortable in the cooler months. Luxury trains require advance booking as they run with limited seats.
Travelers should always check real-time availability and confirm travel class as per comfort requirements. First AC, Second AC and Executive Chair cars offer more privacy and space. Sleeper class remains viable for budget travelers. Pantry cars improve convenience on long routes, although carrying basic snacks remains useful. Travelers also get more value by choosing routes that match their travel purpose. A mountain tour is suitable for photography and relaxation. Desert travel supports cultural exploration. The luxury train accommodates curated sightseeing tours.
Conclusion
India’s rail network offers some of the most diverse, scenic, and historically significant train journeys in the world. Travellers discover mountains, coasts, forests, villages, cities, and deserts without the fatigue of long road trips or the detachment of air travel. Each route in this guide explains a specific landscape type and travel experience, which helps travellers identify the best train journeys in India based on interest and season. Choosing the right route delivers a rewarding and grounded travel experience while maintaining comfort, safety, and practical value.
FAQ’s
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is considered the best train journey in India because it offers unique mountain views, heritage value and slow scenic climbs.
The Konkan Railway between Mumbai and Goa offers the most scenic views with coastal curves, tunnels, rivers and lush greenery throughout the route.
The Kalka to Shimla train is the best mountain train journey because it passes more than 100 tunnels, curved bridges and continuous hill views.
Maharajas’ Express is the best luxury train in India due to its premium cabins, curated itineraries, guided excursions and high service standards.
Winter and post-monsoon months are the safest for scenic train routes because weather remains stable and visibility stays clear across mountain and coastal regions.
The Jodhpur to Jaisalmer route is recommended for desert travel because it offers clear sandscapes, open horizons and consistent rail connectivity.
Yes, scenic train journeys suit families because routes like Araku Valley, Kalka–Shimla and Nilgiri Mountain Railway provide safe, slow and comfortable travel.
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