India has several fascinating facts about its railway network, the world’s third-largest railway network. The train tracks of India would have circled the globe 1.5 times around 161 years ago.
Over 28 million passengers travel by trains across India’s 65000 km. It’s always a pleasure to ride the trains in India. The rhythmic beat of the train transports travelers into an entirely different realm as it chugs along.
Train routes in this country are known for their stunning views, making for a memorable experience. Check out our list of 10 of the most beautiful train routes.
Here are 10 of the best rail routes in India for scenic journeys
1. Goa Railway route (Vasco Da Gama to Londa)
You will experience the joy of watching new Goan villages zip by as you travel from Vasco Da Gama in Goa to Londa in Karnataka.
As the train moves to the Western Ghats, the scene changes to mountains and lush greenery. Because of the force of the gushing rain, waterfalls dominate the stage as the vegetation recedes. This trip is perfect during the monsoon season when the soil is reddish.
- Location: Connects Vasco Da Gama in Goa to Londa in Karnataka.
- Highlights: Stunning views of the Western Ghats, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, lush green forests, and picturesque villages.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Enjoying scenic views from the train, photography, and exploring Vasco Da Gama and Londa towns.
Goa Railway Route (Vasco Da Gama to Londa) Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Vasco Da Gama: Check into your hotel. Visit Miramar Beach and Bogmalo Beach for relaxation.
- Explore Historical Sites: Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, and the Naval Aviation Museum. Enjoy Goan cuisine at local restaurants.
Day 2:
- Board the Train to Londa: Enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats, including the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
- Arrive in Londa: Visit Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary for wildlife spotting and adventure activities like river rafting and trekking.
2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling)
There are 78 km of track starting from Jalpaiguri in West Bengal, and it is one of the country’s most popular tracks.
Darjeeling’s everlasting beauty can best be shared and enjoyed by riding this ride. It is reminiscent of Parineeta and Barfi’s movies, next to the famous Hill Cart Road.
- Location: West Bengal, from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling.
- Highlights: Known as the “Toy Train,” it offers breathtaking views of tea gardens, hills, and the Kanchenjunga mountain range.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to December.
- Activities: Enjoy the ride on the narrow-gauge track, visit tea estates, and explore Darjeeling town.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling) Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in New Jalpaiguri: Board the Toy Train to Darjeeling. Enjoy scenic views, including tea gardens and mountain vistas.
- Arrive in Darjeeling: Check into your hotel. Visit the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum and explore Mall Road for shopping.
Day 2:
- Explore Darjeeling: Visit Tiger Hill for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga. Explore the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, and Happy Valley Tea Estate.
3. Matheran Hill Railway
It remains a favorite among Mumbai citizens and visitors from outside Maharashtra for its peaceful atmosphere and heritage status.
This narrow-gauge railway line was built by Akbar Peerbhoy between 1901 and 1907. The entire length of the highway, 20 kilometers, passes through a forest.
You won’t go crazy thinking about anything for the little while you’re traveling, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.
- Location: Maharashtra, from Neral to Matheran.
- Highlights: Scenic views of the Western Ghats, dense forests, and the tranquil hill station of Matheran with no vehicles allowed.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May.
- Activities: Trekking, horse riding, and enjoying the peaceful environment of Matheran.
Matheran Hill Railway Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Neral: Board the toy train to Matheran. Enjoy the scenic ride through the Western Ghats.
- Arrive in Matheran: Check into your hotel. Visit Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, and Panorama Point for stunning views.
Day 2:
- Explore Matheran: Trek to popular viewpoints like One Tree Hill and Louisa Point. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the pathways and shop for local handicrafts.
4. Dooars Voyage (Siliguri – Newmal – Hasimara – Alipurduar)
You will also have a chance to see fantastic scenery and the habitat of a wildlife sanctuary on this train ride. Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is crossed by train for about 3 to 4 hours, and the sights are outstanding.
You may even be able to watch monkeys, elephants, deer, and birds chirping in the natural shelter. Traveling along this route is worthwhile.
Various cute creatures are visible from the window and fascinating flora and fauna.
- Location: West Bengal, through the Dooars region.
- Highlights: Views of tea gardens, forests, rivers, and wildlife sanctuaries like Jaldapara and Gorumara.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Wildlife-spotting, visiting tea gardens, and exploring nature parks.
Dooars Voyage (Siliguri – Newmal – Hasimara – Alipurduar) Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Neral: Board the toy train to Matheran. Enjoy the scenic ride through the Western Ghats.
- Arrive in Matheran: Check into your hotel. Visit Charlotte Lake, Echo Point, and Panorama Point for stunning views.
Day 2:
- Explore Matheran: Trek to popular viewpoints like One Tree Hill and Louisa Point. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the pathways and shop for local handicrafts.
5. Kashmir Valley Railway (Jammu – Udhampur – Srinagar – Baramulla)
A scenic railway line in India, the Kashmir Railway passes through 20 tunnels and 100 bridges. It also hosts the tallest railway bridge in India (under construction). Along the Kashmir Railway line, you will cross major earthquake zones and mountain passes at high altitudes.
In addition, you will encounter severe temperatures, which is why it ranks as the most challenging railway line in India.
- Location: Jammu and Kashmir.
- Highlights: Majestic views of snow-capped mountains, rivers, and valleys.
- Best Time to Visit: March to October.
- Activities: Exploring Srinagar, visiting Dal Lake, and enjoying the scenic train journey through the Kashmir Valley.
Kashmir Valley Railway (Jammu – Udhampur – Srinagar – Baramulla) Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Jammu: Board the train to Srinagar, enjoying the breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.
- Arrive in Srinagar: Check into a houseboat on Dal Lake. Take a Shikara ride and visit the Mughal gardens.
Day 2:
- Explore Srinagar: Visit Shankaracharya Temple, and Hazratbal Shrine, and explore the old city’s markets.
Day 3:
- Journey to Baramulla: Enjoy the scenic train ride through the Kashmir Valley. Visit local attractions in Baramulla.
6. Pamban Railway route – Mandapam to Rameswaram
Pamban Railway is one of the most exciting train routes in the country. Rameswaram is a famous island on the southern tip of Tamil Nadu, connected to Mandapam by the Paban Bridge.
The bridge is the second-longest in the nation. If we were to stand at the entrance to check out the view, it might also be considered one of the most challenging parts of the journey.
Due to the bridge’s narrow dimensions, only one train can pass through it at a time. There is a section of the train ride that you will love, and many people take the train ride to see this area.
- Location: Tamil Nadu, from Mandapam to Rameswaram.
- Highlights: The train crosses the Pamban Bridge over the sea, offering stunning views of the ocean and coastal landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Visiting Rameswaram Temple, enjoying the seaside, and exploring the historic Pamban Bridge.
Pamban Railway Route – Mandapam to Rameswaram Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Mandapam: Board the train to Rameswaram, crossing the iconic Pamban Bridge.
- Arrive in Rameswaram: Check into your hotel. Visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple and explore Dhanushkodi Beach.
Day 2:
- Explore Rameswaram: Visit Pamban Bridge, and Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge, and enjoy the coastal views. Visit the Ramar Patham temple and the House of Kalam.
7. Jodhpur to Jaisalmer by Desert Queen
It is exciting and scary to travel across a vast desert stretch. The landscape is entirely devoid of vegetation. In the Thar, the Indian desert, the surroundings become golden and dry.
You can smell the sand, and the grass becomes a dusty covering of bushes. How would you experience a trip to the Indian royal house of Rajasthan? The journey by Desert Queen Rail from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer will be full of majesty.
Desert Queen Travel will make your desert experience unique and personal. A train runs from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, connecting the two beautiful desert cities in Rajasthan.
Taking this train gives you a glimpse of desert life in Rajasthan. The camels will be seen strolling through mud houses and grazing in the surrounding area. In the desert, you’ll be able to see the sunrise, and this will take your breath away.
- Location: Rajasthan, from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer.
- Highlights: Views of the Thar Desert, dunes, and traditional Rajasthani villages.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Exploring Jaisalmer Fort, desert safaris, and experiencing Rajasthani culture.
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer by Desert Queen Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Jodhpur: Check into your hotel. Visit Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, and Umaid Bhawan Palace.
- Board the Train to Jaisalmer: Enjoy the journey through the Thar Desert.
Day 2:
- Arrive in Jaisalmer: Check into your hotel. Explore Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake.
Day 3:
- Desert Safari: Enjoy a camel safari in the Thar Desert. Experience a cultural evening with Rajasthani folk music and dance.
8. The Himalayan Queen Railway Route – Kalka to Shimla
One of the most scenic railway routes in the country is the one that runs from Kalka to Shimla.
There are 82 bridges on this route and 102 tunnels on it. Construction of this route began in 1903.
Despite being the longer and more complex route on paper, this 5-hour journey from Kalka to Shimla is very rewarding. As the most vertical climb in altitude on a 96-kilometer way, the Guinness world record holder is this route.
It is second only to the stunning views that it offers in popularity to the toy trains used along this route. The Himalayan Queen railway route inspires playfulness and inner childlike goodness, and you can also call it very cinematic.
This route takes you to Shimla, known for its beauty through pine trees, oaks, valleys, rhododendrons, and deodar forests. UNESCO has declared this railway line a World Heritage site since 2008.
- Location: Himachal Pradesh, from Kalka to Shimla.
- Highlights: Views of the Shivalik Range, pine forests, and picturesque hill stations.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to December.
- Activities: Exploring Shimla, visiting colonial-era buildings, and enjoying the toy train ride.
The Himalayan Queen Railway Route – Kalka to Shimla Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Kalka: Board the Himalayan Queen to Shimla, passing through picturesque landscapes.
- Arrive in Shimla: Check into your hotel. Visit the Ridge, Christ Church, and Mall Road for shopping.
Day 2:
- Explore Shimla: Visit Jakhoo Temple, Viceregal Lodge, and the State Museum. Take a nature walk through pine forests and enjoy local cuisine.
9. The Nilgiris Mountain Railway
Khaiyya Chaiyya has Shahrukh and Malaika dancing on the roof of a train. Does that remind you of anything? This famous dance scene took place at Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
Additionally, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site are here. The train travels 46 kilometers in 4 1/2 hours.
It is undoubtedly the most exciting way to visit beautiful destinations like Ooty and Coonor by riding the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. This railway begins in Mettupalayam and ends in Coonor. During your trip through forests and fields, you can reach out a hand to touch the misty clouds. Among India’s most beautiful train routes is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
The valleys are breathtakingly beautiful. Pamban Bridge, India’s oldest and most dangerous sea bridge, is a thrilling experience.
- Location: Tamil Nadu, from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
- Highlights: Known as the “Toy Train,” it offers views of the Nilgiri Hills, tea plantations, and dense forests.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November.
- Activities: Exploring Ooty, visiting botanical gardens, and enjoying the scenic train ride.
The Nilgiris Mountain Railway Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Mettupalayam: Board the toy train to Ooty, enjoying the views of the Nilgiri Hills.
- Arrive in Ooty: Check into your hotel. Visit the Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, and Rose Garden.
Day 2:
- Explore Ooty: Visit Doddabetta Peak, and Tea Museum, and enjoy a ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Explore nearby attractions like Coonoor and its tea estates.
10. Pune – Ernakulam (Poorna Express)
Poorna Express runs overnight over the Deccan plains between Pune and Ernakulam, lasting 32 hours and making 31 stops. Still, it doesn’t have a heritage of luxury designation.
A magical moment begins in Belgaum during the morning rush hour. You can see several waterfalls when driving through the Western Ghat Mountain range. It is undoubtedly a worthwhile experience to travel by train from Pune to Ernakulam, one of the best routes in India.
As you approach the border of Goa and Karnataka, you come upon the beautiful Dudhsagar Falls. The scene from Chennai Express was shot here. Peaceful villages can be seen nestled in the shade of coconut trees along the train route that travels through the dramatic Konkan region. The train then passes through the beautiful coastal towns of Kerala.
- Location: Maharashtra to Kerala, from Pune to Ernakulam.
- Highlights: Diverse landscapes including the Western Ghats, rivers, and lush green valleys.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Activities: Exploring Ernakulam, visiting backwaters, and enjoying the varied landscapes along the route.
Pune – Ernakulam (Poorna Express) Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Pune: Explore Aga Khan Palace, Shaniwar Wada, and the bustling markets. Board the Poorna Express to Ernakulam.
Day 2:
- Journey to Ernakulam: Enjoy the scenic landscapes, including the Western Ghats.
- Arrive in Ernakulam: Check into your hotel. Visit Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, and the Chinese Fishing Nets.
Day 3:
- Explore Backwaters: Take a houseboat ride through the backwaters of Alleppey. Visit Vembanad Lake and enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine.
The bottom line
These are the top rail routes in India that will make your rail trip even more exciting.
Tending read more articles about India:
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FAQs
1. What are some of the most beautiful rail routes in India?
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Known as the Toy Train, it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Konkan Railway: Runs along the west coast, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats.
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Connects Mettupalayam to Ooty, passing through picturesque landscapes and tunnels.
2. What makes the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway special?
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features narrow-gauge tracks, loops, and zigzags, providing panoramic views of tea gardens, lush green hills, and snow-capped peaks.
3. What scenic highlights can I see on the Konkan Railway?
The Konkan Railway route offers views of lush green forests, serene rivers, the Arabian Sea coastline, and the majestic Western Ghats, with numerous bridges and tunnels enhancing the experience.
4. How is the experience on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway?
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a charming ride through verdant hills, dense forests, tea plantations, and 16 tunnels, making it a picturesque journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty.
5. What is unique about the Kalka-Shimla Railway?
The Kalka-Shimla Railway, another UNESCO World Heritage site, features 102 tunnels, 864 bridges, and numerous curves, providing spectacular views of the Himalayas and the surrounding countryside.
6. Can you describe the scenic beauty of the Matheran Hill Railway?
The Matheran Hill Railway offers a serene journey through dense forests, deep valleys, and mist-covered hills, making it a peaceful and scenic ride from Neral to Matheran.
7. What is the best time to travel on these scenic rail routes?
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: October to December for clear views of the Himalayas.
- Konkan Railway: Monsoon season (June to September) for lush greenery and waterfalls.
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway: March to June for pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
8. Are there any scenic train journeys in South India?
Yes, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Mysore to Mangalore Railway are among the most scenic routes in South India, offering beautiful views of the Western Ghats, waterfalls, and dense forests.
9. What facilities are available on these scenic trains?
These scenic trains typically offer basic amenities such as comfortable seating, food and beverage services, and restrooms. Some luxury trains, like the Palace on Wheels, offer premium facilities.
10. How can I book tickets for these scenic rail journeys?
Tickets can be booked through the IRCTC website or app, Indian Railways booking counters, and authorized travel agents. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
