rail journeys india

10 of the Best Train Journeys in India (and How to Take Them)

One of the quintessential travel experiences in India, you don’t want to miss these: the best train journeys in India from luxury trains, toy trains and “regular” trips, from all around the country!

Choosing the Best Train Journeys in India

We don’t keep it much of a secret that hopping on a train is our favourit-est way to travel, especially in India, where you can be assured of smiles, lots of people, great views, and probably a spot of adventure along the way.

Despite the advent of flying in India, we’d rather take the train any day: It’s much more scenic, fun, is better for the environment, and you’re guaranteed to go home with stories to tell vs sitting in yet another plane.

Choosing this list of our recommended train journeys in India for visitors was not the easiest of tasks – simply because there are so many worthy contenders! And so, we drafted in a little help from other travellers and writers, and asked them to share their best train journeys in India too. We’ve covered toy trains, “regular trains” and luxury trains from all corners of the country to light up your train travel wanderlust.

Planning train travel in India is not always straightforward (we’ve written EVERYTHING you need to know about that over here – so make sure you keep it bookmarked). But fortunately, arranging train travel in India is getting easier, with the advent of online agencies that can book tickets for you without you having to sign up for an IRCTC account: We use and recommend 12go.asia for booking train tickets in India as a foreign traveller.

ⓘ TIP: Planning a trip to India? Join our free India Travel Facebook group here !

Best “Regular” Train Journeys in India

No bells and whistles here, these are some of our favourite “regular” Indian train journeys with great views and more that we recommend taking if you can!

Jan Shatabdi Express from Mumbai to Goa

Does the idea of rolling out of sweaty, busy Mumbai at daybreak and arriving by the sea in Goa in time for your prawn curry for lunch sound appealing? Thought so. Many people fly from Mumbai to Goa, but in our humble opinion they miss the best part.

The train from Mumbai to Goa travels what’s known as the Konkan railway, and it’s actually one of India’s most recent railways. It was thought for decades to be too difficult terrain to build a railway through to connect Mumbai and Panjim, and the British declared it un-feasible and impossible. It was not until 1998 that services fully began, and Mumbai was finally connected to Goa, Karnataka and Kerala on a direct line.

This line winds through the western ghats (hills) in south Maharashtra before entering Goa for the most scenic part of the trip, across rivers and backwaters with glimpses of the ocean.

Many trains ply the route from Mumbai to Madgaon (south central Goa), Thivim (for North Goa) and further south to Canacona. If you travel overnight, you’ll miss the views (the best part of this journey) so we recommend taking the day train if you can, the best of which is the Jan Shatabdi . The Tejas Express is one of the new high-end trains but has sealed windows and automatic sealed doors – so hardly great for photos!

How to take this train: The Jan Shatabdi (12051) leaves Dadar in Mumbai at 05.25 daily, arriving in Madgaon at 13.50. You could also take this journey in reverse from Madgaon to Mumbai which is also beautiful. In winter (Nov-Feb) sit in non-ac chair car class for fresh air and views out of the open windows. At other times, opt for the AC option. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Search and book tickets here for Mumbai – Goa on 12go !

The Deccan Queen from Pune to Mumbai

My first solo train journey in India left quite an imprint on my memory. Clambering on to the Deccan Queen while it was still dark in Pune to begin the 3 hour journey in Mumbai I’d been told that the pantry car (catering) on this train was good, and not to miss the chance to have breakfast.

Happily filled by my masala baked beans on toast (no I didn’t get sick), I happily dozed on the train as the sunlight started to creep in. I woke up to see the train twisting through the dramatic ghats with stunning views out onto the hills of Maharashtra in the morning light. I curse myself to this day for not being quicker with my camera. Just after 10am, the train creeps in to Mumbai’s best known and best-loved railway terminus – CS(M)T (formerly VT), and the heart of south Bombay .

Many trains run the popular route between Pune and Mumbai, but we recommend this one because of a) the morning light against the hills in winter and b) the food. Plus, there’s a certain something about taking a train named after a queen…

How to take this train: The Deccan Queen (12124) leaves Pune at 07.15 and arrives in Mumbai (CST) at 10.25. In winter, you can take non-AC chair car class (2nd Sitting) for mountain air and better views. In hotter months / monsoon we recommend AC. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Search and book tickets here for Pune – Mumbai on 12go!

The Gatimaan Express from Delhi to Agra

Contributed by Soujanya from thespicyjourney.com

Similar to a shatabdi express , The Gatimaan Express is one of the first high-speed trains in India, and is the currently second fastest train in operation in India. It’s a high speed all air-conditioned train that runs between Delhi and Jhansi, stopping at Agra along the way.

The train originates at Delhi’s Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station in the south of Delhi, and ends at Jhansi Junction railway station, stopping in-between at the Agra Cantonment Railway Station. It is highly recommended to take this train while going to Agra from New Delhi.

One of the main reasons why the train is preferred is because it’s the fastest train between Delhi and Agra – covering a distance of 188 km in 100 minutes. Secondly, the train is clean, fully air conditioned and there are (free / included) meals served on board by attentive staff, which are fine to eat. There are two classes available for the Gatimaan express which are executive AC tickets priced at INR 1500 and regular AC tickets costing INR 750. The main difference between the two is legspace, and more food in executive class. Regular AC is fine. The train operates on all days, except Fridays (seeing as the Taj is closed on fridays).

How to take this train: The Gatimaan Express (12050) leaves Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi daily except fridays at 08.10, arriving at Agra Cantonment at 09.55. In the reverse direction (train number 12049), the Gatimaan leaves Agra Cantonment at 17.50 and arrives back at Delhi Hazrat Nizamuddin at 19.30. Tickets need to be booked in advanced, preferably at least a few days. If this train is fully booked, a good alternative is train #12002 from New Delhi station to Agra.

Search and book tickets here for Delhi – Agra on 12go!

Bangalore to Goa

Contributed by Madhurima of orangewayfarer.com

Because India is a world in itself, different rail routes will give you a taste of different terrain. From window scene to quick snacks, even the taste of Chai differs on Indian train journey. One of the most scenic Indian train journey is the one from Bangalore to Goa.

With cheap airfares and frequent bus service, many people want to make it quick to Goa. I say, slow down. And make the most of spiraling railroad through the Western Ghats, which will gradually descend to the white sandy beaches kissing Arabian sea.

One of the most rewarding rail journeys to Goa is passing the Dudhsagar falls. Come monsoon, the fall regain all her Vigour and stage a fantastic show. Monsoon also means restricted access to Dudhsagar trek, making the rain journey to be the sole chance to view the falls. The train usually slows down as it approached the fall. You’ll be able to see a lot of people peeping out of the window in awe. Dudhsagar (ocean of milk, literally) appears twice, on both sides of the train. But Dudhsagar is short lived. Beyond that, the 10 hours long journey still proves its worth, when the train enters numerous stone tunnels and gradually ascends to a world of mist and lush green verdant valley of the Western Ghats.

How to take this train: There are several trains running from Bangalore to Vasco da Gama in Goa, but to be able to see the falls at Dudhsagar, you want one that arrives in Goa during daylight hours. (The nearest station to where the train passes by the falls is Kulem). Train #17316 from Chennai does that, or train #17603 depending on the day of the week. The falls and scenery are at the most lush during monsoon (July-September). Tickets must be booked in advance.

Search and book tickets from Bangalore to Goa on 12go here!

Odisha, Kendujhar to Bhubaneswar

Contributed by Renuka from Voyager for Life

My favourite train journey was in Odisha, an eastern state of India – from Kendujhargarh to Bhubaneswar. While Kendujhargarh is a small town known for its many waterfalls, Bhubaneswar is the capital city of Odisha. It’s a 5-hour journey in a chair car coach, which is quite comfortable and fun.

The highlight of this train journey is the constant sight of beautiful landscapes that one gets to witness along the way. Although the entire state of Odisha has amazing natural beauty and there are several train routes that you can take to enjoy the scenic landscapes, the Kendujhargarh-Bhubaneswar route is perhaps the most captivating one. There’s a certain mellow quality about the hills and open fields that you pass by. Since the train departs in the afternoon from Kendujhar and reaches Bhubaneswar towards the evening, there’s a prospect of enjoying an evocative sunset, too.

To make the most of your train journey, ensure to book a window seat! It’s a delightful experience to be glued to the outside view until a  chai  or coffee guy sneaks you out of your daydream, which is not a bad deal either. The coffee that you get to have on this route is fantastic.        

How to take this Train . There are four daily trains, the one coinciding with sunset being the 18415 Barbil – Puri Express. Classes are Chair Car (AC) or second sitting. Tickets are available on the IRCTC website or in person at the station, book a few days before if you can.

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Delhi to Kota, Rajasthan

Contributed by Priyanka of On My Canvas .

Delhi to Kota is one of my train journeys in India that has stayed with me for a long time. As the train leaves the chaotic stations of Delhi, it goes through a range of terrains. The life going on around the small stations in between is enough to make any traveler curious. Houses perched on the roadsides are shaken to the core when the train rambles through the town. Children in the streets, waiting for the train to pass over, wave as it does. 

Getting down at the Mathura junction to get some peda (sweets) isn’t more customary than getting off the train at Bharatpur to get some early taste of the lemony poha (beaten rice) that is typical of Rajasthan. Travelers who visit the Pushkar mela would know all about the poha . 

But after the train crosses further into Rajasthan, it crosses a desert landscape. The landscapes become dry, and vegetation is sparse. Dry winds blow in, but one could only experience the change in these if the coach is non-air conditioned, as scrub and bush surprisingly creeps in, as the train heads further south in India’s desert state .

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The journey was my favorite for it took me from the warmth of my house to the strange city of Kota where I studied as a little girl. Between the comfort of home and hard student life, the train journey was a transit that I wished would never end. And then there were the station snacks that would lure any child to keep going back and forth by train.

If you’re looking for a gorgeous railway journey while enjoying some local snacks on the way, Delhi to Kota is a good one. The journey is special for the sharp contrast between the scenery and the culture of Delhi and Rajasthan.

How to take this train: To get the effect of the changing climate, book a non-ac class such as ‘Sleeper’ or 2S (2nd sitting). The train journey lasts between 6-7 hours, depending on which train you take, and there are many different trains leaving from both New Delhi station (NDLS) and Hazrat Nizamuddin station in the south of Delhi. For a reliable train with a non-air conditioned option, you can take the Jan Shatabdi train #12060 which leaves Hazrat Nizamuddin daily at 13.15.

Search & book tickets from Delhi to Kota here on 12go!

Best Toy Train Journeys in India

Otherwise known as mountain railways of India, India is home to several toy train journeys that were built on narrow gauge, to transport primarily holiday makers to the country’s hill stations to escape the sweltering summer temperatures.

Two of the most famous are the Kalka-Shimla railway and the Darjeeling Himalay railway. Another mountain railway from Srinagar (Kashmir) to Leh (Ladakh) is planned for the future, making it the highest railway in the world, but construction has yet to begin.

Nilgiri Toy Train

Contributed by Sapna from My Simple Sojourn .

The Nilgiri mountain railway is a UNESCO world heritage site. The train runs with steam locomotive engines and its speed varies between 15 to 30 Km. The Nilgiri mountain railway has the steepest track in Asia with a maximum gradient of 8.33%. This railway track has the Abt rack and pinion system to climb this gradient. 

These trains operate between Mettupalayam and Udhagamandalam. (Ooty). The initial 7 Km journey is through the plains, where you will see the Paddy fields on both sides. Afterward, the train enters the Nilgiri Mountain range and passes through the mountains.

I love this journey because of the scenic beauty. You will see lush green mountains, deep valleys, cross 250 bridges and pass through 16 tunnels in 46 Km. There are several curves and hairpin bends on the way. As the train crosses Coonoor, you will see the beautiful tea gardens on both sides of the track. The toy train journey is an extremely joyous experience. 

There are general class and First class category in this train. The main difference between the two classes is space. In the first-class, you will get more space to sit and keep the luggage in comparison to the general class. Otherwise, both are more or less similar. It is advisable to book the tickets in advance because the train has limited seats, which get filled very fast. Traveling by this train should be on everyone’s list when in the South of India.

How to take this train: Tickets are bookable via the IRCTC website in advance, or in person at one of the stations at least two hours before. The train does get busy, so advance booking is preferable (you’ll need an IRCTC account). Timetable and more info on the route can be found here .

Kalka Shimla Railway

Contributed by Amrita from Tale of 2 Backpackers

Train journeys in India can be a bag of mixed feelings. While some train journeys can be a wonderful experience, others can be quite hectic. Nevertheless, I have always loved train journeys. There is a subtle romanticism and charm in train journeys that I cannot find in other modes of transport. One of my favourite train journeys in India happens to be the Kalka Shimla Railways – the toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla. I had however taken the journey on the other way from Shimla to Kalka after completing the Rupin Pass Trek.

Kalka Shimla Railways was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 as it is quite an engineering feat, considering the fact that it was opened for public in early 1903. This mountain railway runs on narrow-gauge tracks (2 feet tracks). The railway has 988 bridges, 919 curves and 102 tunnels in the 96 km it runs. 

The train journey is an experience of a lifetime. As the slow train chugs through the mountains bridges manoeuvring the curves, there is a feeling of thrill and excitement. Also, the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh is unmatched. There are 16 stations between Shimla and Kalka. These stations look quaint and like picture postcards, the best one being Barog. The train moves through the forests, villages and some rugged terrain. The railway stations give a feeling of the old colonial days. The six hours train journey through surrounded by pine and forest trees is definitely one of the most pleasant train journeys in India. 

How to take this train : There are several different trains that run from Kalka to Shimla, from regular passenger trains with basic unreserved seating, to tourist trains with vista dome coaches attached. Tickets can be bought up to 120 days in advance via the IRCTC website. This article has a full breakdown of the different trains and comfort levels.

Best Luxury Trains in India

For those looking for the wow factor of life on the rails in India.. the country has some world class luxury trains. If you dream of sipping sweet chai from your full length bed in a private cabin in silk dressing gown… look no further than these!

The Golden Chariot

Contributed by Mar from Once in a Lifetime Journey

The Golden Chariot stands out among the four luxury trains of India as it’s the only one in its category that operates in the south of the country.

The aptly named Pride of the South and Southern Splendor routes are epic and majestic 8-day journeys that pass through some of southern India’s most beautiful places. They both start and end in Bangalore with the former passing through Mysore, Shravanabelagola, Belur, Halebidu, Hampi, Pattadakal, Badami caves and finally Goa. The latter makes stops at Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Kerala and so much more.

Rooms are decorated, as well as named, after the different dynasties that ruled Karnataka, for example Ganga, Sangama and so on. Travelers can choose between a twin or double room, which are more suited for couples sharing a single bed. Both have large ensuite bathrooms that are spacious for a train and have enclosed showers. Beds are full length and not the usual fold up types that one finds on other trains in India.

The train even includes a sampling of gym facilities. Food is served in two separate restaurants (dining cars) and there are even two kitchens onboard that feed up to 80 guests at a time – one for Indian cuisine and the other for Western-style cooking. And the food is absolutely delicious, both the large Western menu and the local Karnataka cuisine from the south of India are some of the best you will find.

The best part of the Golden Chariot is the fantastic service, where passengers are treated like royalty. While locals can hop on and off at will, foreigners have to book the entire 8-day journey, but riding in luxury in India’s south is a once in a lifetime experience and is absolutely worth it. 

How to take this train : Tickets/tours can be booked on the Golden Chariot’s website or through select travel agencies.

The Palace on Wheels

Contributed by Natalie from Love and Road .

The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train journey through Rajasthan and Agra: It’s a 7 day trip on board a vintage luxury train that whisks you back in history to a grander era of train travel. On board you will find draped curtains, silver cutlery, and butlers that will take care of everything you need during this luxury adventure.

The Palace on Wheels journey starts in Delhi and every day you will wake up in a new place. Most of the traveling is overnight, so you will arrive fresh and ready to explore a new destination. In every destination, guides and transport will take you to the main attractions, including the most impressive forts in Rajasthan. Along the way you’ll learn about the culture and food of this beautiful part of India. 

The train crew organizes all the activities and entrance fees; you only need to follow the instructions and have fun. The price of the train trip includes all meals; you’ll get breakfast, lunch, and dinner served onboard or in a restaurant/hotel in the destination you are visiting. And every time you go back to the train your butler will be waiting for you with fresh tea/coffee and biscuits. 

Every room has an assigned butler that will organize your schedule, maintain your cabin, and help you with everything you might need or want. The train offers luxury double rooms and standard twin rooms. There are two rooms per carriage, and in the cabins you will find a bed, wardrobe, sitting area, and a private bathroom.

My husband and I loved the Palace on Wheels experience. The hassle-free train journey is perfect for travelers that want to see the best of Rajasthan in a short time and without worrying about booking transportation, hotels, and activities by themselves. 

How to take this train : Tickets/tours can be booked through the Palace on Wheels website and through select travel agencies.

In addition to the above luxury trains, there is also the Maharajas Express which covers a range of classic itineraries in northern India, and the Deccan Odyssey which tours beautiful Maharashtra.

Have you travelled by train in India? Which was your favourite journey? Let us know in the comments below!

Read more about travel in India on Soul Travel India:

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The Great Indian Rail Journey

Escorted Group Tours

10% Discount

As captivating as it can be confusing, India can be a difficult place to navigate. Accompanied by experienced guides, we can sit back and enjoy the ride as we traverse the jungles, deserts and plateaux of Northern India. Five railway journeys, including a steam train on one of India’s UNESCO World Heritage Mountain Railways, take us from Delhi into the jewelled palaces of the Golden Triangle, 'jungle book' national park of Ranthambore and Himalayan foothills of spiritual Shimla - covering off ancient forts, colourful bazaars and tiger safaris along the way.

Included with every escorted tour

• VIP door-to-door travel service
• Knowledgeable tour managers
• Included excursions
• Selected meals and international flights
• 14 breakfasts

Accommodation

14 nights in hotels and 1 in flight

Travel in destination by coach

Excursions and visits

• Guided tours of Old and New Delhi; Jaipur; Agra; Amritsar; Chandigarh; Shimla
• Five train journeys Jaipur - Sawai Madhopur; Sawai Madhopur - Bharatpur; Delhi - Amritsar; Kalka - Shimla ('Toy Train'); Kalka - Delhi
• Visits to Amber Fort, Taj Mahal at sunrise; Wagah for changing of the guard ceremony; Golden Temple
• Two safaris in Ranthambore National Park

Asia . India . Jaipur . Delhi . Shimla . Ranthambore National Park

Escorted tour moderate

From £ 2,815.5 per person - £ 3,115

Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction if not required

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The Man in Seat 61

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The best way to see India is at ground level on the incredible Indian railway system, not from 35,000 feet.  Experience the bustle of Indian railway stations and a comfortable journey on an Indian express train with the tea seller's cry of Chai, chai, garam chai wafting down the aisle.  Forget media images of crowded local trains with people sitting on the roof.  In an AC Chair Car or AC1 or AC2 sleeper on an express, all seats & berths are reserved and it’s safe, civilised, inexpensive & comfortable.  Even journeys such as Mumbai to Delhi or Delhi to Jaisalmer can be covered time-effectively by overnight sleeper, centre to centre, saving a hotel bill too.  Book Indian train tickets online at 12go.asia

Useful country information

Train routes & maps.

India's passenger rail network is the third biggest in the world after Russia and China, with 63,000 km of rail routes and 6,800 stations.  In terms of passenger kilometres, it's the biggest in the world.  Indian Railways are the world's biggest employer, with over 1.5 million staff.

The trains in India go almost everywhere, and it's generally safe to assume that you can travel between any two Indian cities or major towns by train, the length and breadth of the country.

Most of India's rail network is broad gauge with rails 5' 6" apart, wider than standard gauge (4' 8½") used in Europe, allowing Indian trains to be wider than European trains.  Parts of the country such as Rajasthan used to be served by an extensive metre-gauge network, but most metre-gauge routes have now been converted to broad gauge.  A few hill railway such as Kalka-Simla and New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling use narrow gauge, either 2' or 2' 6".

For an Indian railways route map see surveyofindia.gov.in/files/Railway map_Eng_C.jpg (please let me know if this stops working).

Also try www.mapsofindia.com/maps/india/india-railway-map.htm , or indiarailinfo.com/atlas .

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How to check train times & fares

It can be easiest to check train schedules & fares for the main tourist routes at agency website 12go.asia , this can also sell you a ticket, hassle-free.

For train times & fares for any journey in India use www.indianrail.gov.in .

This is one of the various official Indian Railways websites, an amazing site but a little bewildering, not helped by there being another official site, www.indianrailways.gov.in .  It's a good training course for your travels in India.

To check train times, look for Reserved Train Between Stations at the top of their home page.

To check fares, first find a train and note the train number, then click Fare enquiry at the top of their home page.

To check availability over various dates, first find a train and note the train number, then click Seat availability at the top of their home page.

Or download an app for your phone.  There are many apps to choose from, the official IRCTC apps seem unavailable outside India so try these 3rd-party apps for checking Indian train times on the go.  They're ad-heavy, but they work, I find Ixigo the best.

Indian Rail IRCTC for iPhone or Indian Rail IRCTC for Android .

Ixigo for iPhone or Ixigo for Android .

You can also buy the famous Trains at a Glance timetable booklet for 100 rupees at any station bookstall (it makes a great souvenir), or click here to download the pages you need for free .  This shows times in printed form for most major stations on all the main routes.

Tips for checking Indian train times

Which station in which city .

Kashmir originally had no rail connection, but a line to Srinagar and beyond has now been completed with more under construction.  The line heads through tough terrain, and features the highest railway bridge in the world.  Srinagar's station code is SINA (not to be confused with another smaller Srinagar in Rajasthan with station code SNAR).

Khajuraho (a much-visited temple complex) now has a station, station code KURJ.  There's a daily overnight train called the Kurukshetra-Khajuraho Express leaving New Delhi station at 18:20, picking up at Agra Cantonment around 21:35 and arriving in Khajuraho at 08:00 next morning.  It  returns from Khajuraho at 18:35 arriving New Delhi at 08:45.

Example train times

Example fares from delhi.

£1 = 105 Rupees, €1 = 90 Rupees, $1 = 82 Rupees.

Shatabdi Express = Premier daytime train, special fare payable, meals included.

Rajdhani Express = Premier overnight train, special fare payable, meals included.

Child fares on Indian trains since April 2016:   Children aged 0 to 4 inclusive travel free.  Children aged 5 to 11 inclusive travel at half fare if they do not take up a reserved seat or berth, but as from April 2016 they must pay the adult fare if they travel with their own reserved seat or berth.  I do not recommend that any child aged 5 to 11 travels without their own seat or berth in AC1, AC2, AC3, AC Chair car or Sleeper Class, so this effectively means you must now pay the adult fare for children aged 5 and over.  Children aged 12 and over pay the adult fare in all cases.

Classes explained

Which class to choose.

Above, a typical long-distance express or mail train with older carriages (not a premier Rajdhani or Duronto express).  You can just make out 3 cars in the centre of the train with different windows.  These are the AC cars, perhaps one AC1, one AC2 & one AC3 car.  The rest of the train is Sleeper class.  Courtesy of Albert Höchst.

Types of train

Which train to choose.

Executive Chair (EC) class on a Vande Bharat Express.  These are India's most modern trains, capable of 160 km/h (100 mph) & used at up to 130 km/h (80 mph).  See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vande_Bharat_Express .  Photos courtesy of Nonstop Eurotrip , see video of Varanasi-Delhi Vande Bharat Express .

AVL, CNF, RAC & Waitlist

You need a reservation to travel on Indian long-distance trains, you can't just turn up and hop on.  Reservations are fully computerised using the world's largest computer reservation system.  Trains get fully-booked weeks in advance, so buy tickets as far ahead as possible.

When do bookings open?

Bookings for most Indian long-distance trains currently open 120 days before departure.

It was 60 days until 2008, when it was experimentally extended to 90 days, then it was experimentally extended even further to 120 days in 2012, reduced again to 60 days in 2013 to make ticket 'scalping' by agencies harder, but restored to 120 days as from 1 April 2015. 

Some short-distance inter-city trains may open for bookings less than this, for example Delhi-Kalka & Kalka-Simla may open only 30 days or in some cases just 15 days ahead.

The remarkable Indian Railways system

Indian Railways have a unique system with 4 possible statuses for seats/berths/bookings:

AVL = Available , these are seats or berths that are unsold and available for booking.

CNF = Confirmed .  When you book an available seat or berth, your PNR status (Personal Name Record) becomes CNF, confirmed.  You're safely booked on the train with a specific seat or berth.

RAC = Reservation Against Cancellation .  When all the seats or berths on a train in a given class have been sold, a certain number of tickets in that class are sold as Reservation Against Cancellation, or RAC.

WL = Waitlist .  When all the RAC places have been sold, further prospective passengers can buy Waitlist (WL) tickets.

If you go to www.indianrail.gov.in & click Seat availability you can see how many seats remain available in each class on a given train.

For example, today is 26 January, let's say I want to go from Delhi to Kolkata on the best train, the overnight Howrah Rajdhani in AC 2-tier. Tomorrow's train is fully-booked in AC2 and shown as NOT AVAILABLE.  I can buy Waitlisted tickets for this train on 28 and 29 January.  I can buy RAC tickets on any day between 30 January & 5 February and if I buy those I can definitely board the train and travel with (in practice) maybe a 90% chance of ending up with a berth to myself.  The first day on which AC 2-tier is shown as AVL so I can buy a ticket and instantly get a confirmed berth is 6 February.  The Foreign Tourist quota would help me here, there are 7 or 8 FT quota places shown as AVL every day from 27 January onwards, but I'll explain that in the quotas section .

Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC)

With an RAC ticket, you're allowed to board the train and travel.  Whatever happens, you know you're safely booked on that train.  So if you're offered an RAC ticket you should take it, even though you won't have a specific seat or berth number at this stage.

In the vast majority of cases, one of the confirmed passengers will cancel or unsold tickets will be left in one of the more obscure quotas on departure day and you'll be promoted from RAC to CNF with a confirmed seat or berth on the train.

Your name will then be shown against a specific seat or berth number on the reservation list pinned on the notice board at the boarding station on the day of travel when the train is charted , or you can check your PNR (Personal Name Record) status online .  A waitlisted passenger will be promoted from WL to RAC in your place.

In the unlikely event that nobody cancels, you'll be given a place to sit (but not a berth) in a carriage of the class you've booked.  For example, two RAC passengers might be given seats on a bunk that would normally be for one person.  In most cases, at least one of the confirmed passengers will fail to show up for the train and the on-board staff will allocate their berth to the passenger holding ticket RAC1.  The passenger holding ticket RAC2 will then be left with a berth to themselves, solving two RAC passengers' problems!  In the worst case scenario, if there were no no-shows the RAC passengers would have to sit up all night or take turns using the berth to snooze, but in practice this seldom happens.  Like I said, if an RAC place is available, you should take it.

A downside of buying RAC tickets as a couple, family or small group is that you might be split up, because you get the places freed up when people cancel or which are left when tickets remain unsold in special quotas.  But there's usually only one or two AC2 or AC3 cars on a given train, so in those classes you probably won't be far apart.

Incidentally, RAC tickets exist in AC2, AC3 & SL, but not in AC1, EC, CC or FC.  In AC1, EC, CC & FC, passengers are always CNF or WL.

Waitlist (WL)

With a WL ticket you cannot travel, unless you are promoted to RAC or CNF before departure.

Each WL ticket has two numbers at any given moment in time, for example WL10/WL3.

The first number is the ticket's original Waitlist number.  In this example, WL10 means you bought the Number 10 Waitlist ticket allocated to this train, 10th in the queue when the train opened for booking.  This number won't change, even if you are promoted to a confirmed place (CNF), your ticket will always be WL10 and shown as such on the reservation list.

The second number is your current position in the queue, this number will reduce as people cancel.  On websites & apps that show only one WL number rather than two, this is the number it shows.  In this example WL10/WL3 means that 7 people have already cancelled and you are now 3rd in line for promotion to RAC.  If 3 more people cancel, you'll be promoted to RAC and can travel.

If more people cancel you may even be promoted to CNF with a confirmed seat or berth.  With a low-numbered WL ticket you've a good chance of this happening.  For example, one traveller reports having Waitlisted places between WL1 and WL10 on numerous trips, and always successfully got promoted to CNF with a confirmed place on the train, usually in the 24 hours before departure as that's when all the movement takes place from tickets in unsold quotas being used to reduce the number of WL & RAC passengers.

Keep checking your PNR status online .  Even if you're only promoted to RAC, you can at least travel.  If the train is charted and you're still only Waitlisted, then you can't travel and your fare will automatically be refunded, less a minor clerkage fee.

How likely is a given WL ticket to be confirmed?

There are now several websites that claim to predict how likely it is that a given WL ticket will be confirmed and allow you on the train, based on historical data.  Try entering your PNR into trainman.in , or use it to see what the current availability of a given train is, and how likely it is that if you bought WL tickets they'd be confirmed by departure.

The Vikalp scheme (ATAS)

There's yet another process to help Waitlisted passengers.  When you buy a WL ticket, you may be asked if you want to opt in to the Vikalp scheme, also known as Alternate Train Accommodation Scheme or ATAS.  Vikalp is Hindi for option .

If you tick the Vikalp box, you're offered a selection of possible alternative trains and you can choose which of these you'd be willing to take if you can't get a berth on the train you've booked.  Then, if you are still Waitlisted (WL) when your original train is charted (so you can't travel on it), and if space is available in the same class on one of your chosen alternative trains, you'll be given a confirmed (CNF) berth on that instead.

An alternative train is one between the same or similar origin & destination leaving between 30 minutes & 72 hours after your original choice of train.  For example, a train leaving from Old Delhi or Delhi H.Nizamudin might be considered alternatives to a train from New Delhi.

If there are several of you on one PNR, either all of you will be given places on an alternative train or none of you will, so don't worry, you won't be split up.  However, once you opt in to Vikalp, you can't opt out again.  And if you are transferred to a CNF place on an alternative train and decide you don't want it, you can cancel but only in line with the terms & conditions of a CNF place, which means a partial refund less the CNF cancellation fees (as an unsuccessful Waitlisted passenger on your original train you'd normally have been refunded almost all of your money).

Charting is the process of drawing up the final passenger list for each carriage of a given train, allocating names to berths.  The list is posted on the reservations notice board at stations or you can check your PNR status online .

During this process, any unsold tickets in quotas such as handicapped, military or parliamentary are released, freeing up places so RAC passengers can be moved up to Confirmed (CNF) and WL passengers to RAC or CNF.  So if you have a WL ticket and haven't already been promoted to RAC or CNF as passengers cancel, this is when you discover whether or not you're on the train.

It's also at this point that specific berth numbers are allocated to AC1 sleeper passengers, which is why you can't choose between an AC1 2-berth coupé and an AC1 4-berth compartment when you book.

Charting for trains leaving their origin station between 12:00 & 23:00 takes place around 4 hours before departure from that station.

Charting for trains leaving their origin between 23:00 & 12:00 takes place 19:00-21:00 Monday-Saturday or 13:00-15:00 Sundays & holidays.

How to check your current status

You can confirm your current PNR (Personal Name Record) status as WL, RAC or CNF at www.indianrail.gov.in/pnr_Enq.html or using one of the apps suggested above , by entering the PNR number shown on your ticket.

Remember that things can change even on the day of departure, most movement happens shortly before departure, when the train is charted.

When you buy a ticket, it comes from a specific quota.  A quota is simply an allocation of tickets for a particular type of traveller such as  senior, handicapped, military or government, on each train in each class.  By default, tickets come from the General quota.

General (GN) quota

Remote location (rl) & pooled (pq) quotas, handicapped, senior & ladies quotas.

The Senior quota is only for Indian seniors so don't use this if you're not Indian.

The Ladies quota only exists in Sleeper class & AC3, it gets you berths in one small bay reserved for women, it's hardly worth bothering with.

The Lower Berth quota is for anyone with mobility issues who can't use the ladder to the upper berths, so absolutely needs a lower. 

When a train is charted and the final reservation list is compiled, any unsold seats or berths in these quotas will be freed up used to reduce the RAC/Waitlist, promoting RAC passengers to CNF and WL passengers to RAC and (once all RAC passengers are confirmed) CNF.

Foreign Tourist (FT) quota

Many important trains have a small Foreign Tourist (FT) quota of seats or berths available only to foreign tourists.  The purpose of the FT quota is to allow foreign tourists to book trains at short notice notice when the General quota is fully-booked.

It's not a foolproof way to travel around India without pre-booking:  There's an FT quota on only 200 trains a day out of some 9,000 trains, and the quota might be just 2 places, seldom more than 12, in one or two specific classes, typically AC1 & AC2 or CC.  So even using the FT quota, you may have to wait a day or so before there is a berth available to your chosen destination in your chosen class.

For example, today is 25 January, the earliest date for which AC2 tickets available from the General quota on the Delhi-Varanasi Swatantrtwa Express is 11 February. But if I look at the Foreign Tourist quota, although there are no tickets today, there are two tickets available in AC2 tomorrow, and on each of the following few days.

If you buy an FT quota ticket at a ticket office or tourist reservation centre, you must pay in US Dollars, pounds sterling, or rupees backed by an exchange certificate proving they've come from a bank or bureau de change in exchange for foreign currency.  Rupees backed by an ATM receipt and foreign bank card are usually sufficient.  You can now book tickets from the Foreign Tourist quota when booking online .

Let's be clear, as a foreign tourist, you don't have to book from the FT quota.  Anyone of any nationality can book from the General quota whenever it's available.  And FT tickets are a little more expensive than tickets from the General quota, too.

Indeed, if there are still seats available in the General quota when you book, you shouldn't use the FT quota .  Because later on when the train is fully-booked, some other overseas visitors may urgently need those precious few FT places, desperate to get a train back to Delhi for their flight home.  If you used up all the FT places weeks ahead when you didn't need to, those travellers may be stranded!

Tatkal (TQ & PT) quotas

To allow travel at short notice on trains that are often fully-booked weeks before departure, Indian Railways introduced a system called Tatkal (Hindi for immediate ).  A number of tickets on key trains are held back and released at 10:00 one day before departure (originally 72 hours before departure, reduced to 2 days back in 2009 and just 1 day in 2011).  They are sold with a Tatkal fee of 10% of the fare in 2nd class or 30% in all other classes.  There are in fact two Tatkal quotas, regular Tatkal (TQ quota) with fixed fares, and Premium Tatkal (PT quota) with variable fares that increase with demand.  Tatkal places can also be booked online .  If there are seats available in the Foreign Tourist quota then the Tatkal quota may be irrelevant for you, if not, the Tatkal system can be useful.

How to buy tickets online

Indian trains often get fully-booked weeks in advance as demand usually exceeds supply.  So if you have a fixed itinerary and limited time you should buy tickets in advance before you get to India.

I recommend ticketing agency 12go.asia as option 1 for good reason:  It's hassle-free, even though it only does the principle trains on the routes usually requested by visitors.  It only sells confirmed tickets, it doesn't sell RAC or WL places.  It happily accepts overseas credit cards.

However, for complete access to all routes, trains, ticket types & quotas including Waitlisted & RAC , you must face the challenge of registering with the official Indian Railways booking website irctc.co.in, which is option 2.  I provide detailed instructions below.  Be warned, the process may drive you nuts.  Some people give up, others manage it in the end, but once registered you can book anything.

Option 1, buy at 12go.asia

I recommend ticketing agency 12go.asia as the quickest & easiest way to buy tickets for the principal trains and routes used by tourists, it makes booking trains as easy as booking flights.

You can check prices & availability online, pay with an international credit card and get the same e-ticket you'd get if you booked directly with irctc.co.in, but without the frustration of having to create an account and register with irctc.co.in.

Booking opens 120 days ahead , although some short-distance inter-city trains have a shorter booking horizon.  You can't buy tickets before reservations open.  Indian trains get fully booked weeks ahead, so book as far ahead as you can to be sure of a place.

How it works

12go.asia 's system shows fares & availability in real time, taken from IRCTC's system.  You select your train & class and click to buy.  Tickets are then manually secured by 12go staff using IRCTC's business-to-business booking system.

You can choose to see prices & pay in Indian Rupees, USD, GBP, Euros & several other currencies.

Limitations

12go.asia sells tickets for all the major routes of interest to visitors, but not between every possible station.  For that you need irctc.co.in.

Option 2, buy at www.irctc.co.in

You can buy train tickets direct from Indian Railways at the IRCTC website www.irctc.co.in .

Registering to use www.irctc.co.in is a time-consuming and frustrating process, but once registered you'll have access to all routes, trains, classes & ticket types.

Irctc.co.in has accepted overseas (non-Indian) credit cards since 2016, although it occasionally goes through periods when international cards don't seem to be accepted, just to keep everyone on their toes.  You must select the payment option which mentions International cards powered by PayU at the payment stage.

How to register for an IRCTC account

Go to www.irctc.co.in and click REGISTER top right.

Now enter the details to create an account.

Choose a username , some trial and error may be needed.

Enter your mobile phone number - your home country's international dialling code goes in the box marked ISD (this box says '91' until you have changed India to your own country in the box above).  The ISD for the UK is '44'.  Then enter your mobile phone number without any leading '0'.

Pin code means postcode .  Use 123456 as it won't accept UK-style postcodes.  Under Post Office , just enter your city & phone number again.

Payment problems paying the SMS verification fee

Just after I test-registered they imposed a fee for sending the OTP to a non-Indian mobile.  A few people have had credit card acceptance problems in paying this fee, but others find paying the fee works fine.  Again, I don't know why, but it could be problems with your own bank detecting and blocking a 'suspicious'  foreign transaction.  Give them a call!

How to buy tickets at www.irctc.co.in

When you click to see availability on a particular train, you will see places shown as AVL , RAC or WL , see the explanation of Reservation Against Cancellation & Waitlisting here .

AVL = Available , this means there are tickets available for confirmed seats or berths on that train. 

RAC = Reservation Against Cancellation , this means that the train is theoretically full, but Reservation Against Cancellation tickets are available for that train which allow you to board and be allocated a berth by the conductor.  So if you only see RAC tickets available, my advice is to go ahead and book, you'll still be able to travel on that train.

Tip:  Download the IRCTC app for your phone.   Download the IRCTC Rail Connect app for iPhone (if it's available in your region, it may not be) or IRCTC Rail Connect app for Android onto your phone.  You'll probably find you can't buy tickets with overseas credit cards using the app, but tickets bought online at the IRCTC website will show up in the app and can be shown to the conductor.  You can check train times, and see the current status of your booking if you are waitlisted or RAC.  Feedback appreciated .  I recommend some other apps that are available outside India in the travel tips section .

Option 3, Cleartrip.com, Makemytrip.com , Ixigo.com

How to buy tickets at the station.

The main stations in big cities and tourist centres such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur and Varanasi have an International Tourist Bureau where foreign travellers can book trains away from the crowds and queues at the normal booking office.  There is also a 24-hour rail booking office at Delhi International Airport.

For a list of stations with an International Tourist Bureau & opening times, see www.indianrail.gov.in , select Information then International Tourist .

New Delhi International Tourist Bureau ( temporarily closed )

U pdate 2024:   The New Delhi International Tourist Bureau remains temporarily closed due to the pandemic and low numbers of tourists.  A notice directs tourists to the international tourist counter at the Rail Reservation Centre 300m down the road, see the section below .

When open, the International Tourist Bureau at New Delhi railway station makes it easy for foreign visitors to buy tickets.  They could often sell you places out of the tourist quota, even when a train is fully-booked for Indian passengers.  Before the pandemic, it was normally open 06:00-23:00 every day, it's now temporarily closed.

How to find it

Enter New Delhi main station entrance on the Paharganj side (shown in the photo below left), veer slightly to the left and go up one flight of stairs to find yourself outside the International Tourist Bureau, as shown in the photo below right.  It's above platform 1.  If it doesn't look like the photo below, it isn't the real International tourist office.

New Delhi international tourist counter

Mumbai csmt, formerly bombay victoria terminus.

A station to rival London's St Pancras, Mumbai CSMT is an attraction in its own right.  Completed in 1887, its full title is Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or (officially) Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, station code CSMT .  Known as Bombay Victoria Terminus until 1996 and still known as 'VT' by many, see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhatrapati_Shivaji_Terminus .

Foreign Tourist Counter:   At Mumbai CSMT you can easily buy tickets from the foreign tourist quota at the Foreign Tourist counter, counter 4 downstairs in the Reservation Centre at CSMT.  It moved from counter 20 upstairs in 2018, please let me know if it changes again.

Tips for train travel in India

Checking your reservation.

The reservation system is very efficient and the days of finding your reserved berth already occupied by several passengers are long gone.  Your train, coach & berth number will be printed on your ticket - unless you're travelling in AC1 in which case the reservation list with your allocated berth numbers is only compiled a 2-4 hours before departure.

Reservation lists for each class in each long-distance train are posted on the notice board at each station about two hours before departure, showing the name, age and sex of each passenger reserved in each berth in each coach.  The age and sex help the ticket inspector identify that the right passenger is in the right berth.  A reservation list for each coach used to be pasted next to the entrance door on the train itself, but this is no longer done.

If you need to check your reservation, you can do so on your phone or laptop by entering your PNR (= booking reference) a PNR status-checking website such as www.railyatri.in/pnr-status or etrain.info/in , or using one of the Indian railways apps.

Download an app

I recommend downloading an app for your phone.  There are a bewildering number to choose from, some official, some 3rd party.  The official IRCTC apps seem unavailable outside India, so try these:

Indian Rail IRCTC for iPhone or Ixigo for iPhone .

Indian Rail IRCTC for Android or Ixigo for Android .

With these you can:

Check train schedules between any two stations.

Check a train's schedule at each of its calling points.  It also shows the train formation and carriage numbering to help you find your seat or berth.

Check your PNR status to see whether a Waitlisted ticket has become RAC or Confirmed.

Check real-time train running to see if your train is on time.

Check the platform for your train using the Live Station Info button, so you won't have to rely on the station departure displays to find your train.

Set a destination alarm to warn you a certain number of kilometres before your destination.

Luggage on Indian trains

Luggage is not a problem on Indian trains, you take your bags with you onto the train and place them on the overhead racks or underneath the lower berths.

The free luggage allowance is generous:  You can take to 70 Kg in AC1, 50 Kg in AC2, 40 Kg in AC3, AC Chair class or Sleeper class, 35 Kg in 2nd class seats.  Most western travellers are unlikely to exceed that, but if you really need to, you can pay an excess luggage fee and take up to 150 Kg in AC1 or 100 Kg in AC2.  However, the maximum is 40 Kg in AC3 or AC Chair class.

Theft of luggage is rare, but for peace of mind take along a bicycle lock or medium-sized padlock to secure your bags.  In the sleeping-cars, there are wire hoops hanging down underneath the seats to which you can padlock your luggage while you sleep.

Carriage numbers

The carriage numbers shown on tickets, on reservation lists and on the side of each coach consist of a letter and a number, for example H1, A1, A2, B1, B2, S1, S2, S3 and so on.  The letter shows the class of accommodation in that car.

A = air-con 2-tier (2A).

B = air-con 3-tier (3A).

AB = composite coach, half air-con 2-tier, half air-con 3-tier.

C = air-con chair car (CC).

D = non-air-con 2nd class reserved (@S).

E = executive chair class (EC).

G & J are used for AC 3-tier & Air-conditioned Chair class on Garib Rath trains.

H = air-conditioned 1st class (1A).

HA = composite coach, half AC1, half AC2.

S = sleeper class (SL).

There's typically just one air-con 1st class sleeper on a given train, so that's usually numbered H1.  If there were two air-con 2-tier cars on a train, those cars would be numbers A1 & A2.  So if you booked an AC2 ticket you'd expect to be given a car number 'A1' or 'A2', if you booked AC1 you'd expect to be in car H1 or HA1.

Food and drink on Indian trains

There are no restaurant or buffet cars on Indian Railways, but on long distance trains an attendant will appear in your coach and ask you if you would like to order food.  He will note down your order (usually a choice of 'veg' or 'non-veg') on a bit of paper.  An hour or so later he will reappear with some rice and curry in small foil containers from the kitchen car.  It is not expensive - you can reckon on £2-£3 per meal.  Attendants also regularly pass down each car selling soft drinks, snacks, or excellent hot sweet Indian tea (garam chai) for a few rupees.  On the premier Rajdhani Express trains (linking Delhi with Mumbai, Kolkata, etc.) and the premier daytime Shatabdi Express trains (linking Delhi with Jaipur and Agra, etc.), food is included in the fare, served at your seat.

Pre-order your food from a restaurant of your choice.   Alternatively, there are now several Indian websites that allow you to pre-book food to be delivered to your seat on the train from various vendors along the way.  If you have a confirmed train booking you can go to railrestro.com , enter your PNR, select a vendor you like the sound of who is located at a station where your train calls at a suitable time, and select specific items from their menu to be delivered to you on board the train at that station - reports so far have been very positive, but feedback is always appreciated !

Cleanliness, toilets & crowding

The efficient reservation system means that you can safely forget any pictures you've seen of overcrowded Indian trains with people on the roof or hanging on the side.  These these photos show suburban or local trains, or unreserved 2nd class on long-distance ones.  On fast long-distance trains in AC1, AC2, AC3, or AC Chair Class, all passengers have an assigned seat or sleeping berth so there's no overcrowding.  Don't expect pristine western standards anywhere in India, but you'll find AC1, AC2, AC3 and AC Chair class clean by Indian standards, with both western-style and squat toilets usually in a reasonably sanitary condition, see the train interior photos below.  On the other hand, Sleeper Class gets much grubbier than the AC classes and unreserved passengers can sometimes enter the coaches making it crowded.  2nd class unreserved can be incredibly crowded.  Toilets in sleeper class or basic non-AC 2nd class seats can leave a lot to be desired.

Safety & security

Indian trains are safe to travel on, even for families or women travelling alone, and you are unlikely to have any problems.  As in any busy place anywhere, pickpockets operate at the major stations (for example Delhi and New Delhi), so take care.  Oh, and be prepared:  If anyone tells you that your train is cancelled, that the ticket office has closed or has moved to a travel agency across the road, or your pre-booked hotel has burnt down or been abducted by aliens, please politely ignore them, even if they look 'official', to avoid ending up in a travel agency paying for a car and driver at vast expense, or booking their 'alternative' hotel which of course will luckily have a room available.  These are all well-known scams (yawn...) to get travel agency business, usually obvious to any regular India hand, but first-timers have been known to fall for them.

Do Indian trains run on time?

Indian Railways are generally remarkably efficient, but Indian trains do run late, sometimes hours rather than minutes.  To get a feel for it, why not go to either www.trainenquiry.com or www.erail.in and see how late yesterday's Delhi-Jaisalmer Express arrived, or last Thursday's Mumbai-Delhi Rajdhani Express?  At www.erail.in , select the origin and destination that interests you, and bring up the train list.  Now find the train that you want and click on it.  Now select a date and click the 'train running status' button.  It will show you a table of scheduled times and actual times at each station.  Data is only held for the last few days, not weeks or months ago.  At www.trainenquiry.com , you simply enter the train number or name, then select from a list of possible trains.

Alternatively, these examples from my own travels may give you a feel for the likely delay:  Delhi-Varanasi overnight express spot on time, Bombay-Howrah Mail 1½ hours late, Chennai-Mumbai Chennai Express 40 minutes late, Kolkata-Delhi Rajdhani Express spot on time (Rajdhani Expresses get priority and are pretty punctual), Delhi-Agra Shatabdi Express spot on time (Shatabdi Expresses also get priority and are pretty punctual), Jaisalmer-Delhi Express 2 hours late starting and 3 hours late arriving, Delhi-Kalka-Simla Himalayan Queen spot on time, Varanasi-Agra-Jaipur Marudhar Express 50 minutes late, Chennai-Delhi Grand Trunk Express 1½ hours late.

Recharging mobiles & cameras

There are shaver sockets in most AC1/2/3 sleeper cars and many Indian trains now have power outlets for mobiles and laptops.  However, I never travel without an Anker powerbank which can recharge your phone several times over if you're on the move and can't get to a power outlet.

Other Indian train tips

Bring your own toilet paper.  You'll normally find one western toilet and one squat toilet at one or both ends of the car.  In AC1, AC2, AC Chair Class and even AC3 the toilets are normally reasonably clean by Indian standards, and in full working order.  Sleeper Class and 2nd class toilets may be a different matter!

Make sure you research when to visit India carefully - in summer it can be unbearably hot, and you also want to avoid the monsoon rains.  And in January & February in Northern India that there can be major disruption to road, rail & air due to thick fog, so bear that in mind.

Finally, forewarned is forearmed

In India, if someone asks which hotel you're going to, then announces that this hotel has been flooded, burnt down, or abducted by aliens, they are of course trying to get commission from sending you to another hotel - that's often painfully obvious and it's almost funny!  Smile, ignore them, and persist in walking to your own hotel, which will of course be open as usual.  But similarly, especially at big stations such as New Delhi, if an official-looking person (they may even show you a badge) says your train has been cancelled, or says you can't board without a boarding pass (with an e-ticket you can get on the train, there's no such thing as a boarding pass), smile, ignore them, walk past, and persist until you see the actual departure indicators and get your train.  If necessary, go and see the station master!  Although this has never happened to me, there are occasional reports of travellers being conned into buying new tickets from a nearby travel agency, being sent to a nearby travel agency when they wanted the genuine New Delhi foreigners booking office, or being conned into hiring a private car and driver for hundreds of dollars when they already had trains booked, which of course weren't really cancelled.  So smile, ignore, persist, go and see the departure boards with your own eyes, find and get on your train, and have a giggle about it later!  If you encounter any of this, feedback (and a good laugh) is always appreciated!

The 11 classes on Indian trains

There are 11 classes of accommodation on Indian trains or at least, 11 different class codes in the system.  You can argue that 3E is a variation of 3A, EA a variation of EC and that 2S & GN are the same (both are 2nd class seats, one reserved, the other unreserved).  But that's still 8 classes!

Only a small selection of classes is available on any given train, a typical long-distance train might have one AC1 car, one or two AC2 cars, perhaps an AC3 car, then a long line of 6, 7 or 8 Sleeper class cars and maybe one GN or 2S car at the end.  But it varies, of course.

Here are the classes, in roughly descending order of cost, together with the usual 2 & 3-letter abbreviations.  A request:  If you get any clear interior photos of AC2, AC3 or Sleeper class which would better illustrate these classes, please get in touch !

Air-conditioned first class (AC1 or 1A)

Air-conditioned 2-tier (ac2 or 2a).

AC2 is relatively clean & comfortable, with room to spread out.  It's the class typically used by middle class Indian families and a good choice for most western visitors.   AC2 is found on almost all decent long-distance trains including the premier Rajdhani & Duronto expresses.

AC2 offers padded leatherette seats by day which convert to flat padded bunks at night.  AC2 coaches are open-plan with berths arranged in bays of four on one side of the aisle (two upper, two lower, transverse across the car width), and in bays of two on the other side of the aisle, arranged longitudinally along the coach side above and below the windows.  If you're tall, you should book a transverse berth.

Each bay is curtained off for privacy, and an attendant distributes pillows, clean sheets and blankets in the evening.  Update:  Curtains were removed  as a Covid-19 precaution and may still be absent.

Click for car plans & berth numbering in AC1, AC2, AC3, AC Chair, Sleeper Class .

Air-conditioned 3-tier (AC3 or 3A)

AC3 has a similar layout to AC2, but instead of upper & lower berths it has 3 tiers of bunks - upper, middle and lower - arranged in bays of six on one side of the aisle, and longitudinal bays of two - upper and lower - along the wall on the other side of the aisle.  As in AC2, an attendant distributes pillows, sheets and blankets in the evening.  Berths convert to seats for daytime use.

With 3 people sitting on each bench seat during the day rather than just 2, it feels a lot more crowded than AC 2-tier, and at night there is less height-space between each bunk - the top bunks are significantly higher up near the ceiling.  AC3 may lack the privacy curtains and individual berth lights usually found in AC2.  As in AC2, you should avoid the longitudinal berths if you are tall.  Still, if you find AC2 fully-booked, most western travellers will find AC3 an acceptable fall-back.  See car plans & berth numbering in AC1, AC2, AC3, AC Chair, Sleeper Class .  Photos courtesy of Rachel Poschi.

Air-conditioned 3-tier economy (3E)

Executive anubhuti chair car (ea), ac executive chair class (ec).

AC Executive Chair Class is only found on the high-quality Shatabdi Express , Vande Bharat Express & Tejas Express trains.  Seats are arranged 2+2 across the car width, basic pre-packaged food & drink is included in the fare, served at your seat.  It's also known as First AC Chair class.  Seat numbering plan for AC Chair cars .

AC Chair class (CC)

AC Chair class is a good choice for daytime journeys.  Comfortable & air-conditioned, they have seats arranged 2+3 across the car width.  AC Chair Class is found on the Shatabdi Expresses, Vande Bharat Express, the several Tejas Express trains and a number of other inter-city daytime trains, for example Delhi-Jaipur, Delhi-Agra, Delhi-Kalka for Simla.   Seat numbering plan, AC Chair cars .

Sleeper Class (SL)

This is the way the bulk of the Indian population travels on long-distance trains, but it's also used by many more adventurous backpackers who are prepared to take the rough with the smooth.  The majority of cars on a typical long-distance mail or express train will be sleeper class.

Sleeper class consists of open-plan berths, arranged in bays of 6 bunks (upper, middle and lower) on one side of the aisle, and bays of 2 bunks (upper & lower) along the coach wall on the other side of the aisle.  Bunks fold away to form seating for daytime use.  It's the same basic layout as AC3, but without the air-con and without any privacy curtains.  Bedding is not provided, so bring a sleeping-bag.

Sleeper class is found on almost all long-distance trains except for the premier Rajdhani & Duronto services.  Sleeper class can be crowded (although in theory all berths must be reserved, so it can't get overcrowded), and it's fairly grubby and basic.  On the other hand, you get a better view of the countryside then in AC coaches, where the windows are sealed, tinted and sometimes dirty.  In summer, there are fans on the ceiling and a breeze from the windows.  In winter, wrap up warm at night and take a sleeping bag and fleece, as it can get cold.    Berth numbering system, AC1, AC2, AC3, AC Chair, Sleeper Class cars .

1st class (FC)

Traditional non-air-con 1st class has now almost disappeared, as Indian Railways have progressively phased it out in favour of AC 2-tier.  But for the record, ordinary first class consists of non-air-conditioned sleeper coaches with lockable 4-berth and 2-berth compartments, a similar layout to AC1 but without the AC.  Bedding is not provided, and it's much grubbier than AC1, AC2 or AC3 as it's not sealed against the dirt .

2nd class seats (2S = reserved or GN = unreserved)

Open plan cars with wooden or padded plastic seats, sometimes reserved and shown online as 2S, sometimes unreserved and shown online as either GN or II.  Not recommended for long distance overnight journeys (you'll see the huge scrum of Indians all trying to bag a seat in unreserved 2nd class), but quite acceptable for daytime journeys of up to a few hours if you're on a budget.

IndRail pass es:  Discontinued in 2017

Where to go in india.

First-time visitors often wonder where to start in such a vast country and they're sometimes told to tour only a small area, for example stick to Rajasthan or perhaps the beaches of Goa.  But I suggest a bolder approach.  Use the remarkable Indian train network to see a varied cross-section of India's highlights, picking one example from each type of place:  A big city, a colonial hill station, a princely city or two in Rajasthan, then Agra of course for the Taj Mahal, and also Varanasi, the classic Hindu holy city on the Ganges.  This way, you'll see some incredible highlights and complete contrasts, with overnight trains minimising both daytime travelling time and hotel bills.

A suggested itinerary

Here's what I personally consider the best itinerary around Northern India, taking in an amazing variety of classic Indian cities in as little as 2 weeks.  Highlight after highlight in a 2-week itinerary.  If you have longer to spare, add an extra day or two here and there and/or add one more Rajasthani city, Udaipur.

Delhi 1-3 days.  Contrast the bustling old city with Lutyens' gracious New Delhi.

Take the Swatantrta S Express leaving New Delhi at 21:15 arriving Varanasi Junction at 08:05 next morning. AC1, AC2, AC3, Sleeper class.

Varanasi 2-3 days.  Formerly called Benares, Varanasi is the must-see Hindu holy city on the Ganges.  Make sure you stay in a local Indian riverside hotel such as the Hotel Alka , with its terrace overlooking the Ganges.  Western chain hotels are usually located in the new town, well away from all the amazing riverside action.  The Hotel Alka is one of the better hotels in this top riverside location, and eating a Thai on the terrace as the Diwali fireworks went off overhead and Lilly pads with candles drifted down the Ganges was an unforgettable experience.

Take the Marudhar Express from Varanasi Junction around 18:25 arriving Agra Fort at 06:40 next morning. AC2, AC3, Sleeper class.  No AC1.

Agra 2 days, remembering to visit the fantastic deserted royal city of Fatephur Sikhri 30km away by bus or car.  Agra may be the most touristy place in India, but the Taj is utterly beautiful and well worth the tourist tout hassle.  Agra fort and the ‘baby Taj’ are also worth a visit.

Take the Marudhar Express from Agra Fort around 06:45 arriving Jaipur at 11:50 the same day. AC2, AC3, Sleeper class (No AC1).

Jaipur 2-3 days.  The 'Pink City' is one of the most wonderful princely cities in Rajasthan, and indeed in India.

Take the daily Raniket Express leaving Jaipur at 10:10 arriving Jaisalmer at 22:30 the same day, with AC1, AC2, AC3, Sleeper class.

Or the Shalimar Express on Tue, Wed, Fri & Sun leaving Jaipur 17:45 arriving Jaisalmer 05:30 next morning, with AC1, AC2, AC3 & sleeper class.

Jaisalmer 2-3 days.  This is Rajasthan’s ultimate fairytale city and one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of India, in the desert close to the Pakistan border.  For many years it had no airport so only those who made the effort got to experience it, although sadly it may now have flights using the military airbase nearby.

Take the Shalimar Express leaving Jaisalmer at 23:25 on Mon, Wed, Thus, Sat and arriving at Old Delhi at 16:50 next day. AC1, AC2, AC3, sleeper class.  Spend the night in Delhi.

Take the Kalka Shatabdi leaving New Delhi at 07:40 arriving Kalka at 11:40. AC Executive chair class and AC Chair class, meal included served at your seat. Change onto the waiting narrow-gauge Simla toy train leaving Kalka at 12:10 arriving Simla at 17:20 with (non-AC) 1st class, AC Chair class, 2nd class. The journey to Simla by narrow gauge Toy Train is an absolute delight.

Simla 2-3 days.  Cool relaxation and colonial mock-Tudor charm in this lovely Himalayan hill station from the days of the Raj.  The ideal final destination for your trip!  The upmarket colonial-style Clarkes Hotel is wonderful.

Take the toy train leaving Simla at 18:05 arriving Kalka at 22:40. Change onto the mainline Netaji Express leaving Kalka at 23:55 and arriving Old Delhi at 06:00. AC1, AC2, AC3, Sleeper class.

How to book this itinerary

Option 1 is to arrange it all yourself .  First sketch out your itinerary, perhaps using the technique explained here .  Then book each train journey at 12go.asia (hassle-free, although naturally they charge a reasonable agency mark-up) or get yourself registered with IRCTC and book as explained here .  Then book each of your hotels separately using Booking.com .  This is the budget option, if you don't mind the legwork and managing it yourself.

Option 2 is to have it all booked for you, hassle-free .  I've arranged for train specialists Railbookers to offer this exact itinerary as a package, with trains, hotels, transfers (and if you like, your flight to India) all sorted for you.  This costs more than sorting it all out yourself, but it saves a lot of effort (and possible frustration) and as it's then a package, if anything affects one part of the tour Railbookers will sort things out for you.  Their suggested tour can be customised to your own requirements, to spend more or less time in each place.  Railbookers is an ABTA member and holidays including flights are ATOL protected.

  UK call 0207 864 4600, www.railbookers.co.uk . 

  us call free 1-888-829-4775, see website .,   canada call free 1-855-882-2910, see website .,   australia call toll-free 1300 971 526, see website . ,   new zealand call toll-free 0800 000 554 or see website ., alternative versions.

Alternatively, just pick on big city, one hill station, a couple of cities in Rajasthan, and a couple of places from the 'other' list below and create your own itinerary.  How about:  Kolkata - (overnight sleeper train to New Jalpaiguri then the famous Darjeeling Toy Train) - Darjeeling - Varanasi - (overnight sleeper train) - Agra - (daytime train) - Jaipur - (overnight sleeper train) - Kolkata?

The big cities

The royal cities of rajasthan, old colonial hill stations, other places to see, two personal favourites:  a ride to darjeeling.

A personal favourite is the ride to Darjeeling on the narrow gauge Darjeeling Himalaya Railway (DHR), and a night or two at the wonderful Windamere Hotel .  The DHR is now a UN World Heritage Site.

Travel from Kolkata's Sealdah station to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) on the broad gauge Darjeeling Mail, leaving Sealdah at 22:05 and arriving NJP at 08:15 next morning.  The Darjeeling Mail has AC1, AC2, AC3, sleeper class and 2nd class accommodation.  Then take the connecting DHR 'toy train' up to Darjeeling, leaving NJP at 10:00 daily, arriving Darjeeling at 17:30.  It's a long ride on a narrow gauge train, sometimes next to the hill road, sometimes through jungle, and sometimes through the streets.

You can check the current status of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway at www.dhrs.org/page4.html - it has it's ups and downs, if you'll pardon the expression.

Once in Darjeeling, the place to stay is the Windamere Hotel .  Originally a boarding house for bachelor tea planters, it became a hotel in 1939.  Meals are served by white-gloved, turbanned waiters and eaten by candlelight to the sound of Cole Porter tunes on the piano.  Even if you can't afford it, make sure you come along for afternoon tea - probably the best cup of tea you will ever drink.

...and a ride to Simla.

A little bit more robust than the line to Darjeeling, the similar toy train up to Simla in the Himalayan foothills is the way to reach Simla, once India's summer capital.  Take a fast broad-gauge train from New Delhi to Kalka and change there onto the Toy Train up into the hills.  The train ride to Simla is one of Simla's highlights on its own.  If you get the chance, use the Shivalik Deluxe Express on the way back down from Simla (it connects with the overnight express to New Delhi going forward next day to Kolkata).  The Shivalik Deluxe has plush fabric-covered first class armchairs, and a meal is served at your seat, included in the price.  Although it gets dark as you descend, at stations without electricity the signalmen hand the single-line token to the driver whilst holding burning torches, the shimmering flames lighting up the side of the train.  It's wonderfully atmospheric.

Tours of India by train

The cheapest option is to arrange everything yourself, independently, but this takes time and effort.  If you want a customisable itinerary with all your train tickets, up-market hotels and transfers arranged for you, you can do this through train specialists Railbookers.  Their website has various example itineraries including a one-week Golden Triangle one visiting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, but have a look at the suggested itinerary above covering Delhi, Agra, Varanasi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer & Simla as I think it's the best 2-week itinerary around northern India that you'll find, and I've arranged for Railbookers to offer it.  Railbookers takes good care of their clients and gets very good reviews.

Escorted tours in India by train

If you'd prefer to travel with a group of fellow travellers escorted by a professional tour guide, check are Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , in the UK call 01904 527 120) and Rail Discoveries , www.raildiscoveries.com , 01904 730 727.  Both offer popular escorted tours covering India's 'Golden Triangle' of Delhi, Agra for the Taj Mahal and Jaipur in Rajasthan.  At the time of writing, Great rail Journeys also do an escorted tour covering Delhi, Amritsar for the Golden Temple, Agra for the Taj Mahal, Lucknow, Varanasi on the Ganges and Kathmandu in Nepal, with departures on various dates through the year.

Tourist cruise trains

There are now several luxury cruise trains catering for tourists and offering sightseeing itineraries around Indian cities.  All of these trains are in effect 5 star international hotels on wheels, allowing you to see India in great comfort.

The Palace on Wheels

See www.palacesonwheels.com and see the Palace on Wheels video .  This is India's first and most celebrated cruise train, voted as the world's 4th best luxury train by Condé Nast Traveller magazine.  All suites feature private shower & spotlessly clean toilet, TV & CD player, and the train's two elegant restaurant cars offer both Indian and international cuisine.

Prices range from $2,750 for a 7-night 8-day tour around key cities in Rajasthan such as Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur & Jodhpur with all meals, off-train tours and on-board accommodation included. 

You can book the Palace on Wheels through recommended train holiday specialist Railbookers who can also arrange flights, hotels and other Indian trains for you.

If you'd prefer to use the Palace on Wheels on an escorted tour with friendly group of travellers and a professional tour guide are available from Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com , in the UK call 01904 527 120).

Other luxury cruise trains

The Palace on Wheels is no longer the only cruise train in India, and it's not even the best.  Others have sprung up, though prices are sky-high.  Be warned that most of these companies quote a rate per night, not for the whole tour!

Maharaja's Express , see www.the-maharajas.com - See the Maharaja's Express video .  Runs various 3 or 7 night tours from Delhi back to Delhi or between Delhi & Mumbai, via places such as Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi, Lucknow, Khajuraho.  From $3,580 per person.  This train is run by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), originally as a joint venture with Cox & KIngs.  Gets very positive feedback, 'ten out of ten' from one correspondent.  You can now book the Maharaja's Express through train holiday specialist www.railbookers.co.uk .

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels , www.royalsrajasthanonwheels.com - See the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels video .  Offers 8-day (7-night) itineraries with weekly departures from Delhi back to Delhi, stopping at Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Khajuraho & Varanasi.  From around $4,130 per person for two people sharing, $5,775 single occupancy for the least expensive suites.  Has also had great feedback, and can also be booked through www.railbookers.co.uk .

Golden Chariot , www.goldenchariot.org - see the Golden Chariot video .  A luxury train offering weekly departures from Bangalore for a week-long tour to Goa & southern India.

Deccan Odyssey , www.deccan-odyssey-india.com - see the Deccan Odyssey video .  A luxury train offering weekly departures from Mumbai for a week-long tour to Goa, Pune, and the caves at Ajanta & Ellora.

Indian Maharaja , www.theindianmaharaja.co.in .  Offers 8-day 7-night 'land cruises' between Delhi & Mumbai in either direction on various dates between October & April, with stopovers & tours at Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Ellora & Ajanta Caves, starting at around $4,095 per person for two people sharing or from $5,229 single occupancy.

These trains can also be arranged through Railbookers.  On their website, select 'Private trains'.

Inclusive luxury train escorted tours

If you'd like a deluxe train-based holiday to India, but would like to do this as part of an organised tour, Great Rail Journeys ( www.greatrail.com ) is a well-known company offering inclusive upmarket escorted tours to India, including the Palace on Wheels or a number of other special Indian 'cruise trains', five star hotels plus flights to/from the UK.  There are a number of different tours available, departing on a range of dates throughout the year.  Check the holiday details online, then call 01904 527120 to book or use their online booking form .  Seat61 gets some commission to help support the site if you book your holiday through this link and phone number.

International trains, buses & ferries

There are international trains to Pakistan & Bangladesh, and buses to Nepal.  Here's a quick summary:

Delhi - Amritsar - Lahore, Pakistan

Take a train from Delhi to Amritsar, there are lots to choose from.  See www.indianrail.gov.in for times & fares. 

Take a bus or taxi the 26km from Amritsar to the India/Pakistan frontier at Atari.  Walk through the border posts to Wagah on the Pakistani side.  You may want to hang around Wagah to see the spectacular ceremony at sunset when the border closes.  Indian and Pakistani guards try to outdo each other with their performances, watched by Indians and Pakistani crowds!

Take another bus or taxi the remaining 20km to Lahore.  Allow plenty of time for this deceptively short journey. 

There used to be a cross-border train, but tension in Kashmir means all India-Pakistan trains are suspended at the moment.

Delhi - Jodhpur - Karachi, Pakistan

A weekly international train called the Thar Express started in February 2006 from Jodhpur to Karachi via the border at Munabao.  But it's currently suspended.

Eastbound:   The Thar Express leaves Karachi every Friday at 23:00, arriving at 'Zero Point' on the Pakistan/India frontier at around 08:00 next morning.  After customs checks, the train goes forward to Munabao on the Indian side, arriving around 11:00.The Indian train departs Munabao at 19:00 after customs formalities, arriving Jodhpur (Bhagat Ki Kothi station) at 23:50 Saturday.

Westbound:   The Thar Express leaves Jodhpur (Bhagat Ki Kothi station, about 4km from the main station) every Saturday morning at 01:00 arriving Munabao at 07:00, leaving Munabao at around 14:30 on Saturdays, reaching Karachi at 02:15 on Sunday morning. 

The sleeper fare from Jodhpur to Munabao/zero point is about Rs170, and from Munabao/zero point to Karachi is about Rs230.  No more information is yet available, but feedback would be appreciated!  The train has one sleeping-car and several economy cars.

Update :  Tension in Kashmir means all India-Pakistan trains are suspended at the moment.

Delhi to Kathmandu, Nepal

It's quite easy, cheap, and an adventure to do this journey overland.  You take an overnight train from New Delhi to Gorakpur, then a bus.  For details, see the Nepal page .

Kolkata to Dhaka, Bangladesh

A new direct train from Kolkata (Calcutta) to Dhaka started in April 2008, see the Bangladesh page .

India to Sri Lanka by ferry

After many years of being cut off from each other (with at least one short-lived attempt to start a ferry service in 2011), a new ferry service started in late 2023, linking Nagapattinam (mainland India) with Kankesanthurai (on Sri Lanka, near Jaffna).

The fast ferry Cheriyapani sails from Nagapattinam (India)  at 07:00 arriving Kankesanthurai (Sri Lanka) at 11:00.

She sails from Kankesanthurai (Sri Lanka) at 13:30 arriving Kankesanthurai (India) at 17:00.

Crossing time 3 hours for the 60 nautical miles.  Service will be suspended during the monsoon season in November-December.

Fare around 8,000 Indian rupees, luggage allowance 40 Kg.

Online booking will be available starting in January 2024, website not yet known.  Until then, call +91 978 987 9971 at least 24 hours in advance. You will be required to send a copy of your passport and visa details via WhatsApp to confirm the booking.

Be careful with e-visas when using this ferry, they will not initially be accepted at these entry points, but may be in future.

India to Burma (Myanmar)

The India/Burma border is closed to foreigners.  It is not possible to travel to Burma overland from India.  For train and river steamer service within Burma, see the Burma page .

India to China

The direct route from India into China is difficult and mountainous, there are no trains, you need some serious permits to be in that part of India, and most if not all border crossings are closed to foreigners.  If you wish to travel this way, do your research before attempting it! 

For most practical purposes, you are better off going from India to Kathmandu in Nepal ( see the Nepal page ), then taking an organised tour from Kathmandu to Lhasa in Tibet ( see the Nepal page ), then a train to Beijing.  For train service within China, including Lhasa to Beijing, see the China page .

Europe to India overland

Europe to india via istanbul, iran, pakistan.

It's possible to travel from Europe to India overland by train and bus via Turkey, Iran & Pakistan, along what in the 1960s & 70s was the hippy train.  However, these days there are serious security problems affecting this route in Turkey, SE Iran & Pakistan.  If you are foolhardy enough to brave these, it takes a minimum of 2-3 weeks and you should consider it as an adventure or expedition rather than a routine way to travel there. 

Administratively, the main issue is getting an tourist visa for Iran - see the London to Iran page for agencies to contact to get one.  Finally, there are major security issues in southeast Iran to be aware of - see the official travel advice for Iran and Pakistan at the British Foreign Office website, www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice .  If you are still interested, see the Europe to India overland page .  I'd suggest planning the trip out carefully before you start to book anything - this may help:  How to plan an itinerary & budget .

Europe to India via Moscow, the Trans-Siberian Railway, Beijing & Lhasa

A safer though somewhat round-about way is London to Moscow by Eurostar and onward trains to Moscow (2 nights, £300, daily departures), Moscow to Beijing via the Trans-Siberian Railway (6 or 7 nights, £500, two per week), Beijing to Lhasa by train (2 nights, £100, daily), then an organised tour by bus from Lhasa to Nepal (7 nights, maybe $400), then bus and train to Delhi .  Again, you may find this helpful:  How to plan an itinerary & budget .  Trains to Russia are suspended due to Covid-19 and now sanctions .

Hotels in India

Personal hotel recommendations, tripadvisor hotel reviews.

www.tripadvisor.com is a good place to find independent travellers' reviews of the main hotels.  It also has the low-down on all the sights & attractions too.

Flights to India

Overland travel by train around India is an essential part of the experience, so once there, don't cheat and fly, stay on the ground!  But if you need a long-haul flight to reach India in the first place.

1)  Check flight prices at Opodo, www.opodo.com

2)  use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines.

3)  Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think!  See www.loungepass.com

For independent travel, the best guidebook to take is either the Lonely Planet or Rough Guide .  I gave Sarah the Lonely Planet and Karen the Rough Guide and we road-tested both of them head-to-head across India.  The result was a tie, with similarly excellent levels of both practical travel information and historical and cultural background.  I personally prefer the Lonely Planet, but Karen preferred the Rough Guide.  Just make sure you take one of these two guides with you..!  If you buy anything at Amazon through these links, Seat61.com gets a small commission to help support the site.

Buy Lonely Planet India at Amazon.co.uk    Buy Rough Guide India at Amazon.co.uk

Alternatively, you can download just the chapters you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Also for your reading list

Travel insurance & other tips, always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

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Ten top Indian rail journeys

F rom Wes Anderson and Danny Boyle to Michael Palin and Paul Theroux, Indian Railways have entranced dreamers, intrigued authors and inspired filmmakers. That's because there's no other railway like them on Earth.

With 18 million daily passengers, 1.4 million employees and 17,000 trains operating on 64,000 kilometres of track, it's a locomotive pick and mix of sizes, speeds, shapes and colours – and that's just the passengers.

Last November I read an article about India's budget airlines now connecting over 80 cities – but they still couldn't reach into the country's nooks and crannies: the tea estates of Ledo in Assam; Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India where three oceans meet; Dwarka, the birthplace of Lord Krishna on the westernmost corner of Gujarat, or Jammu's mutinous hills in the north; but there was always a train that could inch into every single place – no matter how remote.

Home to ancient toy trains, royal trains, Mumbai's infamous passenger trains, the new Duronto Express speed trains and even a hospital on wheels, I knew the Indian Railways would have a few tales to tell. Taking a page out of Jules Verne's classic tale, I decided to travel Around India in 80 Trains with Norwegian photographer Harald Haugan in tow, and write a book about the adventure.

Between mid-January and May we covered an epic 36,000km – almost the circumference of the Earth – and have selected below the 10 journeys that best reflect the unrivalled diversity of travelling around India by train.

1. Goa Express

Route: Vasco da Gama (Goa) to Londa (Karnataka)

On a Sunday afternoon, this train inches past Goan beaches as families splash in the water, friends chat in huddles by the track and the smoke from late afternoon cooking floats into the carriages. Bright pink blossoms hang so close you can reach out and touch them as the train cuts straight into the heart of Goan village life. As it approaches the Western Ghats, the train speeds up through thick jungle, hugging the curves of the mountainside. Keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls in the distance, which increase as the trees thin and the view turns to deep valleys and peaks. On the approach to Londa the sun should just be setting which gives the strange red clay surroundings an ominous glow.

Journey time: 3 hours 30 mins; £2 travelling in sleeper class

2. Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express

Route: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal), Tinsukia , Ledo (Assam)

Technically, this involves two trains, but you can't take the second without the first as the Tinsukia to Ledo segment is the easternmost tip of the railway. Starting in West Bengal, the super-fast Rajdhani reaches Assam in no time, vast stretches of emerald green paddy and tea plantations on both sides. Unlike south India's rolling greenery, this expanse is completely flat. As night falls, the train sweeps past the Brahmaputra river on the approach to Guwahati and crawls through the city's slums. Hop off the steps and you'll land in someone's cooking. From Tinsukia, the morning passenger train blasts through awe-inspiring landscape before arriving at the end of the track having squeezed past the backs of people's houses so closely you can see what they're eating for breakfast.

Journey time: 16 hours 30 minutes then 1 hr 30 to Ledo; £17 in second-class sleeper with AC

3. Nizamuddin Duronto Express

Route: Pune (Maharashtra) to New Delhi

One of a new handful of non-stop express trains connecting major cities, the Duronto Express from Pune to Delhi cuts six hours off the normal 26-hour journey. It covers a fantastic route with the most varied topography and the onboard service is excellent. From 11am until sunset, the train trundles past rivers, deserts, mountains and villages and alongside pyramid-like salt mounds drying in the sunshine. Brand new Durontos – meaning "quick" in Bengali – offer tasty meals included in the ticket price, second to none cleanliness, new interiors and a sleeker design for reading lights, phone sockets, berths and bottle holders. The added benefit is that the trains are also derailment-proof.

Journey time: 20 hours; £28 in second class A/C sleeper

4. Mandovi Express

Route: Madgaon (Goa) to Mumbai

Sandwiched between the Sahyadri hills on the east and the Arabian sea on the west, the Konkan Railway is a stunning route up to Mumbai that hugs India's southwest coastline. The British considered its construction but abandoned the daunting task, leaving it to the Indians to bore through mountains, cross hundreds of rivers and build 92 tunnels and 2,000 bridges – of which the Panvalnadi bridge is currently the highest viaduct in India. The train doors are usually left open on this breathtaking journey that takes you through sunlit paddy fields lined with coconut and mango trees, small villages bursting with wild flowers and over endless stretches of water leading out to sea.

Journey time: 12 hours 15 mins; £15.50 second class A/C sleeper

5. Indian Maharaja Deccan Odyssey

Route: Mumbai to Delhi

Once the ruler of India's railways, the Palace on Wheels has now been dethroned by younger relatives. The elegant Indian Maharaja Deccan Odyssey connects Mumbai and Delhi via Rajasthan and is the closest option to travelling like the Rajput kings once did - so it's not cheap. It is possible to cover the same route by passenger train, but as most local trains are overnight sleepers without air-conditioning, you lose the charm and beauty of the scenery. During the day, you can go tiger-spotting in Ranthambore , visit the rapidly deteriorating caves at Ellora and Ajanta and spend an afternoon at the Taj Mahal. Onboard activities include watching Octopussy from under a giant duvet, dining in a choice of two splendid cars, reading some Kipling in the lounge, or sipping Bombay Sapphire gin while the golden-red magnificence of the Thar desert blasts by.

Great Rail Journeys (+44 (0)1904 521936,  Greatrail.com ) offers a 10-night tour, including seven nights on the Indian Maharaja Deccan Odyssey plus flights, from £2,925pp based on two sharing

6. Island Express

Route: Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu) to Trivandrum (Kerala)

Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India and a sacred spot where three oceans meet, is a great point to start an adventure on the railways. The Island Express leaves at 10.30am and takes just over two hours to reach Trivandrum. As it inches through dense greenery, tightly-packed palm trees and long grassy verges, typical of Kerala, the train fills with a cool lemony-green hue – so sit in general class to guarantee a good view from the doors and open windows. Giant creepers hang down from the jungle-like expanse and if you look carefully in between, you'll see little churches and houses painted like sugared-almonds, ladies banging washing and men squatting in circles playing cards.

Journey time: 2 hours 15 mins; 40p in general class

7. Himalayan Queen

Route: Kalka (Haryana) to Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

India's pretty little metre-gauge railway - famous for its 102 tunnels, 87 bridges and 900 curves - was built in 1903 when English ladies would take their leave of the heat and "summer" in Shimla . But it's satisfying to see the train used by commuters and those selling their wares up and down the hillside, rather than functioning solely for camera-wielding tourists. As Shimla approaches, orchards bloom with tiny red flowers and thin rivulets of water running down ledges suggest that, post-monsoon, waterfalls must be rife. Cows frequently linger on the track, but the train stops regularly en route anyway so passengers can hop off to loiter and enjoy tea and hot pakoras.

Journey Time: 5 hours 10 mins; 46 pence each way

8. Jammu Mail

Route: Jammu to Udhampur (Jammu state)

Construction of this 53km stretch of railway from Jammu to Udhampur has extended the northernmost reach of the Indian Railways into the foothills of the Himalayas. It's another incredible engineering feat that weaves around the rocky faces of the Shivalik mountain range, over wide-mouthed rivers and plunging valleys. Over 20 tunnels and 158 bridges offer up jaw-dropping views, especially from across the Gambhir bridge. On the approach to Udhampur, the land flattens out into something resembling English meadows. And if you're waiting for the frequently delayed train, the station restaurant at Jammu Tawi does the best omelette sandwiches.

Journey time: 3-hour round-trip; 27p each way

9. Golden Chariot

Route: Bangalore (Karnataka) to Goa

The train weaves across Karnataka, once home to the Vijayanagara kings who ruled in south India, and is a popular choice with Indian families on holiday. En route the tour stops at Kabini wildlife sanctuary before arriving at the incredible world heritage sites of Hampi and Badami , strewn for miles with boulders, rock-cut sandstone caves and palace and temple ruins. Sit by your cabin window the evening before arriving in Goa and watch the sun stream through the forests before setting on the hills. You'll find this stretch relatively tourist-free. Onboard the rooms are neat, elegant and well-equipped, en-suite showers are hot and powerful, and the swaying dining cars are straight out of an Agatha Christie novel.

Kuoni (01306 747008, kuoni.co.uk ) offers nine nights on the Golden Chariot train journey, including flights and transfers, from £2,965pp based on two sharing

10. The Toy Train

Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling (West Bengal)

Darjeeling's tiny steam train was initially built as a tramway to exploit the difference in the price of potatoes between Darjeeling and Siliguri, and the hill railway is now considered a World Heritage Site. Travelling at a speed of 12kmph, the Toy Train trundles through dense forests, curving around tea plantations and bringing you as close as possible to the tea-pickers with baskets strapped on their heads. Famous for its reverses, loops and the spiral at Agony Point, the railway line eventually criss-crosses the main road through the town and runs alongside the fruit stalls in the street. Above all, if it's a clear day, you should see the snow-capped tip of Kanchenjunga.

Journey time: 7 hours 15 min; 60pence in standard class

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Get ready for an extraordinary journey by exploring the top 10 best India train tours. These exciting routes combine history and breathtaking scenery seamlessly, promising unforgettable adventures that will leave you in awe of the subcontinent's beauty and heritage.

How to plan a train tour of India

1. darjeeling himalayan railway (jalpaiguri to darjeeling), 2. mandovi express (madgaon to mumbai), 3. himalayan queen (kalka to shimla), 4. the golden chariot (bangalore to goa), 5. dooars voyage (siliguri- newmal – hasimara- alipurduar), 6. maharaja deccan odyssey (mumbai to delhi), 7. jammu mail (jammu to udhampur), 8. matheran hill railway, 9. island express (kanyakumari to trivandrum), 10. mandapam – pamban – rameswaram, best tips for india train tour, planning your india train tour, tailor-made travel itineraries for india, created by local experts.

13 days  / from 1800 USD

A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

15 days  / from 2745 USD

Rajasthan: The Land of Kings

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury.This trip around Rajasthan takes you to Jaipur's palaces, sacred pilgrimage sites and deep into the desert hills. Breathe in the excitement of Delhi and visit the Taj Mahal. Then come nightfall, lay your head to rest in former royal palaces and magical forts.

6 days  / from 785 USD

The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Tailor-made trips for   India

Planning an India train tour is a fascinating journey through a country with diverse cultures and landscapes. Start by deciding on an itinerary by choosing one of India 's many charming cities. Explore the railway routes connecting your chosen cities and look out for popular routes such as the Golden Triangle or the scenic Konkan Railway. 

As you embark on this adventure, immerse yourself in local customs, sample regional cuisine and experience the rich culture of each place. Be flexible and open to the unexpected, as India's true charm often lies in the unplanned moments.

Want to save yourself the trouble of planning? Contact our India travel experts and embark on your journey hassle-free.

Sunrise over Darjeeling, India @ Shutterstock

Completed in 1881, the small-gauge (610mm) Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (commonly known as the Toy Train) was designed as an extension of the North Bengal State Railway, climbing from New Jalpaiguri, via Siliguri, for a tortuous 88km up to Darjeeling . 

Given UNESCO World Heritage status in 1999, the Toy Train follows the Hill Cart Road, crossing it at regular intervals and even sharing it with traffic. Although no longer an essential mode of transport, the train is certainly a tourist attraction, and currently runs daily from New Jalpaiguri at 8.30am, reaching Darjeeling at 3.35pm. 

Diesel engines are now de rigueur on the long route. Weather permitting, coaches with large viewing windows provide magnificent vistas as the journey progresses and the scenery gradually unfolds; the second class can be fun but crowded. 

Some travellers may find the entire route from Siliguri painfully slow. The section from Kurseong is well worth the time, however; alternatively, you could take the short (“Joy”) ride from Darjeeling to Ghoom.

Ready for your adventure? Don't forget to check our fully customisable India itineraries .

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India © Shutterstock

Mandovi Express is a popular train running between Madgaon (Goa) and Mumbai (Maharashtra). Travelling on this train is a delightful transition through the mesmerising landscapes of the Konkan region and the Western Ghats .

One of the main highlights of the Mandovi Express is the stunning view of the Sahyadri range with its mist-covered peaks and dense forests. As the train passes through the Western Ghats, passengers can see waterfalls cascading down the hillsides.

The train is equipped with comfortable seats, making the journey enjoyable for both tourists and regular passengers. What makes the journey even more attractive is that passengers can savour the taste of local cuisine offered by the vendors on board. It is not for nothing that the train is named "The Food Queen of Konkan Railways".

Mumbai train station, India

The Himalayan Queen is an iconic train that runs on a historic railway line connecting the town of Kalka in the lower reaches of the Himalayas to the charming hill station of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh . This railway journey is renowned for its scenic beauty, unique charm and historical significance.

Ascending to Shimla , the "Queen of the Himalayas" gracefully traverses about a hundred tunnels, passes over numerous arched bridges and makes spectacular loops. Along the way, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of lush green valleys, dense pine forests and quaint hilltop villages. 

The journey includes stops at picturesque stations such as Barog, known for its beautiful gardens, and the legendary Sonwara Bridge, an engineering marvel.

The train itself is a delightful fusion of tradition and modern comfort. It exudes old-world charm, yet provides a comfortable and enjoyable journey with modern conveniences.

Convinced to go? Book this North India train tour: from Delhi to Shimla .

Shimla, India © Shutterstock

If you are in search of a luxury India train tour then Golden Chariot will impress you. It is a luxury train journey from Bangalore , the bustling capital of Karnataka state , to the tropical paradise of Goa on the west coast of India.

Boarding the Golden Chariot, you might think you are entering a palace on wheels. It is a showcase of Indian craftsmanship, adorned with intricate carvings and colourful decor inspired by the rich history and culture of the state of Karnataka.

Passengers are treated royally. There are all the comforts one can dream of on a train: spacious cabins, luxurious dining cars and courteous staff to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.

The journey itself encompasses the beauty of South India, featuring UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Hampi, the historic temples at Badami and the serene beaches of Goa.

The train will take you through lush landscapes, quaint villages and bustling markets, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local flavour and traditions of the region.

Dudhsagar Goa Waterfall train, India @ Shutterstock

Voyage of the Dooars is an exciting train journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Dooars region of West Bengal .

Starting from Siliguri, which is the gateway to the northeastern states, the train passes through Newmal, Hasimara and Alipurduar, offering a unique experience in the heart of the eastern Himalayas.

As the train departs from Siliguri, passengers are greeted by the lush tea gardens and dense forests characteristic of the Dooars.

The journey is a visual treat with panoramic views of the rolling hills, wildlife sanctuaries and meandering rivers that dot the region. This route is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.

But travelling through the Dooars is not just about the scenery, it is also about experiencing the vibrant culture and traditions of the locals. Along the way, you can savour the flavours of the local cuisine and see the daily life of the people of the Dooars.

Evening view of Mumbai from Chowpatty Beach, India © Shutterstock

Another luxury India train tour on our list is the Maharaja Deccan Odyssey. This is an upscale rail journey that begins in Mumbai, India's bustling financial capital and proceeds to Delhi , the vibrant heart of the country.

Step aboard the Maharaja Deccan Odyssey and you'll find yourself in a world of extravagance. This royal train is the epitome of luxury: elegantly decorated cabins, gourmet coaches and personalised service that is sure to delight.

During its journey, the train makes stops at some of India's most iconic destinations. You can see the Ajanta and Ellora caves, the magnificent palaces of Udaipur and the holy city of Varanasi. Each stop along the route is a unique insight into India's rich history and diverse culture. 

Qutub Minad in Delhi, India @ Shutterstock

Jammu Mail is a classic railway service with trains, among others, running between the city of Jammu, located in the picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir , and Udhampur, another famous city in the region. Known for its simplicity and efficiency, this railway route serves as a crucial link between the two locations.

The Jammu Mail may not boast of luxurious cabins or extravagant amenities, but it is a convenient and comfortable mode of transport for passengers. During the journey, one can experience the scenic nature of the Jammu region as the train passes through green landscapes, quaint villages and picturesque countryside.

One of the notable features of this journey is the opportunity to see the enchanting natural beauty of the Shivalik Hills and the foothills of the Himalayas. The train journey offers views of lush forests, tranquil rivers and charming towns along the way.

River in the Mounrains in Jammu, India

The Matheran Hill Railway is a charming narrow gauge train running through the Sahyadri hill range in the state of Maharashtra . This historic railway offers a nostalgic journey from Neral to Matheran, a quaint and picturesque hill station.

Travelling on this route is a delightful way to escape from the bustling cities, embarking on a peaceful journey through dense forests, steep hills and picturesque landscapes. The train covers a distance of about 21 kilometres, passing through dense vegetation and offering spectacular views of the Western Ghats.

The Matheran Hill Railway is known for its heritage charm: vintage locomotives and carriages from a century ago evoke the feeling of a bygone era. The slow-moving train allows travellers to enjoy the ride, cool mountain air and serene surroundings.

One highlight of the journey is the famous One Kiss Tunnel, where the train briefly disappears into darkness and then reappears in the light.

View of Prabalgad Fort and Kalavantin Pinnacle from Matheran, India © Shutterstock

Island Express is a well-known train service between Kanyakumari , the southernmost tip of mainland India, and Trivandrum ( Thiruvananthapuram ), the capital of Kerala . This rail route offers travellers a scenic and convenient means of travel between two prominent points in the southern region of the country.

The Island Express is appreciated for its efficient and convenient connectivity. It offers passengers the opportunity to experience the mesmerising landscapes of southern India. The train route passes through scenic coastal areas, lush green fields and serene villages, allowing one to savour the natural beauty of Kerala and Tamil Nadu .

One of the highlights of the journey is the stunning view of the Arabian Sea as the train approaches Kanyakumari, revealing the merging point of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Row of elephants decorated for the Pooram Festival in Kerala, India @ Shutterstock

The Mandapam-Pamban-Rameswaram railway route is an amazing railway link that serves as a lifeline to the holy island town of Rameswaram, located in the southern part of the state of Tamil Nadu.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of this railway route was the famous Pamban Bridge, the bridge that connects the mainland Mandapam to the island of Rameswaram. The bridge was opened in 1914, but due to wear and tear, the authorities decided to close the bridge and keep it as a historical monument.

The good news is that the authorities have also decided to build a new bridge parallel to the old bridge to connect Mandapam and Rameswaram. It is hoped that travellers and pilgrims will soon be able to enjoy this spectacular route again.

Pamban Bridge is a railway bridge which connects the town of Rameswaram on Pamban Island to mainland India © Shutterstock

To make the most of planning a train journey in India, we have prepared a list of important tips. From booking your tickets well in advance to understanding the different classes and local customs, these tips will help you navigate the rails with confidence and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of India.

Book your tickets in advance

Trains in India can be crowded, especially during peak seasons. To secure seats, book your train tickets well in advance through the official website of Indian Railways (IRCTC) or through authorised booking agents.

Choose your coach class wisely

The choice of class depends on your comfort and budget. For long journeys, AC classes are recommended for extra comfort. For short journeys or budget travellers, sleeper or shared classes are suitable.

Pack lightly and securely

Trains can be crowded and storage space is limited. Pack the essentials and keep valuables with you or under a secure lock.

Bring food and water with you

Trains have a food supply, but it's not unreasonable to bring snacks and bottled water, especially on long journeys.

Respect local customs and other passengers

Dress modestly, especially in conservative neighbourhoods. Respect cultural differences and maintain a friendly attitude towards fellow travellers.

Take safety precautions

Beware of pickpockets in crowded train stations. For added security, lock your compartment door at night.

Many railway tracks with trains in India @ Shutterstock

Allow our team of local India travel experts to curate your dream trip to India. When you're ready to embark on your adventure, reach out to us , and we'll craft a personalised itinerary just for you.

 Feel free to browse our pre-designed India itineraries for ideas, and remember that all can be tailored to meet your specific needs. For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in India , and start planning your trip with The Rough Guide to India . 

The Rough Guides to India and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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Find even more inspiration here.

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The 9 most scenic train journeys in India

By Tvisha Sharma and Toshita Sahni

Air travel may seem more convenient and time-effective, but it cannot replace the undeniable charm of travelling by train. One of the most enjoyable parts of train journeys is sitting by the window and taking in the beauty of the landscape while sipping a hot beverage. In those moments, with hills, forests, brooks and villages rolling by your window, the world slips away, and peace reigns for a little while. If you want to experience this kind of serenity, there are many routes you can take, as India boasts of an extensive railway network. Here’s a look at some of the prettiest train journeys in the country:

Himalayan Queen

Also known as the Kalka-Shimla ‘toy train,’ the Himalayan Queen features in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tracks stretch across the steepest altitude. From your vantage point up high, you will get a glimpse of picturesque pine forests, deep valleys and small towns along the way. This seven-coach train covers a distance of 96km, crossing 82 bridges and 102 tunnels. In 2008, UNESCO added the Kalka-Shimla railway line to its Mountain Railways of India World Heritage site.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this train runs from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling in West Bengal. As you travel at an altitude of more than 2000m, you will be treated to stunning views of sprawling tea plantations and the breathtaking Mt. Kanchenjunga. The route is famous for its loops, where the train turns in a full circle and thus climbs 20ft higher.

Kashmir Valley Railway

A train passing by the Pulwama district in Kashmir.

On this trip from Jammu to Baramulla, feast your eyes on the snowy mountainscapes of the region. This is actually one of the most challenging tracks built by the Indian Railways. The train passes through many earthquake zones, high-altitude mountain passes and rocky terrains.

Sethu Express

Pamban Bridge

If you don’t want a mountainous journey, choose this train that goes from Chennai to Rameswaram in less than 12 hours. You will get the opportunity to traverse the sea, as the route includes crossing the Pamban Bridge—the second-longest in India—built over the water.  You may recognise it from the 2013 Bollywood film Chennai Express .

Konkan Railway

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Chandreyi Bandyopadhyay

Muskaan Chandrapota

Shalba Sarda

This iconic railway line mainly connects Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka. Get ready to enjoy the varied sights outside your window: the Sahyadri mountains, the Arabian Sea, lakes and waterfalls. A classic choice for travellers going from Mumbai to Goa is the  Mandovi Express . The train travels through 92 tunnels and 2,000 bridges, including the Panvalnadi bridge, which is one of the highest in India. With landscapes covered in lush greenery, a Konkan Railway journey is a treat, especially during the monsoon season.

Goa Express

For an awe-inspiring glimpse of Dudhsagar Falls, take this train from Vasco de Gama in Goa to Londa, Karnataka. It crosses the bridge over that massive waterfall in the early evening, so keep an eye out. The journey is less than 4 hours long and takes you through the charming Western Ghats and serene beaches.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

If you want to travel by the train where the popular song ‘ Chaiya Chaiya’ was filmed,  choose this one from Mettupalayam to Ooty. You will have lots of time to enjoy the gorgeous views of forests and plantations, as this ‘toy’ train takes around 5h to cover 46km. Considered “the  slowest train  in India”, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway has the steepest gradient of any railway line in South Asia, climbing from an elevation of 325m to 2,240m along the way.

Kollam-Sengottai Chord Line

For another amazing south Indian experience, take this train from Kollam Junction in Kerala to Sengottai in Tamil Nadu. You will see moss-covered bridges, untouched forests and Kerala’s cardamom hills. The route also takes you over the Pathimoonnu Kannara Bridge, or the 13 Arch Bridge, which is more than 100 years old.

Bhubaneswar to Brahmapur

Many trains run along this specific route, like the Intercity Express, Prashanti Express, Konark Express and the famous Howrah-Chennai Mail. The most attractive highlight of the journey is Lake Chilika, the second-largest in the country and a popular destination for birdwatchers. As your train passes by, you can often spot different species of birds quenching their thirst in the lake. Don’t forget to sit on the left side of the train going southward to catch the best views.

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• 18 Beautiful Train Journeys In India In 2024 That Will Compel You For A Ride!

Planning a vacation rarely encompasses a train expedition nowadays. But if it does, it certainly takes us back to the childhood days when holidaying meant embarking on beautiful train journeys in India . It also meant admiring the changing landscapes as the train passed through towns and villages; playing cards or memory game; chitchatting over warm tea in earthen cups (locally called Kulhad); yummy munchies and lot more! This time round, we take you on some of the most beautiful train routes in India that cover absolutely enthralling and diverse landscapes – steep mountain slopes, narrow valleys, and wide seas.

18 Most Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Go through the list of these most beautiful train rides in India and make sure you head to one of them, the one that you find to be truly out of this world. You will realize the journey is nothing short of a dream. There’s mountains, waterfalls, rivers, plains, deserts and every possible landscape that you can imagine of. They are spread across the northern frontier to the southern frontier. Have a look!

• Jammu – Baramulla
• Pathankot – Jogindernagar
• Kalka – Shimla
• Jaisalmer – Jodhpur
• Mumbai – Goa
• Hubli – Madgaon
• Matheran – Neral
• Karjat – Lonavala
• Ratnagiri – Mangalore
• Mandapam – Rameshwaram
• Mettupalayam – Ooty
• Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley
• Bangalore – Kanyakumari
• Hassan – Mangalore
• Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur
• New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling
• Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri
• Guwahati – Silchar

1. Jammu – Baramulla

Kashmir Railway Gifts you Travel Charisma

Image Source

The railway track connecting Jammu, Udhampur, Srinagar and Baramulla is not only picturesque and enthralling but also one the most challenging railway projects. It is located in the high earthquake intensity zone with undulating and rugged terrain, extreme cold temperature, and is the most beautiful railway route in India .

Train Journey Time : 4 hours

Must Read: 30 Unbelievably Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir One Cannot Miss

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2. Pathankot – Jogindernagar

Mystics of Kangra Valley

Image Source If you want to enjoy the thrills of Kangra Valley, the river bridges, deep gorges and exclusive flora, enjoy the pleasant but quite slow ride of 164 km from Pathankot to Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh. It is not only located at a challenging height, but is also one of the most scenic train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 8 hours

Suggested Read : 43 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit

3. Kalka – Shimla

A Spellbinding Journey to the Summer Capital

If you want to cherish picturesque valleys, steep pathways and foggy meadows, travel to Shimla in the narrow gauge train. This little toy train, now considered as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, starts from Kalka and travels 96 km upslope through 102 tunnels: (the longest tunnel located at Barog), 82 bridges, deep valleys, steep curves, rolling bends, forests of deodar and rhododendron, pine and oak.

Few trains like Siwalik, Kalka-Shimla, Himalayan Queen, Rail Motor and Siwalik Queen ply on this route. The journey is truly enchanting but at a slow pace as the train ascends the slope rhythmically through stations of Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Tara Devi, Barog, Salogra, Totu, and Summerhill to reach the summer capital. It is one of the best in north Indian and most beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 5 hours

Suggested Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Shimla On Your Soothing Weekend Getaway!

4. Jaisalmer – Jodhpur

Xerophytic Route

The Rajasthan trip which is otherwise full of colors, can have an extra bright shade if you travel to Jaisalmer from Jodhpur in Delhi Jaisalmer Express. The travel time in the train called the ‘Desert Queen’ takes close to 6 hours to reach the destination.

The journey is not at all monotonous. In fact you see diversified topography like typical desert landscape with xerophytic vegetation, yellow soil, dunes, grazing camels and scattered settlements of the desert inhabitants. The passengers will surely get a feel of the desert safari before reaching the land of the Golden Fort. This is amongst the most beautiful train journeys in India .

Suggested Read : Longest Rivers In India: Know About The Important Water Bodies Of The Country

5. Mumbai – Goa

Journey through the Enigmatic Ghats

The journey from Mumbai to Goa intersecting through the gorges of Sahyadari and fringes of Arabian Sea is equally or perhaps the most scenic train rides in India . Mandovi Express, as a part of the Konkan Railway network, travels between Mumbai and Goa.

The route is full of scenic landscapes, ranging from tunnels, bridges, coastal peripheries, steps of Western Ghats (other name for Sahyadari), innumerable small rivers, seasonal streams and lush green meadows. Do not forget to take out your handicam or camera and capture the highlights of one of the stunning and beautiful train journeys in India .

Train Journey Time : 12 hours

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6. Hubli – Madgaon

Vasco da Gama Route

Image Source While travelling from Hubli to Madgaon, experience one of the most thrilling and enchanting train journeys in India. The train passes through the gigantic and most magnificent Dudhsagar waterfalls gushing out from a 300 metres in full vigor.

Once the train reaches the waterfall, you will be amazed at the cascading beauty and force on a thrilling and best train journeys in India. If you decide to enjoy it closely, quickly get down at Londa junction, which is the nearest station to Dudhsagar falls.

Train Journey Time : 10 hours

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7. Matheran – Neral

Heritage of Maharashtra

The narrow gauge railway running between Matheran and Neral passes is one of the best train routes in India. It passes through the rugged terrains of the Ghats and gained immense tourist attraction. This only Heritage railway of Maharashtra running a distance of 20 km is surely included in the list of India’s best train journeys. This is one of the best train routes in India .

Train Journey Time : 2 hours

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8. Karjat – Lonavala

Monsoon Trip

Another line that passes through the Western Ghats is the journey from Karjat to Lonavala through Thakurwadi, Monkey Hills and Khandala. It is the very scenic and one of the best train routes in India known for its mystic nature. Monsoon season is recommended because of the lush green views and beautiful rain scenery that it offers. The ride is pure scenery and being hill stations connected by train, it is the most adventurous way to reach the destinations.

Train Journey Time : 1 hour

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9. Ratnagiri – Mangalore

Charming Konkan Railway

Image Source One of the most mesmerizing railway tracks lies in the Konkan Railway network, in the Ratnagiri to Mangalore sector. The is one of the most scenic train journeys in India which is truly absorbing and wherein the dense forests, mighty Western Ghats, deep tunnels, river bridges, sharp bends and innumerable seasonal streams will leave the travelers spellbound and hypnotized.

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10. Mandapam – Rameshwaram

Journey Intersecting the Ocean

Image Source Besides thrill and adventure, train travel from Mandapam in Tamil Nadu to Rameshwaram on Pamban Island oozes calm and serenity. It is certainly one of the top ten best Indian train journeys. One of the most beautiful train routes in India, it passes over the second longest bridge of India, the Palk Strait, which is the only route that connects mainland India to Pamban Island.

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11. Mettupalayam – Ooty

Voyage in Landscapes of Nilgiris

Image Source Running since 1908, ‘Nilgiri Passenger’ still runs on steam engine, going from Mettupalayam to Ooty. As the train ascends the Nilgiri Mountain, thick pine, oak and eucalyptus forests, bends, curves and tunnels, it moves along Asia’s steepest track with maximum gradient of 8.33 percent. Nilgiri Passenger travels 26 km up the slope in almost 5 hours via stations like Kallar, Adderly, Hillgrove, Kateri, Runneymede, Kateri, Coonoor and Lovedale.

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12. Vishakhapatnam – Araku Valley

The Tunnel Topography

Image Source The journey from Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley through innumerable tunnels and sharp loops is quite an interesting one. Started as a mode to transport iron ore and other minerals to Vishakhpatnam from Chhattisgarh, this railway route in India is a treat for the eyes as well as the soul.

Train Journey Time : 3 hours

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13. Bangalore – Kanyakumari

The Malgudi Voyage

Image Source Another scenic journey through the typical landscape of South India – the picturesque villages, plantations, meadows and water bodies is from Bangalore to Kanyakumari. The Island Express travels 944 km in about 19.5 hours and surely take you the land of ‘Malgudi Days’, undoubtedly paving its way to the list of best train journeys in India.

Train Journey Time : 15 hours

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14. Hassan – Mangalore

Magical Malnad

Witness a pleasant train journey through scenic waterfalls, lofty mountains, palm plantations and rice meadows from Hassan to Mangalore. Railway voyage along this stretch of the Malnad region is truly refreshing and perfect delight for travelers.

Train Journey Time : 1 and half hours

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15. Bhubaneshwar – Brahmapur

The Serene Journey

Image Source Another of most beautiful train journeys in India is from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur, with lush green Malyadri on one side and serene Chilika Lake on the other. You may be lucky enough to see lots of migratory birds, so don’t forget your camera. You can capture the glimpse of the best lakes in Odisha while traveling through this train. 

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16. New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling

The Heritage Voyage to the Summer Resort of British Raj

Image Source How good does it feel to ride through hill stations connected by train? A pleasant upslope journey from the foothill region through loops, turns and bends can be experienced from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The 78 km long quaint journey takes almost 8 hours and passes through Siliguri Town, Siliguri Junction, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Ghum, Rongbul, Jorebunglow and Batasia Loop.

Though the journey, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is sluggish but certainly leisurely. The surrounding hill-valley topography, especially from Ghum (the highest narrow gauge railway station in India) and Batasia Loop, adds extra flavors of delight to your trip.

Train Journey Time : 7 hours

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17. Alipurduar – Jalpaiguri

Jungle Safari on the Wheels

Want to pass through dense forest and see elephants and rhinos while passing by? Plan a train journey in the foothills region of North Bengal. Travelling to Alipurduar, Jayanti, Moorti, Samsing, Baux and Jalpaiguri will take you through the reserve forests of Gorumara, Jaldapara, Mahananda and Buxa while crossing seasonal streamlets.

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18. Guwahati – Silchar

Awes of Assam

Image Source This journey meanders through river Jatinga, lush green Assam Valley, tea plantations and undulating Haflong valley. The route from Guwahati to Silchar via Lumding and Barak Valley makes it one of the most beautiful train journeys in India. The train makes you witness the beauty of hill stations in Assam .

Train Journey Time : 9 hours

Further Read: 23 Types of People You Meet While Travelling in an Indian Train

Aren’t all these beautiful train journeys in India absolutely stunning? If you have more to the list, share us with them in the comments below, and let the word spread. But for now, plan your holiday in India  with TravelTriangle to experience these wonderful train rides. We have no doubt that these rides will sweep you off your feet and make your heart skip a beat.

Disclaimer : TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beautiful Train Journeys In India

Is it safe to travel in Indian trains during COVID times?

You need to follow all the mandatory guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure your safety. Wear mask while traveling in train or being at the railway station, avoid crowds and maintain social distancing. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly. You can also carry a disinfectant spray to disinfect your seat and surroundings.

Which is the best train in India?

This is no definite answer to this because of the way you define best. It could be in terms of service or the route it runs on. If you have to pick one, Samjhauta Express would be the best train of India as it connects India and Pakistan displaying the amazing coordination between the two countries with communal tensions. It connects Amritsar with Lahore.

Which is the long-distance train in India?

Vivek Express is the longest distance train in India that connects Dibrugarh in Assam with Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. The train runs weekly and takes about 79 hours to complete a journey of 4234 km. It has 57 intermediate stoppages. Whoa! Imagine the journey that would be on this train.

Which are the dangerous train routes in India?

Chennai - Rameswaram route is considered to be the most dangerous train route in India. It is ironic because it is also a pilgrimage route. So, your faith in God is put to test when you travel on this train. The 2.3 km long stretch of this train runs over the ocean fighting strong winds and tides that make this journey dangerous and testing.

Which are the best train journeys from Bangalore?

The train journey from Bangalore to Kanyakumari is the most scenic one. Ditch the car ride and take the train instead if you want to enjoy the scenery

Which is the longest rail bridge in India?

The longest rail bridge in India is the Vembanad Rail Bridge that connects Vallarpadam and Edappally in Kerala’s Kochi. The bridge is 4.62 km long and dedicated only to good trains.

Is the Indian railways run by private or public?

The Indian railways is a public railway organization run by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.

Which is the fastest train in India?

The Vande Bharat Express or Train 18 is currently the fastest train in India with a maximum operational speed of 180 km/h. The average speed of the train is around 102 km/h.

Which railway station has the most number of platforms in India?

Howrah Junction in Kolkata, West Bengal is one of the largest junctions in the country and a perfect bridge between North, South, East and West India. It has 23 platforms that spread in a huge area.

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8 incredible train journeys in South India

Jul 31, 2023 • 8 min read

The slow, marvelous trains that crisscross South India offer a wonderful way to discover this vast region © MTD_myTravelDiaries / Shutterstock

Trains pass through jade-green forests, misty mountains and gorgeous coastal stretches in lush South India.

Riding the rails is one of the greatest joys of any India adventure, whether you’re trundling high up into the hills aboard a UNESCO-listed miniature train or clattering along the sun-drenched, coast-hugging Konkan Railway.

Down south, landscapes spin from honey-gold beaches and palm-shaded backwaters to jungle-covered hills, gushing waterfalls and sprawling megacities. And there’s no finer way to soak it all up than from the window seat of a clanking train, over a white-paper cup of steaming sweet chai.

Fabulous food is often part of the picture, too, thanks to vendors deftly making their way through carriages at stations, and top-tier tickets that include on-board meals. As you roll across wildly beautiful South India , you’ll see local staples such as potato-stuffed dosas (crispy, thin lentil-and-rice-flour crepes), crispy vadas (fried savory dough) and coconut-rich Keralite stews pop up, while soothing chai and filter coffee inevitably always appear at just the right moment. Certain stations are famous for selling particular regional specialities, and some trains are known for serving superb food. 

Here are eight terrific train journeys that offer a taste of India’s sultry south. 

Mettupalayam to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway 

46km (29 miles), 3.5–4.75 hours

South Indian rail thrills don’t get more classic than catching the famous, Unesco-listed “toy train” into northern Tamil Nadu ’s misty Western Ghats . Jade-green tea plantations, lush jungle, rushing waterfalls and far-reaching panoramas jostle for attention as the narrow-gauge, rack-and-pinion steam train rattles up into the Nilgiri Hills from tiny Mettupalayam, zipping through 16 tunnels and across 250 bridges. Eventually, it reaches the hugely popular hill station of Ooty , at 2240m (7350ft). There’s also a stop along the way at Coonoor, the Nilgiris’ second hill station, resting at 1720m (5643ft). First opened in 1899 (and extended to Ooty in 1908), the NMR pulls in an often-lively domestic crowd, with people cheering as tunnels plunge you into darkness. 

The blue-and-cream miniature train leaves for Ooty every day at 7:10am and takes 4.75 hours on the way up; it makes its way back down to Mettupalayam at 2pm, a 3.5-hour journey. The best way to get to Mettupalayam is aboard the nine-hour overnight Nilgiri Express from Chennai Central (or hop on it at Coimbatore , which has an airport), arriving just in time at 6:15am.

Bengaluru (Bangalore) to Gokarna on the Karwar Express

711km (442 miles), 14 hours

Flights link Karnataka ’s lively capital of Bengaluru with the coast in an hour or so – but then you’d be missing out on a spectacular slow-travel jaunt through the lush, biodiverse and unbelievably beautiful Western Ghats en route to Gokarna ’s blissful beaches. Leaving Bengaluru’s Yesvantpur Junction station three days a week at 7am, the Karwar Express follows inland Karnataka’s so-called Green Route, which is known for its wild green forests, dense coffee crops and over 100 bridges. After reaching the low-key coastal town of Mangaluru (Mangalore) , the train follows the coast north to Gokarna Road station, where some of South India’s most magical and relaxed beaches await on the doorstep. 

If you’d prefer an overnight train to the beach, catch the daily Panchaganga Express at 6:50pm from Bengaluru City station, which drops you at Gokarna Road 12 hours later. 

Mumbai to Margao (Madgaon) on the Mandovi Express

765km (475 miles), 12 hours

One of India’s most spectacular railway stations – Mumbai ’s Gothic-style, colonial-era Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus – is the 7:10am starting point for a thrilling coastal adventure south to the golden sands of Goa . Built in the 1990s, the beloved 756km (470-mile) Konkan Railway rushes across 2216 bridges and through almost 100 tunnels, and includes one of the country’s tallest viaducts (a 60m/197ft-high marvel near Ratnagiri). Gaze out on tropical-fruit plantations, rice fields, meandering rivers and electric-green coconut palms as you spin through Maharashtra to land in Margao , southern Goa’s main transport hub, from where there’s easy onward transport to mellow beachy beauties like Palolem and Benaulim. 

But the Mandovi Express isn’t all about the views: it’s also famous for its food, courtesy of a Karnataka-born catering company that delights travelers with samosas, idli-sambar , vadas and other favorites. South of Goa, the Konkan Railway continues through Karnataka almost to the Kerala border. 

Varkala to Kanyakumari on the Island Express

127km (79 miles), four hours

Settle in for a leisurely journey from the golden-black beaches, lively surf-and-yoga scene and holy temples of Varkala , on Kerala ’s south coast, to the southernmost tip of India, in Tamil Nadu. Famous as the place where three seas meet – the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal – laid-back Kanyakumari centers on a revered waterside temple devoted to the Hindu goddess Kumari, a site with an entrancing feel. The beloved Island Express’ 10:55am departure from Varkala means you’ll enjoy southern Kerala’s palm-laced landscapes in all their hazy day-lit beauty. 

Alternatively, you can hop on in Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) , three hours from Kanyakumari, or even from as far north as Bengaluru – which involves a 19-hour, 944km (587-mile) overnight spin via Coimbatore, Kochi, Kollam and more. 

Vasco da Gama to Londa on the Goa Express

146km (91 miles), 3.5 hours

The tumbling 603m(1980ft)-high cascade of Dudhsagar Falls (one of India’s tallest waterfalls) is the “wow” moment on any journey between the South Goan port city of Vasco da Gama and Londa, just over the border in Karnataka. Along the way, Goa’s gold-tinged shoreline gives way to the Western Ghats’ Unesco-protected hills, as you dive into the contiguous wildlife-rich Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary . 

The 3pm Goa Express (a daily superfast train) runs north from Vasco da Gama via Londa all the way to Delhi – 2208km (1372 miles), or 39.5  hours away. It also stops in Margao , a handy alternative Goa start point.

Chennai to Hyderabad on the Chennai–Hyderabad Express

715km (444 miles), 13 hours

Wake up to the ancient architectural jewels of Telangana ’s dynamic capital Hyderabad , home to some of India’s most magnificent Islamic buildings, such as the chandelier-lit Chowmahalla Palace , the 16th-century Golconda Fort and the splendid Qutb Shahi Tombs . The fun starts with a 4:45pm daily departure from Chennai Central and a South Indian–style dinner on board as the Chennai–Hyderabad Express inches its way north from Tamil Nadu. You’ll probably start the next day sharing a chat and a sugary chai with your carriage neighbors, watching the countryside morph into an urban metropolis on the slow roll into Hyderabad Deccan station. 

Kochi to Margao on the Netravathi Express

849km (527 miles), 14.75 hours

Also following the Konkan Railway for much of the way, this overnight route zips you north from Kerala’s arty cultural hub Kochi to serene southern Goa. After hopping on at Ernakulam Junction station in Kochi at 1:50pm, Kerala whirls past in a blur of sun-toasted coconut palms. Post-sunset, you’ll travel through coastal Mangaluru and the temple town of Udupi in Karnataka, to (finally!) reach Margao Junction just before sunrise. 

In its full extent, the Netravathi Express links Kerala’s capital Trivandrum with Mumbai – a whopping 30-hour, 1805km (1122-mile) journey. It’s also handy for reaching northern Kerala’s untouristed beaches (around Kannur and Bekal ), and you can pick it up from further south than Kochi if you’re in, say, Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Varkala.

Chennai to Rameswaram on the Rameswaram Express

665km (413 miles), 11 hours

Plodding across the 2km(1.25-mile)-long Pamban Bridge, with the Bay of Bengal swirling below, puts a whole new spin on riding the rails in South India. The bridge links mainland Tamil Nadu to Pamban Island, home to the small pilgrimage town of Rameswaram and the eerie ruins of Dhanushkodi (a once-thriving port destroyed by a 1964 cyclone), and marks the final stretch of a long overnight trip south from Chennai Egmore. 

Known as the Boat Mail Express in the 19th century, this train originally operated as part of a rail-and-ferry route linking Tamil Nadu with neighboring Sri Lanka (then under British rule as Ceylon), until the Pamban Bridge was opened in 1914. It’s also possible to travel by train across from the celebrated temple city of Madurai in southern Tamil Nadu; trains leave throughout the day from Madurai Junction (four hours). 

At the time of writing, rail services across the original century-old Pamban Bridge have been suspended while a new bridge is constructed, after safety concerns arose in 2022. 

How to book trains in South India

The best way to find out about South Indian train services is online via Erail , Indian Railways and/or Seat 61 ; this last resource offers invaluable advice on all things train travel–related in India, including buying tickets. 

Many trains sell out well in advance of their departure date, so it’s best to book as far ahead as possible, ideally online. Long-distance bookings currently open 120 days beforehand. Most comfortable for overnight travels are the reserved air-conditioned classes (1AC, 2AC or 3AC). The easiest way to reserve is through a booking portal such as Cleartrip or 12Go . The IRCTC government website also takes online bookings, but it can be a frustratingly fiddly process. On the ground, major train stations in places like Mumbai and Chennai usually have dedicated ticket counters for foreign travelers. Read more about how to get around India by train here . 

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A Journey through Royal Rajasthan & Taj

Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi

Explore this beautiful and diverse land and its tourist attractions in a royal style just like a king! And the most interesting way to explore Rajasthan is on Palace of Wheels. It reflects the royalty and majesty of the bygone era when the kings and queens lived large. This Luxury train not only give you an exciting experience of a train journey but also take you to some of the most famous tourist attractions.

Palace on Wheels Tour

Rediscover the age of decadence and romance. Step inside the Palace on Wheels and discover the elegance of the bygone era. This moving palace crosses through the land of Maharajas – Rajasthan and you travel in luxury & style and no less a Maharaja for the royal treatment is the byword of this luxury train journey. Discover the vibrant colours of Rajasthan in a journey like no other as you travel on board the Palace on Wheels. The 7 nights journey on board the India Luxury Train the Palace on Wheels takes you into an Era of luxury and royal hospitality . Get away from the busy life. Take an amazing and relaxing trip enjoying the Culture & Heritage of Rajasthan and the World famous Taj Mahal.

A Royal Train Journey

Palace on wheels.

The Palace on Wheels luxury train takes you on a scintillating journey into the royal land of sand dunes and regal palaces of Rajasthan & to the monument of love – The Taj Mahal. The Palace on Wheels carries with it an intrinsic ambience that goes perfectly well with the majestic charm and beauty spread so lavishly across the Indian terrain.

Destinations Covered: Delhi – Jaipur – Sawai Madhopur – Chittorgarh – Udaipur – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi

See India like never before on the Palace on Wheels train journey

In just 8 days your traverse across the huge terrain of Rajasthan and Agra and soak in the culture while being our pampered guest. You get, spacious Deluxe cabins with attached bathrooms, a personal butler, amenities that include 2 restaurants, a lounge bar and a spa.

About Palace on Wheels

A voyage through the magical land of Rajasthan on board Palace on Wheels – A train run by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation ( RTDC) & Indian Railways is one of the most revered luxury train in India & it is like traveling back in time; a time when this legendary land was ruled by Rajput warrior princes or the maharajas. Right from the royal welcome upon arrival for Palace on Wheels journey to traveling aboard the tastefully appointed cabins that replicate the personal rail carriages of former maharajas and viceroys, it is a journey draped in elegance, romance and adventure.

Explore heaven on earth

Embark on this royal journey on board the India Luxury Train Palace on Wheels and explore several enchanting destinations of North India. Palace on Wheels offer 7 nights/8 days of a royal journey, the train covers Jaipur (the Pink city), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambhor National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (the city of Lakes), the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the symbol of love and romance Taj Mahal , Agra, before returning to Delhi, the capital of India. 

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20 Best Train Journeys in India

It is often said, journeys make a destination worth remembering and it is something that you will relate to if you are in India. The Indian Railways has made it possible to reach every nook and cranny just by riding a train. Train journeys are something very close to our hearts especially when we were kids.

Admiring the scenic vistas through the glass window while reading a book is what we all love doing even today. If you are one of them who cherish beautiful journeys, here is a list of 20 Best Train journeys in India .

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (New Jalpaiguri - Darjeeling)

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the Toy Train is a UNESCO declared World Heritage Site that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. It started in the year 1881 and is operational even today. The total distance covered is 80 kilometres and it passes through the towns of Kurseong and Ghoom. Ghoom Railway Station At 7400 feet is the highest point in this route.

The journey is scenic and the most exhilarating amongst all is the Batasia Loop. As the name suggests, it is a spiral pathway enclosed in lush greenery that reduces the steep gradient of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The train stops for 10 minutes at Batasia Loop and you can soak up the unparalleled views of the Darjeeling town and the snow-capped Kanchenjunga. The small engine pulling the coaches through picturesque landscapes and hilly terrain is a sight to behold and it is an experience that you will remember forever.

Pro-Tip : There is a lot of rush particularly during the peak season. So try to book the tickets well in advance.

Also Read : Tips for First Time Darjeeling Travellers

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• 5 Days - Darjeeling Tour Packages
• 7 Days - Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages
• 8 Days - Darjeeling Kalimpong Gangtok Tour Packages

2. Palace on Wheels

If you want to experience luxury at its best, there is no better option than Palace on Wheels. The train wins for being one of the most luxurious trains across the globe. It is an initiative by the Indian Railways in collaboration with Rajasthan Tourism Cooperation to promote tourism in the state of Rajasthan . This exquisite train originally started in the year 1982 but was relaunched with new decor and itinerary in the year 2009.

This train exudes an aristocratic opulence and resembles the royal coaches of the ancient rulers namely the Rajput, Nizam and the British. There are a total of 23 coaches that showcases Rajasthan’s rich culture through handicrafts and paintings. The interior is tastefully designed with world-class amenities and internet connectivity. There are two dining options serving authentic Indian and international cuisine. The train follows 8 days and 7 nights itinerary and starts from Delhi covering prominent cities in Rajasthan.

Palace on Wheels Info : 

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Also Read : How to Book Palace on Wheels Train

3. The Himalayan Queen (Kalka - Shimla)

The Himalayan Queen Express operates between the regions of Kalka and Shimla passing through Taksar, Dharampur, Barog, Jutogh, Summer Hill and more. It covers a total distance of 96 kilometres and comes with first and second class non-air conditioned coaches. This train route opened during the British era in 1903 and it is one of the most scenic routes in the country.

It passes through jagged mountains and pine forests offering enchanting vistas along the way. The train climbs up a steep gradient and as a result, the speed is greatly reduced.  The Himalayan Queen runs through 20 railway stations covering 103 tunnels and over 500 bridges and curves. This mountain railway is also a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site.

Also Read : List of Luxury Trains in the World

Suggested Tour :

• 6 Days - Shimla Manali Tour Packages
• 8 Days - Himachal Hill Station Tour

4. Mandovi Express (Mumbai - Goa)

Started in 1999, Mandovi Express runs daily between Mumbai and Goa covering a total distance of 580 kilometres . This train is named after River Mandovi and is jointly managed by the Konkan and the Central Railway.

Mandovi Express departs from Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and arrives at Madgaon Junction and back. This express train also comes with pantry facilities. The journey is an interesting mix of panoramic vistas accompanied by the call of nature. The time taken is around 12 hours and gives passengers a break from their chaotic daily life.

Also Read : Top Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

5. Matsyagandha Express (Ratnagiri - Mangalore)

This is one of the most picturesque rail routes in India that you cannot afford to miss. Matsyagandha means ‘smell of fish’ and the train is named as such because it runs through Western India’s fishing coast . The superfast Matsyagandha Express operates daily between Mangalore and Ratnagiri covering a total distance of 741 kilometres.

The rail track passes through the states of Karnataka , Goa and Maharashtra filled with lush greenery and varied topography. The route is extremely gorgeous and you can get a glimpse of towering trees, cascading waterfalls and massive bridges. To top it all, the Arabian Sea adds to its unending beauty.

Also Read : 15 Top Places To Visit In Karnataka

Suggested Tours : 16 Days - Karnataka Tour

6. Deccan Odyssey

Deccan Odyssey is another luxury train that started with the aim of promoting tourism in the state of Maharashtra. The train features 21 luxury coaches, spa, multi-cuisine restaurant, conference car and a massage cabin. Each of the coaches derives its name from prominent destinations in Maharashtra. The decor is inspired by the royalties of the bygone era. The cabins are air-conditioned and come with attached bathrooms and modern amenities.

There are two dining options that serve Continental, Oriental and Indian dishes to the guests. It passes through World Heritage Sites, timeless forts and monuments that let you rediscover incredible India . Deccan Odyssey is a leading train in Asia that gives a taste of elegance while travelling.

Deccan Odyssey Fare :

Also Read : How To Book Tickets In Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train

7. Nizamuddin Duronto Express (Pune - Delhi)

The superfast train Nizamuddin Duronto Express connects Pune to New Delhi . The train runs between the two major cities within 20 hours. This train passes through rugged terrain, green valleys, waterfall cascades and small hamlets. Duronto Express also offers excellent onboard facilities and tasty meals that are included in the price itself.

The interiors are clean and feature reading lights, bottle holders and mobile phone sockets for your convenience. Duronto means ‘quick’ in Bengali and this train is always on time. No wonder, it is one of the most comfortable and economical ways to travel between Pune and Delhi. The train is equipped with air-conditioned coaches with different price ranges.

Also Read : Who Made The First Train In The World?

Also Read : Top Tourist Attractions in Delhi

8. Delhi Jaisalmer Express (Delhi - Jaisalmer)

Delhi Jaisalmer Express is one of the most popular train routes in the country. This extraordinary route takes you through the vast desert and exudes a spiritual charm. It covers a total distance of 920 kilometres, starting from Delhi and ending in Jaisalmer. The travel time of the train is approximately 18 hours.

The jagged terrain accompanied by the camels and the inhabitants is a visual treat that gives you an experience of a desert safari . The region is carpeted with golden sand that depicts sheer magnificence and ignites the imagination. The timings are convenient and the journey is comfortable.

Also Read : Topmost Places To Be Visited In Jaisalmer

Suggested Tour : 8 Days - Rajasthan Tour from Delhi

9. Maharaja Express

Maharaja Express is reputed for being the most expensive luxury train in our country. This train features exotic dining, lounge, bar, internet facilities as well as attached bathrooms. The train journey between Mumbai and Delhi lets you experience the lavish life of the royalties. Maharaja Express is managed by the Indian Railway and the Tourism Corporation.

The handpicked itinerary takes you through urban Mumbai to the ancient Ajanta Caves continuing to the Lake City of Udaipur and passing through Jodhpur and Jaipur . It will also give you a taste of India’s wildlife in Ranthambore and the eminent wonder, Taj Mahal . The journey finally comes to an end after reaching Delhi.

Also Read : How to Book Maharaja Express Train Tickets

10. Nilgiri Passenger (Mettupalayam - Ooty)

Nilgiri Passenger is the one and an only toy train that operates between Mettupalayam and Ooty. This train passes through countryside landscapes, bridges and tunnels to reach its destination. Nilgiri Mountain Railway is also a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site in 2005 . It was built in 1908 by the British with the motive of retreating to a hill station during the scorching summers. 

As Nilgiri Passenger is the only train operating in this route, the rush is always high. It is necessary to make the bookings well in advance. The train climbs steep gradients and passes through narrow tracks before reaching Ooty, ‘Queen of Hills’. This train journey is an effortless blend of serenity and peace.

Also Read : About Ooty – The Uncrowned Queen Of Hill Stations

Suggested Ooty Tours :

• 6 Days - Mysore Ooty Kodaikanal Karnataka Tour
• 6 Days - South India Hill Stations Tour

11. Hubli – Madgaon

Vasco da Gama route is one of the most enthralling train journeys in India. The train passes through the majestic Dudhsagar Falls and the sight is too beautiful to be true. The water gushing at a very high speed makes this place a photographer’s paradise. The nearest rail station is the Londa Junction where you can get down and immerse in its beauty.

The approximate distance to be covered is 180 kilometres and the time taken is around 4 hours. There are a couple of trains that operate in this picturesque route including Tirupati Vasco da Gama Express, Amravathi Express and Chennai Vasco Express.

Also Read : Delhi – Lucknow Tejas Express – India’s First Train to be Operated by Private Players

Suggested Tour : 15 Days - Karnataka With Goa & Mumbai

12. The Golden Chariot

Derived its name from the Stone Chariot in Hampi, the Golden Chariot is another luxury train in our country. This train connects the prominent attractions in the states of Goa, Karnataka, Kerala , Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. It lets passengers experience the charm of underrated destinations in India. In 2013, The Golden Chariot has earned the title of the leading luxury train in Asia.

This train makes the journey very comfortable and it is the ideal way to start a sojourn. The Golden Chariot has a customized itinerary so that you can explore this region at your own pace. Pristine beaches , wildlife sanctuary, temples and vast expanses of greenery, this train journey have everything to satisfy the wandering soul.

Also Read : List of Luxury Trains in India Golden Chariot Luxury Train Services Will Start from March 2020 5 Things to Know about Golden Chariot Train

Also Read : 15 Most Expensive Trains in the World

13. Island Express (Kanyakumari - Bangalore)

Island Express is one of the most preferred trains to travel from Bangalore to Kanyakumari via Kerala. The train is managed by the Indian Railways and covers a total distance of 944 kilometres in 20 hours. This train journey is truly absorbing passing through green meadows, tranquil water bodies, quaint villages, thick forests and whatnot. Thus, it gives passengers the typical South Indian vibe.

The train moves at an extremely slow speed and stops 44 times during the journey. However, it is clean and well maintained so this train is a favourable choice for the people. Island Express features 22 air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned coaches.

Also Read : Best Route to Travel from Rameshwaram to Kanyakumari

• 4 Days - Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Temple Tour
• 12 Days - South India Temple Tour

14. Glass Train (Visakhapatnam - Araku Valley)

The Vishakapatnam – Araku Valley route is the true embodiment of nature. The Government has introduced the glass train so that the tourists can immerse in the scenic beauty of this region. This train departs from Vishakapatnam and reaches Araku Valley via Borra caves.

The glass train operates daily and takes around 4 hours to cover a distance of 116 kilometres. Presently, there is only one coach which is the executive chair car. The Vistadome train ride is an experience of a lifetime where they can escape from the monotony of urban life.

Also Read : About Uday Express Vijayawada-Visakhapatnam Double-Decker Luxury Train

15. Doars Voyage (Siliguri - Alipurduar)

Doars Voyage covers one of the most alluring train routes in West Bengal. The route goes through Siliguri and Hasimara to reach Alipurduar. This rail track is a hidden gem and passes through dense forests and gurgling streams. Some of the top attractions of this route include Jaldapara, Chapramari Forest, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Mahanada Sanctuary, Teesta and Sankosh River. Keep an eye for wild animals and birds that considers the forests their home.

The train takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the destination and the journey is incredibly beautiful. It has 16 coaches and the glass windows are perfect to soak up the unparallel views. It is indeed fascinating to experience a train journey through this rail route.

Also Read : A Luxury Train Journey To Golden Triangle With Maharajas’ Express

16. Matheran Hill Railway (Matheran – Neral)

Matheran Hill Railway lets you enjoy a train ride amidst the lush greenery, free from the stress of commercialization. This journey transport passengers into an old world where they can have a rendezvous with nature. This toy train started in the year 1907 and the one you see today is relaunched in 2018. It climbs up a steep slope which is over 2600 feet. Hence, the train ride is slow and it takes more than 2 hours to cover the short distance.

The toy train stops at three stations and crawls its way through valleys and tunnels. The small engine comes with first and second class carriages accommodating around 100 passengers. There are shared jeeps that ply in this route but riding the toy train is an experience that you will cherish forever.

Also Read : Weekend Getaways from Mumbai That You Should Never Miss

Suggested Mumbai Tours

• 13 Days - Best of North India with Mumbai Tour
• 15 Days - Mumbai with Rajasthan Tour

17. Chilka Route (Bhubaneshwar - Brahmapur)

If you want to experience Odisha at its vibrant best, the Chilka Route is all that you need. Chilka Lake is one of the largest lagoons that host countless migratory birds across the globe . Hence this train route is a slice of heaven for nature lovers. The Chilka Lake View is mesmerizingly gorgeous where you can make use of your photography skills .

The most popular train in this route is the Coromandel Express and runs daily between Bhubaneswar and Brahmapur in 3 hours. So, if you are a thrill-seeker willing to encounter wildlife , this route will give you memories to cherish forever.

Also Read : 18 Things That Will Make You Love Train-18, India

18. Mandovi Express (Mumbai - Pune)

The train journey from Mumbai to Pune is breathtaking. The trains connecting these destinations cross some of the most exotic hill stations filled with majestic sight. Making their way through gushing waterfalls and pristine villages, it offers the most stunning experience imaginable.

The trains take around 3 hours to cover the distance and pass through major railway stations – Karjat, Lonavala and Thane. Most of the trains operate daily and they also come with pantry facilities.

Also Read :

• 20 Best Places to Visit in Monsoon Near Mumbai
• 20 Best Trekking Places Near Mumbai
• How to Explore Mumbai in One Day

Mumbai Travel Guide :

• How to Reach Mumbai
• Best Time to Visit Mumbai
• Street Foods in Mumbai
• Street Shopping in Mumbai
• Famous Temples Near Mumbai
• Famous Caves Near Mumbai

19. Goa Express (Vasco Da Gama-Londa)

The train journey between Vasco da Gama and Londa will fill your heart with exemplary views. Sit by the window and relish your eyes to the stunning nature views packed with scenic locales, jagged terrain and mountains. The main highlight is the waterfall that adds to the irresistible charm of this ride.

The Superfast Goa Express is one of the most favourable trains running in this rail route. It is the only passenger train that crosses the Dudhsagar Waterfalls daily. The train has air-conditioned and non-air conditioned coaches and covers the distance of 75 kilometres on time.

Also Read : 20 Amazing Things To Do In Goa Trip

20. Kangra Valley Railway (Pathankot - Kangra)

Kangra Valley Railways is one of India’s jewels in the lap of the Himalayas . The train journey begins at the Himalayan foothills and moves upward in a zigzag manner offering stunning views of the mighty Dhauladhar Range. No wonder, this route gives passengers a glimpse into the surreal beauty of rural India.

It takes around 5 hours to cover the distance and the train crawls because of the steep slopes that it has to cross. There are very few tourists who opt for this train route and the train is mostly frequented by the locals. In case, you are travelling solo , it is a nice opportunity to interact with the locals and know about these places.

Fare : There are several trains operating in this route

Have you ever experienced these train routes? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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12 of the best luxury train journeys in India

There’s no better way to experience the stunning sights of india than from one of the country’s palatial trains – here are twelve of the best trips.

W e get it: train travel in India can be a mixed bag, especially if you don’t know where to start. On the one hand, it’s the most affordable way to see the country and the people who make it what it is; and on the other, it can be a staggeringly opulent “Palace on Wheels” (no, really — keep reading.) Nowadays, sleeper trains can be fully functioning luxury hotels — replete with personal butlers, laundry services and on-board spas — plus a few added bonuses; namely jaw-dropping views of everything from palm-fringed coastlines to forested national parks, and insider tours both on and off the tourist trail. Here’s our pick of the best luxury journeys to book.

Main photo: the Maharajas’ Express in Mumbai (Alamy)

1. Heritage of India

Best for India first-timers You wouldn’t necessarily think that eight days would be enough to visit most of India’s poster-board attractions, but aboard the country’s most opulent train, the Maharajas’ Express, anything seems possible. You’ll travel from Mumbai to Delhi — via medieval Bikaner, the otherworldly Rajasthani desert and Jodhpur’s cobalt walls — in the sort of splendour that harks back to a bygone era (albeit outfitted with modern creature comforts such as USB sockets). Keep your eyes peeled for Bengal tigers prowling their Ranthambore hunting ground.

maharajas-express-india.com

2. Treasures of India

Best for the Golden Triangle Make sure your camera’s charged for this three-night round trip from Delhi , ensconced in a glamorous cabin on the Maharajas’ Express; you’ll likely be snapping away throughout. Whether it’s the photogenic interiors of your cabin — all intricately carved wood, gilt and leather finishings and plush textiles — or a visit to some of India’s most famous attractions, including the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, this is an experience you won’t want to forget. You’ll explore the pink city of Jaipur in similar style; with a guided tour of the Amber Fort and a slap-up lunch.

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3. Indian Odyssey

Best for families This seven-night trip, beginning in Delhi, is a magnificent way to tick off the Golden Triangle’s biggest hitters before heading to the Maharashtrian coast. You’ll visit the world’s most famous love letter, the Taj Mahal, as well as the Agra Fort, before climbing back aboard for day trips to Jaipur and the lakeside city of Udaipur. Before arriving in Mumbai , you’ll also get the chance to explore the archaeologically rich city of Vadodara — a Unesco-listed site in Gujarat — as well as the Ellora Caves, where temples have been carved into the rock face.

4. Pride of Karnataka

Best for Karnataka This six-night fling around Karnataka — a region so pretty it’s referred to as “The Pride of the South” — is a lot of fun. As part of your round trip aboard the sophisticated Golden Chariot train from Bangalore, you’ll visit Mysore Palace, temples in Hampi and the terracotta-toned caves in Badami, before seeking shelter under swaying palms in sun-drenched Goa . Plus, you won’t have to forgo comfort, returning each evening to everything from laundered clothes to a fully-equipped gym.

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5. Jewels of the Deccan

Best for culture This seven-night round trip from Mumbai on the Deccan Odyssey will take you on a whirlwind tour of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. You’ll spend your days exploring Mughal palaces in Bijalpur, shopping in Hyderabad, visiting anything from the ruins in Hampi to the Ajanta Caves and the Gandhi Research Foundation in Jalgaon, and your nights sipping expertly mixed cocktails and dressing up for dinner in the lap of luxury.

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6. Palace on Wheels: Golden Triangle, Khajuraho & Varanasi

Best for old-world style This heritage-style train, modestly named Palace on Wheels, feels like it could make a Maharaja (or, indeed, a Maharani) out of anyone; its decor is distinctly old-world and gloved service is the gilded cherry on top. You’ll alight at Delhi for a 14-night trip to spiritual centre Varanasi via culturally significant and less-visited spots (like Old Delhi, Rajasthan’s rugged Aravalli hills and the Thar Desert) as well as all the bucket-list regulars. Expect to mix it up on this guided trip; it incorporates overnight hotel stays and an internal flight.

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7. Jewels of the South

Best for South India This six-night sojourn, aboard the opulent Golden Chariot train, does what it says on the tin; takes you around some of South India’s prettiest spots in style. On a round trip from Bangalore you’ll visit three staggeringly beautiful Unesco world heritage sites — Hampi (outside Chennai), Shore Temple in Pondicherry and Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur — before heading to picturesque Cochin and hitting the lush Keralan backwaters on a houseboat in Alleppey.

indianluxurytrains.com

8. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

Best for a trip back in time This old-world Palace on Wheels route is a great way to explore bygone Rajasthan; it’s a seven-night round trip from Delhi that focuses on the royalty and majesty of the region. Expect guided tours of lakeside palaces in Udaipur and the imposing forts of Jaipur and Jodhpur, visits to Ranthambore and Keoladeo national parks, dinner at jewel-toned havelis in Jaisalmer, and a trip to the most palatial of them all — the Taj Mahal.

9. Maharashtra Wild Trail Journey

Best for adventure This eight-day tour is an alternative for those wanting to explore a different side to Maharashtra, a state that’s rich with architecture, culture and almost otherworldly nature. You’ll visit the protected Pench National Park, the Bengal tiger reserve at Tadoba and both the Ajanta and Ellora caves, as well as India’s wine capital Nashik — all the while cosseted in refined glamour aboard the Deccan Odyssey.

deccan-odyssey-india.com

10. Steam Express: Fairy Queen

Best for train buffs The word “heritage” is thrown around often these days, but in this case it’s justified — the Fairy Queen is the oldest rolling locomotive in the world. There are only two carriages, so its 50 passengers stay overnight at a hotel along the two-day route from Delhi through Alwar and Rewari — near the Sariska wildlife sanctuary, where tiger safaris are available — and enjoy cultural activities during the days.

11. Glimpses of Karnataka

Best for a quick journey This three-night round trip from Bangalore is a whirlwind tour of picturesque Karnataka. Passengers will hit the region’s most famous spots — including a safari at Bandipur National Park, a tour of the imposing Mysore Palace and a visit to Unesco world heritage site Hampi — while enjoying the amenities of the regal Golden Chariot, which include double beds, personal butlers and an on-board spa.

the-golden-chariot.com

12. Indian Panorama

Best for couples An unforgettable route, this six-night round-trip from Delhi aboard the lavish Maharajas’ Express will make you wish you’d freed up more space in your camera roll. The aptly named Indian Panorama provides exactly that; jaw-dropping views of some of the country’s most famous sights. You’ll gawp at the Taj Mahal, bathe at the ghats on the banks of the Ganges at holy city Varanasi, spot Bengal tigers at Ranthambore and see the sacred monuments at Unesco heritage site Khajuraho — and plenty more. It’s a trip of a lifetime.

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Train & Rail Tours in India

Relax and admire breathtaking views in India only accessible by train journey. With 31 India train tours lasting from 1 days up to 34 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

31 Train tour packages in India with 100 reviews

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Golden Triangle on Wheels Indian Railways

Very excellent tour.. guides and drivers Throughout were very good.. highly recommended.. Thank u

Golden Triangle Tour By Train/Rail - Taj Mahal and Train Ride 5 days

Rajasthan Wildlife Tour: Ranthambore National Park by Train - 5 Days

Awesome Ranthambore Jungle Safari, an experience to remember for a lifetime !

Taj Mahal & Agra Private Tour for 2 Days by Express Train

We are back home now after a brilliant time in Delhi and Agra last week. I want to say thank you to the Delhi driver Riyaz and the Agra driver Sonu for their service. Also a special thanks to Aayush the guide as he was very knowledgeable and attentive. Everyone made our Agra trip very special and we have fantastic memories to come again one day. Please can you extend our thanks to them when you next speak to them. Finally I want to thank you and Raj Tours as the way we were able to organise the trip was seamless and easy. We will use you again and recommend to others. Unfortunately I cannot make a TripAdvisor review as I explained to Aayush, I do not have or want to have a TripAdvisor account.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Amritsar Tour From Delhi By Shatabdi Train

We Have no any other option to take the Amritsar Tour from Delhi by Shatabdi Train and I must say, it was an incredible experience. The tour was well-organized and everything went smoothly from start to finish. The journey from Delhi to Amritsar on the Shatabdi train was comfortable and convenient. The train was clean and well-maintained, and the seats were spacious and comfortable. The on-board service was also excellent, with friendly and efficient staff catering to our needs. Upon arrival in Amritsar, we were greeted by our tour guide who was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the city. He gave us a brief introduction to Amritsar and its history, and then we proceeded to visit the Golden Temple. The Golden Temple was a sight to behold. The magnificent structure, the serene atmosphere, and the devotion of the people made it a truly spiritual experience. Our guide took us around the temple and explained the significance of each part of the complex. We also got to witness the langar (community meal) which is served to all visitors for free. After the Golden Temple, we visited the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial to the tragic massacre that took place there in 1919. Our guide gave us a detailed account of the events that took place and it was a somber and moving experience. The tour also included a visit to the Wagah Border, where we witnessed the famous Beating Retreat ceremony. It was a thrilling experience to see the soldiers from both India and Pakistan perform their drill with such precision and patriotism. The tour ended with a visit to the local markets where we got to indulge in some shopping and try out some delicious Punjabi cuisine. Our guide took us to some of the best street food stalls and we were not disappointed. Overall, the Amritsar Tour from Delhi by Shatabdi Train was a memorable experience. The well-planned itinerary, comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guide, and the beautiful city of Amritsar all made it a perfect trip. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the vibrant culture and history of Amritsar.

Journey Through Time: Exploring India's Heritage by Satabdi Train

Taj to Varanasi

Train Tour: 5 Days Golden Triangle Tour with 4 Nights Accomodation

I enjoyed this tour very much. It was a very easy way to get around the Golden Triangle. Meetups with drivers and guides and delivery to hotels and railway stations was impeccable, very reassuring for me travelling solo. The itinerary was quite dense, making good use of the time available in each city. My brain was buzzing by day three. All three guides were excellent with good english, knowledgeable and flexible. Drivers also were excellent, careful and not cowboys. Hotels were mostly adequate with the Agra Hotel being very nice. Trains were fine, with meals booked where available or available to buy. The Agra to Jaipur train was a sleeper Two tier so comfortable for the few hours of evening travel. All up, an excellent trip. Recommended.

Incredible Golden Triangle Rail Tour

Tour Guide Hilal was Guide for Agra and the Taj Mahal. Hall was Incredible Historian and a Great Photoghapher. Jugal Kishore was my Guide in Jaipur to view the Amber Fort and by my request Jugal obtain permission for me to climb the Great Wall surrounding the city and Fort. Jugal climbed the wall with me. Not an easy thing to do. Well done Jugal Kishore.

Delhi to Rajasthan with Goa by Rail

We took the Travel and Tours India "Delhi to Rajasthan with Goa by Rail" tour. We selected this because the travel was done all by train and because the trip can be taken on almost any day of the week, which allowed the trip to fit in with our other trip plans. The trip was very well planned, with all the destinations and trains we took booked and specified before we left. The choice of destinations was very good. We were met outside our train car at every station and taken to our hotel or tour. This is a very good feature of the tour, as Indian train stations are large and have lots of exits. Particularly for visitors, they can be a bit confusing, so the guidance is very useful. For all the local tours, a driver was supplied and sometimes a guide as well. The drivers were very helpful and would cheerfully accomodate special stops for shopping or to take photographs. The hotels were all really good and comfortable and many had good views, like the Udaipur hotel, with a great view of the lake. Our tour organizer, Ashu was available by 'phone or text message at any time. If we went to India again, we would take one of the Travel and Tours tours.

• €126 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

14 Days Rajasthan Tour By Local Trains

From Delhi: Taj Mahal Private Tour By Gatiman Express Train

We were a group of 12 people traveling together to Agra by train and one of our friend Ireland has recommended us travel creators of india for Taj Mahal one day tour. We contacted TCI and they are very responsive. We booked the tour and train tickets were mailed to us by tour operator. We all had a nice tour. Taj Mahal is a true beauty and we all enjoyed visiting the wonderful Taj Mahal.

All Inclusive - Taj Mahal and Agra Fort by Superfast Train: Private Day Tour from Delhi

Rafeeq was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable about Agra, The Taj Mahal, Baby Taj and Agra fort. Took lots of amazing photos too. Thanks for a great day in Agra!

Explore Varanasi Overnight Tour By High Speed Train From Delhi

Haridwar & Rishikesh Reverie: A Sacred Train Tour from Delhi

What people love about train & rail tours in india.

The idea of travelling by train to different cities and getting picked up by different tour guides was a great idea. Tour guides had different strengths and weaknesses. Overall good experience although a little on the pricy side.

So, I kind started the tour with a bit of a rough start. My Delhi driver didn't seem to know how to get to the train station, then I felt pressed to take a tuk-tuk that I couldn't afford, to get dropped off. Then was pressed by him to get money from the ATM, which none of the three at the station worked for me. I was feeling pretty skeptical about the tour I had purchased and that I had been thrown out there on my own,but my tour guide in Agra, Faz, quickly decreased my worries and immediately brighted my mood for the rest of the time I spent with him on the tour. He pleasantly welcomed me to Agra with a beautiful flower garland and was very professional and polite. He spoke perfectly clear English and was easy to understand. He clearly has a lot of knowledge, passion and pride in the historical, religious and artistic beauty of the cities sites. He had a lot of special insights and knew best how to plan things. He was great at both offering to take pictures and at taking them, some unique and fun. Additionally, he was very considerate and carried my bag and sweatshirt for me so I could enjoy taking my own pictures and not have to deal with them, such a gentleman. He was very easy to talk to and open to questions. As mentioned earlier, I had cash/ATM issues and he stepped right up until we were able to resolve this, paying for entry fees. Then he was more than patient when this unfortunately took several stops to successfully resolve. I really felt he went above and beyond. He was very kind and understanding, despite my embarrassment that this couldn't get easily resolved. He had an engaging, fun, but very professional quality. I was highly impressed. He's the most delightful and professional guide and I highly recommend him. I was very saddened that I would be getting a new tour guide as he was wonderful. He always wanted to make sure I was enjoying the sites and was feeling good with how things were going. Definitely a top notch professional, highly knowledgeable and great character. I absolutely loved my tour with Faz. I'd give him over 5☆☆☆☆ My guide in Fatehpur sikri, was also quite pleasant. I was only with him for a few hours in the city, but he guided me through things well and was helpful. He had a great knowledge of the area and seemed to enjoy the history. He even helped me get rid of an obnoxious peddler, which was appreciated. I did however feel that he was a bit pushy in a shop we went into and I spent more money than planned/could afford. My driver, Chetan, was always punctual and I had no complaints. Although, he didn't speak much he was always polite and professional when he did. I really appreciated him expertly maunvering through all the crazy traffic. He did amazing. ☆☆☆☆☆ The hotel was fabulous and had a beautiful rooftop pool and spa. You could even see the Taj Mahal from there (just barely through the smoke). The restaurant and breakfast were both good. No complaints at all. The train was fine, not luxury or similar to US. Food was not bad considering it was train food, which I compared to being similar to plane food. Everything was great really, except my drop off in Delhi and my pickup in Delhi were I never connected with the driver and ended having to pay to take a chilly ride in a tuk-tuk. They did try and contact me when I arrived in Delhi (my service is inconsistent),but it would have been better to have this information before Ieft Agra. I believe this would have negated the problem as could directly go where I needed to go. This was done before I left for Agra, why not Delhi. So, the guides, hotel, driver in Agra and train I had no issues. Just a bit with the drop off driver in Delhi and confusion over pickup, but overall good tour.

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Luxury train journeys through India

Palace on wheels.

By Audley India specialist Alison

Living and working in Mumbai for a number of years, I spent weekends exploring my surroundings by hopping on local trains, sleeper trains and toy trains. In a country that relies on its rail network like no other, it’s little surprise that a range of luxury trains is available for you to tour India from a different perspective.

Choosing to travel in India by luxury train

India specialist Alison singles out some of India’s best luxury trains and explains why they’re an enjoyable way to explore the country.

Join a luxury train tour across India, and you’ll cover more ground than you could by car. You’ll be able to visit far more places and, as most trains travel during the night, won’t feel rushed.

Tours and activities are usually conducted in small groups, and dinners are enjoyed together with your fellow passengers. I’d agree that this wouldn’t suit the more independently minded, but if you’re keen for a little more privacy, some trains provide complimentary private tours if you book a suite or presidential cabin.

Luxury trains in India

The maharajas' express.

Completing its maiden journey in 2010, the Maharajas' Express  is the newest and, in my opinion, most luxurious train running in India. Cabins range from the well-sized deluxe to suites with their own private sitting area. There’s even a presidential suite pulled in its own carriage.

Teak doors separate your cabin from the corridor, and rooms are decorated with Indian prints and brass trim. Beds are positioned along the length of the train — I could hardly feel any movement as I slept.

The majority of meals are eaten on board. Almost everything, from the croissants at breakfast to the handmade chocolates at dinner, is made from scratch. As we sat down to each meal, the head chef, John Stone, would make his way down the carriage, talking to guests about the food and explaining the finer points of some of the Indian dishes. Hailing from Shimla , he likes to include dishes popular with his family on the comprehensive continental menu.

Maharajas' Express train routes

Five different routes all focus on the northern state of Rajasthan and its surrounding areas, with journeys ranging from three to six nights. I experienced the shortest tour: Treasures of India. Taking just three nights, it’s an ideal taste of luxury train travel without committing to the cost of the longer tours.

I was driven from my Delhi hotel to Safdarjung Railway Station in the southern suburbs of the city. Joining my fellow guests on board, brunch was served as the train set off past housing blocks strung with bright lines of washing and green patches of park. Our first stop was Agra.

It’s difficult to miss the Maharajas' Express as it pulls into a station. Its cherry-red body is decorated with gold patterns, and it’s by far the cleanest train. As it arrived into Agra , local musicians announced our arrival on the platform. I stepped off onto a red carpet to receive a welcoming flower garland. This, I was told, is the protocol for every stop.

Coaches branded with the train’s insignia are the mode of transport for touring Agra. Tours are in groups, but you have headphones to listen to the guide, who speaks through a microphone.

The first day in Agra focuses on visiting its calling card, the Taj Mahal. After an early start and a guided tour, you have time to take photographs and relax in the surrounding gardens.

You go back to the train for lunch, then set out again in the afternoon to tour Agra Fort, home of the Mughal emperors. It’s possible to stand where Shah Jahan, the creator of the Taj Mahal, was imprisoned by his son, within view of his masterpiece. You then return to the train for dinner, and depart for Ranthambhore National Park.

From the train, we drove by 4x4 into the park. We’d been warned that the tigers in Ranthambhore were elusive, and we’d be lucky to glimpse a dash of tail. While we were peering into the bushes at a sambar deer, a female tiger casually walked out in front of us. Everyone suddenly went silent as we watched her nonchalantly survey her territory.

You close your cabin curtains that evening on scraggly jungle and open them the next morning to a cityscape crammed with flat-topped apartments and open-faced shops: Jaipur . 

It’s a jeep ride up to Amber Fort, overlooking the surrounding Aravalli Hills. The tour of the fort guides you through a maze of palace rooms and courtyards, culminating in a visit to the Sheesh Mahal, or ‘chamber of mirrors’. This room is covered by so many gems, mirrors and pieces of painted glass it can be lit by a single candle.

The Express’s itineraries include exclusive experiences it wouldn’t be possible to book otherwise. In Jaipur, we were granted access to Jaipur’s royal family’s private quarters of the City Palace. Entertainment was provided in the gardens before we were taken up to their rooftop terrace for a dinner with views across the city. I managed to glimpse at a few royal rooms along the way.

On the final morning, you awake in Delhi to disembark after a substantial breakfast. The Express’s routes begin or end in Delhi but don’t usually include visiting any of its sites. Although it’s noisy and chaotic, I wouldn’t discount spending a few nights in Delhi before you catch the train. A guided city tour will give a taster of what’s to come.

The Palace on Wheels  feels a little dated, but that’s part of its charm. One of the first luxury trains dedicated to leisure — those that came before were for royalty or dignitaries — it started running in 1982. The General Manager then is still running the train now. On my first night aboard, we were given a short talk on the history of the train: as a passenger, there’s a real sense of becoming part of its heritage.

The train is made up of 14 saloon coaches, each named after a place on the route. On the coach named Kishangarh, a village noted for its Bani Thani miniature paintings, local artists have painted examples of their work. There are also two restaurants, a lounge car and four service cars for staff.

Four cabins fit into each saloon and share a small lounge. Two valets are assigned to each saloon — Opi and Rasjish who looked after me were always keen to recommend their pick of the day’s menu. The deluxe cabins are clad in polished teak and have sash windows and wall hangings. Upgrade to the presidential suite and you’ll also get a private sitting area.

Palace on Wheels route

Departing every Wednesday, the Palace on Wheels follows a set seven night route across north India. For me, the range of wildlife, key highlights and more offbeat rural areas it covers makes it one of the most comprehensive insights into India. Journeying long distances as you sleep, the train halves the amount of time it would take to complete this trip by car.

Arriving at Delhi Railway Station, I boarded the train in the evening, ready for dinner. Food is a white-gloved, silver-service affair. Service can feel a little slow, but this doesn’t seem to matter when you’re surrounded by gilded mirrors and printed wallpaper. With set dining times, you’ll eat alongside your fellow guests each night.

The first few days of the route, visit the fortress city of Jaipur and Ranthambhore National Park . The train then delves further into Rajasthan, starting with Chittorgarh , a fortress town built by the Rajputs, a prominent Indian ruling family.

Look at a map and you’ll find that Chittorgarh is surrounded by nothing but the odd tiny hamlet. A long drive from the nearest city and with only a couple of very basic hotels, it’s rarely visited. After touring the fort — the largest in India — we settled down to watch the evening’s sound and light show. The fort walls are lit with a succession of moving lights as a voice narrates the history of Chittorgarh.

After dinner on board, the train then continues south to Udaipur . A greener city, Udaipur is set around two lakes, protected by the Aravalli Hills. The Lake Palace sits in the middle of Lake Pichola, a once pleasure palace for a young Mughal prince. It’s now one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. It isn’t usually possible to visit unless you stay at the hotel, but as train passengers we had the opportunity to dine there.

The fortress city of Jaisalmer , which marks the gateway to the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, has no airport and is a dusty seven-hour drive from the nearest city. As part of the Palace on Wheels route, you wake there after an overnight ride from Udaipur. Jaisalmer’s fort is the only lived-in example in India, and a guided tour takes you past local schools, temples and shops squeezed in between the military and palace buildings.

The train then begins its journey back toward Delhi, stopping in Jodhpur , India’s blue city, before heading onward to Bharatpur . Here you’ll visit Ghana National Park , flourishing wetlands that protect thousands of nesting birds. It’s a key route for migratory birds, and you’ll often see Sarus cranes, egrets and waterfowl.

The train’s finale is a visit to Agra and the Taj Mahal, before returning you to Delhi.

The Deccan Odyssey

The Maharashtra Tourist Board conceived the Deccan Odyssey train as a way to encourage visitors to explore alternative, less-visited parts of India. States such as Maharashtra and the Deccan in central India were difficult to travel through, even for the most determined, with few hotels, guides or roads. Setting up a train service swiftly solved the problem.

Running since 2004, the train has been fully refurbished recently. Its light, airy cabins are now furnished with locally sourced fabrics. You’ll find the wooden furniture, under close scrutiny, is veneered rather than carved wood, but everything is clean and fresh. There are two dining cars, a lounge, a spa and a small gym.

Two deluxe cabins occupy each car, with a butler per car providing a personal service. The service on board is very attentive — I enjoyed tea in my cabin each morning — and you’re given a mobile phone preloaded with your butler’s number.

I couldn’t fault the food served on board, enjoying racks of lamb, a traditional Indian thali and far too many desserts. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the chefs take a real pride in their cooking, walking along the dining cars to check how their dishes have been received.

Deccan Odyssey routes

Each of the Deccan Odyssey’s six routes is focused on a hard-to-travel-in part of India. The seven-night Central India route is by far the most leisurely way to reach the remote ancient monuments at Hampi. But, it’s the seven-night Hidden Treasures of Gujarat route which particularly appeals, as it journeys from Mumbai into the rarely visited northwest state of Gujarat.

Touring through Gujarat, you won’t cross big-name sites off your list, but you will see a part of India that has changed very little. In this predominantly tribal state, you’ll be welcomed into the villages of the Agarias and Rabari tribes. Little is known about these farming communities who live on the outskirts of the Rann of Kutch, the largest salt marsh in the world and an otherworldly glowing white landscape stretching as far as you can see.

The salt marsh is slowly being encroached on by the Gir National Park , the last surviving habitat of the Asiatic lion. Slightly smaller than their African counterparts, Asiatic lions have a shorter mane and are speckled with black, giving them an almost silvery tone. As part of the train’s tour, you can take a safari into the park to track the lions; although they’re notoriously cautious, sightings are common.

Completing a circular route back to Mumbai, the train stops at Hindu and Jain temple sites as well as workshops where you can see some of the state’s textile production. Gujarat silk is well-known as one of the finest fabrics produced in India, made into sarees hand-woven with intricate patterns and a popular Indian wedding attire.

Extending your trip

Most of India’s luxury train journeys finish in Delhi or Mumbai, making it easy to extend your trip by jumping on a short flight. If you’re looking for some time to relax, Goa is a direct flight from either city.

You won’t find pristine white-sand beaches but exotic dark-gold sands, dotted with fishing boats, cafés and craft markets. Panjim, now known simply as Goa’s Old Town, was once the capital of the Portuguese Estado da India (State of India). Streets of Portuguese townhouses have been recently restored and painted bright yellow and pink, mango and papaya trees growing out front.

Start planning your luxury train trip through India

Luxury rail tour: discover central India on the Deccan Odyssey

16 days from $9,770pp

Luxury rail tour: a taste of the Maharajas' Express & western Rajasthan

10 days from $10,300pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in India: our highlights guide
• India’s toy trains: Shimla, Darjeeling and Ooty
• Choosing the right Indian experience for you
• Food highlights of India: 6 of the best culinary experiences
• More train journey ideas with Audley

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7 fascinating train journeys in India

Train journeys in india are always a memorable and fascinating experience..

Going on a train journey, you lose all sense of time as the rhythm of the wheels and the soft sway of the speeding express lull you into another world. You stare in absolute wonder as you watch life passing by through the large windows.

Trains by themselves are such awesome machines. The steam engine with its choo-choo greetings, as the carbon particles, float in the air, and the powerhouse electric train is living its glory days. Slowly and steadily the Vande Express is carving out the path for modern bullet trains to make their way to India.

A speciality of India ‘s rail journeys is that the Indian Railways system occupies a special place within the national heritage spectrum of India. You can count yourself as absolutely fortunate to experience the unimaginable as Indian Railways presents four UNESCO World Heritage Sites namely Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (1999), Nilgiri Mountain Railway (2005), Kalka Shimla Railway (2008), and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai (2004) with Matheran Light Railway and Kangra Valley Railway awaiting recognition.

Before you step onto your unique train journey remember that Indian Railways presents its heritage through 34 Museums, Heritage Parks, and Heritage galleries, spread all over India. And yes, they are definitely worth a visit as the Railways have preserved 230 Steam Locomotives, 110 vintage coaches, and wagons at these museums and heritage parks. Interestingly, some of these rolling stocks are more than 100 years old.

Here are some legendary train experiences you must have on your bucket list:

Maharaja Express

Here is a luxury train experience that is all about the cultural showcasing of destinations and presenting a true royal ‘Maharaja ‘ experience. Life on the train is all about opulence and a genteel ambiance. All guest cabins and salons offer optimum comfort and luxury.

Passengers are welcomed with garlands and flower petals showered over them. The service delivered on the train is nothing short of treating the traveller as ‘Royalty’.

Anyone riding the train would feel special for the 6-night – 7-day trip which starts in Delhi and passes through Ranthambore, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and ends in Mumbai. A majority of the destinations that the Maharaja Express passes through are true to its name – the Maharaja Express. Rajasthan is a land of royalty with beautiful forts, palaces, and Havelis.

This luxury train also provides the guest with a variety of delectable cuisines presented in two dining cars over a silver-plated service.

Konkan Railways ( Mandovi Express)

This has to be one of the most delightful journeys by train, as the train journeys past rugged mountains, lush valleys, sunlit paddy fields, bustling villages, and glistening rivers that lead out to sea.

The journey is 738 km long through the states of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka. During the monsoon, the rains grace and purify the already lush green landscape.

The first part of the journey is from Mumbai to Goa. Enjoy one day in Goa and then board the train to continue your journey to Mangaluru. Visit the Battery watchtower and Kadri temple, and rest for one day. Next, it’s the final stretch of the journey ending in Kerela. Take your first steps in Kochi, a delightful coastal city. Visit the Periyar National Park and take a backwater cruise on houseboats in Alleppey.

Boat Mail Express

This amazing train journey from Chennai to Rameswaram crosses one of the country’s engineering marvels. The major highlight of this train is the way it crosses the blue sea. The Pamban bridge connects the mainland to Rameshwaram Island. The gentle sea breeze and the aquamarine landscape are enchanting. There is also hope the bridge might be a UNESCO world heritage site which it truly deserves to be.

Why was it called the boat mail? Because far back in 1914, the passengers changed over to a boat ferry from the Indian end of the route in order to cross the seas to Sri Lanka.

When in Rameshwaram don’t forget to visit Dhanush Koti where the three seas meet. Strong winds blow, and you can feel the waves massage your legs. The view is a reminder of Edward Newgate’s quote ” everyone is a child of the sea’.

Himalayan Queen

This winsome journey on the pretty little gauge crosses 305kms as it snakes its way through 102 tunnels, 900 curves, and 87 bridges run on the Delhi and Kalka track at the foothills of the Himalayas. UNESCO added the Kalka–Shimla railway to the mountain railways of India World Heritage Site. It was built in 1903 when English Ladies had to escape the summer heat.

The journey is quaint as it can sometimes be brought to a halt by cows wandering near the tracks, and it’s time to take a break for tea and pakoras under the tall trees and shady cool passages. Watch the beautiful scenery unfolding before you – apple orchards and pine forests as the green landscape and blue sky fills you up with joy.

Darjeeling Toy Train

The toy train is a UNESCO world heritage site, built in the 1800s, and holds a lot of historical value. Imagine taking a journey on an 1881 narrow gauge line, where some of the original steam trains still run from Darjeeling to Ghoom. At an altitude of 7400 feet, Ghoom has the distinction of being the highest train station in India.

Charmingly slow and quaintly steady wins the race. Going slow has its charm, and you find yourself enjoying the journey even more. The train moves at a slow speed allowing you to see the peaceful sleepy villages, plantation workers plucking leaves in the tea garden.

The best part though is it makes a 10-minute halt as it spirals around a gorgeous garden at Batasia loop, which has a series of switchbacks. The train crosses 450 bridges, as it climbs steeply towards Ghoom. You can also get majestic views of the famous Kanchenjunga mountain snow-covered peak.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

One of India’s most fascinating train journeys which recreates the nostalgia of train travel is clearly travelling in a steam engine locomotive on a track that is also a UNESCO world heritage site . Covering a distance of 46 km, the train journey starts from Mettupalayam to scenic spots like Ooty and Coonoor.

This is the only rack railway in India that runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty scaling an elevation of 326m to 2203m in a time span of five hours and reminds you of the marvels of engineering long ago over extremely challenging mountainous terrain.

Enjoy breathtaking views of valleys, as the journey to my mind, can be nicknamed ‘a cloud express’. Immerse yourself in this magnificent experience as the 1000mm meter-gauge railway slowly ascends the Nilgiri hills through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves chugging through panoramic scenery of lush green meadows, big blue rivers, and high forest reserves.

This train is also popular as the location shoot of one of Bollywood’s most successful films and was the stage for one of the most iconic songs, with famous stars Shah Rukh Khan and Malaika dancing on the roof of this train to the song ‘chaiya chaiya’.

Kashmir Valley Train

A train journey across Kashmir is surreal; it can’t be put into words. The cold bites but the enchanting landscape warm the heart. The journey from Jammu to Baramulla is one of the most challenging railways projects and built in earthquake-prone zones. The rewards are blissful as you cross mountain passes, undulating meadows and valleys, and the beautiful Aharball waterfall.

The Banihal-Baramulla Railway line in the centre of the Kashmir Valley runs through a 119 km broad gauge rail route through the most beautiful scenery that makes the paradise that is Kashmir.

A memorable experience takes shape when the train goes through India’s longest railway tunnel (11.2 km long) and suddenly the dark gives way as the train emerges to the wonderous crossing of the Pir-Panjal Range to touch Qazigund. Feast your eyes and your cameras on the crystal clear scenery of vast mountain ranges and green meadows, white and blue streams, and the local shepherds or ‘Bakarwals’ grazing their sheep.

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Indian Rail Transport Day 2024: First train to longest route, 5 facts about Indian Railways

From north to south and east to west, indian railways has a route length of 68,426 km..

• The Indian Railway Network is the world’s fourth largest rail network with a total route length of 68,426 km approx.
• The newly launched Vande Bharat Express holds the title of the fastest train in India with a top speed of 180 km/h, whereas the slowest train in India has a speed of only 10km/h. It runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty Nilgiri.
• The Dibrugarh-Kanyakumari Vivek Express holds the title of the longest train of Indian Railways. With a running time of 80 hours and 15 minutes. The train covers 4,233 km and runs through eight states.
• India’s tallest Railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge, is located between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. Standing at a height of 359 m, it's also the world’s tallest railway bridge. It's taller than the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.
• The New Delhi Railway station has been awarded with the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest Route Relay Interlocking system.

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Journey of Indian Railways: From Steam Engine to Vande Bharat to Bullet Train

The journey of the indian railways in 171 years does not stop here. it continues to be the lifeline of millions of people in the country and will be an integral part of the indians' journey towards development and prosperity. in this article, let us look at a throwback of the indian railways' journey..

New Delhi: A remarkable train journey in India is filled with many memories. Not only just memories, one also gets to see the beauty of India. Today, on April 16, we celebrate the completion of 171 years of the Indian Railways, a testament to its rich history and significant contributions. From steam engines to Vande Bharat, the Indian Railways has undergone a significant revolution, making it the fourth largest rail network globally, holding over 10 per cent of the total rail network. Let’s journey through time and see how the Indian Railways has transformed routes and enhanced people’s journeys.

Indian Railways complete 171 years on April 16 (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Total revamp of #IndianRailways . A new journey begins! #ModiKiGuarantee pic.twitter.com/SDlSySUVKt Also Read Rajgir to Vikramashila: List of famous historical places in Bihar Battle of Megiddo: The first battle in recorded history and also one with first body count From Brazil to India: List of most biodiverse countries in the world — Ashwini Vaishnaw (मोदी का परिवार) (@AshwiniVaishnaw) April 16, 2024

Indian Railways: A factsheet

Before going through the journey, let us look at the number of rail networks in India. Rail transport mainly consists of passengers and freight and is handled by the Ministry of Railways, Indian Government. It owns all rail operations in the country, including the suburban rail in major metro cities. However, major Metro urban rail networks are operated by independent bodies, while private-owned rails exist in a few places.

The Indian Railways, a behemoth of transportation, spans a total rail network of 68,907 km, with over 129,000 km of track and 8,000+ stations. This makes it the fourth-largest rail network in the world. The sheer magnitude of its operations is awe-inspiring. Annually, the Indian Railways transports over 11 billion passengers and a staggering 1.416 billion tonnes of freight, making it the busiest network in the world.

Indian Railways: How and when it started?

1832–1852: Industrial railways

• 1832: A proposal was made to construct the first railway line in India at Madras.
• 1835-1837: A railway track was constructed between Red Hills and Chintadripet in Madras and became operational in 1837.
• 1845: The Madras Railway and temporary railway lines, such as the Godavari Dam Construction Railway at Dowleswaram, were established to supply stone for dam construction.
• 1852: This year was a turning point for railways in India, as a steam locomotive imported from England was introduced.

1853–1924: Passenger railways and expansion

The first passenger train to hit the tracks in 1853 was on a 1,676 mm broad gauge and ran 34 kilometres between Bombay and Thane. It had 14 carriages and carried 400 people. Three hauled steam locomotives, the Sahib, Sindh, and Sultan, supported this.

On August 15, 1854, Eastern India’s first passenger train started and ran 39 km from Howrah to Hoogly. In 1856, construction of a 97-km line in South India between Royapuram in Madras and Arcot began. Indian Railways started to pick up with the establishment of workshops at Byculla in 1854 and Madras Railway in 1856.

A single-coach tram at the Esplanade depot in Kolkata (Photo credit: Depositphotos)

Setting up of boards

• The Bombay, Baroda and Central India Railway (BB&CI) was incorporated in 1855
• Eastern Bengal Railway in 1858.
• The Carnatic Railway was founded in 1869.

A horse-drawn tram was started on February 24, 1873, in Calcutta between Sealdah and Armenian Ghat Street.

In 1874, the tramway began operations in Bombay between Colaba and Parel.

Birth of South Indian Railways

In 1974, the Great Southern of India Railway and the Carnatic Railway merged, creating South Indian Railways.

Steam Locomotive

An Ajmer built the F-1/734 Steam Locomotive, India’s first indigenously built locomotive, in 1877.

In 1908, Madras Railway merged with Southern Mahratta Railway to form the Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway. In 1914, India got its first sea bridge, the Pamban Bridge.

Electrification and further expansion (1925–1946)

The Indian Railways has expanded its reach and embraced technological advancements. In 1925, the first electric train ran between Victoria Terminus (VT) and Kurla, marking a significant milestone in its history. An SLM electric locomotive hauled this train on 1500 V DC traction. The subsequent years saw the Indian Railways expand across many cities. In 1944, the government took over all the railway companies, further shaping the future of this iconic institution.

Zonal re-organisation and further developments: Post-Independence era

India’s post-independence era saw the first locomotive manufacturing unit at Chittaranjan 1950. The same year, it was decided that the Indian Railways would be divided into six regional zones: Southern, Central, Western, Northern, Eastern, and North Eastern Railway. These zones were further divided into several regional zones in the coming years.

In 1953, the Indian Railways completed a hundred years of operation and got the first diesel locomotive used in India, which North British Locomotive Company fabricated in 1954.

Several developments, like computerised ticketing, new trains like the Shatabdi Express (introduced between New Delhi and Jhansi) and electrification projects have propelled the Indian Railways into the modern era. AC suburban services were introduced in this period, further enhancing passenger comfort and convenience, reflecting the railway’s commitment to modernisation and service excellence.

Kalka-Shimla Railway is a 2 feet 6 inches narrow-gauge railway (Photo credit: Depositphotos)

The first Metro rail was introduced in Calcutta on October 24, 1984, with the line between Esplanade and Bhowanipore. Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Delhi, was established in 1995. Metro rail has expanded to many cities across the country, increasing the country’s rail network. The increase in the Metro network has been a plus point for transportation in India.

Vande Bharat Trains

The first Vande Bharat Train in India was introduced in 2019, and since its inception, it has not stopped. Vande Bharat trains have become a symbol of modernisation and efficiency in the Indian Railways.

Vande Bharat was launched in 2019 (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Bullet Train Services

Indian Railways are touching new milestones, and Bullet Train services will give India a new high. The first bullet train will be between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced plans to introduce bullet train services in all corners of India.

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• Indian Railways
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Indian Railways Marks 171st Anniversary Of First Train Journey From Mumbai To Thane. See Post

Indian railways started the first passenger train on april 16, 1853, from bori bunder to thane covering a distance of 34 km..

India's first passenger train was flagged off on 16 April, 171 years ago.

Indian Railways, often described as the "transport lifeline of the nation", is the fourth largest railway network in the world. From suburbs to urban transit, the Indian rail network covers the length and breadth of the country. Notably, Indian Railways started the first passenger train on April 16, 1853, from Bori Bunder to Thane covering a distance of 34 km. It was operated by three locomotives, named Sahib, Sultan and Sindh, and had thirteen carriages. Since then, the day has been marked as the Indian Rail Transport Day.

According to Indian Railways , the formal inauguration ceremony was performed on April 16, 1853, when 14 railway carriages carrying about 400 guests left Bori Bunder at 3.30 pm "amidst the loud applause of a vast multitude and to the salute of 21 guns." 

The Central Railway took to X to celebrate the occasion with an old photo and wrote, ''In 1853, exactly 171 years ago today, India marked a significant milestone in transportation history with the inaugural journey of the first train from Bori Bunder to Thane. This pivotal moment heralded a new era of connectivity that shaped the nation's future.'' 

The pic captures a scene from the early days of railways in India, featuring a train pulled by a single locomotive. 

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See the tweet here:

In 1853, exactly 171 years ago today, India marked a significant milestone in transportation history with the inaugural journey of the first train from Bori Bunder to Thane. This pivotal moment heralded a new era of connectivity that shaped the nation's future. #CentralRailway … pic.twitter.com/z61ynx0hnh — Central Railway (@Central_Railway) April 16, 2024

Since then, the largest public transporter, which is also one of the largest employers in the world has been serving the nation by carrying more than 2.3 crore railway passengers across all trains per day.

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Mumbai's Iconic Rail Journey: Central Railway Marks 171 Years Of Historic Service And Innovation

Mumbai: Celebrating a monumental milestone, Indian Railways commemorates 171 years of remarkable service, tracing its illustrious journey back to April 16, 1853, when the first train in Asia, traversing from Mumbai to Thane, embarked on its historic voyage from Boribunder, the present site of CSMT.

Over the years, the Great Indian Peninsula Railway, pioneer of this momentous journey, merged with the Indian Midland Railway Company in 1900, expanding its reach from Delhi in the North to Kanpur, Allahabad, and Nagpur in the Northeast and Raichur in the Southeast.

"This amalgamation paved the way for a network that not only connected cities but also facilitated the growth and development of the nation," said an official of CR.

"On 5 November 1951, Central Railway was formed by integrating Nizam State, Scindia State and Dholpur State Railways. Presently Central Railway with its 5 divisions i.e. Mumbai, Bhusaval, Nagpur, Solapur and Pune has a network over 4,275 route km in the states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. CR serves these states through 466 stations," he said.

"From the first train in April 1853 to the most modern train of India, Vande Bharat Express, Railways have successfully expanded its network to the huge area in last 171 years. Presently Central Railway runs 6 Vande Bharat Express trains, viz. CSMT-Sainagar Shirdi, CSMT-Solapur, CSMT-Madgaon, CSMT-Jalna, Nagpur-Bilaspur & Nagpur-Indore Vande Bharat," said another senior officer of CR.

According to Nila, Central Railway is also at the forefront with achievement of many firsts. Some notable achievements among them are: first Shatabdi Express, first Jan Shatabdi Express, first Tejas Express to name a few. It has definitely come a long way with some of the oldest trains like Punjab Mail still running and popular among its passengers even after 100 years.

"Running the first electric train service in India between Bombay VT and Kurla Harbour on 3rd Feb 1925 laid the foundation of Electrification of Railways and Mumbai's suburban services which today have become the lifeline of Mumbai city.

Today, Central Railway has achieved 100% electrification and the suburban network has also steadily increased. Presently Central Railway has five suburban corridors.

The suburban services which started from 3 coaches have gradually increased to 9 coaches, 12 coaches and some services with 15 coaches. AC suburban services have also been introduced to make travel more convenient and comfortable" further added officials.

According to CR, the originating loading which was 16.58 million tonnes at the time of formation, has now increased to 89.24 million tonnes in the year 2023-24 which is the best ever.

Apart from this, infrastructure works like construction of new railway lines, doubling, construction of bridges, construction of new stations etc. are being done at a fast pace which includes the highest volume of 348 kms of Multi-tracking work achieved in this financial year

Apart from that Neral-Matheran Light Railway has also completed its glorious 117 years ( 15 April 1907). The Neral-Matheran railway construction started in 1904 and the two feet gauge line finally opened to traffic in 1907.

As a precautionary measure, the line used to be closed during the monsoons, however, shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran were introduced from 29th September 2012, to run even in monsoon.

Central Railway has undertaken several infrastructural works on this section to ensure a safe and comfortable ride to its passengers and services on Neral – Matheran Narrow Gauge line.

"From 1853 to the present, Central Railway has always been and will always strive to be the pioneer in providing the best services and is committed to providing a safe, comfortable and convenient journey to its esteemed passengers" said an official.

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

From steam engine to vande bharat: tracing the 171-year journey of indian railways since april 16, 1853.

Indian Railways, established in 1853, boasts a remarkable 171-year journey shaping India's transportation landscape. Starting with the Bombay-Thane route, it rapidly expanded, witnessed electrification, and embraced modernization through reorganization and technology. PM Modi's vision includes expanding Vande Bharat trains nationwide and introducing bullet trains, exemplifying a commitment to innovation. With substantial investments and proactive surveys, Indian Railways is poised for transformative growth, continuing to be a vital link in India's development story.

— AshwiniVaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw)

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About the Author

Manthan Mehta has been a journalist since 1997, and is currently Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Mumbai. He covers a wide range of subjects ranging from insurance to local crimes and civic issues. Manthan reads and watches cricket matches in his free time. Read More

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