In 2025, the top 10 scenic train routes to travel in India

The huge railway network of India offers some of the world’s most scenic and unique train rides. Myriads of excursions from the snow-clad mountains in the north to the serene beaches in the south, leave them with breathtaking experiences on track via Indian Railways. Planning a railway adventure for 2025? Here’s the top 10 train routes you need to hop aboard.

Toy Train: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, or Toy Train, is a ride travelers must experience. Completing a distance of 88 km, this narrow-gauge railway covers tea gardens, verdant forests, and the soaring Kanchenjunga pinnacle making for spectacular views. Slow-moving convenience, soaking with scenic landscapes; a nostalgic romantic trip.

Kalka Shimla Toy Train: The Himalayan Queen

Another Unesco-listed train track, the Kalka-Shimla toy train , is known for its old-world allure and stunning mountain vistas. Along 96 km, the journey traverses through 103 tunnels, over 800 bridges and several spectacular curves. The colonial-era train, which began operating in 1903, still delights travelers with its vintage carriages and sweeping views of the Shivalik Hills.

Konkan Railway: Mumbai to Goa

One of the most beautiful coastal train journeys in India is the Mumbai-Goa train journey. The Konkan Railway is a delight for the eyes, with the landscape of the Western Ghats, green forests, waterfalls, and many tunnels and bridges. The view of the city through reverse-side is just magnificent and getting through the highway in monsoon is a different experience altogether, as everything turns green in the rain.

Matheran Hill Railway: Neral to Matheran

Matheran is the best accessed via Matheran Hill Railway, as it is popular hill station in Maharashtra. The mesmerizing 21-km experience on a narrow-gauge rail track with numerous zigzag curves, dense green woods and misty hills. Matheran is an eco-sensitive zone, and hence, no vehicles are allowed; this train ride is the only way to explore the pristine beauty of the region.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Mettupalayam to Ooty

Another Unesco World Heritage Site, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway provides one of the steepest rail journeys in Asia. 47 kilometers long, the train ride from Mettupalayam to Ooty ascends more than 2,200 meters (more than 7,200 feet) above sea level, and the views of lush tea gardens, dense forests, and quaint hillside villages are spectacular. This exciting ride is made even more memorable with a steam locomotive rattling down the tracks.

Shatabdi Express: Bengaluru to Mysuru

If you are looking for a short but scenic train journey in South India, the Shatabdi Express from Bengaluru to Mysuru is the perfect option. Traveling a distance of approximately 140 km in a little over two hours, this tour covers beautiful countryside, green fields, and historical sites. This train guarantees a unique experience, combining comfort and luxury, what makes it ideal for travelers who like a bit of speed with a side of scenic beauty.

The Kashmir Valley Railway: Jammu to Baramulla

Kashmir Valley Railway: One of the most challenging railway projects in India gives you an experience of a lifetime. Bordering Jammu to Baramulla, this route goes through the incredible sights of the Kashmir Valley. Scenic to the highest degree, the train ride takes you through snow-covered peaks, ancient chasms, and sparkling rivers. This route is marked by the famous Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world.

Desert Queen: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

Similar must do things, for desert sceneries lovers, is the train from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur which is something to experience. You will be taken through the golden sand dunes of Rajasthan, scenic villages, and ancient forts on this journey. Another highlight of the experience is the sunrise and sunset hues that can be seen in the desert. There are endless possibilities of exploration upon arrival: Discover Rajasthan's celebratory heritage.

The Barak Valley Express: Guwahati to Silchar

The train cut through Assam’s lush green tea estates, deep forests and the mighty Barak River, all of which provide a breathtaking journey from Guwahati to Silchar. A 380-km route, it whisks passengers into northeastern India', the centre of the country' biodiversity. The scenic beauty of the region and glimpses into tribal life make it one of the most underrated train journeys in India.

Vivek Express: Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari

The Vivek Express is the longest train route in the country from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, covering a distance of approximately 4273 km. This journey, which takes about 80 hours, gives passengers a glimpse of India’s varied terrain from the tea gardens of Assam to the beaches of Kanyakumari. It is the final frontier, of train rides, for those who seek to take in India’s geographical and cultural diversity in a single go.

Conclusion

Traveling by train in India is more than just a way to reach your destination; it gives you a glimpse of India's diverse landscapes, colorful history and lively culture. From the nature lover, to the history buff, and even the adventurer in you, these train routes will invite you to an unforgettable experience. Hopefully this list of train journeys gives you a little inspiration when you’re planning your travels for 2025, be sure to pencil in at least one of these iconic express routes for an incredible experience!

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