A vacation that begins with boarding a train and making the journey an experience in itself reminds us of our travels on the Indian Railways. The window becomes the screen, offering the scenic beauty of the trip while halting between stations to embrace the culture and sights. The rhythmic sound of wheels running over tracks works as a symphony to the ears. This mode of transportation has a unique characteristic that sets it apart from any other.
Railway journeys have come a long way; earlier, their role was confined to being an immersive means of transport, but now they have transformed into luxurious hotels with all the amenities you would find in a premium resort. Travellers now board not only to reach their destination but also for the excitement of the journey and the beautiful scenery they encounter along the way.
While these opulent railway journeys entice travellers from all over India and the world, the mesmerising experience of the mountain railways of India, recognised by UNESCO, continues to attract tourists with their century-old masterful engineering, toy trains, picturesque views and colonial infrastructure. Exploring railway journeys that promise not just accommodation but lifetime memories, here are the five must-take railway trips in India.
Palace on Wheels and Maharajas' Express — for when the train is the holiday
Palace on Wheels, Rajasthan
India’s first luxury heritage train came into operation in 1982 to offer an opulent and immersive experience to its passengers. Unlike typical railway journeys, this travel experience feels like a stay in a resort, where staff take care of all your needs while you enjoy the journey in your private cabin. Its services and amenities include two restaurant cars serving Indian and continental dishes, a bar, a spa and lounges.
The 8-day and 7-night loop journey begins from Delhi and covers Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra, with excursions to heritage sites such as Agra Fort, the Taj Mahal and many others. While immersing yourself in a railway journey needs no specific timeframe, book the trip during the cooler months to elevate your experience.
Maharajas' Express
Travelling across more than 1,300 km, the Maharajas' Express ensures this slow travel experience is both luxurious and immersive. It has received multiple World Travel Awards and offers a high-end experience while providing a journey anchored in comfort and premium facilities. It offers accommodation in five different categories, along with the regional and continental restaurant, The Rang Mahal, the Safari Bar, private butler services and a lounge.
The trips cover destinations such as Agra, Ranthambore, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Varanasi and Khajuraho, depending on the itinerary, and halt for brief guided visits to popular sites, turning the journey into a memorable excursion.
UNESCO-recognised Mountain Railways of India
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Built in the late 19th century and listed as part of the UNESCO-recognised Mountain Railways of India in 1999, this narrow-gauge train offers an aesthetically pleasing journey. It covers approximately 88 km from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, ascending to an elevation of around 2,258 metres above sea level. The railway is known for its zigzags, reverses and loops, which allow the train to navigate the steep mountain terrain.
The most majestic scenery you encounter is at Batasia Loop near Ghoom, where the train runs in a complete circle. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the train and, on clear mornings, witness the Kanchenjunga range. Besides this, steam locomotives are still used on some services, becoming a centre of attention and enticing travellers to experience its engineering brilliance.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway – Tamil Nadu
Based in the state of Tamil Nadu, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is another UNESCO-recognised mountain railway of India that covers around 46 km from Mettupalayam to Ooty. One of India’s oldest mountain railways, it was completed in 1908 and continues to use steam locomotives on parts of the journey. As it gradually ascends through the steeper terrain, it employs a rare rack-and-pinion system to overcome the steep railway gradients.
During the journey, passengers encounter stunning scenery of dense forests, tea plantations, waterfalls and charming hill stations that are sure to mesmerise tourists. As this trip focuses on a leisurely experience built around the nostalgic beauty of the train and scenery, it makes a perfect choice for a vacation for families, couples and individuals.
Kalka–Shimla Railway
Built during the British colonial era and inaugurated in 1903, the Kalka–Shimla Railway is another UNESCO-recognised Mountain Railway of India that covers around 96 km from Kalka to Shimla. This narrow-gauge toy train gradually ascends through the hills, passing through dense forests, picturesque valleys, tunnels and bridges, offering travellers a nostalgic and immersive experience.
The journey is known for its remarkable engineering, with numerous tunnels and bridges along the route. As the train slowly climbs towards Shimla, passengers encounter beautiful views of pine and deodar forests, mountain landscapes and hill settlements. Its leisurely pace and scenic surroundings make it a perfect railway journey for those seeking a peaceful mountain vacation.
