Here Are India's 10 Most Scenic Train Routes

Experiencing a beautiful destination for a vacation is fantastic, but embarking on a journey with breathtaking views is truly remarkable. Indian Railways provides several scenic routes that captivate with their beauty and allure. These train journeys traverse through majestic mountains, serene lakes, stunning waterfalls, and lush, green forests. You should definitely try it at least once to enjoy an exhilarating and magnificent experience.

# Kalka to Shimla – A Scenic Train Journey

For those who revel in valley vistas, the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla train route offers a truly extraordinary travel experience. Spanning 96 km, this picturesque route ascends through 102 tunnels and 82 bridges, winding through stunning valleys, exhilarating curves, and forests of deodar, rhododendron, pine, and oak. Riding on a narrow-gauge toy train, you can choose from various options including the Kalka-Shimla Passenger, Kalka-Shimla Rail Motor, Shivalik Deluxe Express, Kalka Shimla NG Express, Him Darshan Express, and Himalayan Queen. The train moves slowly, making stops at charming stations like Taksal, Koti, Sonwara, and Barog.

# Jammu to Baramulla – A Breathtaking Rail Journey

In the heavenly landscape of Kashmir, the train journey from Jammu to Baramulla provides stunning views that will soothe your soul and offer unmatched tranquility. This route meanders through beautiful valleys, majestic mountains, and serene landscapes, crossing 700 bridges and passing alongside the Chenab River and cascading waterfalls. Covering 356 km in about 13 hours, the journey is divided into sections from Jammu to Katra, Banihal, and then to Baramulla. While there are no direct trains, the segmented journey is well worth the effort.

# Mettupalayam to Ooty – Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The UNESCO World Heritage Nilgiri Mountain Railway route from Mettupalayam to Ooty offers panoramic views that will stay with you forever. If you're planning a visit to the romantic destination of Ooty, taking this train is the perfect way to experience the lush forests, tea plantations, and scenic valleys. The 46 km journey to Udagamandalam (Ooty) station passes through Coonoor, Aravankadu, Lovedale, and more.

# Mandapam to Rameshwaram – A Scenic Island Ride

The 19 km rail ride from Mandapam to the island town of Rameshwaram offers a picturesque experience. Rameshwaram, located in the Gulf of Mannar, is known for its holy significance as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Trains like the Rameshwaram Express, Rameshwaram Express Special, and a few weekly express trains operate directly between Mandapam and Rameshwaram, providing a unique island journey.

# Guwahati to Silchar – A Nature Lover’s Delight

For nature enthusiasts, the Guwahati to Silchar route is a gem. Spanning 398 km, this route features lush greenery, rich flora and fauna, and untouched beauty, crossing the Jatinga River. Trains such as Silchar Express, Kanchenjunga Express, Aronai Express, and Sampark Kranti Express connect Guwahati and Silchar directly.

# Jaisalmer to Jodhpur – The Desert Queen Route

In Rajasthan, the train journey from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur provides an exceptional experience through the barren desert land, dry forests, and dunes. Trains like the Ranikhet Express, Sabarmati Express, and Shalimar Express connect major cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Ludhiana, and Jammu.

# Matheran to Neral – Maharashtra’s Heritage

Matheran, a pollution-free hill station in Maharashtra where even bicycles are banned, offers a unique train ride to Neral. This 25 km route features a slow, zigzagging path that adds a special charm to your trip.

# Karjat to Lonavala – Western Ghats Scenic Ride

The Karjat to Lonavala train route in the Western Ghats presents stunning views of lush hills, valleys, waterfalls, dense forests, and quaint villages. This 28 km journey is served by trains such as Ahimsa Superfast Express, Pune Express, Indrayani Express, and Koyna Express.

# Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley – Tunnel Adventures

For those exploring South India, the train ride from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh takes you through numerous tunnels and loops, providing a mesmerizing journey. Passenger trains are available for this scenic adventure.

# New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling – A Serene Ride

The narrow-gauge railway from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling offers soothing views of Himalayan hills, lush greenery, tea gardens, and forests. This 83-kilometre journey is remarkable, featuring loops where the train circles back to climb a 20 ft height, and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.