India’s railway network is one of the largest in the world, weaving through mountains, deserts, forests, and coastlines. Among these routes are India’s most scenic train journeys you must take — rail adventures that offer a window into the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.
From the misty hills of the Himalayas to the palm-lined shores of Kerala, these rides promise not just travel but unforgettable memories.
For more travel inspiration and authentic experiences, explore the official Indian tourism site, which highlights the country’s most iconic routes and destinations worth adding to your travel list.
The Magic of Train Travel in India
Traveling by train in India is more than transportation — it’s an experience. As the rhythmic motion of the train unfolds the changing scenery, travelers witness rural life, local traditions, and nature’s raw beauty.
India’s most scenic train journeys you must take combine nostalgia with adventure, blending the romance of rail travel with the charm of slow discovery. Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a backpacker, India’s trains offer something for everyone.
1. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – The Toy Train Ride
Fondly called the Toy Train, this UNESCO World Heritage railway winds through West Bengal’s lush tea gardens and misty hills. Starting from New Jalpaiguri and ending in Darjeeling, it covers a breathtaking 88 kilometers.
This journey is among India’s most scenic train journeys you must take, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and the world’s third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga. The gentle chug of the steam engine adds old-world charm, making it a must-experience route for travel lovers.
2. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway – A Ride Through the Blue Hills
Located in Tamil Nadu, this mountain railway connects Mettupalayam to Ooty through tunnels, bridges, and dense forests. It’s another UNESCO-listed marvel and one of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take.
The Nilgiri route climbs over 2,000 meters above sea level, offering postcard-perfect views of valleys and waterfalls. Each turn reveals a new shade of green, making this ride a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
3. The Konkan Railway – A Coastal Dream
If you love ocean views, coconut palms, and lush hills, the Konkan Railway is the perfect escape. Stretching between Mumbai and Mangalore, it covers more than 700 kilometers of India’s western coastline.
This train journey crosses 2,000 bridges and 90 tunnels, making it one of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take. Travelers pass through picturesque villages, rivers, and backwaters, all while the Arabian Sea glimmers nearby.
4. The Palace on Wheels – Royalty on Rails
Luxury meets heritage aboard the Palace on Wheels, one of India’s most iconic trains. Originating from Delhi, this royal journey covers Rajasthan’s grand cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur.
From regal interiors to gourmet dining, the Palace on Wheels defines luxury travel experiences in India. Passengers enjoy a week of royal hospitality, visiting forts, palaces, and desert dunes. It truly deserves its place among India’s most scenic train journeys you must take.
5. The Kangra Valley Railway – The Hidden Gem of Himachal
This lesser-known route runs from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar through the heart of Himachal Pradesh. The Kangra Valley Railway passes over 900 bridges, offering spectacular views of the Dhauladhar range.
Unlike other mountain trains, this one travels at a slow pace, allowing travelers to soak in every scene. With snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and tiny hill villages, it’s easily one of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take for peace and serenity.
6. The Matheran Hill Railway – A Short But Sweet Escape
For those seeking a weekend getaway from Mumbai, the Matheran Hill Railway is ideal. Running from Neral to Matheran, this tiny narrow-gauge line offers panoramic valley views and fresh mountain air.
Though short, it’s among India’s most scenic train journeys you must take for its charm and tranquility. The toy train passes through dense forests and sharp curves, ending at Matheran — a hill station with no vehicles, only nature.
7. The Kalka-Shimla Railway – A Journey Through the Clouds
Another Himalayan gem, the Kalka-Shimla route, is a UNESCO World Heritage line built during the British era. Covering 96 kilometers, it climbs through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges, and countless breathtaking bends.
Often called the “crown jewel” of Indian hill railways, it’s undoubtedly one of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take. Travelers are treated to views of pine forests, mountain streams, and colonial-era stations frozen in time.
8. The Desert Queen – Jaisalmer to Jodhpur
Experience Rajasthan’s golden sands aboard the Desert Queen. This train connects the royal city of Jaisalmer with Jodhpur, passing through shimmering deserts, forts, and rural landscapes.
It’s one of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take if you love desert sunsets and local culture. The golden hue of the dunes during twilight creates a cinematic experience like no other.
9. The Himalayan Queen – Kalka to Shimla (Day Ride)
For travelers short on time, the Himalayan Queen offers a shorter but equally magical version of the Kalka-Shimla route. It’s famous for its large windows, friendly service, and the breathtaking view of mountains rolling by.
This short ride perfectly captures the beauty of India’s most scenic train journeys you must take, blending nostalgia with modern comfort.
Why Train Journeys Are Special in India
Unlike flights, trains allow travelers to slow down and truly connect with the land. You see life unfold outside your window — farmers in the fields, children waving at the train, and temples rising from distant hills.
Every route among India’s most scenic train journeys you must take offers a unique perspective of the country’s soul. It’s travel that moves at the rhythm of discovery, turning every mile into a memory.
Tips for Planning Your Scenic Train Adventure
- Book early: Popular trains like the Palace on Wheels and toy trains fill up months in advance.
- Travel light: Mountain railways often have limited luggage space.
- Choose the right season: The monsoon enhances routes like the Konkan Railway, while winter suits the Himalayas.
- Use trusted planners: Visit Pack2Escape for curated rail journeys and adventure trips across India.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about watching India unfold through a train window. From royal luxury to hill station nostalgia, India’s most scenic train journeys you must take remind us that the journey matters as much as the destination.
So pack your bags, choose your route, and let Pack2Escape plan your next unforgettable rail adventure across the heart of India.