Iconic Train Routes Worthy of Any Bucket List

There is something verifiably enchanting approximately prepare travel that no other mode of transportation can coordinate. The musical clickety-clack of wheels on tracks, all-encompassing windows surrounding ever-changing scenes, and the tender influence that quiets you into unwinding

Whether you're envisioning steam-powered ventures through dim Himalayan crests, extravagant rides over endless forsaken scenery, these famous rail ventures guarantee to convey experiences worth including in your travel bucket list.



1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (The Toy Train)

The UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway climbs through tea plantations

Travel Information

The 'Toy Train' travels from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling over approximately 88 kilometers. This route traverses some of India's stunning mountain scenery and takes 7-8 hours in total; however, joy rides from Darjeeling to Ghum and back are popular among travelers.

Did You Know?

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999 and is one of the first railways to receive this designation. The DHR has constantly operated since 1881; since that time, there have been steam locomotives regularly running the line that are over 100 years old!

Pro Tip

Make sure to book the steam-powered heritage train at least 30 days in advance on the IRCTC website. If you want the best views, order your seats on the right side of the train on the ascent, and the left side of the train on the descent. The best time of year for this trip is October - May for visibility.

2. Kalka-Shimla Railway (Himalayan Queen)

The Himalayan Ruler crossing one of its 102 burrows and 82 bridges

Travel Information

This 96-kilometer narrow-gauge railroad connects Kalka within the foothills to the slope station of Shimla, the former summer capital of British India. The travel takes roughly 5-6 hours and passes through 102 burrows and crosses 82 bridges, making it a building wonder.

Did You Know?

The Kalka-Shimla Railroad holds a Guinness World Record for advertising the steepest rise in height within the space of 96 kilometers. Built in 1903, this UNESCO World Legacy location highlights the longest burrow at Barog (1,143 meters), which is said to be frequented by the phantom of its design!

Pro Tip

Select the Himalayan Ruler or the Shivalik Exclusive Express for day ventures, as they offer the finest sees. The Rail Engine Car, in spite of the fact that it is more costly, offers an interesting encounter with fair 14 seats and expansive windows. Pack a light coat as temperatures drop altogether as you climb higher.

3. Mumbai to Goa (Konkan Railway)

The picturesque route of the Konkan Railway from Mumbai to Goa

Travel Information

The 590-kilometer distance from Mumbai to Goa takes you from a bustling metropolitan city to an absolute beach paradise. There are several trains on this route, including Mandovi Express and Jan Shatabdi Express, with travel times of 8-12 hours depending on the train.

Did You Know?

The Konkan Railway is one of the greatest engineering feats in India with 92 tunnels and more than 2,000 bridges. The route was constructed in 8 years through the rugged terrain of the Western Ghats! During the monsoon you can see many waterfalls that are temporary along the trip!

Pro Tip

Travel during the day to appreciate the view; the Jan Shatabdi Express is recommended as the train has large windows and it runs during the day! If you book a window seat on the right when you are traveling from Mumbai to Goa, you will have spectacular views! The views are especially beautiful in the months after the monsoon season (September-November)!



5. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway in UNESCO heritage status tea plantations 


Travel Information

At a distance of 46 Kilometers, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway connects the base of Mettupalayam in the plains to the hill station of Ooty (aka Udhagamandalam), and passes through Coonoor. The rack-and-pinion of the railway ascends from 326 meters to 2203 meters above sea level in about 4.5 hours (which is, I know, doesn't sound like real tim,e but just remember that it must be the steepest railway line in the world to make it such an impractical journey)

Did you know?

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (as you might guess) is the only rack railway in India, and the railway (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) was constructed in 1908 with some particularly interesting rolling stock. This railway featured in Bollywood's classic "Dil Se", with a famous song "Chaiyya Chaiyya" filmed on top of a moving set of carriages.

Pro Tip:

Book your tickets a long way in advance as they are easy to sell and peak demand (especially April-June and September-November). The first class on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway has more comfortable seating and better views. If you are travelling via Coonoor (which you probably will), consider breaking the journey, exploring the tea plantations and factories before heading to Ooty.

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