7 Dream Destinations to Add to
Jan 02, 2025
Here are the iconic train journeys in India for the routes you mentioned, each offering a unique travel experience:
Route: Mumbai to Mangalore, passing through Goa
Duration: Approx. 12–15 hours
Highlights: The Konkan Railway is renowned for its scenic beauty, winding through the Western Ghats, lush green forests, and along the coastline of the Arabian Sea. The journey takes you through beautiful landscapes of rivers, beaches, and small towns, making it one of India’s most picturesque train rides. The train often passes through the vibrant state of Goa, providing glimpses of the coastal paradise.
Route: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours
Highlights: The journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer takes you into the heart of the Rajasthan desert. This train ride is a fascinating experience as you travel through the golden landscapes, crossing vast stretches of sand dunes and sparse desert villages. Jaisalmer, also known as the “Golden City,” is famous for its majestic fort and intricate architecture. The train itself, the Thar Express, connects Rajasthan’s urban charm with the stark beauty of the Thar Desert.
Route: Kalka to Shimla
Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: The Kalka-Shimla Railway, also known as the Himalayan Queen or the Shimla Toy Train, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This narrow-gauge railway takes you on a scenic journey through the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh. As the train winds through 102 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and through lush forests, passengers are treated to stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, apple orchards, and quaint colonial towns.
Route: Ooty to Coonoor
Duration: 1 hour
Highlights: The Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a short but unforgettable ride through the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. The toy train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travels through lush forests, tea plantations, and stunning landscapes. The train ride is a nostalgic journey through the scenic beauty of the hills and offers sweeping views of the valley and surrounding hills, making it one of India’s most charming mountain train rides.
Route: Srinagar to Baramulla
Duration: Approx. 1.5–2 hours
Highlights: The Srinagar-Baramulla Railway is a scenic and peaceful journey through the Kashmir Valley. The train ride takes you through picturesque landscapes, passing by the famous Dal Lake, saffron fields, and the majestic Pir Panjal Range. This railway offers a glimpse into the rural life of Kashmir, with views of the idyllic countryside and the beautiful Himalayan foothills.
Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling
Duration: 7 hours
Highlights: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic narrow-gauge railway climbs through the steep hills of West Bengal, offering breathtaking views of tea gardens, lush forests, and the towering Kanchenjunga. The journey from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is a delightful experience, with the train slowly making its way through the charming colonial-era towns, bringing passengers up to the famous hill station of Darjeeling.
These journeys not only offer breathtaking landscapes but also provide a taste of India’s cultural richness and natural beauty.