13 Best Scenic Train Routes in India: Journey Through Paradise

Embark on an unforgettable voyage through the heart of India as we unveil the “Best Scenic Train Routes in India.” From the majestic Himalayas to the serene backwaters of Kerala, these routes offer breathtaking views, cultural insights, and a true taste of the country’s diversity.

Here Are 13 Best Scenic Train Routes In India

top 10 beautiful train journeys in india

Kalka to Shimla

The Kalka-Shimla train route on our list is the best scenic train routes in India. It offers a unique and extraordinary journey for valley enthusiasts.

This 96 km scenic route takes you uphill, passing through 102 tunnels, 82 bridges, picturesque valleys, thrilling curves. This route takes 5 hours to complete.

It also holds a Guinness World Record for its tracks at the steepest altitude. In 2008, UNESCO recognized the Kalka-Shimla railway line as part of its Mountain Railways of India World Heritage site.

• What is the route of Kalka-Shimla line? Kalka, Taksal, Gumman, Koti, Sonwara, Dharampur, Kumarhatti, Barog, Solan, Salogra, Kandaghat, Kanoh, Kathleegat, Shoghi, Taradevi, Jutoh, Summer Hill and Shimla.
• What is the best time to visit Kalka-Shimla route? Winters around December
• Which trains pass through Kalka-Shimla route? Kalka – Shimla Shivalik Deluxe Express, Kalka – Shimla Himalayan Queen, Kalka – Shimla NG Express, KALKA – SHIMLA NG Passenger.

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Jammu to Baramulla

Nestled in the breathtaking paradise of Kashmir, the train route from Jammu to Baramulla is places on our list of best scenic train routes in India.

You’ll also catch glimpses of the Chenab River and cascading waterfalls, as nature’s beauty unfolds before your eyes along with 700 bridge built for this route.

This 13-hour train journey covers a 356 km long route and is well worth taking for the scenic splendors it offers.

• What is the route of Jammu to Baramulla line? NA
• What is the best time to visit Jammu to Baramulla route? Winteraround November to February.
• Which trains pass through Jammu to Baramulla route? NA

Mettupalayam to Ooty

The Mettupalayam to Ooty train route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in the scenic Nilgiri Mountain range.

A direct passenger train covers the 46 km distance from Mettupalayam to Ooty railway station, which is officially known as Udagamandalam railway station (UAM) in about 5 hours.

The train route passes through Coonoor, Aravankandu, Lovedale, and other charming stops along the way making it one of the most beautiful train journeys in India.

This journey is like stepping back in time as you traverse the valley passing over 250 bridges and through 16 tunnels.

• What is the route of Mettupalayam to Ooty line? Mettupalayam, Kallar, Baraliyar, Runnymede, Glendale, Coonoor , Wellington, Aravankadu, Ketti, Lovedale, Ooty
• What is the best time to visit Mettupalayam to Ooty route? This route can be visited anytime of the year.
• Which trains pass through Mettupalayam to Ooty route? Mettupalayam – Udagamandalam MG Passenger Special.

Mandapam to Rameshwaram

Embark on a scenic 19 km rail journey from Mandapam, a town in the Ramanathapuram district, to the sacred island town of Rameshwaram. This journey takes 1 hour to complete.

This route is considered one of the most thrilling and perilous in India due to its passage over a narrow bridge making it a candidate for our list of best scenic train routes in India.

This bridge, the second longest in India, connects Mandapam in Tamil Nadu to the enchanting island of Rameswaram.

• What is the route of Mandapam to Rameshwaram line? Mandapam Junction, Ramanathapuram, Valantaraval, Uchippuli, Mukundarayapuram, Rameswaram.
• What is the best time to visit Mandapam to Rameshwaram route? It can be visited anytime of the year.
• Which trains pass through Mandapam to Rameshwaram route? TPJ RMM Express, Chennai Egmore Tirunelveli Special, Chennai Egmore Rameswaram Boat Mail Express.

Guwahati to Silchar

A tour to the Northeastern region of India is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts. This scenic route spans a distance of 398 kilometers and takes you through the mesmerizing River Jatinga.

The journey is a visual treat as it winds through the lush green Assam Valley, picturesque tea plantations, beautiful Haflong valley, and Barak Valley.

• What is the route of Guwahati to Silchar line? Guwahati Junction, Jagiroad, Chaparmukh Junction, Lumding Junction, Badarpur Junction, Silchar
• What is the best time to visit Guwahati to Silchar route? It can be visited anytime.
• Which trains pass through Guwahati to Silchar route? Guwahati – Badarpur Tourist Express, Guwahati – Silchar Express (PT).

Matheran to Neral

Matheran is a mesmerizing hill station in Maharashtra. To minimize the pollution no means of transport are allowed other than trains.

The 25 km slow rail journey from Matheran to Neral follows a zigzag route that you simply can’t afford to miss.

This slow paced journey is perfect to enjoy green lush environment, cool breeze and capturing perfect pics.

• What is the route of Matheran to Neral line? Matheran, Jummapatti, Waterpipe, Aman Lodge, Matheran, Neral.
• What is the best time to visit Matheran to Neral route? Monsoon around July to August.
• Which trains pass through Matheran to Neral route? Matheran – Neral Passenger

Karjat to Lonavala

In the Western Ghats, another captivating rail journey awaits you, running from Karjat to Lonavala.

This incredible train route spans 28 km and offers breathtaking views of the lush green hills, Western Ghats valleys, enchanting waterfalls, dense forests, and charming villages.

This train ride is all about soaking in the stunning scenery, and as both Karjat and Lonavala are hill stations accessible by train, it’s one of the most adventurous and scenic ways to reach these charming destinations.

• What is the route of Karjat to Lonavala line? Karjat Junction, Palasdhari, Kelavli, Dolavli, Lowjee, Khopoli, Waterpipe, Jummapatti, Adavali, Chowk, Khandala, Lonavala.
• What is the best time to visit Karjat to Lonavala route? Monsoon around July to August.
• Which trains pass through Karjat to Lonavala route? BHUSAVAL – PUNE Express, MUMBAI CSMT – PUNE Pragati SF Express, MUMBAI CSMT – PUNE Indrayani SF Express, MUMBAI CSMT – MGR CHENNAI CENTRAL SF Express, MUMBAI CSMT – PUNE Deccan Queen SF Exp.

New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling

The New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling narrow-gauge railway route is a popular and enchanting journey nestled in the lap of nature. This 83 kilometer journey takes about 8 hours to complete.

This railway line has earned a place on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites, renowned for its iconic loops where the train completes full circular tracks and ascends 20 feet in height.

The route is adorned with lush forests, picturesque tea gardens, refreshing mountain air, and the awe-inspiring snow-capped peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga, creating a truly surreal and unforgettable voyage.

• What is the route of New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling line? New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Siliguri Junction, Siliguri Town, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Gayabari, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Jorebungalow, Ghum, Darjeeling.
• What is the best time to visit New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling route? It can be visited throughout the year.
• Which trains pass through New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling route? DHR Batasia Loop Toy Train

Mumbai-Goa

The Konkan Railway route is a stunning journey that unfolds the natural beauty of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, captivating curves, river bridges, picturesque lakes, and waterfalls.

This route is about 697km long which total takes about 22 hours (max.). This iconic railway primarily links Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka.

On this journey you will get a chance to witness the beauty of the Sahyadri mountains, Arabian Sea, serene lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

• What is the route of Mumbai-Goa line? Mumbai CST, Mumbai Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Thane, Panvel, Roha, Mangaon, Khed, Chiplun, Savarda, Sindhudurg, Kankavali, Kudal, Sawantwadi Road, Thivim, Karmali, Madgaon.
• What is the best time to visit Mumbai-Goa route? Monsoon around August to October.
• Which trains pass through Mumbai-Goa route? Mangala Lakshadweep Express, Netravati Express, Konkan Kanya Express, Matsyagandha Express, Jan Shatabdi Express, Goa Express, Mumbai CST – Mangalore Express, Gandhidham – Nagercoil Express.

Pathankot-Jogindernagar

The Kangra Valley Railway, nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, offers a mesmerizing train journey through the picturesque Kangra Valley throughtout its 164km ride.

This route meanders through terraced fields and charming villages, with the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range providing a breathtaking backdrop.

This railway line is on the cusp of earning UNESCO World Heritage status, making it one of India’s best-kept secrets.

• What is the route of Pathankot-Jogindernagar line? Pathankot Cantt, Jwalamukhi Road, Kangra Mandir, Nagrota, Panchrukhi, Palampur Himachal, Chamunda Marg, Baijnath Paprola, Ahju, Jogindernagar.
• What is the best time to visit Pathankot-Jogindernagar route? Winter around December to March.
• Which trains pass through Pathankot-Jogindernagar route? PATHANKOT – JOGINDER NAGAR Passenger

Jaisalmer-Jodhpur

The Desert Queen rail route is a captivating journey that immerses you in the stark beauty of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan.

This train route traverses the arid desert land, taking you through dry forests and wastelands, offering a unique perspective on the desert’s natural and cultural elements.

Along the way, you’ll come across scattered settlements where locals don their traditional attire, offering you a glimpse into their way of life making it one of the best scenic train routes in India.

• What is the route of Jaisalmer-Jodhpur line? Jaisalmer, Pokaran, Ramdevra, Ashapura Gomat, Phalodi, Kolayat, Mathania, Mandor, Jodhpur Junction.
• What is the best time to visit Jaisalmer-Jodhpur route? October to March or Winters
• Which trains pass through Jaisalmer-Jodhpur route? Jaisalmer – Jodhpur Express, Jaisalmer – Bandra Terminus SF Express, Jaisalmer – Howrah Superfast Express, Jaisalmer – Delhi Sarai Rohilla Express, Jaisalmer – Jaipur Express, Jaisalmer – Bikaner SF Express, Runicha Express.

Kanyakumari-Trivandrum

The train journey from Kanyakumari to Trivandrum, spanning a mere 2 hours, is among the most picturesque routes in India.

As you traverse this route, you’ll be treated to a feast for your senses. Lush coconut trees, swaying palm trees, expansive paddy fields, and forested areas with abundant greenery will surround you.

• What is the route of Kanyakumari-Trivandrum line? Kanyakumari, Nagercoil Junction, Eraniel, Kulitthurai, Neyyattinkara, Trivandrum Pettah, Trivandrum Central.
• What is the best time to visit Kanyakumari-Trivandrum route? Winters around November.
• Which trains pass through Kanyakumari-Trivandrum route? Kanyakumari Express, Guruvayur Express, Island Express, Ananthapuri Express, Parasuram Express, Jayanti Janata Express, Kanyakumari-Bangalore Express.

Bhubaneshwar-Brahmapur

The highlight of this journey is undoubtedly Lake Chilika, the second-largest lake in India and a favored destination for birdwatchers.

This 3-hour scenic train route from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur is a nature lover’s delight, with the Eastern Ghats on one side and Chilka Lake on the other.

Chilka Lake, with its dark waters, happens to be the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian subcontinent.

• What is the route of Bhubaneshwar-Brahmapur line? Bhubaneshwar, Khurda Road Junction, Kalupara Ghat, Balugaon, Chilka, Rambha, Ganjam, Chatrapur, Brahmapur.
• What is the best time to visit Bhubaneshwar-Brahmapur route? November to Februaury
• Which trains pass through Bhubaneshwar-Brahmapur route? Prashanti Express, Puri – Okha Express, Kalinga Utkal Express, Tapaswini Express, Visakha Express, East Coast Express.

This concludes our article on 13 Best Scenic Train Routes in India. We hope you find this article useful. Make sure to like and share this article and don’t forget to comment down your suggestions below.

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