All aboard for one of the coolest ways to explore India!

There’s nothing quite like a scenic train ride. The gentle rattle, the iconic whistle, and views that shift from misty hills to coconut-lined coasts will surely bring the monotonous life on track. From snow-capped mountain loops to golden desert tracks and beachside curves, these scenic train journeys are full of surprises. 

These train routes not only showcase the country’s vast geographical diversity but also its cultural depth. Indian train travel is a journey to remember for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or a family on vacation. Club Mahindra resorts near these famous railway routes add the perfect stay to your itinerary.

In this blog

  1. The Enduring Charm of UNESCO World Heritage Mountain Railways
  2. Coastal Beauty & Ghats Grandeur
  3. Through Majestic Valleys, Deserts & Mountains
  4. How to Plan Your Scenic Rail Trip

The Enduring Charm of UNESCO World Heritage Mountain Railways

The-Enduring-Charm-of-UNESCO-World-Heritage-Mountain-Railways

These scenic train journeys in India are UNESCO-listed treasures that offer nostalgic rail experiences through breathtaking hilly landscapes and are perfect for couples, families, and slow travel enthusiasts.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), West Bengal

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known fondly as the Toy Train, is one of the most beautiful train journeys in India. This narrow-gauge marvel climbs from the lowlands of New Jalpaiguri to the misty ridges of Darjeeling, passing through pine forests, tea estates, and colonial-era towns. The Batasia Loop is its most iconic stretch, unveiling sweeping views of snow-capped Kanchenjunga.

  • Route: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling
  • Distance & Duration: The train route distance is 88km and takes almost 7 hr to complete.
  • Best Season to Visit - October to December for crystal-clear views; April to June for lush greenery and cool weather.
  • Don’t Miss: Ghum Station- the highest railway station in India.
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Gangtok, Club Mahindra Baiguney. These resorts in Sikkim are ideal for extending your Himalayan holiday.
  • Travel Tip: Opt for the Darjeeling- Ghum round-trip joyride and book the steam locomotive version for an authentic heritage experience.

Kalka- Shimla Railway, Himachal Pradesh

The Kalka- Shimla Railway is a charming journey into the heart of the Himalayas and is one of the most famous Indian train routes. This scenic train ride winds through 102 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and countless pine-covered slopes, offering a perfect blend of engineering marvel and natural beauty. Originally built for British officers seeking summer refuge, it’s now a heritage delight for travellers of all ages.

  • Route: Kalka to Shimla
  • Distance & Duration: The rail route distance is 96 km and takes 5- 6 hours to complete.
  • Best Season: Year-round; enjoy snow-clad views in December–January and lush green valleys during the monsoon.
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Kandaghat, Pristine Peaks Naldehra, Club Mahindra Mashobra. These resorts in Himachal Pradesh are excellent bases for your Shimla adventures.
  • Travel Tip: Sit on the valley-facing side for uninterrupted views and carry layered clothing for shifting temperatures along the route.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a timeless favourite among mountain train journeys in India. It climbs from the plains of Mettupalayam to the misty heights of Ooty. Recognised as the steepest rack railway in Asia, it offers a picturesque ride through forested slopes, cascading waterfalls, and sprawling tea plantations. The rhythmic clatter and old-world charm of this narrow-gauge line make it one of the most beautiful train journeys in India.

  • Route: Mettupalayam to Coonoor to Ooty
  • Distance & Duration: It takes 4- 5 hours to complete this 46 km rail distance.
  • Best Season: October to March for clear skies and crisp weather; monsoon transforms the landscape into a misty dream.
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Derby Green and Club Mahindra Danish Villa are the resorts in Tamil Nadu for a perfect retreat after your scenic ascent.
  • Travel Tip: Reserve your seat early, especially on the steam-hauled Mettupalayam- Coonoor stretch, which offers the most iconic views and experiences.

Coastal Beauty & Ghats Grandeur

Coastal-Beauty--Ghats-Grandeur

These coastal and Western Ghats rail routes highlight the finest of Indian train travel. With tunnels, rivers, cliffs, and monsoon waterfalls, they offer scenic train journeys in India ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking slow travel.

Konkan Railway: Mumbai to Goa

Among the most beautiful train journeys in India, the Konkan Railway winds through over 2,000 bridges and 90 tunnels, offering spectacular views of rainforests, cliffs, rivers, and waterfalls. During the monsoon, the entire stretch bursts into vibrant green, with highlights like the Doodhsagar Falls creating postcard-worthy scenes. It is one of the most scenic and unforgettable coastal routes in Indian train travel.

  • Route: Mumbai to Madgaon (Goa)
  • Distance and Duration: This route covers approximately 580 km and takes between 8- 12 hours, depending on the train service.
  • Best season: June to September for monsoon landscapes; October to February for beach weather and clear skies.
  • Must-watch sections: Ratnagiri Ghats, Doodhsagar Falls, and the river crossings near Karwar
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Varca and Club Mahindra Acacia Palms are the best resorts in Goa for a relaxing seaside stay
  • Travel tip: Book a daytime train like KR1 or KR2 to enjoy uninterrupted views. Keep your camera ready for the moments when you emerge from tunnels into sweeping valley scenes

The Ocean Voyage: Mandapam to Rameswaram

This short but exhilarating route is one of the most unique and scenic train journeys in India. The train crosses the historic Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge, offering surreal views of the Bay of Bengal on both sides. As waves crash below and fishing boats dot the blue waters, this stretch feels more like a voyage than a train ride. It is especially memorable during sunrise or sunset.

  • Route: Mandapam to Rameswaram
  • Distance and Duration: This short train journey is 18 km and takes around 45 minutes.
  • Best season: November to February for pleasant weather and calm seas; monsoon adds dramatic skies but may cause delays.
  • Must-watch moment: The stretch over Pamban Bridge, where the train appears to glide over the ocean.
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Puducherry and Club Mahindra Yercaud are ideal resorts in Tamil Nadu to include in a longer coastal itinerary.
  • Travel tip: Choose an early morning or late afternoon train to catch the golden light over the water. Avoid booking during rough weather if you prefer a smoother ride.

Kerala Coastal Ride: Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram

The Kerala coastal railway journey is a soulful experience that glides past tranquil backwaters, lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and glimpses of the Arabian Sea. As the train snakes along the Malabar Coast, travellers are treated to a serene blend of landscapes that reflect the true essence of God’s Own Country. It is one of the best scenic train journeys in India for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

  • Route: Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram
  • Distance and Duration: The train journey is 585 km, taking 12- 14 hours depending on the train.
  • Best season: June to September for lush monsoon views; November to February for cool, comfortable weather.
  • Must-watch sections: Backwater stretches near Alappuzha, estuaries around Kozhikode, and coastal crossings near Kollam.
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Ashtamudi and Club Mahindra Cherai offer waterfront resorts in Kerala, while Club Mahindra Mount Serene in Munnar is a perfect hill resort in Munnar with an inland detour into the Western Ghats.
  • Travel tip: If you’re short on time, try scenic segments like Kozhikode to Kochi or Kochi to Kollam for shorter, rewarding experiences.

Through Majestic Valleys, Deserts & Mountains

Through-Majestic-Valleys-Deserts--Mountains

From golden sandscapes to green-cloaked valleys and rugged mountain passes, these scenic train journeys in India reveal dramatic terrain and cultural richness. Ideal for photographers, experience seekers, and slow travel enthusiasts, these routes offer a deeper look into India’s interior landscapes.

The Desert Odyssey: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

This journey through the heart of Rajasthan is one of the most captivating train rides in India. As the train departs the blue city of Jodhpur and heads toward the golden city of Jaisalmer, the landscape shifts into rolling dunes, thorny scrublands, and scattered desert villages. The journey is particularly striking in the early morning or late afternoon light, when the desert comes alive in hues of amber and gold.

  • Route: Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
  • Distance and Duration: Depending upon the choice of train, the distance from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer is 300 km, taking 5- 6 hours.
  • Best season: October to February for pleasant weather and clear desert views
  • Must-watch sections: Open desert stretches between Pokaran and Jaisalmer, especially at sunrise or sunset
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stays: Club Mahindra Jaisalmer, Club Mahindra Kumbhalgarh, and Club Mahindra Udaipur are the best resorts in Rajasthan for a royal and relaxing end to your desert adventure.
  • Travel tip: Opt for a daytime train to fully appreciate the evolving desert landscape and keep your camera ready for rural life scenes along the way

The Eastern Ghats Expedition: Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley

One of the most picturesque railway routes in India, the journey from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley takes travellers through the lush Eastern Ghats, offering a visual treat of deep valleys, thick forests, and cascading waterfalls. The highlight of this route is the Vistadome coach, which comes with large glass windows and a transparent roof, making it one of the best Indian train journeys for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

  • Route: Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley
  • Distance and Duration: The complete distance is 120 km and takes 3-4 hours, depending upon your choice of train.
  • Best season: October to February for cool weather, clear skies, and vibrant green scenery
  • Must-watch sections: Tunnel-lined hill climbs, bridges across forested valleys, and coffee plantations as you near Araku.
  • Travel tip: Sit on the right side of the train when travelling from Visakhapatnam to Araku for uninterrupted valley views. Book Vistadome seats early as they sell out quickly.

Kangra Valley Railway: Pathankot to Joginder Nagar

A hidden gem among mountain train journeys in India, the Kangra Valley Railway offers a peaceful ride through the Dhauladhar foothills of Himachal Pradesh. Unlike the more popular Himalayan routes, this journey is quieter and more immersive, with narrow bridges, sleepy villages, and distant views of snow-covered peaks. It is a perfect choice for travellers seeking offbeat train travel in India.

  • Route: Pathankot to Joginder Nagar
  • Distance and Duration: It takes 6 to 7 hours to complete this 164 km rail distance.
  • Best season: March to June for fresh mountain air and clear views; post-monsoon for lush surroundings
  • Must-watch sections: River crossings near Kangra, tea gardens near Palampur, and views of the Dhauladhar range
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stay: Club Mahindra Dharamshala is an ideal resort in Dharamshala to explore this region, offering easy access to monasteries, tea estates, and adventure hubs like Bir Billing.
  • Travel tip: Choose morning departures for better visibility and pack snacks, as this rural route offers limited onboard amenities

Banihal- Baramulla Railway, Kashmir

The Banihal- Baramulla line is one of the most beautiful train journeys in India, taking passengers through the heart of the Kashmir Valley. With snow-capped peaks, flower-filled meadows, apple orchards, and wooden villages in view, this route captures the region’s serene charm. It also features India’s longest railway tunnel, adding to the thrill of the ride.

  • Route: Banihal to Baramulla
  • Distance and Duration: The rail distance is approximately 135 km and takes 3 to 4 hours to complete.
  • Best season: April to October for clear skies and colourful landscapes
  • Must-watch sections: Qazigund- Anantnag segment and the valley stretches near Srinagar
  • Nearby Club Mahindra stay: Club Mahindra Srinagar Houseboats is the best resort in Srinagar for a peaceful and unique stay on the Dal Lake, perfect for continuing your Kashmir experience.
  • Travel tip: Morning trains provide the best lighting for photography. Expect weather changes during the ride, so carry light layers even in summer.

How to Plan Your Scenic Rail Trip

How-to-Plan-Your-Scenic-Rail-Trip

  • Booking tips: Use the IRCTC website or app. Plan your journey 60 to 120 days in advance for popular routes and trains.
  • Look out for Vistadome coaches: These are available on select scenic routes like Visakhapatnam- Araku and Mumbai- Madgaon.
  • Seat-side matters: On many routes, one side offers better views than the other. Research or ask before selecting seats.
  • Travel essentials: Carry layered clothing, power banks, snacks, water bottles, and some cash for small stations.
  • Seasons count: Monsoon brings out the lush beauty of routes like Konkan and Kerala, while winters offer clearer views in the mountains.
  • Mix and match: Combine a budget-friendly toy train ride with a luxury train journey to create a diverse, unforgettable itinerary.

Conclusion

From misty mountain climbs to ocean-hugging rail bridges, the most scenic train journeys in India promise unmatched views and unforgettable experiences. And when the ride ends, the comfort begins. Club Mahindra resorts near these iconic routes offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. So, choose your route, reserve your seat, and let Club Mahindra take care of your stay as you discover India through its tracks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most scenic train journey in India for first-timers?

The Kalka–Shimla and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway routes are ideal for first-time travellers seeking mountain views and heritage charm.

Which Indian train routes are best during the monsoon?

The Konkan Railway, Kerala coastal route, and Visakhapatnam- Araku Valley are especially scenic in the monsoon season.

Are Vistadome coaches worth it? How can I book them?

Yes, Vistadome coaches offer panoramic views through large windows and glass roofs. You can book them on the IRCTC platform by selecting the “Vistadome” class.

What are the best family-friendly scenic train journeys in India?

Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Kalka- Shimla, and the Araku Valley route are safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for families.

Which Club Mahindra resorts are closest to UNESCO mountain railways?

Resorts in Ooty, Kandaghat, Gangtok, and Baiguney are located near the Nilgiri, Kalka- Shimla, and Darjeeling railways.

Is train travel in India safe for solo travellers?

Yes, especially on popular scenic routes. Choose daytime trains and book in advance for added comfort.

How can I pair train rides with resort stays?

Plan your journey around Club Mahindra resorts near the railway routes. These stays are perfect for relaxing before or after your ride.

  • Travel
  • Club Mahindra Dharamshala Resort In Himachal Pradesh
  • Club Mahindra Mashobra Resort In Himachal Pradesh
  • Club Mahindra Baiguney Resort In Sikkim
  • Club Mahindra Kandaghat Resort In Shimla Himachal Pradesh
  • Indian Railways

About Club Mahindra

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 300,000 members , who can holiday at 140+ resorts in India and abroad.

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