Train Journeys in India: Best Routes, Tips, and Hidden Gems

When you think of train journeys, long-distance rail travel that connects cities, cultures, and landscapes across a country. Also known as rail travel, it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience India—not just as a way to get from A to B, but as the journey itself. India’s railways are the lifeblood of the nation, carrying over 23 million passengers daily. But beyond the daily commuters, there’s a whole world of train journeys designed for travelers who want to see India slowly, deeply, and in comfort.

Some of these routes are legendary. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a narrow-gauge mountain train that winds through tea plantations and misty hills in West Bengal, feels like stepping into a 19th-century postcard. Then there’s the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train that re-creates royal travel with silk bedding, fine dining, and guided excursions through Rajasthan’s forts and palaces. These aren’t just trains—they’re floating hotels with moving views. And if you’re looking for something more affordable but just as stunning, the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge line that climbs from the plains into the Himalayan foothills, offers 96 tunnels and breathtaking drops for under $20.

What makes Indian train journeys special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the culture you ride through. You’ll share tea with a family from Gujarat, hear a musician play sitar in the corridor, or watch farmers board with sacks of rice and chickens in baskets. These trains connect not just places, but people. And while luxury trains like the Deccan Odyssey, a high-end rail experience that covers Maharashtra and Goa with curated cultural stops offer white-glove service, even a simple sleeper class ticket can give you a front-row seat to India’s soul.

Whether you’re chasing panoramic mountain views, historic colonial-era stations, or the thrill of a late-night snack on a moving platform, India’s train network delivers. You’ll find routes that cross deserts, hug coastlines, and climb into cloud forests—all with the rhythm of the rails beneath you. Below, you’ll find real travel stories, practical tips, and hidden routes that most tourists never hear about. No fluff. Just what you need to ride India the right way.