Are you one of us Bollywood junkies who grew up listening to chhaiya chhaiya and fantasising about dancing on top of a train as you travel through picturesque routes? Well, we are not really sure about dancing on top of a moving train, but we can share five of the most beautiful train journeys through India. These train journeys will most definitely tug at your heart’s nostalgic strings, making you think back to those childhood days and relive the time when you would embark on a train journey with your family. The banter amongst cousins, chatting over hot chai, snacking on munchies, and playing cards, or plugging in your earphones with Bollywood music blasting and looking out of the window as you passed through cities and villages, pretending that you’re in a movie.

Kalka to Shimla

Foggy meadows, steep pathways, rain-washed picturesque valleys, and a little toy train taking you through a narrow-gauge railway track. This UNESCO World Heritage site is definitely among the most scenic trips, travelling approximately 96 kilometres through 12 tunnels and 82 bridges with rolling bends and steep curves. The breathtaking view of the forests of oak, deodar, pine, and rhododendron is something to behold. As the train chugs along, the chill in the air grows, and you start to see quaint little stations like Barog and Solan, each with its own charm and history. The old-world charm of this journey is enhanced by the train's leisurely pace, allowing passengers ample time to soak in the stunning vistas and perhaps capture a few timeless photographs.

Tamil Nadu to Rameswaram

Arguably one of the most exciting train journeys in India that will not just satisfy your travel aesthetic but also tame the thrill and adventure junkie inside you. The whole experience of travelling in Sethu Express as it takes you over the serene blue waters of the Indian Ocean overlooking an awe-inspiring sunset painting the sky in pastel hues is surreal. Crossing the Pamban Bridge, the train ride feels like a scene straight out of a dream. The gentle swaying of the train, the rhythmic sound of the wheels on the track, and the endless stretch of blue water on either side is just indescribable. As you approach Rameswaram, the sacred vibe of this historic town starts to envelop you, making the journey not just visually spectacular but spiritually uplifting as well.

Hubli to Madgaon

Imagine being on a train ride and witnessing a 300-metre gigantic waterfall gushing out in full vigour. The journey from Hubli to Madgaon brings that imagination to life as you get enchanted by the magnificent Dudhsagar falls cascading down elegantly. The route takes you through dense forests and lush greenery, with the train navigating through sharp turns and steep gradients. The sight of the Dudhsagar Falls, especially during the monsoon season, is nothing short of magical. The mist from the falls sprinkles over the train, adding a refreshing touch to the experience. The Konkan Railway route, known for its numerous tunnels and bridges, offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats, making it a journey filled with awe and admiration for nature's grandeur.

Mettypalayam to Ooty

The ‘Nilgiri Passenger’ that connects Mettypalayam to Ooty has been running ever since 1908 on a steam engine. The train travels upslope through the landscapes of Nilgiri with every bend, curve, and tunnel running amidst lush forests of eucalyptus, pine, and oak, moving along the steepest track in Asia. The journey is a blend of vintage charm and natural beauty, with the train puffing its way through tea plantations, quaint villages, and misty hills. The scenic beauty of the Nilgiris, with its verdant valleys and panoramic vistas, unfolds slowly as the train ascends, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The sound of the steam engine and the sight of the old carriages add a nostalgic touch, making the journey a delightful trip back in time.

Siliguri to Darjeeling

Marvel at the gorgeous foothills of Darjeeling with every twist and turn on this almost 8-hour ascending train journey that also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site and watch the quaint towns pass by leisurely. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, fondly known as the 'Toy Train', offers a unique travel experience with its charming narrow-gauge track and vintage carriages. As the train meanders through the lush green tea gardens, dense forests, and picturesque villages, it presents an ever-changing panorama of the Himalayas. The iconic Batasia Loop, where the train makes a 360-degree turn, offers a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga range on a clear day. The journey is punctuated with stops at charming stations like Ghum, the highest railway station in India, where you can explore the local culture and enjoy a hot cup of Darjeeling tea.

These train journeys through India are not just about reaching a destination; they are about the journey itself, filled with enchanting landscapes, nostalgic memories, and cultural richness. Each route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making the travel experience as memorable as the destination. So, pack your bags, grab a window seat, and let the rhythmic chug of the train take you on a magical journey through the heart of India.