India by train: The most scenic routes you can't miss in 2024

If you love to travel by trains, this piece will help you to plan a trip sooner or later. Train journeys offer a glimpse into the country's diverse landscapes, the reason why the journeys are always beautiful. Whether you board a toy train, or a UNESCO-listed miniature train, or hopping onto a Konkan Railway for a journey along the coastline, a train journey promises lasting memories for sure. Here, we have listed some of the most scenic train routes for the year 2024 and that you should start planning now.

One of the main highlights of Darjeeling, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Fondly called the 'Toy Train,' it takes you on a beautiful adventure from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. Constructed in 1881, this narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 7,000 ft and crosses via pristine forests, stunning waterfalls, and the lovable tea plantations. And in view that this antique steam locomotive chugs at a slight pace, it offers you all the opportunity to experience the breathtaking mountain views.

It’s interesting to note that the Deccan Odyssey is one of the country’s most opulent trains. Booking a ticket for this train will entitle you to a week-long excursion across Maharashtra and Goa. We assure you that you will not be disappointed! Throughout the journey, you will get to visit popular sites like Ajanta and Ellora caves, seashores in Goa, Nashik, along with many other surprises on the way.

If you're a train lover, this train journey will provide you an experience to remember. It takes you on a lovely 14-kilometer adventure from Neral to the hill station of Matheran. As the train ascends over forested slopes, the breathtaking sights will be such that you will not want to leave your seat even for a moment!

The Konkan Railway stretches 760 km alongside India’s western coastline from Mumbai to Mangalore, passing via seashores, estuaries, and coconut groves. Throughout the journey, you get to cross 2,000 bridges and 90 tunnels, complemented with breathtaking views, mainly from the Sharavathi River Bridge and the Karbude tunnel.

This train holds the record for India's longest train route, and covers a vast distance of 4,470 km from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kanyakumari at India’s southern tip. This 80-hour train journey takes passengers through India’s diverse landscapes, from the beautiful tea gardens of Assam, to the beaches of beaches, and not to forget, the Western Ghats.

Rajasthan is not all about deserts. If you intend to experience the other side of this place, the Desert Queen will gracefully change your opinion as it will take you on a journey to Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. With its traditionally adorned carriages, passengers can experience Rajasthani lifestyle, meals, and scenic perspectives of the Thar desert.

Finally, the Maharaja’s Express epitomises luxurious travel. With less than 100 88 guests aboard, it takes you on a week-long journey through India’s iconic places like the Taj Mahal, Ranthambore National Park, and more.