India by Rail
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Train Travel in India
Boasting one of the world’s most extensive rail networks, India is ideal to explore by train. A train journey is included in many of our itineraries and provides a wonderful window into life on the subcontinent. The appeal is obvious – grab your book, strike up a conversation with your friendly fellow passengers or simply sit back and enjoy the ever-changing view from your window.
Standard Passenger Trains
Travelling by train in India is an experience in itself. While the carriages may be dated and could sometimes be cleaner, we always book the best available class with a reserved seat or berth. Intercity journeys are in air-conditioned carriages, with bedding provided on sleepers. For a taste of nostalgia, why not take a ‘toy’ train on one of India’s mountain railways?
Premium Passenger Trains
On some routes, Intercity Express or semi-highspeed trains are available, offering a more premium service. Intercity Express routes have fewer stops and reclining seats with more leg room, and usually include a meal served at your seat. The most popular of the semi-high-speed trains are the Gatimaan Express (Delhi - Agra), the Vande Bharat Express (Delhi - Varanasi) and the Tejas Express (Mumbai - Goa).
Luxury Trains
The ultimate way to experience this incredible country is by a luxury rail journey. On board, you’ll enjoy high-end service, comfortable cabins and delicious food, while at stops en route your tour guides will take care of every detail. Three trains are available – the Maharajas' Express, the Deccan Odyssey and the Palace on Wheels – offering a variety of routes.
India by Rail
Maharajas' Express
Arguably India’s most luxurious train, the Maharajas’ Express features 2 dining cars, 2 bars and 43 spacious en suite cabins. Excursions include tiger safaris, desert champagne receptions and dinners in top heritage hotels. Four routes are available, the most popular being The Indian Panorama.Duration: 7 days. Departs: Delhi.
Deccan Odyssey
Boasting an elegant and classic décor, this train offers the chance to visit off-the-beaten-track destinations alongside well-known highlights. The train comprises 40 en suite cabins, 2 restaurants, a bar and a spa. The Indian Odyssey, the most popular route, journeys between Delhi and Mumbai.Duration: 8 days. Departs: Delhi.
Palace on Wheels
The iconic Palace on Wheels has operated for over 40 years and follows a classic route, showcasing the best of Rajasthan. The train’s 2 dining cars, bar and 41 cabins have a charmingly traditional style inspired by the royal dynasties of Rajasthan, and there is also a small lounge in every carriage.Duration: 8 days. Departs: Delhi.
Kalka - Shimla Railway
Providing stunning views of the Himalayan foothills and a wonderful sense of nostalgia, this ‘toy’ train covers 60 miles on the journey up to Shimla. Opened in 1903, it was considered the most difficult of India’s mountain railways to construct and is a true feat of engineering, passing through 102 tunnels, 919 curves and crossing 864 bridges.Duration: 3-5hrs. Departs: Kalka or Dharampur.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is very much one of firsts. Opened in 1881, it was the first narrow-gauge ‘toy’ train to operate in India. It was also the first Indian mountain railway to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoying the views as this vintage steam train chugs its way up to Ghoom is an unmissable experience.Duration: 2hrs. Departs: Darjeeling.
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Nilgiri Mountain Railway
One of the slowest and steepest trains in India, travelling just 7mph as it traverses 250 bridges, 208 curves and 16 tunnels along its 28 mile route. The slow speed allows you to fully appreciate the scenery over the Western Ghats and rolling tea-covered hills – it is truly jaw dropping. This cogwheel-driven heritage train is also the only one of its kind in India.Duration: 5hrs. Departs: Ooty.
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India by Rail