All pic credits: ETV Bharat
By Srimoyee Chowdhury 6 August 2025
1: Ratlam Iconic food: Poha-jalebi Why it’s special: A sweet-spicy combo that's light, filling and served hot at dawn. Did you know?: It became a favourite during British-era train halts
2: Howrah Iconic food: Chicken cutlet Why it’s special: A crunchy snack rooted in Kolkata’s colonial clubs and kitchens. Did you know?: This cutlet is part of Bengal’s famous railway canteen fare.
3: Mysuru Iconic food: Aloo bonda Why it’s special: Deep-fried, spicy and perfectly paired with strong filter coffee Did you know?: Vendors here still use traditional family recipes
4: Kalka Iconic food: Kharzi and chai Why it’s special: A tangy Himachali rice dish to warm you before the toy train ride Did you know?: Locals prep it with curd, turmeric and mustard seeds
5: Vijayawada Iconic food: Mango pickle (Aavakai) with rice Why it’s special: Spicy, punchy and wrapped in eco-friendly leaf bowls Did you know?: The mango pickle here follows age-old Andhra recipes
6: Madurai Iconic food: Jigarthanda Why it’s special: A rich milkshake with almond gum, milk and ice cream Did you know?: It was invented by local Muslim vendors in the 1970s
7: Nagpur Iconic food: Tarri-samosa Why it’s special: Samosas drowned in spicy black chana gravy are bound to get you addicted. Did you know?: 'Tarri' is a local Nagpur term for the signature curry
8: Prayagraj Iconic food: Tamatar chaat Why it’s special: A tangy, mashed tomato-based chaat served in leaf bowls. Did you know?: It uses ghee-roasted spices unique to the region
9: Ludhiana Iconic food: Chole-kulche Why it’s special: Fluffy kulchas with spicy chole, a Punjabi power breakfast Did you know?: Vendors start serving it as early as 5 am on platforms
10: Ernakulam Iconic food: Pazham pori Why it’s special: Banana fritters fried golden pair perfectly with a steaming cup of chai. Did you know?: It uses ripe bananas, which are a favourite among locals.