By Raajwrita Dutta 28 April 2025
Not all train rides are about getting from one point to another. In India, some take you through time and nature. Here are five journeys that go off the tracks.
1. Patalpani-Kalakund Heritage Train This 15 km journey in Madhya Pradesh features 41 bridges and multiple tunnels, offering scenic views, including the Patalpani Waterfall.
The train’s slow pace allows passengers to be immersed in the natural beauty, passing through lush greenery and offering panoramic views of waterfalls and mountains.
2. Mahaparinirvan Express A spiritual odyssey connecting key Buddhist sites across India and Nepal, this eight-day journey offers a unique blend of history and devotion.
The train offers an unforgettable experience, visiting sacred sites like Lumbini and Bodhgaya, providing passengers with a deep connection to Buddhist heritage.
3. Gujarat’s Heritage Train Mixing nostalgia with modernity, this three-coach train, designed to resemble a steam locomotive, connects Ekta Nagar to Ahmedabad.
The train’s design evokes a sense of nostalgia, while its modern amenities promise a comfortable journey.
4. Sethu Express The Sethu Express connects Chennai to Rameswaram, crossing the iconic Pamban Bridge, which spans the sea and offers mesmerising ocean views during the journey.
Crossing the Pamban Bridge provides a rare experience of a train journey over the sea, combining an engineering marvel with natural beauty.
5. Konkan Railway Running along the western coast of India, the Konkan Railway offers travellers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, lush greenery, and dramatic mountain ranges.
Popular for its picturesque landscapes, the train traverses through over 2,000 bridges and 90 tunnels, making it one of India’s most scenic routes