India train tours: 15 epic rail journeys worth taking

There’s no better way to experience the beautiful chaos of India than by train. Forget cramped flights or endless highways – India train tours offer a front-row seat to the country’s landscapes, people, and everything in between. One minute you’re rattling past rice paddies in Kerala, the next you’re sipping chai while climbing into the Himalayan foothills. It’s not always smooth, and it’s rarely quiet – but that’s the point.

From steam-powered toy trains to five-star luxury on rails, these are the India train tours that are actually worth your time. Buckle up – or don’t, because it’s a train. Let’s ride.

What are the best India train tours?

When it comes to getting around India, trains are more than just transport – they’re the experience itself. But with over 13,000 trains running daily, not all are worth your time. The best India train tours combine iconic routes, jaw-dropping scenery, cultural depth, and in some cases, serious luxury.

Here’s what makes a train tour in India stand out:

• Scenic value: Think tea plantations, mountain passes, deserts, and jungle-covered hills.
• Cultural immersion: Stops at ancient forts, small-town bazaars, and places where time slows down.
• Comfort level: From vintage steam rides to five-star hotel-on-wheels treatment.
• Uniqueness: Routes that offer something you can’t get on the road or in the air.

We’ve handpicked the top 15 India train tours that deliver on all fronts – whether you're into rugged mountain adventures, royal nostalgia, or watching the sunrise from your cabin window.

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling)

Built in 1881, the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – aka the Toy Train – hauls you 88km from the lowlands of New Jalpaiguri, via Siliguri, to the hill station of Darjeeling. It climbs more than 2,000m on a twisting track that hugs the Hill Cart Road, sometimes crossing it, sometimes sharing it with cars.

UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1999. These days, it's less a way to get around and more a nostalgic ride with camera-happy travelers on board. The full trip leaves New Jalpaiguri at 8:30 am and pulls into Darjeeling around 3:35 pm.

• Diesel engines now do the heavy lifting.
• Weather permitting, coaches with wide windows show off the shifting landscape in style.
• The second class is cheaper, but it can be packed.

The full route from Siliguri can feel painfully slow. If you're short on time (or patience), hop on at Kurseong. Or take the short-and-sweet “Joy Ride” between Darjeeling and Ghoom.

How to get to the departure point

Fly or take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal. From here, the toy train starts its slow ascent to Darjeeling. Trains run year-round, but weather disruptions are common during the monsoon.

Prices and how to book this tour

Expect to pay ₹1,500-₹3,000 ($20-$40 USD) depending on class and route length.
Book via IRCTC or at the station directly.

Ready for your adventure? Don't forget to check our fully customisable India itineraries.

2. Mandovi Express (Madgaon to Mumbai)

The Mandovi Express runs daily between Madgaon in Goa and Mumbai in Maharashtra, cutting through the lush Konkan coast and the rugged Western Ghats.

The star of the show? The scenery. You’ll pass waterfalls tumbling down steep cliffs, forest-covered slopes, and the dramatic peaks of the Sahyadri range. In monsoon season, it’s a front-row seat to nature going full throttle.

• The train is comfortable enough for the long haul, with decent seating.
• It’s famously dubbed the “Food Queen of Konkan Railways” – and for good reason. Vendors hop on and off with spicy Goan snacks and fresh coastal fare.

Sure, it’s not the fastest way to Mumbai. But if you’ve got time and an appetite, it’s one of the tastier rides around.

How to get to the departure point

Departs from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai. Easy access via local taxis or the metro.

Prices and how to book this tour

2nd class to AC seats range from ₹300-₹1,500 ($4-$18 USD). Book on IRCTC or through a local agent.

3. Himalayan Queen (Kalka to Shimla)

The Himalayan Queen climbs from Kalka to Shimla on one of India’s most scenic narrow-gauge railways. This isn’t just a train ride – it’s a slow-motion showcase of colonial engineering, forested hills, and storybook villages.

Expect tight curves, arched stone bridges, and nearly 100 tunnels as you snake up the hills to Shimla, once the summer capital of British India.

• Barog station, surrounded by pine-covered slopes and flower beds, is a highlight.
• Look out for the Sonwara Bridge – an impressive bit of 1900s engineering.
• The windows frame shifting views of terraced fields, cedar forests, and misty hilltops.

The train mixes vintage charm with basic modern comfort. You won't get high-speed thrills, but you will get a memorable ride – especially if you grab a window seat and let the hills do the talking.

How to get to the departure point

Take a train or taxi to Kalka, which is well-connected to Delhi and Chandigarh. From there, transfer to the narrow-gauge line to Shimla.

Prices and how to book this tour

Standard seats go for around ₹300-₹700 ($4-$9 USD). Book via IRCTC or on the spot (though advance booking is smart in high season).

4. The Golden Chariot (Bangalore to Goa)

If you’re looking to splurge on a train journey through South India, the Golden Chariot delivers. This luxury ride links Bangalore with Goa, rolling past ancient ruins, temple towns, and tropical coastlines.

Inside, it’s all royal vibes – think carved wood panels, bold fabrics, and decor that nods to Karnataka’s regal past. But it’s not just for show:

• Expect spacious cabins with en suite bathrooms.
• There are full-service dining cars, lounges, and even a spa.
• Staff are attentive without being over the top.

The journey takes in UNESCO-listed Hampi, the rock-cut temples of Badami, and ends with a dose of the best beaches in Goa. You’ll also pass rice paddies, chaotic markets, and sleepy villages where time moves at its own pace.

It’s not cheap – but if you want South India in style, this is the way to do it.

How to get to the departure point

Most journeys begin in Bengaluru (Bangalore). Fly into Kempegowda International Airport and head to Yeshvantpur Railway Station.

Prices and how to book this tour

Expect to pay $4,000–$6,000 USD per person for a weeklong itinerary. Book via Golden Chariot website or trusted agents.

5. Dooars Voyage (Siliguri-Newmal-Hasimara-Alipurduar)

The Dooars Voyage isn’t about speed – it’s about slow travel through one of India’s most biodiverse regions. This train winds from Siliguri to Alipurduar, passing through Newmal and Hasimara, skirting forests, tea gardens, and wildlife sanctuaries in the eastern Himalayas.

From the moment you leave Siliguri, you're deep in Dooars country – home to elephants, rhinos, and a riot of birds. The scenery shifts from rolling tea estates to thick jungle and fast-flowing rivers. It’s especially rich in wildlife, with tracks running near key reserves like Buxa Tiger Reserve and Jaldapara National Park.

• Keep your camera ready – animal sightings from the train aren’t uncommon.
• The air smells of wet earth, spices, and wood smoke from nearby villages.
• Local food vendors hop on and off, dishing out regional snacks.

This isn’t a curated India train tour – it’s raw, real, and all the better for it.

How to get to the departure point

Siliguri is your launchpad for the Dooars.

• Fly into Bagdogra Airport, about 15km away, with daily flights from Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
• Arrive by train at New Jalpaiguri (NJP), a major railway junction just outside Siliguri, well-connected to the rest of India.

From either point, local taxis or shared jeeps will get you to the station in Siliguri city.

Prices and how to book this tour

• Fares are budget-friendly – ₹100 to ₹400 ($1-$5), depending on class and section.
• Book online through IRCTC or at any Indian Railways station.

Trains run year-round, but go between October and March for cooler weather, clear skies, and better wildlife spotting. For the best views, grab a window seat on the left side when heading east.

6. Maharaja Deccan Odyssey (Mumbai to Delhi)

If you're going to travel India in style, this might be the most extravagant way to do it. The Maharaja Deccan Odyssey rolls from Mumbai to Delhi, pausing at a handpicked mix of sacred cities, rock-cut caves, desert forts, and royal palaces.

Onboard, it's all luxury – deep carpets, polished wood, air-conditioned cabins, and attentive staff who remember how you take your tea. Think of it as a five-star hotel that happens to move.

• There are plush twin or double cabins with en suite bathrooms.
• Dining is gourmet, serving both Indian classics and international dishes.
• There's also a lounge bar, a spa, and even a small conference area.

The route covers big hitters: Ajanta and Ellora Caves, the palaces of Udaipur, the spiritual streets of Varanasi, and plenty more. Off-train excursions are guided and include all entry fees.

How to get to the departure point

Most departures are from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai. Fly into Mumbai International Airport and grab a taxi to the station.

Prices and how to book this tour

Fares start around $6,000-$7,500 USD per person for 7 nights, depending on itinerary.
Book via Deccan Odyssey official website or through a specialist rail tour company.

7. Jammu Mail (Jammu to Udhampur)

The Jammu Mail isn’t flashy – but it does the job. Running between Jammu and Udhampur, this train is a lifeline for locals and a solid option for travelers heading deeper into Jammu and Kashmir.

There are no plush cabins or curated meals here – just a reliable ride through some of north India's most rugged and scenic terrain. The route cuts through the Shivalik Hills and the lower reaches of the Himalayas, with views of pine-covered slopes, quiet villages, and winding rivers.

• The scenery’s the highlight: forested hills, sharp ridges, and valley views.
• It's a short hop – just under two hours – but packed with character.
• Trains are basic but clean, and usually run on time.

This stretch isn’t about luxury. It’s about movement, mountains, and a real slice of regional travel.

How to get to the departure point

Jammu is well-connected to the rest of India.

• Fly into Jammu Airport (IXJ) from Delhi, Mumbai, or Chandigarh – there are daily flights.
• Trains from Delhi and other major cities arrive at Jammu Tawi Station, the main railhead.

From the station, the Jammu Mail heads north toward the hills.

Prices and how to book this tour

• Tickets are affordable – expect to pay between ₹100 and ₹300 ($1-$4) depending on class.
• Book online through IRCTC or buy at any railway station.

No reservations? No problem. General class is usually available, but expect it to be busy during holidays or pilgrimage season.

8. Matheran Hill Railway

The Matheran Hill Railway is a narrow-gauge throwback to a slower, quieter India. Winding 21km from Neral to Matheran, this train climbs through the Sahyadri Hills, dodging sharp curves and thick forest as it makes its way to one of the few hill stations in India where cars are banned.

The pace is slow – and that’s the point. Vintage carriages trundle past monkeys, mango trees, and steep valley drops, giving you time to soak in the crisp air and hillside views.

• The line dates back to 1907 and still runs with old-world charm.
• A fan favorite? The One Kiss Tunnel – short, sweet, and full of echoing laughs.
• You’ll pass cliffs, red earth cuttings, and sun-dappled forest all the way up.

How to get to the departure point

Take a suburban train or taxi from Mumbai to Neral station (about 2 hours). The toy train departs from there. If the train’s not running (it often pauses in monsoon), you’ll have to walk or take a horse ride up.

Prices and how to book this tour

Fares range from ₹50-₹300 ($0.60-$3.60 USD) depending on class. Buy tickets at Neral station. Online booking is spotty – arrive early, especially on weekends.

9. Island Express (Kanyakumari to Trivandrum)

The Island Express is a no-fuss, scenic ride between Kanyakumari, India’s southern tip, and Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), the laid-back capital of Kerala. It’s not luxury, but it is one of the most atmospheric short-haul routes in the south.

The train rumbles past paddy fields, coconut groves, and coastal backwaters as it crosses from Tamil Nadu into Kerala. Local vendors hop on with chai and snacks, and village life drifts by just outside the window.

• The highlight? Watching the Arabian Sea appear as you pull into Kanyakumari – where three oceans meet.
• The ride is short (just over 2 hours), but packed with classic southern landscapes.
• Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule or anyone connecting to long-haul trains from Kanyakumari.

It’s fast, simple, and offers just enough of a window into local life.

How to get to the departure point

Kanyakumari is easily reached by:

• Train from major southern cities like Chennai, Madurai, or Bangalore.
• Flying into Trivandrum Airport (TRV) and taking a train, bus, or taxi down to Kanyakumari (about 90km).

The Island Express departs from Kanyakumari Railway Station, which is walkable from most hotels in town.

Prices and how to book this tour

• Fares range from ₹100 to ₹400 ($1-$5), depending on class.
• Book via IRCTC or directly at the station.

Daily departures mean it’s easy to plan. For ocean views, grab a window seat on the left side heading north.

10. Mandapam – Pamban – Rameswaram

The railway to Rameswaram isn’t just a ride – it’s a legend. Perched at the southern edge of Tamil Nadu, Rameswaram is one of India’s holiest pilgrimage towns. And for decades, the only way to get there by train was across the iconic Pamban Bridge.

Built in 1914, the bridge connected the mainland town of Mandapam to Pamban Island, offering jaw-dropping views as trains rolled across the sea. Waves crashed below, and the train seemed to float above the water. It wasn’t fast, but it was unforgettable. 

• The original bridge has now been closed due to structural concerns.
• A new rail bridge is being built alongside it, with promises of safer, more modern infrastructure and equally stunning views.
• Until it reopens, Rameswaram remains accessible by road via the Pamban Road Bridge – but the train’s return is highly anticipated.

This is one to watch. When service resumes, expect one of the most spectacular stretches of rail in India to be back on track.

How to get to the departure point

Mandapam is the last mainland station before Pamban Island.

• Fly into Madurai Airport (IXM), then take a 3-hour taxi or train ride to Mandapam.
• Trains from Chennai, Madurai, or Trichy regularly stop at Mandapam en route to Rameswaram (or will again once the new bridge opens).

Until then, buses and taxis run directly to Rameswaram via the road bridge.

Prices and how to book this tour

• Once reopened, fares should remain affordable – typically ₹100 to ₹300 ($1-$4) depending on class.
• Book via IRCTC or in person at the station.

Check for service updates before planning, as reopening dates for the new bridge are still tentative. When it’s running, sit on the left heading to Rameswaram for full-on sea views.

11. Palace on Wheels

If India did royalty on rails, this would be it. The Palace on Wheels is all polished teak, red carpets, and staff in turbans topping up your wine as you cruise through Rajasthan. It’s vintage luxury – complete with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

• This isn’t a train. It’s a traveling heritage hotel.
• Expect plush cabins styled like princely suites.
• There’s a spa, a bar car, and two dining coaches serving everything from Rajasthani thali to crème brûlée.

Service is personal and seamless – right down to your wake-up chai.

The route covers Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and a stop at Ranthambore National Park, where you’ve got a decent shot at spotting a tiger. You’ll also visit Agra for a private view of the Taj Mahal – minus the morning crowds.

How to get to the departure point

The journey starts and ends in Delhi. You can fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and take a taxi or metro to Safdarjung Railway Station. Trains usually depart in the evening on Wednesdays.

Prices and how to book this tour

This isn’t budget travel. Expect to pay around $5,000-$7,000 USD per person for a 7-night trip, depending on the season and cabin type.

You can book directly through the official Palace on Wheels site or go through verified travel agents specializing in luxury rail tours.

12. Nilgiri Mountain Railway

India’s steepest mountain railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, clings to the Western Ghats like a slow-motion rollercoaster. The train climbs 46km from Mettupalayam to Ooty, winding through tea plantations, jungle-covered slopes, and waterfalls you can almost touch.

Built in 1908, it was once hauled by steam, but these days it’s all diesel. The magic’s still there, though – especially when you hit the switchbacks and the mist rolls in.

• The train passes through 16 tunnels and crosses 250+ bridges.
• Expect monkeys on the rooftops, tea estates on both sides, and views that make you forget the crawl-speed pace.
• First-class seats are limited and fill fast – book early.

How to get to the departure point

Take a train or taxi to Mettupalayam, around 40km from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is the end station.

Prices and how to book this tour

Tickets range from ₹250-₹1,000 ($3-$12 USD). Book early on IRCTC or at Mettupalayam station.

13. Maharajas’ Express

The Maharajas’ Express isn’t just India’s most luxurious train – it’s in the same league as the Orient Express. Suites come with butlers, wine flows freely in the dining car, and the vibe is unapologetically regal.

This is the five-star India fantasy, on rails.

• There are four cabin types, from deluxe to full-blown presidential suites.
• Off-train excursions include forts, palaces, and curated cultural events.
• Think dinner in a palace, sunrise over the Taj Mahal, or a market walk with a private guide.

It’s high-end, high-touch, and very much not budget-friendly. But if you're going to splurge, this is bucket-list territory.

How to get to the departure point

Most itineraries begin in Delhi or Mumbai, depending on the route. Both cities are well-connected internationally.

Prices and how to book this tour

This is elite travel. Expect prices from $5,000 to over $20,000 USD per person, depending on suite level. Book via the Maharajas' Express official site.

14. Kangra Valley Railway

The Kangra Valley Railway might just be India’s most underrated toy train. Running under the snow-capped Dhauladhar mountains, this narrow-gauge line winds from Pathankot to Palampur – a Tibetan-influenced town tucked into Himachal’s green hills.

The ride is slow, rattly, and full of charm. It cuts through pine forests, crosses riverbeds, and loops past tiny stations that time forgot.

• No first-class here – just wooden benches, open windows, and sweeping Himalayan views.
• Expect village life at eye level: herders, temples, and schoolkids waving from the tracks.
• The highlight? A glimpse of the Dhauladhar range, towering above the valleys like a painted backdrop.

How to get to the departure point

Start from Pathankot, which is well connected by train to Delhi, Amritsar, and Jammu.

Prices and how to book this tour

It’s dirt cheap – around ₹25-₹100 ($0.30-$1.20 USD). Buy tickets at the station. Bookings may not be available online for all classes.

15. Desert Queen (Jodhpur to Jaisalmer)

The Desert Queen isn’t an official title – it’s a nickname for the overnight trains that run from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, deep into the Thar Desert. There’s no gold trim, no spa car – but what you get is something raw, real, and atmospheric. As the train rattles westward into the night, you'll pass desert towns, grazing camels, and sand dunes glowing under moonlight.

You wake up in Jaisalmer, the fabled “Golden City”, where a massive sandstone fort rises straight out of the desert floor. It's the perfect budget-friendly route into one of India’s most cinematic destinations.

How to get to the departure point

Trains to Jaisalmer leave from Jodhpur Junction, a major rail hub in Rajasthan. You can get to Jodhpur by train or flight from Delhi, Jaipur, or Mumbai. Trains typically leave in the evening and arrive early the next morning.

Prices and how to book this tour

Tickets are affordable: ₹200-₹1,000 ($2.50-$12 USD) depending on class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC). Book via IRCTC or at the station. If you're traveling during peak season (October to March), reserve early – this route fills up fast.