Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
A narrow-gauge railway that winds through the hills of Darjeeling in West Bengal. It's known as the "Toy Train" and offers views of the Himalayas, tea plantations, and Kurseong.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
A 46-kilometer route that connects Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. It passes through tea estates, valleys, and eucalyptus forests.
Palace on Wheels
A well-known train that offers itineraries ranging from a few days to a week.
Maharajas' Express
A luxury train with four itineraries that cover different parts of the country. It offers fine dining, cabins with modern comforts, and onboard entertainment.
Other beautiful train routes in India include:
Himalayan Queen (Kalka to Shimla)
Vasco Da Gama to Londa
Mumbai to Goa
Kanyakumari –Trivandrum
Dooars Voyage (Siliguri- Newmal – Hasimara- Alipurduar)
Mandapam – Pamban – Rameswaram
Which is the best and safest train route in India?
According to available information, the "Kalka-Shimla Railway" is often considered one of the best and safest train routes in India, as it is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a well-maintained track running through scenic landscapes, offering a safe and picturesque journey through the Himalayas.
Key points about the Kalka-Shimla route:
Scenic beauty: The route winds through lush pine forests, over bridges, and through tunnels, providing stunning views.
Heritage status: It is a UNESCO World Heritage listed narrow-gauge railway.
Safety record: Generally considered a reliable and safe route with good infrastructure.
Other notable safe and scenic train routes in India:
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Offers spectacular views of the Eastern Himalayas.
Konkan Railway: Runs along the scenic Konkan coast, linking Mumbai to Goa.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A nostalgic ride through the Western Ghats hills.
What strikes first time visitors as special or unusual when they arrive in New Delhi?
When arriving in New Delhi, first-time visitors are often struck by the overwhelming sensory experience, including the vibrant colors, chaotic traffic, diverse street food, the blend of modern and historical architecture, the sheer number of people, the pervasive sounds of honking and vendors, and the strong religious presence with numerous temples and mosques visible throughout the city.
Key aspects that might stand out as special or unusual:
Sensory overload:
The bustling streets with a mix of cars, rickshaws, pedestrians, street vendors, and animals can be quite overwhelming, especially for those accustomed to calmer urban environments.
Colorful sights:
The vibrant colors used in clothing, buildings, and even street decorations can be visually striking.
Rich cultural mix:
The visible presence of different religions and communities with their distinct clothing and practices can be noticeable.
Street food scene:
The wide variety and accessibility of delicious street food, often served on the street corners, is a unique aspect of Delhi.
Historical landmarks amidst modern chaos:
The juxtaposition of ancient monuments like Red Fort or Jama Masjid with modern high-rise buildings can be visually interesting.
Language barrier:
While English is spoken in many places, navigating through local languages can be challenging for non-Hindi speakers.
Traffic patterns:
The chaotic traffic system with seemingly unpredictable rules can be surprising for first-time visitors.
Religious rituals in public spaces:
Seeing people openly practicing their faith in public spaces like temples and mosques can be a new experience for some.
