Discover the enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures of South India through its iconic train journeys. From the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to coastal adventures, experience the diversity of India's terrain firsthand
Train travel in India is a thing in itself. Ruskin Bond has shown how story laden a train journey can be. India is a land of various landscapes from lush greenery, stunning peaks, broad coastlines, tiny waterfalls. Train travel offers a myriad sort of experiences that one misses from air-travel. South India as a region has unparalleled diversity and travelling through train gives one the opportunity to view these natural beauties first hand, even without making a stop.
The UNESCO-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway to the meandering turns of the of Konkan railway, each trip promises scenic delights and cultural encounters.
Travelling from Mettupalayam to Ooty, on board the Nilgiri Mountain Railway remains a bucket list for most travellers. For people who are unaware, it's a narrow-gauge steam train which makes it's way through the Western Ghats. The passengers are treated to panoramic vistas of tea-plantations, treacherous waterfalls, lush green forests. The numerous tunnels and bridges charm the travellers with enchanting beauty of the Nilgiri hills, Ooty and Coonoor.
For those yearning for a coastal odyssey, the Karwar Express takes you from the bustling city of Bengaluru to the coastal town of Gokarna. The train passes through the lush green western ghats and the coastal town of Mangaluru. The rich bio-diversity of Karnataka can be witnessed by someone taking this trip.
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Another enchanting South Indian train journey is by the Mandovi Express that runs from Mumbai to Margaon amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Konkan coast. Travelers can witness tropical plantations, meandering rivers, postcard-ish villages as they journey towards the coastal beaches of Goa.
Another mention-worthy train journey is by the Island Express which provides a tranquil ride from Varkala to Kanyakumari. The palm-fringed landscapes, the serene beaches are to die for!
The Goa Express takes passengers on a thrilling journey from Vasco Da Gama station to Londa. This train is famous for the best visuals of Dudhsagar falls and the verdant hills of the Western Ghats.
Travellers traversing through the landscape of India, specially South India are urged to hop on to these trains to enjoy these experiences. Bookings for these trains can me made online through the IRCTC app. Bookings open 120 days before.
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