Train Travel India: Luxury Journeys, Budget Routes, and Best Routes Across the Country
When you think of train travel India, a vast, colorful, and deeply woven part of everyday life and tourism across the country. Also known as Indian railways, it’s the world’s largest railway network under a single management, carrying over 23 million passengers daily—not just commuters, but travelers seeking adventure, culture, and comfort. This isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about watching the landscape shift from the snow-capped Himalayas to the golden deserts of Rajasthan, all while sipping chai from a steel tumbler and listening to the rhythm of the wheels on the tracks.
The Palace on Wheels, a luxury train that redefines rail travel with royal suites, fine dining, and guided tours of Rajasthan’s palaces isn’t just a train—it’s a moving palace. It’s the same kind of experience that makes people compare it to the Orient Express, but with Indian spices, saris, and temple visits built right into the itinerary. Then there’s the Golden Chariot, a luxury train that runs through South India’s heritage sites, from Mysore’s palaces to Hampi’s ancient ruins, offering a quieter, more cultural ride for those who want elegance without the crowds of the north.
But not everyone needs five-star service. For budget travelers, the train travel India system is unbeatable. You can hop on a sleeper class from Delhi to Agra for less than $10, wake up to the Taj Mahal at sunrise, and still have money left for street food. The key? Knowing which trains run on time, which stations are safest, and how to book tickets without a local friend. Millions do it every year—backpackers, families, solo women, retirees—all moving across India on a budget, with dignity and ease.
What makes Indian trains special isn’t just the routes. It’s the people. The vendor who sells samosas through the window. The family sharing their packed lunch with a stranger. The elderly couple holding hands as they watch the fields go by. These aren’t tourist moments—they’re real moments, built into the daily rhythm of a country that moves on rails.
Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides from people who’ve done it: from packing for a 3-day journey on a local train, to splurging on a luxury rail tour, to finding the quietest beachside route in Kerala. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a month-long odyssey, the trains of India have a seat waiting for you.
