6 train journeys through India’s scenic hill stations

We all love a scenic trip or two one in a while, don’t we? When it comes to exploring the breathtaking hill destinations of India, these scenic railways offer a unique perspective. From winding tracks through mist-covered valleys to dramatic routes lined with tea gardens, dense forests, and heritage tunnels, these train rides capture the magic of the Indian landscape. Step aboard these iconic hill trains, and experience the unparalleled charm of India’s hill regions.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, affectionately called the Toy Train, winds through the breathtaking hills of Darjeeling, West Bengal. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this narrow-gauge railway covers a 78-kilometer stretch between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. The train ride offers travelers stunning views of tea plantations, quaint villages, and mist-covered valleys. The iconic Batasia Loop should not be missed.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kalka-Shimla Railway is an engineering marvel with 102 tunnels and 864 bridges. This narrow-gauge line stretches 96 kilometers from Kalka in Haryana to Shimla, the former summer capital of British India. Iconic stops like Barog Tunnel and Solan add charm to the journey.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, running from Mettupalayam to Ooty (Udhagamandalam), is another UNESCO-listed treasure. This 46-kilometer route in Tamil Nadu ascends the Nilgiri Hills. The journey unfolds across tea gardens, dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and quaint colonial-era stations.

Located in Maharashtra, the Matheran Hill Railway is one of India's few remaining narrow-gauge hill railways. Covering a 21-kilometer route from Neral to Matheran, this charming train ride offers stunning vistas of the Western Ghats. Matheran, a car-free hill station, is known for its unspoiled beauty, making this train journey even more unique and peaceful.

The train ride from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley is an awe-inspiring experience through the heart of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh. The journey spans 115 kilometers, taking passengers through verdant coffee plantations, rugged hills, and misty landscapes. The train passes through over 58 tunnels and crosses 84 bridges, offering breathtaking views of the Ananthagiri Hills.

The Karjat-Lonavala section in Maharashtra is particularly stunning during the monsoon season. As the train winds through the Sahyadri hills, travelers are treated to views of cascading waterfalls, misty mountain peaks, and lush green landscapes. The Bhore Ghat stretch, in particular, is a highlight, offering unparalleled vistas of the Western Ghats.