Railroad Journey: Best Train Experiences Across India and Beyond

A railroad journey, a travel experience built around long-distance train travel, often combining scenery, comfort, and cultural immersion. Also known as train travel, it’s more than just getting from point A to B—it’s about the rhythm of the rails, the changing landscapes outside your window, and the quiet moments that only a slow-moving train can offer. While many think of trains as basic transport, the best railroad journeys turn the ride itself into the destination.

India has some of the most colorful and unique railroad journeys in the world. From the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s winding climbs to the Palace on Wheels’ royal luxury, these routes aren’t just about distance—they’re about stories. You can feel the history in the clatter of old steel wheels, smell the spices drifting in from station vendors, and watch villages unfold like living postcards. And while India’s trains are deeply rooted in daily life, they also host some of the most exclusive experiences on earth. The Pride of Africa, a restored 1920s luxury train that travels across southern Africa with private suites and gourmet dining, costs over $12,500 per person. It’s not a commute—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event. Similar to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, a historic European train known for its art deco interiors and fine dining, these journeys turn travel into theater.

But you don’t need to spend thousands to feel the magic of a railroad journey. Even a simple overnight ride from Delhi to Jaipur, with its open windows and local snacks, can be unforgettable. The key isn’t the price tag—it’s the pace. Trains let you see the real India: the fields changing from green to gold, the children waving from platforms, the temple spires rising in the distance. Unlike flying or driving, trains don’t rush you past the details. They invite you to watch, listen, and breathe.

Some of the most stunning railroad journeys aren’t even in India. The Great Himalayan Trail, a 4,500-kilometer trek through India’s northern mountains is often compared to a train ride for its scale and slow reveal of nature’s grandeur. And while you’re walking instead of riding, the feeling is the same: time slows down, and the landscape becomes the main character.

What makes a railroad journey worth remembering? It’s not just the destination. It’s the rhythm of the train, the people you meet in the aisle, the way the light changes as dusk falls over the Deccan Plateau. Whether you’re on a budget sleeper car or a luxury suite, the best journeys leave you changed—not because of where you arrived, but because of how you got there.

Below, you’ll find real stories and practical tips from travelers who’ve ridden India’s most iconic routes—and even those who’ve splurged on the world’s most expensive trains. Whether you’re planning your first train ride or dreaming of a luxury rail escape, these posts will help you choose the right journey for you.