Top 10 Places to Visit in India by Train
Discover India’s Most Rewarding Destinations Through Rail Travel
India is one of the world’s most fascinating countries to explore by train. With one of the largest railway networks on earth, train travel in India connects vibrant cities, royal palaces, spiritual towns, mountain landscapes, beaches, deserts, and ancient heritage sites in a way few other countries can offer.
For first-time visitors, travelling by train in India is not just transportation—it becomes part of the journey itself. You watch landscapes change from bustling cities to rural villages, meet local people, and experience the rhythm of everyday India.
Whether you are a backpacker travelling on a budget, a family seeking comfortable journeys, or a luxury traveller wanting curated experiences, India offers unforgettable rail routes for every style of traveller.
Here are ten of the best places to visit in India by train.
1. Jaipur – The Royal Pink City
Jaipur is often one of the best introductions to India. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur offers royal palaces, colourful bazaars, grand forts, and rich Rajasthani culture.
The rail connection from Delhi is excellent, making Jaipur a favourite stop for first-time travellers and a core destination in the Golden Triangle.
Why visit Jaipur by train?
Comfortable train access from Delhi and Agra
Beautiful forts and palaces
Vibrant markets and artisan workshops
Great for culture, food, and photography
Must-visit places include:
Hawa Mahal
Amber Fort
City Palace
2. Agra – Home of the Taj Mahal
Agra attracts travellers from across the world because of one monument—the iconic Taj Mahal.
Agra is extremely well connected by train, making it one of the easiest destinations to include in a short Indian itinerary.
Besides the Taj Mahal, Agra offers Mughal architecture, local marble craftsmanship, and fascinating history.
Ideal for:
Backpackers, couples, luxury travellers, photographers
3. Varanasi – India’s Spiritual Heart
Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and offers an unforgettable cultural experience.
Morning boat rides on the Ganges, evening ceremonies, ancient temples, and narrow lanes create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Train travel to Varanasi gives travellers a chance to witness India beyond the tourist circuit.
Best experiences:
Sunrise boat ride
Evening Ganga Aarti
Street food exploration
Walking through old city lanes
4. Jodhpur – The Blue City
Jodhpur offers dramatic desert landscapes, blue-painted houses, and one of India’s most impressive forts.
The journey by train through Rajasthan becomes part of the adventure, especially for travellers exploring western India.
Highlights:
Mehrangarh Fort
Local markets
Desert culture
Heritage stays
5. Udaipur – City of Lakes
For travellers seeking romance and elegance, Udaipur is one of India’s most beautiful destinations.
Its lakes, palaces, and relaxed atmosphere make it popular among honeymooners and premium travellers.
Why train travel works well:
Scenic Rajasthan routes
Excellent overnight train options
Ideal extension after Jaipur or Jodhpur
6. Rishikesh – Yoga & Himalayan Gateway
Rishikesh attracts backpackers, yoga seekers, wellness travellers, and adventure lovers.
After reaching nearby rail stations, travellers continue into the Himalayan foothills.
Popular experiences:
Yoga retreats
River rafting
Meditation
Ganga river walks
7. Kochi & Kerala Backwaters
Kerala offers one of India’s most relaxing train journeys. Palm-lined routes, coastal scenery, lush greenery, and peaceful backwaters create a completely different side of India.
Ideal for:
Families
Slow travellers
Luxury travellers
Wellness holidays
Extensions include:
Alleppey
Munnar
Kumarakom
8. Goa – Beaches & Relaxed Coastal Life
Goa combines beaches, Portuguese heritage, nightlife, and laid-back coastal living.
Train journeys into Goa are scenic, especially during monsoon and winter.
Perfect for:
Young travellers
Digital nomads
Couples
Backpackers
9. Mysuru – Heritage & South Indian Culture
Mysuru is clean, elegant, and easy to navigate—making it excellent for first-time travellers wanting a calmer Indian city experience.
The city is famous for:
Mysore Palace
Silk and sandalwood
South Indian cuisine
Heritage charm
10. Jaisalmer – Desert Magic
Few train journeys feel as adventurous as travelling to Jaisalmer through the Thar Desert.
Golden sandstone architecture gives Jaisalmer a magical atmosphere.
Top experiences:
Jaisalmer Fort
Desert camping
Sunset dunes
Stargazing
Which Destination Should You Choose?
Your ideal destination depends on your travel style.
Varanasi
Rishikesh
Goa
Jaisalmer
Jaipur
Agra
Kerala
Mysuru
Udaipur
Jaipur
Kerala
Jodhpur
For Backpackers & Students
For Mid-Range Families
For Luxury Travellers
Why Travel Across India by Train?
Train travel offers something flights cannot:
Better value for money
Less airport hassle
Scenic landscapes
Authentic cultural interaction
Access to smaller destinations
India’s railway network makes it possible to combine iconic destinations with hidden gems.
Final Thoughts
India is too vast to understand through airports alone. Travelling by train allows you to slow down and experience the country more deeply.
From the royal cities of Rajasthan to Kerala’s peaceful backwaters and Varanasi’s spiritual energy, every route tells a different story.
At Rails India, we help international travellers plan smoother train journeys across India—whether you need ticket booking assistance, curated rail itineraries, or fully managed travel experiences.
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