5 Most Scenic Train Journeys in South India

Train Journeys in South India

Mettupalayam to Ooty (Nilgiri Mountain Railway)

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, takes passengers on a classic journey from Mettupalayam to Ooty, covering 46 kilometres (29 miles) in approximately 3.5 to 4.75 hours. This narrow-gauge steam train winds through jade-green tea plantations, dense jungles, and past gushing waterfalls.

Travellers will pass through 16 tunnels and over 250 bridges before reaching the popular hill station of Ooty at an elevation of 2,240 metres (7,350 feet). The train departs daily at 7:10 AM and returns at 2 PM, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Tamil Nadu’s Western Ghats.

Bengaluru to Gokarna (Karwar Express)

For those seeking a blend of city life and serene beaches, the Karwar Express offers an incredible journey from Bengaluru to Gokarna. Covering 711 kilometres (442 miles), this train ride lasts about 14 hours. The train departs from Yesvantpur Junction three times a week at 7 AM and travels through Karnataka’s lush Western Ghats.

Passengers will enjoy views of dense coffee plantations and over 100 bridges along the way. After reaching Mangaluru, the train continues north to Gokarna Road station, where some of South India’s most beautiful beaches await.

Mumbai to Margao (Mandovi Express)

Starting from Mumbai’s iconic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 7:10 AM, the Mandovi Express takes passengers on a thrilling ride along the Konkan Railway to Margao in Goa. Spanning 756 kilometres (470 miles), this journey showcases stunning coastal scenery as it crosses 2,216 bridges and navigates nearly 100 tunnels.

Travellers can admire tropical fruit plantations, rice fields, and lush coconut groves throughout the ride. Renowned for its delicious onboard food options like samosas and idli-sambar, this trip is as much about culinary delights as it is about breathtaking views.

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Varkala to Kanyakumari (Island Express)

The Island Express provides a scenic route from Varkala to Kanyakumari, covering 127 kilometres (79 miles) in about four hours. Departing at 10:55 AM from Varkala, this train takes passengers through Kerala’s palm-fringed landscapes before reaching Kanyakumari—the southernmost tip of India where three seas meet: the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal. The journey offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a favourite among travellers.

Vasco da Gama to Londa (Goa Express)

One of the highlights of the Goa Express is the breathtaking view of Dudhsagar Falls, one of India’s tallest waterfalls. This journey spans 146 kilometres (91 miles) and takes approximately 3.5 hours. As the train travels from Vasco da Gama through Goa's stunning landscapes into Karnataka, passengers will witness lush forests and wildlife-rich areas like Mollem National Park. The daily superfast service departs at 3 PM and is perfect for those looking to experience both natural beauty and local culture.

Travelling by train in South India not only offers stunning views but also provides an opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine along the way.

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Image Courtesy:@RailMinIndia/X