There was a time when train journeys in India were solely about reaching a destination. Today, they are about the “view from the window.” With the arrival of the Vande Bharat Express, India’s indigenous semi-high-speed marvel, the travel experience has shifted from “enduring the journey” to “embracing the scenery.”
Equipped with massive glass windows, 180-degree rotatable seats (in Executive Class), and a jerk-free ride, these “White and Blue” (and now Orange) beauties offer a front-row seat to India’s diverse geography. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast or a casual traveler, these 10 routes are essentially “moving postcards” that you cannot afford to miss.
1. Mumbai CSMT – Madgaon (Goa): The Konkan Magic
If there is one route that defines “scenic,” it is the Konkan Railway. The Mumbai-Goa Vande Bharat is a sensory delight, especially during the monsoon.
- What to Expect: You’ll glide through the lush Sahyadri ranges, crossing over 2,000 bridges and through 91 tunnels.
- Highlight: The sight of milk-white waterfalls cascading down emerald-green cliffs near Ratnagiri is a scene straight out of a movie.
2. New Delhi – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: The Shivalik Gateway
This was one of the earliest Vande Bharat routes, and it remains a favorite for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.
- What to Expect: As you leave the plains of Punjab and Haryana, the terrain shifts dramatically. The train climbs through the rugged Shivalik foothills, offering views of deep gorges and high bridges.
- Pro Tip: Try to book a seat on the right side (heading to Katra) to catch the best mountain vistas as you approach Udhampur.
3. Thiruvananthapuram – Kasaragod: Exploring God’s Own Country
The Kerala Vande Bharat is consistently one of the highest-performing routes in India, and for good reason—the greenery is unparalleled.
- What to Expect: The tracks run parallel to the Arabian Sea at several points. You’ll see endless coconut groves, serene backwaters, and traditional Kerala architecture.
- Visual Treat: Crossing the massive river bridges over the Nila (Bharathapuzha) river during sunset is a spiritual experience.
4. New Delhi – Srinagar: The Himalayan Dream (Upcoming/Newly Launched)
Connecting the national capital directly to the “Crown of India,” this route is set to become the most iconic railway journey in Asia.
- What to Expect: The train crosses the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, standing taller than the Eiffel Tower.
- The View: Snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, and the sudden transition from the plains to the heart of Kashmir.
5. New Jalpaiguri – Guwahati: The Gateway to the Northeast
Northeast India’s first Vande Bharat connects the tea gardens of North Bengal with the Brahmaputra valley.
- What to Expect: On a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of the Kanchenjunga range. The route passes through dense forests, elephant corridors, and sprawling tea estates.
- Unique Sight: Keep an eye out for the local wildlife as the train passes through the fringes of national parks.
6. Pune – Hubballi: The Western Ghats Grandeur
Connecting Maharashtra’s cultural capital to North Karnataka, this route takes you through the heart of the “Ghats.”
- What to Expect: The section between Satara and Belgaum is particularly stunning, featuring sharp curves and elevated tracks that overlook deep valleys.
7. Rourkela – Puri: The Soul of Odisha
This route connects the industrial heart of Odisha to the spiritual shores of Puri.
- What to Expect: You’ll pass through the Mahanadi river basin, witnessing vast wetlands and the rural charm of Odisha’s hinterland.
- Expert Tip: This is an excellent way to visit the Sun Temple at Konark and the Jagannath Temple in one smooth, air-conditioned trip.
8. New Delhi – Dehradun: The Jungle Safari
Traversing through the Doon Valley, this route is a favorite for weekend trippers.
- What to Expect: The train passes through parts of the Rajaji National Park. It is not uncommon to spot deer or peacocks from the large panoramic windows.
- Ambiance: The transition from the urban chaos of Delhi to the pine-scented air of Dehradun happens in just under 5 hours.
9. Bengaluru – Dharwad: The Malnad Marvel
This route showcases the transition from the bustling IT hub of Bengaluru to the lush Malnad region.
- What to Expect: The stretch near Davanagere and Hubballi offers views of rolling hills and sunflower fields (depending on the season).
10. Howrah – Puri: The Coastal Run
Connecting Kolkata to the beach town of Puri, this journey is a hit with families.
- What to Expect: Vast paddy fields of Bengal give way to the coastal plains of Odisha. The breeze changes, the light shifts, and within hours, you are at the doorstep of the Bay of Bengal.
Comparison Table: Top Scenic Routes at a Glance
| Route | Distance | Key Feature | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai – Goa | 586 km | Konkan Tunnels & Bridges | July – September |
| New Delhi – Katra | 655 km | Shivalik Foothills | October – March |
| TVM – Kasaragod | 586 km | Backwaters & Sea Views | June – November |
| NJP – Guwahati | 410 km | Tea Gardens & Forest | November – February |
| Delhi – Dehradun | 302 km | Rajaji National Park Views | All Year Round |
Why the Vande Bharat Experience is Different
Unlike traditional trains, Vande Bharat offers several features that enhance the “scenic” aspect:
- Panoramic Windows: The windows are significantly larger than those in Rajdhani or Shatabdi trains.
- 180-Degree Rotating Seats: In the Executive Class, you can turn your seat to face the window directly.
- Low Noise Levels: The soundproofing is world-class, allowing you to enjoy the view in silence.
- Superior Speed: You spend less time in the boring “industrial” outskirts of cities and more time in the heart of nature.
Expert Tips for the Best Journey
- Book Executive Class: If your budget allows, the rotating seats are worth the extra cost for scenic routes.
- The “Window Side” Rule: In Chair Car (CC), always opt for ‘Window’ seats during booking.
- Avoid Night Journeys: To see the views, pick the morning or afternoon departures.
- Keep Your Camera Ready: The train travels at speeds of up to 130 kmph; the best views pass by quickly!
Conclusion
The Vande Bharat Express is not just a triumph of Indian engineering; it is a gift to every traveler who loves the romance of the rails. Whether it’s the mist-covered mountains of the North or the rain-washed palm trees of the South, these routes offer a perspective of India that you simply cannot get from 30,000 feet in the air.
Which route are you booking next? Tell us in the comments below!
