India's scenic and heritage railway journeys

India's extensive railway network offers several scenic and heritage journeys that traverse diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastlines. Many of these routes originated during the colonial era and were originally designed for transporting goods and officials, but they have since become popular destinations for travelers.

Notable routes include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1879 and 1881. This narrow-gauge line uses zig-zags and loops to navigate steep terrain, reaching altitudes of approximately 2,200 metres. Other significant heritage lines include the Kalka-Shimla Railway, which climbs through pine forests to reach hill settlements.

Coastal options include the Konkan Railway, which runs through Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, passing through the Western Ghats and various tunnels and waterfalls. Some services offer Vistadome coaches with expansive windows to enhance the viewing experience of the natural scenery.