Exploring the Train in India and the World: From the Free, Fastest to the Firsts

Train in India has always held a certain mystique, with a rich tapestry of history, innovation, and vastness that few rail networks worldwide can match. From the high-speed marvels that zoom past cities to the nostalgic chugs of the country’s first railways, India offers a diverse and captivating array of train journeys. In this article, we delve deep into the fascinating world of the Indian Railways, exploring the fastest trains, the pioneers of electric rail travel, and the remarkable routes that stretch from one end of the subcontinent to the other. Join us on this journey as we traverse the tracks of time and innovation with train in India as our guiding star.

Top 12 Most Expensive Train in India

While these are just a few examples, the world is full of incredible train journeys waiting to be discovered. Each journey offers its own unique experience and story, making train travel a fascinating way to explore the world.

1. The Maharajas’ Express
   • Route: Various, e.g., Mumbai to Delhi
   • Time: 3-7 nights
   • Fare: $3,850+ per person
   • Highlights: Dubbed the “world’s leading luxury train,” it recreates regal grandeur. Explore palaces, fortresses, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, all while relishing gourmet Indian cuisine.
2. The Deccan Odyssey
   • Route: Various, covering Maharashtra, Goa, Rajasthan, and more.
   • Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: $5,800+ per person
   • Highlights: Journey through India’s diverse heritage, from the beaches of Goa to the Ellora Caves, with spa treatments and lavish suites on board.
3. Palace on Wheels
   • Route: Delhi through Rajasthan and back via Agra.
   • Time: 7 nights
   • Fare: $3,500+ per person
   • Highlights: Experience Rajasthani heritage, visiting forts and palaces, with luxurious interiors reminiscent of ancient Indian royalty.
4. Golden Chariot
   • Route: Bangalore to Goa
   • Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: $3,000+ per person
   • Highlights: Traverse South India’s cultural tapestry, from wildlife sanctuaries to ancient temples, in carriages inspired by Mysore Maharajas.
5. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
   • Route: Delhi through Rajasthan and back via Varanasi and Agra.
   • Time: 7 nights
   • Fare: $3,800+ per person
   • Highlights: A regal journey exploring the desert kingdoms, holy ghats of Varanasi, and the majestic Taj Mahal.
6. Mahaparinirvan Express
   • Route: Delhi to Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, and other Buddhist sites.
   • Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: $650+ per person
   • Highlights: Pilgrimage train offering spiritual odysseys through key Buddhist sites.

The Best Train Journeys in the World

Train travel offers a unique perspective on the landscape, giving passengers the opportunity to see sights often hidden from the average tourist. From luxury experiences to scenic routes, the world has no shortage of remarkable rail journeys. Below are some of the most highly recommended from a variety of perspectives:

1. The Luxury Experience: The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

• Route: London to Venice (with multiple routes in Europe)
• Review: An elegant journey back in time, this train is the epitome of 1920s glamour. Expect polished wood, sumptuous upholstery, and gourmet meals. An experience on the Orient Express is more than just travel; it’s an immersion into a bygone era.

2. The Scenic Beauty: The Glacier Express, Switzerland

• Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
• Review: Known as the “world’s slowest express train”, this 7-hour journey offers panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, deep gorges, and pristine lakes. The modern coaches with large windows ensure unobstructed views.

3. The Adventure Route: The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

• Route: Moscow to Vladivostok (with extensions to Beijing)
• Review: The longest railway journey in the world, this iconic route takes you across the vast Siberian wilderness. Engage with locals, experience the changing landscapes, and immerse yourself in a journey of discovery.

4. The Cultural Experience: The Palace on Wheels, India

• Route: Delhi to Rajasthan and Agra
• Review: A royal experience through India’s heartland, this journey is perfect for those wanting to experience India’s rich history. From historic forts to the Taj Mahal, combined with lavish interiors and traditional hospitality, it’s a feast for the senses.

5. The Wildlife Encounter: Rovos Rail, South Africa

• Route: Various routes, but the Pretoria to Victoria Falls is particularly popular.
• Review: This luxury train combines the elegance of a bygone era with the opportunity to see Africa’s stunning wildlife. The journey includes stops at game reserves, making it an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure.

6. The Coastal Ride: The Coastal Pacific, New Zealand

• Route: Picton to Christchurch
• Review: Travel alongside the Pacific Ocean and through the stunning Kaikoura mountain ranges. The open-air viewing carriage allows passengers to breathe in the fresh sea air and take perfect photographs.

7. The Historic Route: The Old Patagonian Express, Argentina

• Route: Esquel to El Maitén
• Review: Riding on this vintage steam train, passengers experience the raw beauty of Patagonia. It’s a nostalgic journey back in time, traveling through remote landscapes untouched by modern civilization.

8. The Mountain Pass: The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

• Route: Multiple routes through the Canadian Rockies
• Review: With glass-domed coaches, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Canadian wilderness, passing through tunnels, over trestles, and alongside steep gorges.

9. The Exotic Escape: Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

• Route: Singapore to Bangkok
• Review: A colonial-style train that offers a luxurious journey through the diverse landscapes of Southeast Asia. With lush rainforests, ancient temples, and quaint villages, it’s a journey of contrast and discovery.

10. The Modern Marvel: Shinkansen (Bullet Train), Japan

• Route: Multiple routes, Tokyo to Kyoto being one of the most popular.
• Review: Blend speed with scenery on Japan’s iconic bullet trains. Experience modern Japan at its finest, with punctual service, impeccable interiors, and stunning views of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Top 12 Most Expensive Train in India

While these are just a few examples, the world is full of incredible train journeys waiting to be discovered. Each journey offers its own unique experience and story, making train travel a fascinating way to explore the world.

1. The Maharajas’ Express
   • Route: Various, e.g., Mumbai to Delhi
   • Time: 3-7 nights
   • Fare: $3,850+ per person
   • Highlights: Dubbed the “world’s leading luxury train,” it recreates regal grandeur. Explore palaces, fortresses, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, all while relishing gourmet Indian cuisine.
2. The Deccan Odyssey
   • Route: Various, covering Maharashtra, Goa, Rajasthan, and more.
   • Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: $5,800+ per person
   • Highlights: Journey through India’s diverse heritage, from the beaches of Goa to the Ellora Caves, with spa treatments and lavish suites on board.
3. Palace on Wheels
   • Route: Delhi through Rajasthan and back via Agra.
   • Time: 7 nights
   • Fare: $3,500+ per person
   • Highlights: Experience Rajasthani heritage, visiting forts and palaces, with luxurious interiors reminiscent of ancient Indian royalty.
4. Golden Chariot
   • Route: Bangalore to Goa
   • Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: $3,000+ per person
   • Highlights: Traverse South India’s cultural tapestry, from wildlife sanctuaries to ancient temples, in carriages inspired by Mysore Maharajas.
5. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels
   • Route: Delhi through Rajasthan and back via Varanasi and Agra.
   • Time: 7 nights
   • Fare: $3,800+ per person
   • Highlights: A regal journey exploring the desert kingdoms, holy ghats of Varanasi, and the majestic Taj Mahal.
6. Mahaparinirvan Express

1. Route: Delhi to Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, and other Buddhist sites.
2. Time: 7 nights, 8 days
3. Fare: $650+ per person
4. Highlights: Pilgrimage train offering spiritual odysseys through key Buddhist sites.

Top 12 Most Expensive Train Services in the World

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE), Europe
   • Route: London to Venice
   • Journey Time: About 24 hours
   • Fare: Upwards of $3,000 per person
   • Highlights: A journey back in time, VSOE treats its guests to 1920s glamour with vintage carriages, gourmet cuisine, and personal butler service. The picturesque European landscapes, coupled with the old-world charm of the train, makes this a mesmerizing experience.
2. The Maharajas’ Express, India
   • Route: Various routes, one popular is Delhi to Mumbai
   • Journey Time: 3 to 7 nights
   • Fare: Starting from $3,850 per person
   • Highlights: Dubbed the “world’s leading luxury train”, it’s a royal escapade through India’s heartland, exploring palaces, wildlife, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, with opulent interiors echoing regal grandeur.
3. Royal Scotsman, UK
   • Route: Various routes around Scotland
   • Journey Time: 2 to 7 nights
   • Fare: From $5,000 per person
   • Highlights: With an onboard spa and majestic Scottish Highlands views, it offers an intimate, high-end travel experience with traditional Scottish entertainments.
4. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, Russia
   • Route: Moscow to Vladivostok
   • Journey Time: 15 days
   • Fare: From $15,495 per person
   • Highlights: This is a luxurious odyssey through the world’s most fascinating landscapes, blending comfort with authentic cultural experiences.
5. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
   • Route: Circular route around Kyushu Island
   • Journey Time: 2 to 4 days
   • Fare: Starts at $3,000 per person
   • Highlights: Japan’s first luxury sleeper train, it combines modernity with traditional Japanese aesthetics, exploring hot springs, mountains, and historic towns.
6. Rovos Rail’s Pride of Africa, South Africa
   • Route: Cape Town to Dar es Salaam
   • Journey Time: 15 days
   • Fare: From $12,500 per person
   • Highlights: This train traverses diverse African landscapes, offering stops at game reserves, the Victoria Falls, and the Tanzanian highlands.
7. The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
   • Route: Cusco to Arequipa (via Lake Titicaca)
   • Journey Time: 2 days, 2 nights
   • Fare: From $5,500 per person
   • Highlights: South America’s first luxury sleeper train provides panoramic views of the Andes, traversing through the Peruvian highlands, passing ancient Inca ruins, and offering a chance to witness the splendor of Lake Titicaca.
8. Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia
   • Route: Singapore to Bangkok
   • Journey Time: 3 nights
   • Fare: Starting from $3,000 per person
   • Highlights: Journey through the heart of Southeast Asia with this colonial-style train, witnessing tropical landscapes, historic temples, and local villages, complemented by onboard Asian and international cuisine.
9. Deccan Odyssey, India
   • Route: Various routes covering Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and more.
   • Journey Time: 7 nights, 8 days
   • Fare: From $5,800 per person
   • Highlights: Experience India’s diverse landscapes and historic sites, from the beaches of Goa to the regal cities of Rajasthan, all while enjoying spa treatments and gourmet Indian cuisine onboard.
10. The Ghan, Australia
    • Route: Adelaide to Darwin
    • Journey Time: 3 days, 2 nights
    • Fare: Starts at $3,500 for Platinum Service
    • Highlights: Traverse the heart of Australia, from the fertile countryside to the rugged Outback and tropical Top End, making it a journey of contrast and wonder.
11. Belmond Royal Livingstone Express, Zambia
    • Route: Livingstone to Victoria Falls Bridge and return
    • Journey Time: Dinner journey of a few hours
    • Fare: From $250 per person for the short journey (but extremely luxurious)
    • Highlights: A blend of luxury dining with views of one of the natural wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls. The sunset trip offers an unforgettable dining experience with a backdrop of African landscapes.
12. Al Andalus, Spain
    • Route: Seville to Granada (and various routes across Andalusia)
    • Journey Time: 6 nights
    • Fare: From $3,500 per person
    • Highlights: Dive into the heart of Andalusia aboard a palace on wheels, exploring historic cities, UNESCO sites, and savoring Spanish wine and cuisine.

Again, these fares are approximate and can vary based on services, routes, and seasons. Always check with the respective official service providers for accurate information.

Also Read: The Ather 450s Electric Scooter Amazing Features & Range!

Free Train Services in the World

While rare, there are some train services around the world that offer free rides to passengers. Some of these are short-distance services often designed to encourage public transportation or cater to specific areas like shopping districts or airports. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Talyllyn Railway, Wales, UK: On special occasions, this heritage railway offers locals free rides. It’s essential to keep an eye on their announcements to catch these offers.
2. Downtown Mover, Miami, USA: An automated people mover system in Miami, it provides a free mode of transport around the downtown area, primarily serving businesses and tourists.
3. MallRide, Denver, USA: This free shuttle bus service runs along the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver, aiding shoppers and tourists in getting from one end of the mall to the other.
4. SL Light Rail, Stockholm, Sweden: On special occasions, like late-night New Year’s celebrations, some train services are free to ensure everyone gets home safely.
5. City Circle Tram, Melbourne, Australia: This historic tram offers a free and convenient way to see the sights of downtown Melbourne.
6. DASH, Los Angeles, USA: While not entirely free, the DASH bus service in LA costs a very nominal fare and offers transportation in the downtown area and other neighborhoods.
7. DFW Terminal Link, Dallas, USA: For those traveling through the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, this free shuttle service connects all terminals.
8. AirTrain JFK, New York, USA: While the AirTrain JFK usually requires a fee to enter or exit at the Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations, travel within the airport and to Lefferts Boulevard station is free.
9. People Mover, Detroit, USA: A small monorail system in Detroit’s downtown area. It has a very low fee and occasionally offers free rides during special events.
10. Public Buses in Dunkirk, France: Not a train, but worth mentioning. Dunkirk became the largest European city to offer free public transportation for all in 2018. All buses are free every day for everyone.

Some Fact About Train in India

Let’s delve into the fascinating realm of the Indian Railways:

Fastest Train in India:

• Name: Vande Bharat Express (Train 18)
• Top Speed: 180 km/h (though it operates at 130 km/h due to track limitations)
• Route: Initially introduced between Delhi and Varanasi, with plans for other routes.
• Notable Features: It’s a semi-high speed, self-propelled train with modern amenities, including onboard infotainment.

First Train in India:

• Date: 16th April 1853
• Route: From Boree Bunder (Mumbai) to Thane
• Distance: 34 kilometers
• Locomotives: Sahib, Sultan, and Sindh

Longest Train in India (by physical length):

• Often, goods trains hold this title with multiple freight cars. However, among passenger trains, some, like the Trivandrum Rajdhani Express, can be quite long, especially when additional coaches are attached.

Longest Route Train in India (by distance covered):

• Name: Vivek Express
• Route: Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari
• Distance: Approximately 4,273 kilometers
• Duration: About 82 hours

First Electric Train in India:

• Date: 3rd February 1925
• Route: Bombay VT (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Kurla on the Harbour Line
• Distance: 16 kilometers

Types of Trains in India:

• Rajdhani Express: Premium trains connecting the capital, New Delhi, to various state capitals.
• Shatabdi Express: Day-long trains connecting major cities without overnight journeys.
• Duronto Express: Point-to-point long-distance trains without traditional technical stops.
• Vande Bharat Express: Semi-high-speed intercity electric multiple units.
• Garib Rath: Air-conditioned no-frills long-distance trains with lower fares.
• Jan Shatabdi: More affordable version of the Shatabdi.
• Local/MEMU/DEMU: Suburban network trains for daily commuting.
• Goods Trains: For transporting commodities.
• Heritage Trains: Like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

This encapsulates some of the vast and diverse operations of the Indian Railways, a lifeline that plays a vital role in connecting the vast expanse of the country.