Train journeys have a charm of their own and now the views are set to get even better with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)’s new coaches.
The features include a 180-degree rotatable plush seat, large glass windows, glass roofs with anti-glare screens and a Wi-Fi-based system to offer passengers more information.
So, here are some beautiful destinations that you can reach while experiencing the comfort of the Vistadome train coaches.
1. Ghoom in Darjeeling, West Bengal
This world heritage site is also the highest point of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways and the last stop on the Darjeeling toy train ride.
Top things to see/do: Visit the intricate Ghum and Yiga Choeling Monasteries; pluck aromatic plants at the Herb Garden, and take a stroll around Ghoom.
2. Patalpani in Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Surrounded by a dense forest cover, the waterfalls from 300 feet into a pool at the bottom, which is so deep that legend says it goes all the way to hell or patal.
Top things to see/do: Ride a hot air balloon or go trekking nearby. Do bird watching at the Indore Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary an hour away.
3. Mangalore, Karnataka
The train journey runs through the breathtaking Western Ghats and even takes you around high altitudes, which makes for an enthralling ride.
Top things to see/do: Spot dolphins at the sandy beach of Panambur; pay your respects at the Mahathobhara Sri Mangaladevi Temple; try amazing seafood at the nearby restaurants.
4. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Travellers go for the quiet, relaxing vibe and to meet the Apatani tribe. This tribe was once considered for a UNESCO Cultural Heritage listing.
Top things to see/do: Request a visit with the head of the Apatani tribe at his traditional cottage; do the 4-day long Talle Valley trek that takes you through dense forests.
5. Colva, Goa
Colva in south Goa is a beautiful beach with palm trees lining the sand and beach shacks offering just about everything you need to enjoy the panoramic view.
Top things to see/do: Go water-skiing or parasailing; laze around at the many shacks with a plate of seafood and beer.
6. Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
This little-known hill station is where India’s first tribal growers’ organic coffee brand can be found.
Top things to see/do: Visit the gushing Chaparai Waterfalls; explore the Borra Caves with its stalactites and stalagmites; sip on freshly brewed coffee at the Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations.
7. Pune, Maharashtra
While the city has had a makeover post its colonisation, you can still find some colonial-era architecture here and there.
Top things to see/do: Tour the Aga Khan Palace; marvel at the Pataleshwar rock-cut (cave) temple; climb to the 2000-year-old hill fortress of Sinhagad Fort.
8. Alipurduar, West Bengal
There are many dense jungles to explore flora and fauna and if you’re looking for a break from the chaos of the city, this place presents the perfect holiday opportunity for you.
Top things to see/ do: Spend a day watching elephants at the Eastern Dooars Elephant Reserve; tour the Buxa Tiger Reserve; spot the one-horned rhino at the Jaldapara National Park.
9. Haflong, Assam
Haflong is known for its rolling hills, colonial architecture, the sparkling Haflong Lake, and its bewitching valleys and mountains.
Top things to see/do: Watch the sunset near turquoise Haflong Lake and get to know the fascinating local tribes of Biates and Karbis.
10. Barog, Himachal Pradesh
This is a restful, non-commercialised place with little to do besides walking its natural trails, picking pine cones, and sitting by the bonfire.
Top things to see/do: Visit the Dagshai Museum, which used to be a cellular jail; take a toy train ride to Shimla; hike to Choor Peak