Summary :
Monsoon turns India’s train journeys into magical experiences filled with mist, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. From the toy trains of Shimla and Darjeeling to the coastal beauty of Konkan and spiritual ride to Rameshwaram, each route offers a unique charm. These journeys blend nature, culture, and adventure. Perfect for travelers seeking beauty beyond the windows. Here is list of Best train journeys in monsoon.
Best train journeys in monsoon : Dont miss this train journeys
The monsoon season is not just about tea and pakodas, but also about a beautiful journey. When the raindrops hit the windows, and the train passes through mountains, valleys and seashores, then that experience becomes not just a journey, but a memorable story.
India’s rail network is one of the largest networks in the world, and during monsoon this rail journey seems even more cinematic. Today we will take you on the Top 10 Best Train Journeys in India During Monsoon – where beyond the windows you will find the most beautiful paintings of nature.
1. Kalka – Shimla Railway (Himachal Pradesh)
The enchantment of misty hills and toy train in the rains.
This toy train running from Kalka to Shimla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When clouds beat the mountains in monsoon and greenery spreads everywhere, then this train ride becomes a fairytale.
Highlights:
102 tunnels and 800+ bridges
Magical view of pine and deodar forests in the rain
Opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills at a slow pace
This ride is nostalgic as well as romantic, a perfect monsoon escape for nature lovers.
2. Mumbai – Goa (Konkan Railway Route)
Dream combo of Sea, Ghats and Rain
This train journey from Mumbai to Goa is one of the most beautiful routes of Konkan Railway. Waterfalls, tunnels and green valleys make this ride surreal during rainy days.
Highlights:
Parallel view of Sahyadri Hills and Arabian Sea
Waterfalls across the country
Over 2000 bridges and 91 tunnels
The rain adds to Goa’s seaside beauty, as does the gurgling of the train.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (West Bengal)
A toy train ride amidst clouds
“Darjeeling Toy Train” is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its charm doubles during monsoon. This train running through the hill station roads, tea gardens and clouds looks like a painting.
Highlights:
360-degree view of the Ghum Loop and Batasia Loop
Dreamy vibe of toy train in rain
Views of Kanchenjunga, when clouds are slightly to the side
If you want to enjoy a real train ride amidst rain and mist, then this journey is perfect.
4. Konkan Railway (Ratnagiri–Madgaon–Mangalore)
India’s most cinematic rail route
The entire section of Konkan Railway becomes a visual treat during monsoon. The journey goes through dense forests, waterfalls, and subterranean caverns.
Highlights:
Panvalnadi viaduct – an engineering marvel
Waterfalls literally falling on train tracks
Green landscape of Ghats with rain clouds
This route is a dream location for photographers and vloggers during monsoon.
5. Mandapam – Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu)
A rain-filled journey of a train running over the ocean
The train going from Mandapam to Rameshwaram passes over the ocean via the Pamban Bridge. With high tide and wind in the rain, this ride is breathtaking.
Highlights:
Pamban Bridge – India’s first sea bridge
Thrilling experience of a train ride above the sea
Perfect blend of rain and waves
This journey is both adventurous and spiritual, as it goes to Rameshwaram – an important pilgrimage site.
6. Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Tamil Nadu)
Ooty’s monsoon route with colonial charm
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Mettupalayam to Ooty is also a UNESCO heritage toy train. When the Nilgiri hills are hidden in the clouds in the rain, the train journey becomes dreamy.
Highlights:
Dense forests and view of tea estates
45 km narrow-gauge rail
Waterfalls and green carpets in Monsoon
The combination of old-world elegance and mist makes for a beautiful trip.
7. Jaisalmer – Jodhpur (Rajasthan)
Monsoon touch of Thar desert
When it rains in Rajasthan, the desert also comes alive. The ride from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur gives you a cultural plus scenic experience.
Highlights:
Golden sand dunes with light drizzle
Glimpse of forts and palaces
Rare desert greenery
This journey is a blend of the royal touch of Rajasthan and the rare beauty of monsoon.
8. Matheran Hill Railway (Maharashtra)
Toy train through forest trails in the rain
This toy train running from Neral to Matheran offers a peaceful hill ride. The blend of greenery, fog and light rain on both sides of the narrow tracks during monsoon makes this ride mesmerizing.
Highlights:
Eco-sensitive hill station ride (no vehicles allowed in Matheran)
Forest trails and monkey points
Misty curves in the rain
This ride is perfect for a weekend getaway, especially for Mumbaikars.
9. Bhubaneswar – Brahmapur (Odisha)
East Coast’s underrated monsoon ride
This train route runs parallel to the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal. Odisha’s lush green landscape comes alive in the monsoon.
Highlights:
Peaceful view of Chilika Lake
Paddy fields and small hills
Rain-washed villages and temples
This route is a peaceful and soulful journey
10. Guwahati – Silchar (Assam)
Northeast India’s monsoon marvel
Northeast India is in full bloom during monsoon, and the train ride from Guwahati to Silchar is a hidden gem. Lush valleys, bridges and fog make this journey cinematic.
Highlights:
Stunning views of Barak Valley
River crossings and deep jungles
Experience of traveling through clouds during night
This train ride is a perfect way to explore remote and beautiful Assam.
Read this blog : Matheran One Day Trip
FAQs : Best train journeys in monsoon
Q1. Are monsoon train journeys safe in India?
Yes, most routes are safe during the monsoon, but always check for local weather alerts or temporary delays, especially in hilly or coastal areas.
Q2. Which is the most scenic train route during the monsoon?
The Konkan Railway route (Mumbai to Goa or Ratnagiri to Mangalore) is widely considered the most scenic with lush greenery, waterfalls, and sea views.
Q3. Do toy trains operate during heavy rains?
Toy trains like Kalka–Shimla, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and Nilgiri Mountain Railway usually operate in monsoon, though services may be delayed during extreme weather.
Q4. Which train journey offers a sea bridge experience?
The Mandapam to Rameshwaram train ride crosses the famous Pamban Bridge, offering a thrilling journey over the ocean.
Q5. What should I carry during a monsoon train journey?
Carry a raincoat or umbrella, waterproof backpack, extra clothes, snacks, power bank, and basic medicines to ensure a comfortable trip.
