Hidden Tracks, Unseen Beauty: 7 Scenic Train Routes in India You Might’ve Missed

When it comes to train travel in India, most people think of iconic rides like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the Konkan stretch. But beyond the well-trodden paths lies a world of railway journeys that are quieter, rawer, and often far more intimate with nature.

These lesser-known routes offer not just a mode of transport but a sensory immersion—through mist-draped hills, ancient tunnels, tea gardens, and sleepy towns. Each ride tells a different story, not through bustling stations or tourist crowds, but through untouched landscapes and slow travel.

Here are seven underrated rail journeys across India that promise scenic beauty and soulful experiences—without the fanfare:

1. Karjat to Lonavala (Maharashtra)
A brief yet breathtaking ride, this route slices through the majestic Western Ghats. The train navigates sharp curves, historic tunnels, and lush valleys, especially dramatic during the monsoon season. The steep climb up Bhor Ghat turns into a cascade of greenery and mist, perfect for those chasing monsoon magic.

2. Ledo to Tinsukia (Assam)
India’s easternmost rail route is a secret even to many locals. Traveling through remote stretches of Assam’s tea country, this journey unfolds against a serene backdrop of misty hills, small hamlets, and forested curves—an authentic slice of the Northeast untouched by mass tourism.

3. Punalur to Sengottai (Kerala–Tamil Nadu)

After being dormant for years, this route has roared back to life. It cuts through dense forests, ancient stone bridges, and rubber and banana plantations. The old-world charm and biodiversity make it a photographer’s delight and a dream route for slow-travel enthusiasts.

4. Mettupalayam to Ooty (Tamil Nadu)

While this Nilgiri Mountain Railway is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this specific stretch often remains underappreciated. The train climbs through 16 tunnels and over 250 bridges, offering views of misty valleys, tea estates, and eucalyptus groves—a visual treat and a lesson in slowing down.

5. Joginder Nagar to Pathankot (Himachal Pradesh–Punjab)
This narrow-gauge line weaves through pine forests, tiny hamlets, and hill slopes, all while offering glimpses of distant snow-capped peaks. It’s a quiet, contemplative ride best suited for those who prefer nature over noise and authenticity over attractions.

6. Araku Valley to Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)

From mist-covered coffee plantations in Araku to the sunlit coastline of Vizag, this train journey is all about contrast. It passes through tunnels, tribal villages, and deep valleys—showcasing the changing face of Andhra Pradesh in a matter of hours.

7. Jorhat to Mariani (Assam)

A short but soulful ride through Assam’s endless tea gardens. It’s not packed with landmarks, but its charm lies in the everyday—workers plucking leaves, children waving at the train, and golden sunsets fading behind swaying trees. A journey that encourages you to just… be.

These routes may not be famous, but they are unforgettable. For those looking to ditch the crowds and connect with India’s quieter corners, these train rides offer the perfect offbeat escape—slow, scenic, and soul-stirring.