10 Best Places to Visit by Train in North India

Baithe baithe bore hue? Toh karlo thoda travel! 

There is something extremely alluring about train journeys in India. Be it the calm that a window seat provides us, or the conversations you have with your co-passengers, there is quite nothing like travelling with the Indian Railways. Travelling by train in India is undoubtedly an extraordinary experience, and should you ever get this wonderful opportunity, grab it, we say!

It also helps that IRCTC train ticket booking is a simple, fast and convenient process, and travellers can even get many add-on facilities such as free cancellation and instant refunds if they opt for booking via ixigo.

Let’s take a look at 10 best places to visit by train in North India, and once you’ve decided where to go, just check the train travel guidelines of your destination, book your train tickets and go!

1. Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Royal Bengal Tiger

The jewel of Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore has one of the best tiger reserves in the country. Along with going tiger-spotting, travellers must also visit the Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spot a variety of colourful birds at the Padam Lake.

Nearest Railway Station – Sawai Madhopur Railway Station

2. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Spectacular view of the Lakshman Temple (Trayambakeshwar Temple)bathed by the sacred river Ganges. Uttarakhand, Rishikesh, India.

The gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas, Rishikesh is the best place to visit by train in North India. For adventure lovers, the city boasts of India’s highest bungee jumping spot, river rafting, ziplining and many more thrilling activities. Get your dose of spirituality at the Lakshman Jhula and don’t forget to attend Ganga Aarti at any of Rishikesh’s many ghats.

Nearest Railway Station – Yog Nagari Rishikesh Railway Station

3. Jaipur, Rajasthan

jaipur-final

The regality of Rajasthan is displayed at its best in the capital city of Jaipur. The Pink City has managed to preserve its old world charm in its magnificent forts, palaces and museums. The delectable local food and royal history will win your heart! Train ticket booking for Jaipur can be easily made from all major North Indian cities, such as Delhi, Agra, Lucknow, Varanasi, etc.

Nearest Railway Station – Jaipur Railway Station

4. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

colorful main ghat in varanassi

The bliss of attending Ganga Aarti is undoubtedly best experienced in Varanasi. The city, previously known as Benaras, has spirituality in the air and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich Hindu culture with its numerous temples and ghats.

Nearest Railway Station – Varanasi Junction Railway Station

5. Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

An Aerial landscape view of Mussoorie or Mussouri hill top peak city located in Uttarakhand India with colorful buildings

It is often said that Mussoorie has a pull that makes travellers visit the city again and again. Flanked by thick Deodar trees, Mussoorie is perfect for travellers looking for a quiet and ‘do-nothing’ vacation. Coupled with the nearby Landour cantonment, travellers can look forward to long evening walks in nature accompanied by furry mountain dogs, friendly locals and delicious food.

Nearest Railway Station – Dehradun Railway Station

6. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Church in Shimla city of India

Laden with breathtakingly dense forests of Pine, Oak and Deodar, Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. It houses some beautiful temples that offer spectacular views of the nearby forest covered hills. The train journey to Shimla, which will be made through the legendary Kalka–Shimla train route, must not be missed at all costs!

Nearest Railway Station – Shimla Railway Station

7. Chandigarh

Rock Garden, Chandigarh

Chandigarh is truly a beautiful destination for everyone who loves to explore and travel. Located at the base of the lofty Shivalik Hills, the city is a reflecting mix of architecture, natural beauty, design, urbanization and heritage. Some of the must-visit attractions in Chandigarh include the Rock Garden, Rose Garden and the Government Museum and Art Gallery.

Nearest Railway Station – Chandigarh Junction Railway Station

8. Amritsar, Punjab

Beautiful view of golden temple shri darbar sahib in Amritsar, Punjab

Home of the glorious Golden Temple, Amritsar is the cultural and spiritual centre of Punjab. While in Amritsar, travellers must begin their day by paying a visit to the Golden Temple, followed by a visit to the historic Jallianwala Bagh. Along with that, travellers can enjoy the best of Punjabi cuisine at various dhabas across the city and shop for traditional handicrafts at the Hall Bazaar.

Nearest Railway Station – Amritsar Junction Railway Station

9. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

lucknow city

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a North Indian culture hub. The city is known for its delicious kebabs, intricately designed monuments and Chikankari artwork. Lucknow boasts of a rich cultural heritage that has been seamlessly blended with its modern landscape. This is why the charming city is popular among tourists!

Nearest Railway Station – Lucknow Junction Railway Station

10. Udaipur, Rajasthan

This photo was shot from Udaipur city at twilight time. Udaipur city palace was built over a period of nearly 400 years being contributed by several kings of the dynasty. It is located on the east bank of the Lake Pichola and has several palaces built within its complex.

Serene lakes, spectacular palaces, awe-inspiring forts and cultural richness — Udaipur stuns travellers with several surprises at every step! Romantic and whimsical, this dreamy city is nestled around quaint lakes and fringed by the Aravalli hills. Home to Rajputana glory, Udaipur has been a centre of attraction amongst visitors from across the globe for many years. 

Nearest Railway Station – Udaipur City Railway Station

Don’t wait! Plan your trip now…happy travels! 🙂