Rail journeys in India

Board an overnight sleeper train in the bustling capital of New Delhi, sail the Ganges and ride the iconic toy train to Shimla on this immersive tour of India. You’ll explore ancient temples, vibrant markets and grand Mughal architecture before ascending into the cool mountain air, where a vibrant history meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Small group tours to India with rail journeys

Explore Worldwide’s rail itineraries connect India’s most iconic destinations. Ride from the sacred city of Amritsar to Kerala’s lush, green backwaters, exploring dramatic landscapes and rich, cultural experiences along the way.

Along the way, you might spot Bengal tigers in the wild, explore grand Mughal landmarks and hike through jungle-draped foothills that few travelers reach. From colonial hill stations to forested highlands and fast-paced cities, every stop reveals a new layer of India, brought to life by our expert local guides.

Admire the stunning scenery aboard the iconic Toy Train to Shimla. From Shimla, hike up to the Jakhu or ‘monkey’ Temple. Visit the old hill stations of the British Raj and ride the Toy Train to Ooty, crossing forested hills and girder bridges.

Our India railway tours are ideal for travelers who enjoy active vacations with time to relax too. Our expert local guides will help connect you with India, and you’ll share your experience with a small group averaging just 12 people.

A vibrant train travels across a stone bridge and enters a tunnel, surrounded by lush, green forested hills.

Our most popular rail journeys in India

Kolkata to Amritsar

India Rail Journeys Trip code RBA

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Best rail journey destinations in India

1. Ride the Toy Train to Shimla

Ride the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge route that covers 103 tunnels and over 87 bridges. As you ascend into the Shivalik Hills, watch the scenery transform from sunny plains to cool pine forests and mountain villages. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and discover India’s fascinating colonial history. This journey is a favorite on our Kolkata to Amritsar tour.

2. Ride the Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Part of our South India Explorer tour, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway offers a distinctly different kind of journey. The route snakes up steep inclines to the hilltop station of Ooty, passing tea plantations, rocky outcrops and eucalyptus forests. It’s the steepest rack railway in Asia and the vintage blue-and-cream carriages feel like a step back in time.

What to expect on a rail journey in India

Is the whole tour by train?
No – our tours combine multiple modes of transport for comfort and efficiency. To make sure you get the most out of your experience, we choose the most appropriate mode of transport for each destination. Alternative travel methods include bus, boat, public bus, taxi, train and rickshaw. For more details regarding the transport on your chosen departure, please speak to our team.

What is the accommodation like?
Expect one to three nights aboard an overnight sleeper train, where you can relax and socialize in the company of fellow travelers. Depending on the tour you choose, accommodation can range from simple local lodges to premium boutique stores. For more information, please check the itinerary for your chosen departure.

What should I pack?
India’s climate and weather can vary significantly depending on where and when you go. You should pack lightweight, cool clothing for warm days and warm clothes for colder mornings and evenings. A compact rain jacket will keep you dry during the rainy season – particularly for October and November departures. Comfortable shoes and sandals are also strongly recommended as tours often involve a lot of walking. You’ll carry your own luggage, so we recommend a soft-sided bag and daypack — easier to store on sleeper trains.

How active are railway vacations in India?
Our rail vacations in India vary from Moderate to Full-On. Our Moderate tours allow downtime between activities, a great combination of exciting experiences and activities with plenty of time to unwind. Our Full-On tours move at a faster pace with earlier mornings and longer travel days, great for people who enjoy an itinerary packed with activities and experiences.

Who else will be on the tour?
Group makeup varies, but typically includes a mix of couples and solo travelers. Most groups include a range of ages and backgrounds. Want to know more about the group make up on a particular departure? Our team may be able to share the rough demographics of the group, and split of solos and couples.