Vande Bharat journeys have drastically changed the way Indians experience train travel. While these semi-high -speed trains are primarily known for their speed and amenities, some of these trains pass through scenic routes in India. From snow-covered mountains of Kashmir and lush-green Western Ghats to Kerala’s backwaters and Assam’s green landscapes, India’s Vande Bharat network passes through some remarkably diverse scenery. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best scenic Vande Bharat train journeys worth taking.
9 Vande Bharat Routes To Travel On For The Best Views
1. Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat
Distance: 189 km
The introduction of a Vande Bharat train on the Katra-Srinagar route is one of the most significant highlights of Indian railways in recent times. The route is one of the most scenic train routes in India, passing through the dramatic landscape of Pir Panjal range and into the Kashmir Valley.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Chenab Bridge, which rises above the Chenab River. It has earned the title of being the world’s highest railway bridge – an unparalleled feat in Indian railway infrastructure. As the train approaches Srinagar, the landscape becomes greener, with orchards, meadows and mountain ranges creating a dramatic finale.
2. Mumbai-Madgaon Vande Bharat
Distance: 586 km
The Mumbai-Madgaon Vande Bharat is one of the most scenic train journeys in India, passing through the Western Ghats. The route passes through the Konkan region, where the landscape changes from Mumbai’s urban sprawl to lush green hills.
The monsoon can make this journey particularly spectacular. Waterfalls appear along the Western Ghats, the countryside turns intensely green and mist often hangs around the hills. Bridges and tunnels add to the visual drama of the journey.
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3. Mangaluru–Madgaon Vande Bharat
Distance: 437 km
If you can’t get enough of Konkan’s beauty, ride further down south on the Konkan coast to Mangaluru. The route cuts through a landscape of lush greenery, hills, rivers, and coastal settlements. The stretch within Goa offers the lush beauty of Goa’s hills while the route to Mangaluru.
If you can’t get enough of India’s western coastline, the Mangaluru–Madgaon Vande Bharat offers another beautiful way to experience the Konkan region. As the train moves north from Karnataka towards Goa, passengers get glimpses of the lush terrain that makes this part of India such a popular monsoon destination.
4. Thiruvananthapuram–Kasargod
Distance: 588 km
Few states can compete with Kerala when it comes to picturesque views. The Thiruvananthapuram-Kasargod route is one of the most scenic routes in the state. The green landscape, coconut palms, paddy fields, waterways, and expansive stretches of towns and cities.
The route connects the southern capital with northern Kerala, making it a convenient option for travelers who want to experience multiple sides of the state. If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Kerala through scenic train rides, the Thiruvananthapuram-Kasargod route is an enjoyable train ride.
5. New Delhi–Dehradun Vande Bharat
Distance: 302 km
The New Delhi–Dehradun Vande Bharat offers picturesque views of the Shivalik hills and the Doon Valley. The journey begins amid the densely populated plains of northern India before gradually approaching the Shivalik foothills and the Doon Valley.
The route passes through agricultural landscapes, big and small towns, and the Doon Valley, making it one of the best Vande Bharat routes. Forested sections and the surrounding Shivalik landscape signal that the Himalayan foothills aren’t far away. The final stretch into Dehradun is particularly rewarding, with the Doon Valley framed by hills.
6. MGR Chennai Central–Mysuru Vande Bharat
Distance: ~500 km
The Chennai–Mysuru Vande Bharat is an excellent option for travelers who enjoy watching an urban landscape gradually transform into countryside. The train leaves Chennai, passing through the plains and populated areas of Tamil Nadu. Further along the journey, the scenery becomes greener and more open, particularly as the train approaches Karnataka.
The route eventually reaches Mysuru, a city surrounded by rolling landscapes and located close to several nature-rich destinations. While it may not have the dramatic mountain scenery of Katra–Srinagar, the appeal here lies in watching two South Indian states unfold outside the window.
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7. Pune–SCSMT Kolhapur Vande Bharat
Distance: 326 km
The Pune-Kolhapur Vande Bharat is an underrated option for travelers who want to see Maharashtra beyond its cities. The route passes through the state’s agricultural heartland, through fields, villages, and gently rolling towards the historic city of Kolhapur.
While there are several trains connecting Pune and Kolhapur, you must choose a Vande Bharat train for good amenities and faster connectivity.
8. Chennai–Coimbatore Vande Bharat
Distance: 497 km
The Chennai-Coimbatore Vande Bharat makes for an interesting cross-section of Tamil Nadu. The journey connects two of South India’s most important cities, Chennai and Coimbatore.
The closer you get to Coimbatore, the more the scenery changes, with the Western Ghats providing a dramatic backdrop around the destination. Coimbatore itself is surrounded by hills and is an important gateway to destinations such as Ooty and the Nilgiris. If you’re planning a larger Tamil Nadu Itinerary, this is a particularly convenient way to travel between two major cities in Tamil Nadu.
9. Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat
Distance: 407 km
The Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat is one of the newest additions to the Vande Bharat routes. It is perhaps one of the most convenient ways for travelers looking to experience the underrated beauty of the North East.
The journey connects Assam with northern West Bengal, passing through green countryside and rural landscapes. Depending on visibility and the season, passengers can experience everything from lush agricultural land to distant Himalayan foothill scenery.
If you’re planning a trip to Darjeeling, Sikkim or the wider Himalayan region, the journey can also form part of a longer Northeast India itinerary.
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Author’s Note
Personally, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train is my personal favorite thanks to its unparalleled views of the Kashmir Valley. While Jammu & Kashmir has not been connected to the mainland through an extensive rail network, this route offers a unique perspective to tourists visiting Jammu & Kashmir. Having said that, I feel each of the routes has something unique to offer, paired with the added convenience and modern features of the Vande Bharat trains.
Summing Up
Vande Bharat trains promise exceptional views with super-fast connectivity, modern amenities, and top-notch features. From the Katra-Srinagar route’s mountains and Chenab Bridge to the fairly new Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat passing through the North East, these scenic Vande Bharat train journeys prove that getting there can be half the fun.
