The Most Picturesque Vistadome Train Journeys In India Offering Panoramic Views Of Hills, Forests And Rivers

Train journeys are not just about reaching a destination; they let you enjoy the beauty along the way. With the introduction of the first Vistadome coaches in India in 2017, travel has become even more immersive for tourists. You can enjoy panoramic views of nature's finest landscapes through its glass windows and roofs. Here are some Vistadome trains you can hop aboard for an unforgettable experience. 

1. Kalka–Shimla Vistadome Route

The Kalka-Shimla NG Express Vistadome train covers 90 km from Kalka to Shimla. It departs at 6:20 am and arrives at the destination at 11:50 am. The route features 103 tunnels, 800 bridges, 919 curves and 18 stations. The Vistadome's glass windows and roof will give you stunning views of pine forests, valleys and mountains.

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2. Bengaluru–Mangaluru Vistadome Route
This train journey runs from Bengaluru to Karwar in Karnataka, stopping at 16 stations along the way. The journey starts from Yesvantpur Junction at 7 am and ends at Karwar at 11 pm. One of the highlights is the scenic view at Shiribagilu Station, where the Brahmagiri Hills in the Western Ghats add to the lush greenery.

3.  Mumbai–Pune Vistadome Route
The Deccan Express runs from Mumbai to Pune, stopping at Dadar, Thane and Lonavala, among other stations. It departs Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 7 am and arrives in Pune at 11:05 am. As you travel, enjoy views of Matheran, Songir Fort, Ulhas River and the scenic hills and waterfalls of Khandala and Lonavala. The coach is Wi-Fi enabled with a passenger info system. 

4. Mumbai–Madgaon Vistadome Route
This train leaves the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus at 5.25 am and arrives in Goa at 4.30 pm. The train stops at nine stations while you enjoy mesmerising views of waterfalls, spectacular scenery and age-old bridges.

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5. Jalpaiguri–Alipurduar Vistadome Route
The New Jalpaiguri Express starts its journey from New Jalpaiguri and covers 169 km to Alipurduar Junction. The route goes through West Bengal's Dooars region. As the train meanders through dense forests, tea gardens, and the Eastern Himalayas' foothills, you'll soak in breathtaking views of lush greenery and maybe even spot some wildlife.

6. Visakhapatnam–Araku Vistadome Route

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The Visakhapatnam-Kirandul Express Vistadome train covers 471 km at an average speed of 40 km/h. It stops at Kottavalasa, Aaraku, and Kirandul, among others. The train departs Visakhapatnam Junction at 9:20 pm and arrives at Kirandul at 10 am. Enjoy the scenic Aaruku Valley views with 180-degree rotatable seats, a transparent roof and large windows. 

7. Ahmedabad–Kevadiya Vistadome Route
The Kevadiya Jan Shatabdi Express runs from Ahmedabad to Ekta Nagar, stopping at 3 stations. It leaves Ahmedabad at 3:20 pm and arrives at Ekta Nagar at 6:20 pm. You'll get to see the iconic Statue of Unity and stunning views of the Narmada River. 

In addition to these routes, you can board the Vistadome Special Coach on the New Haflong Special Tourist Train from Guwahati to New Haflong, Mailani - Bichia Special in Uttar Pradesh and the Jammu and Kashmir route