Riding the rails: Marvelous train journey in South India

Riding the rails: Marvelous train journey in South India

Mettupalayam to Ooty First opened in 1899 (and extended to Ooty in 1908), the NMR pulls in an often-lively domestic crowd, with people cheering as tunnels plunge you into darkness.

Bengaluru to Gokarna The train follows the coast north to Gokarna Road station, where some of South India’s most magical and relaxed beaches await on the doorstep.

Mumbai to Margao Mandovi Express isn’t all about the views: it’s also famous for its food, courtesy of a Karnataka-born catering company that delights travellers with samosas, idli-sambar, vadas and other favorites.

Varkala to Kanyakumari The beloved Island Express’ 10:55am departure from Varkala means you’ll enjoy southern Kerala’s palm-laced landscapes in all their hazy day-lit beauty.

Vasco da Gama to Londa The 3pm Goa Express (a daily superfast train) runs north from Vasco da Gama via Londa all the way to Delhi – 2208km (1372 miles), or 39.5  hours away. It also stops in Margao, a handy alternative Goa start point.

Chennai to Hyderabad The Chennai-Hyderabad Express makes its way north from Tamil Nadu every day at 4:45 p.m., departing from Chennai Central and serving supper in the tradition of South India.

Kochi to Margao Also following the Konkan Railway for much of the way, this overnight route zips you north from Kerala’s arty cultural hub Kochi to serene southern Goa.

Chennai to Rameswaram Plodding across the 2km(1.25-mile)-long Pamban Bridge, with the Bay of Bengal swirling below, puts a whole new spin on riding the rails in South India.