Traveling by train in India isn’t just a means of transport – it’s an experience in itself. Especially during the summer, train journeys offer a scenic and comfortable way to escape the heat and explore the most beautiful parts of the country. Here are some of the best train routes in India that are perfect for summer travel, offering breathtaking views, cool destinations, and a touch of adventure.
1. Kalka to Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
Train: Himalayan Queen (Toy Train)
A UNESCO World Heritage route, this narrow-gauge toy train winds through 102 tunnels and over 800 bridges, offering panoramic views of pine forests, valleys, and charming hill towns.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Takes you to the cool and breezy hills of Shimla.
2. Mettupalayam to Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
Train: Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Another UNESCO-listed route, this toy train climbs from the plains to the lush Nilgiri Hills. It passes through tunnels, sharp bends, and tea estates, making it a magical summer ride.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Ends in Ooty, a top summer hill station.
3. Delhi to Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)
Train: Jammu Rajdhani / Shalimar Express
This scenic ride takes you from the sweltering heat of Delhi to the gateway of Kashmir. As you move north, the landscape transforms from dusty plains to lush hills.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Ideal for those planning to continue onwards to Srinagar, Gulmarg, or Pahalgam.
4. Siliguri to Darjeeling (West Bengal)
Train: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
Famous for its vintage vibe, this heritage train route offers stunning views of the Eastern Himalayas, forests, and tea gardens.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Ends in Darjeeling, known for its cool climate and tea estates.
5. Ahmedabad to Mount Abu (Rajasthan)
Train: Abu Road Express / Ahmedabad Express
From the heat of Gujarat, this train heads to Rajasthan’s only hill station, Mount Abu, known for its moderate temperatures and greenery.
Why It’s Great for Summer: A quick getaway for those in western India looking to beat the heat.
6. Kochi to Munnar (via Aluva + Road)
Note: No direct train to Munnar, but the journey to Aluva by train followed by a scenic road trip is popular. The lush greenery and winding roads make this an unforgettable summer route.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Munnar offers a perfect cool climate and tea-scented air.
7. Bangalore to Coonoor/Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
Train: Bangalore to Mettupalayam via Coimbatore + Nilgiri Toy Train
This combined journey is ideal for those traveling from South India to the Nilgiri Hills. The last leg on the toy train adds a charming touch to the trip.
Why It’s Great for Summer: Escapes the city heat and ends in the cool hills of Ooty or Coonoor.
Plan Your Train Travel with Weekend Yaari
At Weekend Yaari, we help you craft unforgettable train journeys with customized travel packages that include scenic rail routes, accommodations, and sightseeing. Whether you’re heading to the Nilgiris, the Himalayas, or the valleys of Kashmir, we’ll make your summer escape smooth and memorable.
Contact us today and start planning your summer adventure by train!
