Traveling from Delhi to hill stations by train is a popular choice due to the convenience and scenic journeys these routes offer. Here are some notable hill stations that are connected by train from Delhi:
1. Shimla
- Route: Delhi to Kalka, and then a toy train to Shimla.
- Trains:
- Kalka Shatabdi Express (12011/12012)
- Himalayan Queen (14095/14096)
- Howrah-Kalka Mail (12311/12312)
- Toy Train: Kalka to Shimla narrow-gauge toy train (e.g., Shivalik Deluxe Express).
2. Nainital
- Route: Delhi to Kathgodam, followed by a short road trip to Nainital (approximately 34 km).
- Trains:
- Ranikhet Express (15013/15014)
- Uttarakhand Sampark Kranti Express (15035/15036)
- Bagh Express (13019/13020)
3. Mussoorie
- Route: Delhi to Dehradun, then a road trip to Mussoorie (approximately 34 km).
- Trains:
- Nanda Devi Express (12401/12402)
- Shatabdi Express (12017/12018)
- Mussoorie Express (14041/14042)
4. Darjeeling
- Route: Delhi to New Jalpaiguri, followed by a toy train or road trip to Darjeeling.
- Trains:
- North East Express (12505/12506)
- Brahmaputra Mail (14055/14056)
- Mahananda Express (15483/15484)
- Toy Train: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling narrow-gauge toy train.
5. Mount Abu
- Route: Delhi to Abu Road, then a road trip to Mount Abu (approximately 28 km).
- Trains:
- Ashram Express (12915/12916)
- Delhi Sarai Rohilla – Bandra Terminus Garib Rath Express (12215/12216)
- Haridwar – Ajmer Express (19610)
6. Matheran
- Route: Delhi to Mumbai, then Mumbai to Neral, followed by a toy train or road trip to Matheran.
- Trains (Delhi to Mumbai):
- Rajdhani Express (12951/12952)
- August Kranti Rajdhani Express (12953/12954)
- Golden Temple Mail (12903/12904)
- Toy Train: Neral to Matheran narrow-gauge toy train.
7. Rishikesh
- Route: Delhi to Haridwar, followed by a short road trip to Rishikesh (approximately 25 km).
- Trains:
- Shatabdi Express (12017/12018)
- Jan Shatabdi Express (12055/12056)
- Nanda Devi Express (12401/12402)
Tips for Train Travel
- Advance Booking: It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Toy Train Reservations: For destinations like Shimla, Darjeeling, and Matheran, booking toy train tickets in advance is recommended due to limited seats.
- Check Schedules: Train schedules and availability can be checked and booked through the Indian Railways website or IRCTC app.
- Pack Essentials: Carry essentials like snacks, water, a travel pillow, and any required medications.
These train routes not only offer convenient access to some of India’s most beautiful hill stations but also provide a chance to enjoy scenic landscapes along the way.