Looking for a unique way to enjoy your Best Train Journeys in India for December Holidays? Hop aboard one of the country’s most scenic train journeys and experience winter magic on rails! From the snow-kissed Himalayas to the golden deserts of Rajasthan, India’s train routes offer breathtaking views, cultural charm, and pure travel bliss. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, these train rides promise comfort, beauty, and unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ve listed the best train journeys in India for December holidays, including iconic routes like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Konkan Railway, and Palace on Wheels. Enjoy panoramic mountain vistas, coastal scenery, and festive vibes as you travel through India’s most picturesque landscapes.
Plan your winter vacation the smart way — book your tickets early and get ready to explore the heart of India by rail this December!
1. Kalka to Shimla – The Himalayan Toy Train
The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train offers one of India’s most scenic train journeys, especially magical in December when pine forests glisten with frost. This UNESCO World Heritage route winds through 102 tunnels and colonial-era stations, making it a nostalgic ride into Himachal’s winter charm. Perfect for couples and families seeking a cozy mountain escape.
Route: Kalka → Shimla Train: Shivalik Deluxe / Himalayan Queen Duration: ~5 hours UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site
Why It’s Special:
- Zigzags through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges
- Offers panoramic views of pine forests, misty valleys, and colonial-era stations
- December brings a magical touch of snow near Shimla
Ideal For:
Couples, solo travelers, and families seeking a cozy mountain escape.
2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A Journey Through Tea Country
Ride through misty tea gardens and panoramic hillscapes aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This heritage toy train climbs into the clouds, revealing views of Kanchenjunga on clear December mornings. With stops at Ghum and Kurseong, it’s a cultural and visual treat for nature lovers and photographers.
Route: New Jalpaiguri → Darjeeling Train: Darjeeling Toy Train Duration: ~7 hours UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site
Why It’s Special:
- Winds through lush tea gardens and rhododendron forests
- Offers glimpses of Kanchenjunga on clear December mornings
- Stops at charming hill stations like Ghum and Kurseong
Ideal For:
Nature lovers, photographers, and heritage enthusiasts.
3. Jaisalmer Express – Into the Heart of the Thar Desert
The Delhi–Jaisalmer Express slices through Rajasthan’s golden desert, offering a dramatic transition from cityscapes to sand dunes. December’s cool weather makes it ideal for exploring forts, camel safaris, and local culture. A must-try train journey for those craving adventure and heritage in the Thar.
Route: Delhi → Jaisalmer Train: Delhi Jaisalmer Express Duration: ~18 hours
Why It’s Special:
- Traverses Rajasthan’s golden sands and rustic villages
- December offers pleasant weather for desert exploration
- Perfect for connecting with camel safaris and fort tours
Ideal For:
Adventure seekers, culture buffs, and history lovers.
4. Konkan Railway – Coastal Bliss from Goa to Kerala
The Konkan Railway is a coastal marvel, hugging cliffs and weaving through coconut groves and backwaters. Traveling from Goa to Kerala in December means breezy weather, festive beach towns, and lush green views. It’s a scenic train journey that blends relaxation with tropical beauty.
Route: Madgaon → Ernakulam Train: Matsyagandha Express / Netravati Express Duration: ~14 hours
Why It’s Special:
- Runs parallel to the Arabian Sea with cliff-hugging tracks
- Passes through coconut groves, backwaters, and fishing villages
- December offers cool breezes and festive vibes in coastal towns
Ideal For:
Beach lovers, backpackers, and eco-tourists.
5. Jammu to Banihal – Through the Snowy Pir Panjal
For snow lovers, the Jammu–Banihal train is a hidden gem. Passing through the Pir Panjal Tunnel—the longest in India—it reveals alpine forests and snow-covered peaks in December. This short but stunning ride is perfect for offbeat explorers and winter photographers.
Route: Jammu → Banihal Train: DEMU / Express Duration: ~3 hours
Why It’s Special:
- Crosses the longest railway tunnel in India (Pir Panjal Tunnel)
- Offers dramatic views of snow-covered peaks and alpine forests
- December transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland
Ideal For:
Snow chasers, photographers, and offbeat explorers.
6. Nilgiri Mountain Railway – A Ride Through the Blue Hills
Steam through the Blue Mountains on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO-listed toy train that climbs steep gradients to reach Ooty. December brings misty mornings and crisp air, making this scenic train journey ideal for romantic getaways and nostalgic travelers.
Route: Mettupalayam → Ooty Train: Nilgiri Toy Train Duration: ~5 hours UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site
Why It’s Special:
- Climbs steep gradients with steam engines
- Passes through eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and tea estates
- December offers misty mornings and cozy hill station vibes
Ideal For:
Romantic getaways, family trips, and nostalgic travelers.
7. Araku Valley Train – Tribal Culture Meets Nature
The Vistadome train to Araku Valley offers glass-roofed views of waterfalls, tribal villages, and coffee plantations. December is prime time for cultural festivals and nature walks, making this route a favorite for weekend travelers and eco-tourists seeking immersive experiences.
Route: Visakhapatnam → Araku Train: Vistadome Express Duration: ~4 hours
Why It’s Special:
- Features glass-roofed coaches for immersive views
- Passes through tunnels, waterfalls, and tribal hamlets
- December is ideal for coffee plantation visits and cultural festivals
Ideal For:
Cultural immersion, nature lovers, and weekend travelers.
8. Palace on Wheels – Royal Rajasthan in Style
Experience royal Rajasthan aboard the Palace on Wheels, India’s most luxurious train journey. From Jaipur’s palaces to Jaisalmer’s dunes, this curated December itinerary blends heritage, comfort, and festive charm. Ideal for honeymooners and luxury seekers craving a regal escape.
Route: Delhi → Jaipur → Udaipur → Jaisalmer → Jodhpur → Bharatpur → Agra → Delhi Train: Palace on Wheels Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
Why It’s Special:
- Luxurious heritage train with royal interiors and curated excursions
- Covers forts, palaces, wildlife parks, and the Taj Mahal
- December offers festive charm and pleasant weather across Rajasthan
Ideal For:
Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and cultural connoisseurs.
9. Dibrugarh Rajdhani – Northeast’s Hidden Gems
The Dibrugarh Rajdhani traverses Northeast India’s untouched beauty—from tea gardens to Brahmaputra riverbanks. December is perfect for spotting migratory birds and attending tribal festivals. This long-haul scenic train journey is a gateway to Assam’s wildlife and cultural richness.
Route: Dibrugarh → Delhi Train: Dibrugarh Rajdhani Duration: ~38 hours
Why It’s Special:
- Crosses Assam’s tea gardens, Brahmaputra River, and lush forests
- December is perfect for spotting migratory birds and tribal festivals
- Connects to Kaziranga National Park and Majuli Island
Ideal For:
Wildlife enthusiasts, long-haul travelers, and cultural explorers.
10. Deccan Odyssey – Maharashtra’s Cultural Tapestry
The Deccan Odyssey is a rolling palace that showcases Maharashtra’s caves, vineyards, and coastal forts. With December’s mild weather and festive spirit, this luxury train journey offers curated excursions and cultural immersion for heritage lovers and wine enthusiasts.
Route: Mumbai → Nashik → Aurangabad → Ajanta → Kolhapur → Goa → Sindhudurg → Mumbai Train: Deccan Odyssey Duration: 7 nights / 8 days
Why It’s Special:
- Luxury train with curated cultural experiences
- Covers vineyards, caves, forts, and beaches
- December offers festive events and mild weather across Maharashtra
Ideal For: Best Train Journeys in India for December Holidays
Luxury seekers, wine lovers, and heritage travelers.
Comparison Table: Scenic Train Journeys in India for December
| Train Journey | Duration | Region | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kalka–Shimla Toy Train | ~5 hrs | Himachal | Snow, colonial charm | Couples, families |
| Darjeeling Toy Train | ~7 hrs | West Bengal | Tea gardens, Kanchenjunga views | Nature lovers, photographers |
| Jaisalmer Express | ~18 hrs | Rajasthan | Desert landscapes, forts | Culture buffs, adventurers |
| Konkan Railway | ~14 hrs | Goa–Kerala | Coastal views, backwaters | Beach lovers, backpackers |
| Jammu–Banihal DEMU | ~3 hrs | Jammu & Kashmir | Snowy tunnels, alpine forests | Snow seekers, offbeat travel |
| Nilgiri Mountain Railway | ~5 hrs | Tamil Nadu | Tea estates, steam engine ride | Romantic trips, nostalgia |
| Araku Valley Vistadome | ~4 hrs | Andhra Pradesh | Glass-roof views, tribal culture | Weekend trips, nature lovers |
| Palace on Wheels | 8 days | Rajasthan | Luxury, forts, Taj Mahal | Honeymooners, luxury travel |
| Dibrugarh Rajdhani | ~38 hrs | Northeast India | Tea gardens, wildlife, festivals | Long-haul, wildlife lovers |
| Deccan Odyssey | 8 days | Maharashtra | Caves, vineyards, beaches | Heritage, luxury seekers |
Conclusion
India’s railways are more than just a mode of transport — they’re a journey through landscapes, cultures, and stories that define the nation’s heart. December is the perfect time to explore India by train, as the cool weather and festive spirit make every route more magical. Whether you’re gliding through the snow-clad Himalayas, the lush Western Ghats, or Rajasthan’s golden sands, each journey offers an unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on a train adventure that will fill your December holidays with breathtaking views, cozy vibes, and timeless memories. Let India’s scenic train routes remind you that sometimes, the journey truly matters more than the destination.
FAQs
1. Which are the best train journeys in India for December holidays?
- Some of the best train journeys include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Konkan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and the Palace on Wheels.
2. Why is December a good time for train travel in India?
- December offers pleasant weather, festive vibes, and clear views of mountains, coasts, and countryside, making it perfect for scenic train travel.
3. What are the most scenic winter train routes in India?
- Popular scenic routes include Kalka–Shimla, Mettupalayam–Ooty, and Vasco da Gama–Londa through the Western Ghats.
4. Which luxury trains are best for December vacations in India?
- Luxury trains like the Palace on Wheels, Maharajas’ Express, and Golden Chariot offer premium comfort and royal experiences in December.
5. How can I book tickets for scenic train journeys in India?
- You can easily book tickets online through the official IRCTC website or trusted travel portals.
6. What is the best train route for snow views in India?
- The Kalka–Shimla and Jammu–Udhampur routes offer stunning snow-covered scenery in December.
7. Are train journeys safe for solo travelers in India?
- Yes, train journeys are generally safe. Choose well-known routes, book confirmed tickets, and follow basic travel precautions.
8. Which train route offers the best coastal views in India?
- The Konkan Railway route from Mumbai to Goa and Mangalore is famous for its breathtaking coastal landscapes.
9. Can foreigners travel on Indian trains during December holidays?
- Absolutely! Indian Railways is foreigner-friendly, and tickets can be booked online in advance.
10. What is the most romantic train journey in India for couples?
- The Palace on Wheels and Deccan Odyssey offer luxurious and romantic travel experiences for couples.
11. What’s the best train route to explore South India in winter?
- The Nilgiri Mountain Railway and Golden Chariot routes are perfect for exploring South India’s charm during December.
12. Are there budget-friendly scenic trains in India?
- Yes, trains like Vistadome Express (Araku Valley) and Toy Train (Darjeeling) are scenic and affordable options.
13. Which train is ideal for exploring Rajasthan in December?
- The Palace on Wheels and Desert Queen Express are great for exploring Rajasthan’s heritage and desert landscapes.
14. What are the best mountain train rides in India?
- Top mountain trains include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and Kalka–Shimla Toy Train.
15. Do I need to book train tickets early for December travel?
- Yes, December is peak season, so booking your tickets 1–2 months in advance is recommended.
16. Which Indian train journey is best for photography lovers?
- The Konkan Railway and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
17. Can I see snowfall during train journeys in December?
- Yes, routes like Kalka–Shimla and Jammu–Baramulla often showcase snowy landscapes in December.
18. What should I pack for a December train trip in India?
- Pack warm clothes, snacks, a travel pillow, camera, power bank, and necessary medicines.
19. How long are scenic train journeys in India?
- Scenic routes can range from 3 hours (Vistadome trains) to 7 days (luxury train experiences).
20. Which website gives complete information on Indian train journeys?
- Websites like IRCTC, Xplro.com, and Incredible India provide details on routes, bookings, and travel tips.