India is home to some of the most stunning railway stations, each with its unique charm and architectural brilliance. From modern technological marvels to historical structures that have stood the test of time, these stations are not just transit points but destinations in themselves. In this blog, we’ll explore the seven most beautiful railway stations in India, highlighting their design, technological advancements, popularity, suitability for photography, and the breathtaking views they offer.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, officially named as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in 2017 was previously known as Victoria Terminus. The train is famous for being a historic railway terminus and UNESCO World Heritage site in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
- Famous by Design: This station is a splendid example of Victorian Gothic architecture blended with Indian influences. The intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and towering spires make it a visual treat.
- Modern Technology: Despite its historic design, the station is equipped with modern amenities, including advanced ticketing systems and digital displays.
- Popularity: As one of the busiest stations in India, it serves millions of passengers annually, making it a significant hub in the Indian Railways network.
- Weather: Mumbai’s tropical climate ensures that the station remains warm and humid throughout the year, with monsoons bringing in heavy rains.
- Photography and Views: The grandeur of the station, especially when lit up at night, makes it a favorite spot for photographers. The bustling activity within the station adds to its lively atmosphere.
Howrah Junction, Kolkata
Howrah Railway Station, also known as Howrah Station is a railway station located in the city of Howrah, West Bengal. The station is known as the largest and busiest railway complex in India. It is also the oldest surviving colonial complex in India.
- Famous by Design: The station’s vast expanse, colonial-era design, and the iconic Howrah Bridge looming in the background make it architecturally significant.
- Modern Technology: The station features advanced passenger amenities, including electronic ticketing and real-time train tracking systems.
- Popularity: It is one of the busiest stations in India, handling over a million passengers daily.
- Weather: Kolkata’s humid subtropical climate makes it warm and humid most of the year, with a pronounced monsoon season.
- Photography and Views: The station’s vast platforms and the view of the Howrah Bridge are perfect for photography. The historical aura of the station adds a timeless appeal to the photographs.
Cuttack Railway Station, Odisha
Cuttack Railway Station is known for being one of the oldest railway stations in that serves in Odisha. The railway station was built from 1893 to 1896, East Coast State Railway was built and opened for operation. During the colonial period, Cuttack Railway Station was constructed to connect to the Indian Railway Network.
- Famous by Design: The station’s architecture is inspired by the famous Barabati Fort, featuring a grand entrance that resembles the historic monument.
- Modern Technology: Cuttack station is equipped with all modern facilities, including free Wi-Fi, digital displays, and efficient passenger services.
- Popularity: While not as crowded as some of the larger stations, it is a key station in Odisha, connecting various important routes.
- Weather: Odisha experiences a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making travel comfortable throughout the year.
- Photography and Views: The fort-like structure provides a unique backdrop for photography. The station’s design reflects the rich history of the region, making it a picturesque location.
Vijayawada Junction, Andhra Pradesh
Vijayawada Railway Station is known as the fourth busiest railway station after Howrah Railway Station. The station serves about 1.40 lakh passengers, 190 express trains, and 170 freight trains every day.
- Famous by Design: Vijayawada Junction is known for its modern design combined with traditional Indian architectural elements. The spacious platforms and well-organized layout make it stand out.
- Modern Technology: The station is a hub of activity, featuring advanced facilities like escalators, digital ticketing, and real-time train status displays.
- Popularity: It is one of the busiest railway junctions in India, serving as a key transit point in the southern railway network.
- Weather: The station experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers and a relatively cooler monsoon season.
- Photography and Views: The well-maintained station premises, combined with its modern architecture, make it ideal for video shoots and photography. The surrounding landscapes provide a serene backdrop.
Chennai Central, Tamil Nadu
Chennai Central (officially Puratchi Thalaivar Dr M.G Ramachandran Central Railway Station, also formally known as Madras Central. It is the main railway terminus in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is the busiest railway station in South India and one of the most important hubs in the country. It is connected to Moore Market Complex railway station, Chennai Central metro station, Chennai Park railway station, and Chennai Park Town railway station.
- Famous by Design: Chennai Central is an architectural marvel with its Indo-Saracenic style, characterized by red brick walls, domes, and arches.
- Modern Technology: The station is a blend of historical charm and modern convenience, offering facilities like automated ticket machines, digital information boards, and free Wi-Fi.
- Popularity: As one of the major railway stations in South India, it serves a large number of passengers daily.
- Weather: Chennai’s tropical climate means hot and humid weather, with the monsoon providing a brief respite.
- Photography and Views: The station’s historical architecture makes it a favorite among photographers. The iconic clock tower is particularly photogenic, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station, Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow Charbagh, officially known as the Lucknow NR, is the largest and busiest railway station in the 19th century. It was the headquarters of the Oudh and Rohilkhand Railway (O&RR) whose first line from Lucknow to Kanpur was built in April 1867.
- Famous by Design: Known for its grand Mughal-inspired architecture, the Charbagh station resembles a palace with its domes, arches, and minarets.
- Modern Technology: Despite its historic design, the station is equipped with modern facilities, including electronic ticketing and automated announcements.
- Popularity: It is a key station in Uttar Pradesh, known for its unique architecture and well-maintained premises.
- Weather: Lucknow experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, a rainy monsoon season, and cool winters.
- Photography and Views: The station’s palatial design, especially the night view when it’s illuminated, makes it a stunning location for photography. The surrounding gardens add to its visual appeal.
Ghum Railway Station, West Bengal
Ghum Railway Station of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is situated at an altitude of 2,258 meters. The station is located at the Ghum Monastery and the Batasia Loop, a Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
- Famous by Design: Ghum is the highest railway station in India, located in the Darjeeling Himalayan region. Its quaint design and historical significance make it unique.
- Modern Technology: While the station retains its old-world charm, it has been updated with basic modern amenities for travelers.
- Popularity: It is a popular tourist attraction, especially for those traveling on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Weather: The station enjoys a cool climate throughout the year, with the misty atmosphere adding to its charm.
- Photography and Views: Ghum offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The station itself, with its quaint design and the toy train passing through, is a photographer’s delight.
Secunderabad Junction, Telangana
It is known for being a major Railway Junction in the city of Hyderabad, Telangana. It is one of the busiest railway stations in South India and one of the most important hubs in the country and a commuter rail hub in the Hyderabad urban area.
- Famous by Design: An architectural blend of Gothic and Mughal styles, Secunderabad Junction is known for its historic and aesthetic appeal.
- Modern Technology: The station is equipped with modern facilities, including escalators and digital information boards.
- Popularity: A major railway hub in Telangana, it’s always bustling with passengers.
- Weather: Hyderabad’s tropical wet and dry climate adds to the station’s charm.
- For Video or Photography: The station’s architecture and well-maintained surroundings make it ideal for photography.
- Beautiful View: The view of the station from the adjoining parade grounds is particularly impressive.