India’s vast railway network is not just the lifeline of the nation but also home to some of the most stunning and historic train stations in the world.
From colonial-era architecture to modern marvels, these stations are more than mere transit points — they’re cultural landmarks that showcase India’s diversity and grandeur. Here are the top 8 most beautiful railway stations of India that every travel lover must visit.
Top 8 Most Beautiful Railway Stations of India
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus of India’s commercial capital, Mumbai is one of India’s most iconic railway stations. Built in 1887, this architectural masterpiece blends Victorian architecture and traditional Indian style. Its ornate domes, pointed arches, and grand central dome make it a visual delight. CSMT isn’t just a transport hub — it’s a symbol of Mumbai’s colonial legacy and modern spirit.
2. Howrah Junction, Kolkata
Across the Hooghly River in the city of joy, Kolkata, stands the majestic Howrah Junction, India’s oldest and busiest railway station. Established in 1854, it serves as the gateway to Eastern India. Its massive red-brick façade, 23 platforms, and the adjacent Howrah Bridge offer a mix of old-world charm and modern connectivity. Watching the sunrise over the river with trains arriving in rhythm is a magical experience.
3. Ghum Railway Station, Darjeeling
Perched at 7,407 feet above sea level, Ghum Railway Station is India’s highest railway station and a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The scenic toy train ride that winds through tea gardens and misty hills offers a picture-perfect journey. The station’s vintage charm and serene backdrop make it a must-visit for nature lovers.
4. Charbagh Railway Station, Lucknow
A masterpiece of Mughal and Rajput architectural fusion, Charbagh Railway Station in Lucknow is among the most beautiful in North India. Its name literally equates to ‘four gardens’, symbolizing harmony and symmetry. This railway station’s domes and towers resemble a royal palace, and at night, its illumination creates a breathtaking sight.
5. Cuttack Railway Station, Odisha
Located in the heart of Odisha, Cuttack Railway Station is not just a transport hub — it’s a striking blend of colonial charm and modern functionality. One of the oldest and most important railway stations in Eastern India, Cuttack connects major cities like Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, and Chennai.
6. Dudhsagar Railway Station, Goa
Tucked deep in the lush Western Ghats of Goa, Dudhsagar Railway Station is one of India’s most scenic train’s stops — located right beside the world-famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls. This tiny station, officially part of the Southwestern Railway zone, offers a mesmerizing natural spectacle that leaves travelers spellbound as their train crosses the towering falls.
7. Jaipur Station, Rajasthan
Reflecting the grandeur of the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur Junction combines Rajasthani design motifs with colonial-style structure. Its sandstone façade, lattice windows, and clean, modern interiors make it one of India’s most photogenic stations.
8. Kanyakumari Railway Station, Kerala
At the southernmost tip of India lies Kanyakumari Railway Station — a destination where train tracks meet the turquoise waters of three seas. Established in 1979, this station stands as one of India’s most scenic and geographically significant stations. The station welcomes travelers with views of the ocean, temples, and distant windmills, offering a glimpse into the calm and spiritual soul of Kerala.
From colonial-era landmarks to futuristic hubs, India’s railway stations are windows into its past, present, and future. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a curious explorer, visiting these eight beautiful railway stations of India is like taking a cultural journey across time. Each platform tells a story — of heritage, architecture, and the ever-evolving spirit of India.
