Railway stations across India are more than just transit points—they are gateways into the country’s rich fabrics of history, culture, and architectural grandeur. From grand colonial-era structures to stations nestled amidst scenic landscapes, these hubs stand out for their historical importance, stunning designs, and cultural charm. India’s vast and intricate railway network doesn’t merely connect destinations; it celebrates the diverse heritage of the nation, making many of its stations attractions in their own right.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most beautiful and iconic railway stations in India that should be a part of your travel journey.
Table of Contents
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
Arguably one of the most iconic and beautiful railway stations in India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly known as Victoria Terminus) in Mumbai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the Victorian Gothic style with Indian architectural elements, this station is a marvel of intricate stone carvings, stained glass windows, and towering spires. The architectural fusion of British and Indian styles makes it a standout landmark in Mumbai.
Highlights:
✔ UNESCO World Heritage Site
✔ Fusion of Victorian Gothic and Indian elements
✔ Stunning carvings and sculptures
✔ Historic significance in Mumbai’s railway network
✔ Vibrant atmosphere with a mix of local vendors and travelers
2. MGR Chennai Central Station, Chennai
Built in the Indo-Saracenic style, Chennai Central is one of the most iconic railway stations in South India. Its red-bricked façade and towering clock tower are a timeless symbol of Chennai. The interior is as majestic as the outside, with arched corridors and old-world charm.
✔ Iconic colonial-era architecture with a grand red facade and towering clock tower
✔ Spacious, well-maintained platforms with clean surroundings
✔ Efficient passenger amenities, including digital displays and food courts
✔ Blend of historic charm and modern upgrades (e.g., metro connectivity)
✔ Vibrant atmosphere with a mix of local vendors and travelers
3. Howrah Railway Station, Kolkata (West Bengal)
Another architectural gem, Howrah Railway Station in Kolkata, is one of the oldest and busiest railway stations in India. Known for its massive iron façade and grand entrance, Howrah Station is an iconic symbol of Kolkata’s rich cultural heritage. The station’s grand steel structure is an engineering marvel and one of the largest in India. The station complex is also famous for its colonial-era architecture, which has stood the test of time.
Highlights:
✔ Massive steel structure with grand architecture
✔ One of the oldest and busiest railway stations in India
✔ Colonial-era architecture with historical significance
4. Madurai Junction, Madurai (Tamil Nadu)
Situated in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Madurai Junction is known for its traditional South Indian architectural style. The station is a blend of modern amenities and historical charm, with elements of Dravidian architecture that give it a unique identity. The station is beautifully landscaped and surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful and scenic stop for travelers.
Highlights:
✔ Traditional South Indian Dravidian architecture
✔ Lush greenery and beautiful landscaping
✔ Peaceful and scenic atmosphere
5. Udhagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station, Ooty (Tamil Nadu)
The Ooty Railway Station, situated in the hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu, is a quaint little station that exudes old-world charm. Part of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this station is famous for its colonial-style architecture, bright colors, and a nostalgic air. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway Train, which operates from here, offers a scenic ride through the hills, passing through lush tea plantations and beautiful landscapes.
Highlights:
✔ Part of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nilgiri Mountain Railway
✔ Colonial-era architecture and scenic views
✔ A journey through the rolling hills of Tamil Nadu
6. Lucknow Charbagh, Uttar Pradesh
A blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, Charbagh station looks more like a palace than a railway station. Its grand domes, minarets, and expansive gardens make it one of the most visually stunning stations in the country.
Highlights:
✔ Blend of Mugal and Rajput architecture
✔ Surrounded by grand domes, minarets, and expansive gardens
7. Ajmer Junction, Ajmer (Rajasthan)
Ajmer Junction in Rajasthan is a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The station’s grand structure with intricate carvings and arches captures the essence of Rajasthan’s rich heritage. Ajmer is also famous for the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, which attracts pilgrims from around the world, making the railway station a key transit point.
Highlights:
✔ Beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture
✔ Intricate carvings, arches, and historical significance
✔ Gateway to Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a pilgrimage site
8. Mysuru Railway Station, Mysuru (Karnataka)
Mysuru Railway Station is one of the cleanest and most well-maintained stations in India. The station’s façade combines elements of modern design with touches of the grandeur typical of Mysore’s royal heritage. With its lush surroundings and proximity to the famous Mysore Palace, the station serves as an ideal starting point for travelers exploring this historic city.
Highlights:
✔ Modern design combined with royal Mysore heritage
✔ One of the cleanest and well-maintained stations in India
✔ Close proximity to the grand Mysore Palace
9. Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)
The Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station in Kerala boasts a beautiful blend of traditional Kerala architecture and modern amenities. The station is clean, well-organized, and surrounded by lush green landscapes. The station’s design features traditional Kerala elements like tiled roofs and ornate wooden carvings, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit.
Highlights:
✔ Traditional Kerala-style architecture with modern amenities
✔ Beautifully landscaped surroundings
✔ A major gateway to Kerala’s cultural and tourist destinations
10. Kanpur Central, Uttar Pradesh
This massive station is not only one of the busiest but also boasts colonial-era architecture with symmetrical design, stone facades, and classic roofing.
Highlights:
✔ Blend of modern design and British-India architectural elements
✔ Wide concourse and aesthetic appeal
✔ Major transit point in the bustling city of Kanpur
11. Chennai Egmore Railway Station, Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
Chennai Egmore Railway Station is a key railway station in Chennai and one of the oldest and most architecturally significant stations in South India. The station’s design features elements of Dravidian architecture, with grand arches, ornate carvings, and imposing structures that reflect the colonial influence of the British era. It’s a stunning blend of history and modernity.
Highlights:
✔ Dravidian architectural design with colonial-era influence
✔ Ornate carvings and grand arches
✔ Historical significance and importance in Chennai’s railway network
12. Agartala Railway Station, Tripura
Unique in its location near the Indo-Bangladesh border, Agartala station features Bengali-inspired architecture with clean, white exteriors and a peaceful ambiance.
Highlights:
✔ Vibrant and colorful Northeast-inspired design
✔ Compact yet well-maintained and clean
✔ Gateway to Tripura, connecting key cities in the region
✔ Friendly staff and smooth operations
✔ Unique cultural vibe reflecting local heritage
13. Cuttack Railway Station, Odisha
This station mirrors the beauty of Odisha’s ancient temples with its heritage-style design and cultural motifs. The facade is traditional, yet elegant, with intricate detailing.
Highlights:
✔ Colonial-style architecture with a mix of modern upgrades
✔ Well-organized platforms and clean waiting areas
✔ Good connectivity to Odisha’s key destinations
✔ Bustling with local vendors offering regional snacks
✔ Efficient passenger amenities, including digital boards
14. Jaisalmer Railway Station, Rajasthan
Built in yellow sandstone, this station resembles the famous Jaisalmer Fort. With jharokhas and Rajasthani arches, it radiates a royal desert vibe.
✔ Golden-hued sandstone structure blending with the city’s desert aesthetic
✔ Traditional Rajasthani carvings and arched gateways
✔ Small yet clean and efficiently managed
✔ Offers a cultural welcome with folk art motifs
✔ Scenic surroundings with a desert vibe
15. Jodhpur Railway Station, Rajasthan
Jodhpur Railway Station is a stunning blend of traditional Rajasthani architecture and modern functionality. The grand facade, adorned with intricate jharokhas and domes, reflects the city’s royal heritage. Inside, the station is impressively clean, with well-maintained platforms and efficient services. The vibrant murals and cultural motifs add a unique charm, making it more than just a transit point. It’s a beautiful introduction to Jodhpur’s rich culture.
Highlights:
✔ Striking Rajasthani architecture with jharokhas and domes
✔ Spotlessly clean platforms and waiting areas
✔ Vibrant murals and cultural artwork
✔ Efficient services and amenities
✔ Aesthetic blend of heritage and modernity
Bonus Mentions:
- Barog Railway Station, Himachal Pradesh – Nestled in the hills, this small yet picturesque station on the Kalka-Shimla line is surrounded by lush greenery and colonial charm.
- Ghum Railway Station, West Bengal – India’s highest railway station, Ghum is part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and offers scenic views and a vintage experience.
Final Thoughts
The railway stations of India are not just transit points but integral parts of the country’s cultural and architectural fabric. From the Victorian Gothic grandeur of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to the South Indian Dravidian style of Madurai Junction, each station offers a glimpse into the rich diversity and heritage of India. Whether you’re a lover of history, architecture, or simply enjoy traveling, these stations are worth exploring for their beauty, significance, and charm.
