From the joyride on the Darjeeling Toy Train that passes through mesmerising little hill stations like Kurseong

Celeb buzz: Epic Indian train journeys !
From the joyride on the Darjeeling Toy Train that passes through mesmerising little hill stations like Kurseong to a fascinating journey seeped in luxury through the many worlds of Karnataka on the Golden Chariot, here are 7 of the best train journeys in India that you simply must experience in this lifetime. By Asawari
1. Deccan Odyssey
If you have never seen a train on a red carpet, then you have to experience the journey of the 'Deccan Odyssey'. Imagine being served the cuisines par excellence with five-star amenities and panoramic views changing in the background. The opulent version of Deccan Odyssey is called the 'Indian Maharaja' that majestically escorts you from Mumbai to Delhi. The even more luxurious one is called the 'Maharaja Express' and is the only one that takes you through the whole country.

2. The Golden Chariot
Trail through the enriched fields of Karnataka and the sparkling beaches of Goa on the Golden Chariot! Seeped with luxury, you can unleash the Cinderella in you, sitting pretty in the contemporarily done up dining cars of this train enjoying the best views and heritage landscapes zoom past you.

While you're at it, don't forget to take a break visiting the Kabini Wildlife Sanctuary or the world heritage sites of Hampi and Badami.

3. The Darjeeling toy train
You cannot forgo the beautiful ride on this 'World Heritage Site', a perfect set of wheels to bring out the little girl in you. This toy train takes you through the Darjeeling verdure passing through mesmerising little hill stations like Kurseong, serpentine tea plantations and the 'Agony Point', churning itself to bring out smiling fruit sellers. A magical ride it surely is!

4. Palace on Wheels
The Palace on Wheels depicts Rajasthan's royal heritage spot-on. Sit back and bask in the glorious history of palaces and princely cities like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur and Agra. It's a rich legacy that one must experience at least once in a lifetime!

5. Himalayan Queen
Himachal Pradesh has always mesmerised us with its grandeur and beauty. But if you get to it with this petite little metre-gauge railway that sweeps you through 102 tunnels, 87 bridges and 900 curves, then the experience is to die for.
Made in India by the English, the Himalayan Queen unwinds itself in Shimla to blooming orchards, straying water creeks and fresh fragrance of the colourful flowers, unveiling the natural beauty that this State is so renowned for.

6. Island Express
This train is a true instance of good things coming in small packages. In a little over 2 hours, this train takes you from the Kanyakumari to Trivandarum. As you leave the place where three oceans meet, you witness sceneries unfold, ranging from the gushing ocean waters to the dense greenery, dotting palm trees and the tea plantations.

7. Nilgiri Toy Train
This toy train really takes you on a high. Not only just in altitude but also in excitement. It sweeps you off your feet at a height of 1069 feet and then takes you on cloud nine at the height of 7228 feet to Ooty. The cool weather and the freshness in the air make it an awesome ride that is simply priceless.