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Offbeat tracks: 8 strange train itineraries to sate your summertime wanderlust

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Explore India’s diverse tapestry on iconic train routes, showcasing Himalayan slopes and coastal vistas for a summer escape.

Train travel in India offers a unique and captivating experience, showcasing the diverse tapestry of the country. The rhythm of the rails sets the pace, allowing for simple pleasures like reading, enjoying chai, and enjoying laughter through card games. The journeys are filled with unique experiences and breathtaking sights.

redRail has curated a list of 8 stunning summer train journeys, each boasting scenic splendor. Pack your bags, book tickets, and embark on an unforgettable adventure where the journey becomes the destination, ensuring a relaxing pace and unforgettable experiences.

Top train routes to take this summer

The “Himalayan Queen” train journeys from Kalka to Shimla, a charming town with Victorian-era architecture and mountain air. The 5.5-hour journey offers horse-drawn carriage rides, colonial-era buildings, and breathtaking views, escaping the Delhi furnace.

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Siliguri to Darjeeling (7 hours) via the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers a UNESCO gem, emerald tea plantations, breathtaking Himalayan views, iconic architecture, fragrant Darjeeling tea, and cozy evenings by the fireplace.

The “Toy Train of the South” takes passengers on a 4.5-hour journey through emerald hills and verdant valleys to Ooty, known as the “Queen of the Hills,” where rolling hills, colonial charm, refreshing lakes, and delicious strawberries await.

The Mumbai to Goa train route offers a scenic escape from urban life, allowing passengers to enjoy the Arabian Sea’s rhythm and pristine beaches. Book early for this summer hotspot, as it’s a popular route.

Experience sensory overload on a 5.5-hour Western Ghats adventure from Hassan to Mangalore, surrounded by lush rainforests, waterfalls, and coffee plantations. Enjoy pristine beaches, delicious seafood, and the unique Tulu culture in Mangalore.

The journey from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur/Berhampur takes 3 hours and offers various train options. The journey takes you to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest lagoon, where you can observe exotic birds, flamingos, and Irrawaddy dolphins.

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The Kanyakumari to Trivandrum coastal journey offers a scenic view of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean, culminating in Trivandrum, known for its historical backwaters, lush greenery, and delicious South Indian cuisine, making it an ideal summer getaway for sea enthusiasts.

Explore Rajasthan’s Rajput splendor on a 5–6 hour journey from Ajmer to Udaipur. Explore Aravalli hills, ancient forts, and vibrant villages. Visit Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” with Lake Pichola, palaces, and bazaars for a summer escape.

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Music Industry

Check out Diljit Dosanjh’s extravagant outfit on his birthday, which includes a 1.2 crore diamond watch and a 10 lakh Balenciaga jacket.

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Diljit Dosanjh’s refined sartorial taste is reflected in his exlcusive pieces, from clothing to accessories.

As Diljit Dosanjh turns 41, let’s take a look at his stylish wardrobe. The singer captures the hearts with his melodious, toe-tapping tunes but he also enthralls the hearts of fashion enthusiasts with his high-end wardrobe. Diljit is not only a music sensation but also a sartorial icon. While he dominates the music charts, his luxuriously dapper style firmly places him on the fashion radar as well.

He sets himself apart with a wardrobe that’s nothing short of exclusive. Here’s a glimpse into some unique pieces that showcase his lavish style, offering a sneak peek into the world of high-end fashion he effortlessly dominates.

Diljit owns an exclusive jacket from Balenciaga. The limited-edition racer jacket is available exclusively, with only 3 pieces worldwide. The jacket costs $12,300, which is approximately Rs.10,44,915. The uber-cool oversized neon yellow-back leather jacket amps up his style game.

Diamond encrusted watch

Diljit approaches his accessories game with king-like style, as he is the proud owner of a gold, diamond-encrusted piece, and the cost is sure to leave everyone dizzy in disbelief. The custom-made Audemars Piguet costs Rs.1.2 crore. He wore this watch to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon where he was the guest.

Continuing with his high-end style, Diljit effortlessly masters the accessory game. His collection is not just about bling and glam, but also features suave statement-making chunky pieces that elevate his overall look. Gucci’s chunky pendant chain, priced at Rs.2,40,000, is a perfect example of his bold and refined style. He carries this pendant with a fierce aplomb.

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Festival

When will the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela begin? View Shahi Snan’s dates, background, importance, and more.

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Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, from January 13 to February 26, invites pilgrims for purification and spiritual growth at the sacred Triveni Sangam.

Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest and most sacred gatherings in Hinduism, occurs once every twelve years. In 2025, millions of devotees will converge in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to partake in this auspicious event. Pilgrims will have the opportunity to cleanse themselves spiritually by taking a ritual bath at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythological Saraswati rivers. Here’s everything you need to know, from the event’s dates to its rich history.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Key dates for holy baths
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is set to begin on January 13, 2025, with the Paush Purnima Snan, and will conclude on February 26, 2025, aligning with Maha Shivratri.

Important bathing dates:

Important Bathing Dates Occasion
January 13, 2025 Paush Purnima Snan (Opening Day)
January 15, 2025 Makar Sankranti Snan
January 29, 2025 Mauni Amavasya Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 3, 2025 Basant Panchami Snan (Royal Bath/Shahi Snan)
February 12, 2025 Maghi Purnima Snan
February 26, 2025 Maha Shivratri Snan (Concluding Day)
These sacred bathing rituals, or Shahi Snans, are believed to purify the soul and wash away sins, making them the spiritual highlights of the event.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 history
The origins of the Kumbh Mela trace back to Hindu mythology, specifically the legend of Samudra Manthan, or the churning of the ocean. According to ancient scriptures, this celestial event was a collaborative effort between the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) to retrieve Amrit, the nectar of immortality.

During the process, a Kumbh (pot) filled with sacred nectar emerged. To safeguard it from the demons, Lord Vishnu, disguised as Mohini, seized the pot and fled. Along his journey, a few drops of the nectar spilt at four places: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik, making them holy sites for the Kumbh Mela. These four sites became sacred, hosting the Kumbh Mela on a rotating basis.

Significance of Maha Kumbh Mela
Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) holds immense spiritual significance due to its mythological roots and geography. It is home to the Triveni Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers—revered as one of Hinduism’s holiest sites. The Kumbh Mela follows a 12-year cycle based on the celestial positions of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter.

The 2025 Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj is especially rare, occurring once every 144 years. This unique alignment is believed to make it an exceptionally auspicious time for prayers and rituals. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the rivers, seeking purification and moksha (liberation). Beyond its religious significance, the Kumbh Mela reflects India’s rich cultural heritage, uniting millions in a grand celebration of faith, devotion, and harmony.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 key riruals
Shahi snan (royal bath): A sacred dip performed by saints, including Naga sadhus and spiritual leaders, in the holy rivers. It is believed to cleanse sins and bestow divine blessings.

Sankirtan and bhajans: Devotees sing hymns, chants, and bhajans, filling the atmosphere with spiritual energy and devotion.

Yoga and meditation: Pilgrims participate in yoga and meditation sessions to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Spiritual discourses: Renowned scholars and spiritual leaders deliver sermons and philosophical talks, offering insights into religion, spirituality, and life.

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At the Delhi station, NRI charged ₹10,000 for a “free” wheelchair: In response, the railways revoke the licence of the porter.

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An NRI filed a complaint with the GRP after she learned that a Delhi porter had charged her money for the wheelchair service provided for free at stations.

Indian Railways cancelled the license of a porter after it was found that he charged ₹10,000 for wheelchair assistance and carrying the luggage of a non-resident Indian (NRI) family. The issue reportedly came to light after the man’s daughter filed a complaint with the railways after learning about the free wheelchair service at the stations.

Originally from Gujarat but now residing in London, an NRI named Payel arrived at Hazrat Nizamuddin station in Delhi on December 21, reported Moneycontrol. She booked a porter to carry the luggage and assist her dad, who is in a wheelchair. The porter demanded ₹10,000 for his services.

The family then travelled to Agra from Delhi, where, during the tour, Payel reportedly told the secretary of the Prepaid Auto Taxi Drivers’ Union, Anil Sharma, about the charges. That’s when she learned that wheelchair assistance at railway stations is free. Further, porters are not allowed to charge exuberant amounts for their services.

She then approached the Government Railway Police (GRP) at Agra Cantt station. The GRP coordinated with their counterpart in Delhi and launched the investigation. The authorities identified the porter and ordered him to return ₹9,000 to the family. The railways also expressed that the organization has a “zero-tolerance policy” for such incidents.

Does Indian Railways provide wheelchair service for free?
According to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website, “The wheelchair is provided free of charge, depending on the availability on first come first service with booking voucher.”

However, the passenger/attendant needs to deposit ₹500 in cash, along with a valid government-issued identification card. The deposit will be “returned on return of wheelchair.”

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