India’s vast railway network is home to some of the most iconic and historically significant stations in the world. These stations are not only vital transport hubs but also architectural landmarks that reflect the country’s rich heritage, modern progress, and cultural diversity. Take a look at ten (in no particular order) of the most famous railway stations every traveller should know about.
(Photo Credit : Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Train Terminus wears a deserted look in Mumbai, India, Tuesday, March 24, 2020. (AP Photo/Rajanish Kakade))
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, CSMT is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture blended with Indian influences. It is one of the busiest and most photographed stations in the country. (Image: AP)
(Photo Credit : New Delhi: Passengers outside the New Delhi Railway Station a day after the incident of stampede, in New Delhi, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025. (PTI Photo) )
2. New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Delhi: A major gateway to the national capital, NDLS handles one of the highest passenger volumes in India. Its iconic façade and strategic location make it a key landmark. (PTI Photo)
(Photo Credit : Howrah railway station (Wikipedia image) )
3. Howrah Junction, Kolkata: One of India’s oldest and largest railway stations, Howrah is known for its massive structure, historic charm, and the iconic Howrah Bridge that stands nearby. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Chennai Central railway station (Wikipedia image) )
4. Chennai Central: A major landmark in Chennai, this station is famous for its red-brick Gothic design and its importance as a southern rail hub. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Bengaluru City railway station (Wikipedia image) )
5. Bengaluru City Railway Station: With modern amenities and a strategic location in the tech capital of India, this station is central to South India’s railway connectivity. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Mumbai Central railway station (Wikipedia image) )
6. Mumbai Central: A major terminus for long-distance and intercity trains, Mumbai Central is known for its Art Deco influence and connects Mumbai to diverse regions across India. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Varanasi Junction railway station (Wikipedia image) )
7. Varanasi Junction: Serving India’s spiritual capital, this station is always bustling with pilgrims and travellers. It plays a key role in connecting Varanasi to the rest of the country. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Jaipur Junction railway station (Image: IndiaRailInfo) )
8. Jaipur Junction: Known for its pink façade that matches the city’s architectural style, Jaipur Junction is modern, spacious, and crucial for tourism in Rajasthan. (Image: IndiaRailInfo)
(Photo Credit : Ahmedabad Junction railway station (Wikipedia image) )
9. Ahmedabad Junction: One of Gujarat’s busiest stations, it features a striking old-world design and connects the state to major routes across India. (Wikipedia image)
(Photo Credit : Hyderabad Deccan railway station (Wikipedia image) )
10. Hyderabad Deccan railway station: A major South-Central Railway hub, it is known for its historical significance and proximity to key areas near Hyderabad. (Wikipedia image)

