Travel by Train to the Top Cultural Destinations in India
India is a remarkable country with an incredibly rich and diverse culture, different types of languages, religions, and traditions. It offers a fascinating experience to people who love to explore different places and its culture and traditions. The country comprises 28 States and 8 UTs, immersing you in its captivating surroundings, vast diversity, beliefs, majestic art, fascinating architecture, age-old customs, impeccable hospitality, authentic cuisines, thriving nightlife, and many more facets.
You must explore various cultural destinations in India to discover the country’s true pride. And what can be a better way than by train to travel across different destinations in the country? Trains are the most affordable and accessible mode of transport in the country. The vast rail network connects major cities to little villages. You can quickly check trains between two stations online and start to plan your journey to your desired place.
Top Cultural Tourism Destinations in India
Here is a list of places that are known for their unique culture. These destinations are perfect for your holidays and the most attractive places in the country.
Pushkar – Rajasthan’s Cultural Essence
Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan, located in the Ajmer district. Each year according to the Hindu calendar, at the beginning of Karthik Mah (October-November), one of the largest and most famous livestock fairs, the Pushkar Fair is organised that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The fair is a trading hub for cattle, camels, and horses, but it’s not limited to only this. The Pushkar Fair is a vibrant cultural event that showcases the rich traditions and folklore of Rajasthan. It features various cultural activities, including folk music and dance performances, camel races, traditional sports, religious ceremonies and much more. The Pushkar fair provides a unique opportunity to experience the cultural heritage of Rajasthan and immerse oneself in its vibrant atmosphere and hospitality, “Padharo Mhare Desh “.
How to Reach Pushkar by Train
Ajmer Railway station, AII, is the nearest railhead to Pushkar. The station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and others. After reaching the Ajmer railway station, AII, you must take a 30-minute drive to reach Pushkar.
Agra – The Epitome of Love
Agra is India’s top-visited place—the home of one of the 7 wonders- the magnificent Taj Mahal. The architectural grandeur of the Mughal era symbolises love. Each year, at the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal 14-day long fair, Taj Mahotsav, is organised. The most awaited fair in Agra offers an excellent opportunity to discover India’s rich arts, crafts, cultures, cuisine, dance and music. Taj Mahotsav Committee organises Taj Mahotsav usually in February and March.
How to Reach Agra by Train
Agra is well-connected to railway lines. Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Agra city railway station are major railway stations in the city. You can check trains between stations of Agra to your nearest railway station to Agra. And from there, you can reach Taj by taking an auto, taxi, or cab.
Faridabad – Cultural Extravaganza
Faridabad is a city built by Sheikh Fried, a cultural destination in India. In February, the world’s largest craft fair, Surajkund Mela, gets organised at Surajkund, Haryana, for two weeks. The fair features the richness and diversity of Indian handicrafts, handlooms, Fabrics, music, dance, and various cultural activities. Mela attracts thousands of visitors from different parts of India and foreign countries. The fair is a cultural extravaganza, a platform for numerous artists, a way to promote Haryana tourism, and an in-one destination for foodies and shoppers.
How to Reach Faridabad by Train
Faridabad is a city with better transport facilities. To reach Faridabad, you can take a train to Faridabad railway station. Afterwards, take a cab or taxi to Surajkund Mela for your cultural spectacle.
Sonpur – An Incredible Destination
Located in Bihar, Sonpur is known for organising Asia’s largest cattle fair at the bank of the Sangam of Ganga and Gandak. The Sonfair fair is organised in Karthik month. Here, you can explore the Culture of Bihar with one eye. At the fair, you can participate in numerous fun activities, see different animals, buy local art and crafts, and relish regional foods. Sonapur Mela is an ancient festival of Bihar that showcases the rich culture of Bihar.
How to Reach Sonpur by Train
You can first reach the capital of Bihar, Patna. And afterwards, take a train from Patna to Sonpur junction or Hazipur station. Afterwards, to the meal, you can take a local taxi or rickshaw to the spur mela.
Varanasi – The Spiritual Hub
When listing the names of cultural places, Varanasi must be included. The spiritual hub, known as Mahakal ki Bhumi, Varanasi, doesn’t only show the reality of this worldly life and lets you explore India’s great culture. Sitting behind Ganga, witnessing the traditional Ganga Aarti, a celebration of death, roaming around its street to shop for Banarasi Saree, craft, and more. You also visit Saree Meals in the city to explore Varansi’s weaving culture. Moreover, in Kartik month, you can attend a cultural festival in Varanasi, Dev Diwali, to glimpse the great spiritual celebration at the bank of the river Ganga.
How to Reach Varanasi by Train
Varanasi is an easy-to-reach destination from any place in the country. You can take the train to Varanasi junction, Varanasi City, or Banaras. And later take an auto or taxi ride to explore the cultural city.
Jaipur – The Pink City
The city of Palaces, Jaipur, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Visiting the city can take you on a must-experience cultural ride. The exquisite beauty of Hawa Mahal, the Vibrant Fort of Amber, the magnificent City place, and more ask you to immerse in the beauty of royal heritage. Jaipur is the pride of Rajasthan tourism. In addition, being in the city, you can shop for Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery.
Moreover, you can taste Rajasthan’s popular culinary recipes here to complete your trip to Jaipur. You can visit Jaipur during a cultural festival called Gangaur, celebrated in Chaitra month, to embark more on cultural vibes. On this auspicious occasion, Shiv and Parvati clay idols are craved and worshipped.
How to Reach Jaipur by Train
Jaipur is an easy-to-reach destination. You can board a train for Jaipur from your nearest railway station to Jaipur junction, JP. And explore Jaipur city with local buses and taxis.
Kolkata – Literary Heritage
Kolkata is the cultural capital of India, with colonial architecture of the iconic Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. It is a must-visit place for several reasons, including its rich history and contribution to the country’s independence. Apart from this, here, you can witness the literary heritage of West Bengal by visiting the Indian Museum, second-hand book market etc. Moreover, to learn more about the culture of West Bengal, you can visit Kolkata during Durga Pujo in the Awashin month according to Hindu Calendar.
How to Reach Kolkata by Train
The bustling city is well connected to each corner of the country. Howrah Junction railway station, HWH, Kolkata railway station, and Santragachi railway station are some of the busiest railway stations in Kolkata. After reaching the city, you can take the popular yellow of Calcutta to explore its different places.
Thrissur – Kerala’s Cultural Capital
Thrissur is a splendid town built around a hilltop in the middle of the Keralan State. The city, also known as Trichur and Thrissivaperoor, is a glimpse of Kerala culture. The city offers you to learn about the state’s classical arts, visit numerous religious sites and more. Vadakkumnathan Temple, Arattupuzha, Tomb of Shakthan Thampuran, Athirapally Falls, and The Heritage Garden are top tourist destinations in Thrissur. Moreover, you can attend Thrissur Pooram Festival if you visit the city in April or May. It’s an annual Hindu temple festival, organised on the Pooram day in the month of Medam, according to the Malayalam Calendar.
How to Reach Thrissur by Train
You can take a train from your nearest railway station to Thrissur Railway, TCR or Poonkunnam railway station. Both stations are well connected to railway lines. You can easily hire a cab or taxi to explore Thrissur.
Kanchipuram – The Philosophical City
Cultural city Kanchipuram is a philosophical city in India with thousands of temples and architectural buildings. Here, you can learn about Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Being the centre of religious education, Kanchipuram has gained much popularity. Devarajaswami Temple, Thiruthani, Uthiramerur, Anna Memorial, and Vaikunta Perumal Temple are some of the top tourist destinations in the country that you must visit. Moreover, you can also buy fine silk sarees in the city as a souvenir.
How to Reach Kanchipuram by Train
Kanchipuram railway station, is a primary railway station. Trains coming from various cities of India, including Chennai, Arakkonam, Puducherry, Tirupati, Chengalpattu Junction, and Tirumalpur, halt at this station. You can easily board a train to reach here.
Madurai – Cultural Capital of South India
One of the most visited cities in South India, Madurai is a cultural destination with enriched mythological history. Meenakshi Temple, Gandhi Museum, Vaigai Dam, Koodal Azhagar Temple, and Alagar Koli are top tourist attractions in the city, depicting Madurai’s rich cultural heritage. Moreover, in Madurai, a famous festival Chithrai gets celebrated in April-May, during the Hindu month of Chithirai. It is a 12 days festival with various cultural activities you must witness.
How to Reach Madurai by Train
To reach Madurai, you can take a train to Madurai junction, MDU; the station is well connected to different cities of India, including Thiruvananthapuram Palakkad, Guruvayur, Dadar, Rameswaram etc.
Travelling by train to these cultural cities will be a great experience; to enhance this experience, you can also order food in train through e-catering services.
Which city in India is called a cultural destination?
Kolkata, Madurai, Kanchipuram, and Varanasi are cultural destinations in India. You can take a trip to any of these locations for cultural tourism.
Why is cultural tourism in India important?
Cultural tourism in India is important as it promotes rich cultural heritage and history. It allows visitors to explore and experience the country’s art, architecture, music, dance, and traditions. Additionally, cultural tourism helps the nation preserve and promote the country’s diverse cultural legacy. Moreover, It represents the country’s identity and people, making cultural tourism an important aspect of its development.
How can I plan a cultural tour in India?
You can visit any of the cultural destinations from the above-mentioned list in India. Although, choose to travel to the destination during any cultural festival or event in that particular city. The train trip is an overwhelming experience, especially when you’re going to explore the city’s art, tradition, and culture. To plan your trip, you can book your train tickets online and check their PNR status to know the confirmation status.
RailMitra, the PNR Status app, also helps you to check train schedules, live train running status, station details, train fare and more online. You can also order food on train through its app and website.