As the world’s second most populous country, it’s not surprising that transport in India is one of the busiest and fastest-growing networks in the world. For statistic lovers, that’s roughly 4.6 million new vehicles every year and 8.09 billion passengers on its rail network, which is the fourth largest and second busiest in the world. So, when it comes to holidays in India, transport options should be the least of your worries. Whether it be narrow-gauge railways, rickety rickshaws or hefty Ambassador cars, part of India’s charm is simply choosing how to travel through it.
By Train
If you’re embarking on a cross-country adventure (and are after a classic Indian experience), look no further than the country’s train network. Covering almost the entire length and breadth of the country, there are relatively few places they don’t reach. And yet despite their chaotic stations and frenetic passengers, its system works surprisingly well. While you may be waiting hours as opposed to minutes for your train, once you’re on, you’re on. Hop on the country’s inter-city and ‘super-fast’ trains, which link major cities and have fewer stops. But do make sure to pack with comfort in mind. Most train journeys are typically twelve hours or more too, so splash out on a/c first class tickets if you want carpeting and relatively presentable bathrooms. Don’t worry if long haul Indian train travel doesn’t appeal though, it is an acquired taste. You can still get in on the action of this type of transport in India on the country’s tourist services, such as the toy train to Darjeeling and the Palace on Wheels.
By Car
There’s driving and then there is driving in India. Replacing the fast and the furious with the crammed and the crazy, driving here isn’t for the faint hearted. In fact, Indian roads are considered some of the most dangerous in the world, which is why it’s best avoided. If you need to travel by road, leave it to seasoned locals to transport you across town in their auto-rickshaws and Ambassador taxis. Make sure to agree to a fare beforehand, or if you’re in one of the country’s larger cities and missing your Uber account, use one of the many new transport apps like OYE! Rickshaw.
By Boat
Along India’s craggy Kolkata coastline boats are in high demand. You can reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from Kolkata and Chennai, as well as Kerala from the tranquil backwater cities of Alappuzha and Kollam, all by boat. In fact, if you plan on visiting the Sundarbans, the only way to get there is by boat. Truly, transport in India never looked so scenic.
By Plane
If you don’t have 17 hours spare to sit on a train from Mumbai to Delhi, take to the skies for two hours instead. With nine domestic airlines, you won’t be struggling for choice either. But leave the admin to our travel specialists who are experts at bagging the best seats and rates going. What’s even better is that children under twelve pay half the fare, while under-twos pay just ten per cent.
