Udaipur: Valley Queen Heritage Train Ride — An Authentic Journey Through Rajasthan’s Scenic Heart

If you’re craving a taste of Rajasthan beyond the bustling city streets of Udaipur, the Valley Queen Heritage Train offers a charming escape into the wild beauty of the Aravalli hills. Priced at $84 per person for a full day, this experience takes you riding through lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls, all aboard a vintage-style train that whispers tales of yesteryear. The journey begins early morning, leaving from Marwar Junction, and winds through a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard — think mustard fields, mud-hut villages, and mountain vistas.

What we love most about this trip is its nostalgic charm. The shining view-dome coach makes it easy to soak in the scenery, while the zig-zag section is a highlight—a rare engineering feat that feels like climbing a staircase built into the mountains. The second thing that wins hearts is Goram Ghat, often called the Mini Kashmir of Rajasthan, with its waterfalls and cliffs that come alive during monsoon. However, keep in mind that this is a slow-paced, scenic ride — not a high-speed adventure — so patience and a camera are essentials.

One consideration to keep in mind: the journey is on a meter-gauge line with a diesel engine styled to look like an old steam locomotive, which might not appeal if you’re expecting a full steam experience or a modern train. Still, for those seeking cultural charm and breathtaking views, this ride hits the sweet spot. It’s best suited for travelers who love nature, vintage experiences, and want a gentle, memorable day out.

Key Points

Authentic Heritage Experience: Travel in a vintage-style coach along a historic meter-gauge line.
Spectacular Scenery: Marvel at forests, cliffs, waterfalls, and the stunning landscapes of Goram Ghat.
Unique Engineering: Experience the zig-zag section, a rare track that feels like climbing a mountain staircase.
Cultural Charm: See villagers waving and enjoying the countryside as the train passes.
Relaxed Pace: The journey allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in views.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for those with an interest in scenic, slow-paced train rides and nature.

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A Closer Look at the Valley Queen Heritage Train Ride

Starting Point & Logistics

The journey kicks off at Marwar Junction, where you’ll meet your guide or driver outside the main entrance — either at the station, the hotel lobby, or the airport, depending on your pickup option. The meeting is straightforward, with clear signage, making it easy to find your way. The entire day is designed to be flexible, with the ride lasting roughly from 8:30 AM, when the whistle sounds to signal departure, until around 5:30 PM when you return to Udaipur.

Vehicle & Comfort

The train itself is a beautifully maintained coach with a dome-shaped glass roof, ideal for panoramic views. The diesel engine, styled to resemble an old steam locomotive, adds a nostalgic touch without the discomfort of actual steam or coal. The atmosphere inside is lively, with fellow travelers sharing photos, laughs, and awe at the scenery.

The Itinerary & Highlights

Boarding & Initial Ride: After boarding, you’ll enjoy an hour of gentle, slow progress through mustard fields and traditional villages. We appreciated how relaxed the pace is—it’s about enjoying the views rather than rushing through them.
Phulad & Zig-Zag Tracks: The first major stop is Phulad, a small but significant point where the plains give way to the hills of the Aravalli range. Here, the real thrill begins. The train encounters a zig-zag section, where it reverses and climbs steeply up the mountainside. It’s a fascinating slice of railway engineering that feels like a mountain staircase. As one review put it, “It feels like the train is climbing a staircase built into the mountains,” and we agree — you’ll want to grab your camera during this part.
Goram Ghat — The Crown Jewel: The star of this journey is Goram Ghat, often called the Mini Kashmir of Rajasthan for its lush forests, waterfalls, and rugged cliffs. During monsoon, waterfalls cascade freely, and the landscape seems painted. The train slows down here, giving ample opportunity to take photos of the waterfalls, the forested slopes, and the local wildlife—peacocks, langurs, and grazing antelopes. The scenery is so vibrant it’s easy to forget you’re just a few hours from the desert plains of Rajasthan.
Kamli Ghat & Local Flavor: The train halts briefly at Kamli Ghat, a tiny station among the hills. The fresh mountain air and quiet views make this a peaceful stop. Some travelers enjoy a short walk to a nearby viewpoint or some tea at a small stall, soaking in the serenity of this almost untouched corner.
Return Journey & Sunset Views: After the halt, you retrace your route back, but this time under a different light—the golden hour of late afternoon adds depth to the landscape. The cliffs glow warmly, and the valleys look even more dramatic.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews praise the stunning scenery — “The views are breathtaking, especially during the monsoon season,” one traveler notes. Others enjoy the nostalgic feel of traveling in a coach that could be from the early 20th century. The welcoming atmosphere inside the coach makes the experience more than just a ride — it’s a shared adventure.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers mention that since the train runs on a meter-gauge line, it’s not exactly high-speed or luxurious. It’s all about the charm and slow pace. Also, the zig-zag section, while exciting, can be a bit bumpy, so if you have mobility issues or are sensitive to motion, consider this before booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, vintage transportation, and the romance of train travel. It’s ideal for families, nature lovers, and photography enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure, this isn’t it — but if you want to slow down and enjoy Rajasthan’s natural beauty, this is a winner.

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Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Morning: Departure & Scenic Ride

The day starts at 8:30 AM, with a crisp departure from Marwar Junction. The vintage-style coach, with its glass dome, is surprisingly comfortable, providing uninterrupted views of the passing scenery. We loved the way the coach’s design invites you to look out in every direction, feeling as if you’re riding through a living postcard.

Phulad & the Zig-Zag Section

After an hour of gentle riding, the train reaches Phulad, where the real mountain climbing begins. The zig-zag track is the ride’s highlight—the train reverses onto a different track, climbing steeply into the mountains. This track was built to navigate the rugged terrain, and watching the train navigate this feat is both impressive and fun. It’s a slow, deliberate process, so be prepared for some stops and reversals.

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Goram Ghat — Nature’s Spectacle

The Goram Ghat area is where the landscape turns into a painter’s dream. During the monsoon, the waterfalls are especially spectacular, with water tumbling down cliffs and forested slopes. The train slows to a crawl, giving passengers ample time to snap photos or simply admire the view. Wildlife sightings are possible—peacocks strut across the tracks, and monkeys or langurs may appear in the trees.

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Kamli Ghat & Local Stop

The halt at Kamli Ghat offers a chance to breathe in the mountain air and stretch your legs. It’s a tiny station, with a rustic charm that transports you away from modern life. Some travelers enjoy a quick walk to a nearby viewpoint or a cup of chai from a local stall.

Return & Reflection

As the train heads back, the late afternoon light bathes the cliffs and valleys in golden hues. The familiarity of the route combined with the changing light makes for a different perspective on the scenery. By late afternoon, you’ll return to Marwar Junction, feeling like you’ve traveled not just 60 kilometers but across decades of Rajasthan’s landscape.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For view lovers and those who enjoy vintage railways, the Valley Queen Heritage Train offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and historical charm. The journey’s slow pace and spectacular stops make it a memorable way to see Rajasthan’s rugged side, offering a different perspective than urban sightseeing.

This experience provides excellent value for those seeking an authentic, relaxing, and visually stunning day out. The cost reflects the quality of the views and the nostalgic experience, making it a worthwhile addition to any Rajasthan itinerary. The only caveat is that it’s not a high-speed adventure but a gentle, scenic cruise through nature, perfect for those who want to slow down and appreciate the landscape.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love nature photography, want to discover the hidden beauty of Rajasthan, or have a fondness for heritage trains, this ride is perfect. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those with an interest in rural life and mountain scenery. However, travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a modern train might find this experience a bit rustic.

FAQ

Is the train ride suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy the slow pace, scenic views, and the novelty of the vintage-style coach. Just ensure they’re comfortable with some bumps on the zig-zag section.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. The open coach design makes it ideal for photos but also exposes you to the sun.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs from about 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, including stops and the return trip.

Is the journey on a real steam locomotive?
No, the engine is diesel styled to look like an old steam engine, adding to the nostalgic feel without actual steam.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying outside Udaipur?
Yes, the guide or driver will meet you at your hotel, railway station, or airport, making pickup arrangements straightforward.

Is this experience suitable for elderly travelers?
It depends on their mobility, as the train is slow and the stops are brief. It’s best for those comfortable with gentle bumpy rides and walking short distances.

What’s the best time of year for this journey?
While the ride is scenic year-round, monsoon season enhances the waterfalls and greenery, making the landscape especially lush and beautiful.

In summary, the Valley Queen Heritage Train ride offers a charming, scenic, and authentic way to see Rajasthan’s natural beauty and railway ingenuity. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed day immersed in the quiet grandeur of the Aravalli hills, offering enough comfort and stunning views to make it a highlight of any Rajasthan trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: