Arriving in Jaipur marked the climax of a multi-sensory journey. The vastness of the Indian railways, encompassing robust trains to the most unassuming stations, is unparalleled. Amidst delays, stories, culinary delights, and the persistent calls of tea vendors, our lives found vibrancy, enriched by the transient connections with others, even if just for a fleeting moment.
Read also: The 10 most picturesque train journeys globally.
The Green Dome Nearly a decade after my last encounter with the memory-filled Jaipur Express, I embarked on a journey to explore the changes in the realm of Indian train travel. Opting for the Vistadome train on the Bengaluru to Mangaluru route last month in September, I anticipated a scenic ride through the dense landscapes of the Western Ghats, adorned with floating clouds and mist.
Departing from Yeshwanthpur Junction in the heart of Bengaluru, the Karwar Express offered no separate section for the Vistadome Coach; tickets had to be booked in the Executive Car category. Inside, a flood of light greeted me, with a near-transparent dome bathed in natural light and swiveling seats capable of a 180-degree rotation, turning the window into a cinematic display. Keen observation revealed every detail.
Most captivating, however, was the contagious excitement of my fellow passengers. From nonagenarians with walking sticks to reserved women in their 40s, everyone was glued to the glass windows, captivated by the surreal beauty of the Western Ghats. The carmine-colored, ergonomically designed seats alleviated any discomfort, while automatic sliding doors revealed a mini-pantry attended by cheerful staff offering snacks and hot bowls of Maggi.
Conversations flowed about the beauty of Mangaluru with passengers on the "Viewing Deck," featuring a transparent glass wall at the other end of the coach. This experience differed significantly from the Jaipur Superfast Express of my childhood, yet both were valid, prompting reflection and leaving passengers enriched by the journey.
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