What can you expect when you embark on your rail adventure across India?

I re-watched my favourite Wes Anderson movie, The Darjeeling Limited, just before my first visit to India.

The camera pans over stunning landscapes while the train containing three troubled brothers snakes across the eastern Himalayan mountains. Do you remember the scene in which the elegantly dressed steward pours the brothers a sweet lime juice onto silver plates, and they sip it on luxuriant orange furniture? The film is pure eye attraction.

My train journeys over the night did not resemble the film’s masterpiece. They were similarly enjoyable and rewarding experiences, and I’d be happy to take the train again. Here are my few takeaways from travelling in Indian Railways.

Forget your doubts

The atmosphere on Indian trains was terrific. I got a good night’s rest because the beds were very sturdy. Clean sheets in paper packets, blankets, and a pillow will be provided. Most experienced travellers I spoke to brought their travel sheets in the cocoon style. Before boarding, it’s a good idea to check the Train Running Status to stay updated on delays or schedule changes. Trains in India sometimes run late, and knowing the real-time status can help you better plan your meals, rest stops, and overall journey.

Expect an open seating arrangement without curtains or doors.

Unlike European sleeper vehicles, there are no curtains or doors in the compartments. Vinyl seats can be folded to create a six-bunk compartment on either side. Imagine it as an open-air sleeping cubicle. Passengers can walk up and down the end of the bed.

What can you eat?

There is no cafe cart. You can ask your guide what to bring or what you will find at the train station. Usha was our fantastic guide, and she not only provided great travel advice but also gave us excellent food tips. She prepared us for each journey by letting us know which stations offered good street food and which were lacking. Before boarding, you can easily pick up some bananas, chips, water, or chai.

As a pre-train treat, we often indulge in ice cream bars on extra hot days (look for small freezers that sell cold water).

Sleep early, and bring earplugs.

Once you board with the group, it’s better to go to bed earlier than later. There is only one sizable overhead light and no individual bunk lighting, so you cannot customize the lights to your preference. The chai-wallahs are very loud. They start selling their tea at 6 a.m.

The train may also make several stops at night to let passengers off and on, which could be noisy. Earplugs can help reduce the noise and commotion that occurs throughout the night.

Overnight trains should have the kit:

●        Sweater

●        Earplugs

●        Sleep mask

●        Snacks

●        Water

●        Wet wipes

●        Hand sanitizer

●        Toilet paper

●        Slippers or flip-flops

●        Sleeping sheet

●        Pass the time with a deck of cards, a book, or, if you prefer, jot down some notes in a writing journal.

Your luggage stays with you.

Under the bottom bunk, there is space to store luggage. Under the seat, you can fit a 60-70-liter backpack, a large duffle bag, or a carry-on. Large, traditional suitcases don’t fit so well. This type of luggage will not fit into a tuk-tuk that you’ll use almost daily in India.  Before you travel, use PNR Enquiry to check your ticket confirmation. Keeping a copy of your PNR number handy is essential. It ensures a smooth travel experience. Be a savvy tourist and choose luggage that you can carry easily.

What is available on the train?

●        Vendors will sell water, packaged snacks, tea (instant) or coffee, and limited water.

●        There are two electrical outlets in each compartment with six beds.

●        Bring a book if there is no wi-fi.

●        Each passenger is provided with sheets, blankets, and pillows.

●        There are hand sinks in the toilet, but no showers.