Around India In 80 Trains

The Konkan Railway is renowned for being one of Indian Railways finest achievements and rightly so. I even did this stretch twice because I didn't feel like I got enough the first time round. Sandwiched between the Sahyadri hills on the east and the Arabian sea on the west, the Konkan Railway is a stunning route up to Mumbai that hugs India's southwest coastline. The British considered its construction but abandoned the daunting task, leaving it to the Indians to bore through mountains, cross hundreds of rivers and build 92 tunnels and 2,000 bridges – of which the Panvalnadi bridge is currently the highest viaduct in India.

There is a huge number of trains that cover this route, including a fast Shatabdi Express which cuts down the journey time, but the Mandovi Express is the best way to make the most of the scenery. As it leaves early in the morning, you can sit in the doorways throughout the day as the train blasts across rivers, by villages filled with blossoms, thick orchards that barely let in the light and the coastline. The Mandovi Express is also renowned for its excellent range of food. From chicken spring rolls to biriyani and vadas, you'll find plenty to keep your tummy happy.

The train doors are usually left open on this breathtaking journey, so take advantage and don't even think of doing this route overnight, it would be a criminal waste!