April 8, 2025
In the heart of India’s Eastern Ghats, a humble passenger train is capturing the imagination of travelers and rail enthusiasts alike. Winding its way through lush forests, steep hills, and 58 tunnels, this slow-moving marvel offers a timeless glimpse into the natural and engineering wonders of the region.
Stretching between Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and Araku Valley in the southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh, the train route spans just under 130 kilometers—but takes over 5 hours to complete, thanks to its meandering curves, altitude shifts, and of course, its 58 tunnels that burrow through the mountainous terrain.
“It’s less of a commute and more of a meditation,” says Priya Nair, a traveler from Bengaluru who recently took the journey. “You lose signal, but you find peace.”
A Journey Through Time and Nature
Known for its scenic beauty, the route offers panoramic views of dense forests, cascading waterfalls, tribal villages, and mist-covered valleys. The train itself is modest—no luxury amenities, no Wi-Fi—but its slow speed and rhythmic motion create a serene travel experience rarely found in today’s fast-paced world.
Each tunnel varies in length and shape, built during the British colonial era as part of the Kothavalasa-Kirandul (KK) line, an engineering feat completed in the mid-20th century. Some of the tunnels plunge the train into complete darkness for a few moments, only to emerge into breathtaking sunlight and greenery.
A Lifeline for Local Communities
For the tribal populations and villagers living in the remote Eastern Ghats, this train isn’t just scenic—it’s essential. It serves as a lifeline for transporting goods, accessing healthcare, and connecting with nearby towns.
Passengers include everyone from students and farmers to tourists and photographers. Vendors hop on and off, selling everything from boiled peanuts to piping hot chai.
“This train feeds families and fuels dreams,” says Ramesh Naik, a local vendor who boards at Borra Caves station daily. “It may be slow, but it never stops serving us.”
Tourism and Conservation Balance
The rising popularity of the route among domestic and international tourists has sparked new interest in eco-tourism. However, conservationists warn of the delicate ecosystem that surrounds the train path.
“Unregulated tourism can damage the fragile biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats,” says Dr. Manisha Rao, an environmental scientist. “We must tread carefully, promoting sustainable travel and community participation.”
Travel Tips for the Route
- Best Time to Visit: October to February (cooler weather and clearer views)
- Boarding Station: Visakhapatnam Railway Station (VSKP)
- Scenic Highlights: Borra Caves, Ananthagiri Hills, Tyda Park
- Train Type: Passenger train with general seating
- Recommendation: Grab a window seat early and carry your own snacks and water
Conclusion
The 58-tunnel train through India’s Eastern Ghats isn’t just a route—it’s an experience. In an age of high-speed travel and bullet trains, this slow, winding journey offers something far more valuable: a connection to nature, culture, and time itself. For those seeking a truly unique adventure, this is a ride worth taking—slowly.
