One of the largest railway networks of the world, India Railways cover a route of 65,000 km and 7,500 stations carrying over 30 million passengers and 2.8 million tonnes of freight daily. Indian Railway network has over one million employees. Assuming each person supports a family of four that is a total four million people supported by the network, making it the 4th largest employer in the world.
We all have spent some time waiting for delayed trains, at least once in a lifetime. There is nothing more interesting in most stations than announcement about arrival of our desired train. But there are some train stations across the globe where we can get something more than dull stationary carts and hot beverages. In fact, some of these stations are so weird and surprising that you may want to add in your list. They are weird but having a short stay will surely not to be the worst thing in your life.
1. CST Station
Ranked among the most world-renowned UNESCO Heritage sites in Mumbai, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the main railway station. It sports magnificent turrets, stone dome and arches which would make it the competitor of Victoria station in London. You can explore the unusual tiles, wood carvings and ornamental railings while waiting for your train here.
2. Atocha Station, Madrid
You may call it a small jungle. If it’s your first time to visit Spain, you will be surprised to see the palm trees and exotic palms in domed atrium. You can explore the tropical greens spread in over 4000 sq. m. of landscapes while sipping a cup of hot coffee.
3. Union Station
The spectacular architectural design of Union Station will surely amaze you. In the heart of station, the American Renaissance building hosts VIP events in the iconic Great Hall. In fact, travelers love to spend extra time to explore the columned hall with brass lamps, marble floors and vaulted skylight.
4. Ushuaia Station
The railway station located at the end of the world, Ushuaia Station is positioned at the valley of Tierra del Fuego and is set on the bank of River Pipo. In the early 20th century, the station considered to be located at the end of the world for those prisoners who were sent to labor camps. Today, it is very spectacular destination because of a small Prisoner’s train and the magnificent views.
5. Pickering Station
You can experience the age-old charm of a typical English train station. You can wait here for the vintage steam train and have a trip to the old goods shed. Now it is a hairdressing salon.
6. Tanggula Mountain Station
Located at the altitude of 5058m, Tanggula Mountain station is considered to be the highest train station in the world. Probably it is a deserted station which is left unmanned. But you can get the picture-perfect views of lake, river and glacier over here.
Image Courtesy: Chinatibettrain
7. Haydarpasa Station
This eastern station was constructed on over 1100 wooden beams and is covered by water on all the three sides. This castle-like building has the stunning interior and the picturesque views of the river.
8. Broken Hill station
Set in the outback of New South Wales, the Broken Hill station is a stoppage for the most spectacular rail journey across Perth, Sydney and Adelaide.
9. Divisadero Barrancas
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