Exploring the World from Below the Poles: A Train Experience Journey

While I may not be a seasoned train traveler, I still find joy in sharing my experiences with those afar. My hometown in Andaman, with its remote location, offers limited train travel options. Air remains the most feasible route for me; however, when traveling from Kolkata, one can choose a ship. But my memories of train travel are as vivid as they are few, dating back to 2002-2006, during my summer vacations.

Family Vacations and Train Memories

Summer vacations with my family brought me to the railway station, and the memories of those journeys line the edges of my mind. I still recall the sleeper class berths and the bathrooms, simple yet endearing, during my trips from Chennai to Hyderabad, and Chennai to Bangalore. Crammed as we were, the bond of sleeping neighbors and shared laughter was something truly memorable.

The NEET PGI Journey and Beyond

A step forward in time to 2017, my NEET PGI Chandigarh for MD/MS entrance exams saw me embark on a 4-hour train journey. The entire car was filled with medical aspirants (neet-pg) whipped up in discussions about Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and question banks, a scene of shared excitement and anticipation. Even while the train moved, the discussions continued, making the journey meaningful and filled with collective energy.

Shatabdi Express and Mussoorie Excursion

Recently, it has been 5 years since my last train journey. This March 2022, I boarded the Shatabdi Express from Nizamudin to Dehradun, a 7-hour duration that tested my patience but rewarded me with the Shatabdi seating experience. Sleek and spacious seating, large windows, and excellent air conditioning made the trip comfortable. I had not anticipated the air conditioning, but it was a pleasant surprise.

Meerut station, a 1-hour delay due to a train fire ahead, was a setback. The heat was intense, and finding any form of entertainment was a challenge. The delay was disheartening, as it disrupted my plans for catching a cab at Dehradun station. Despite the discomfort, the journey was hopeful and serene. My seatmate, a corporate analyst, was preparing a presentation on his laptop, a sight that, despite the monotony, brought a sense of productivity and tranquility to the trip.

The Art of Patience and Connecting with Strangers

I am a patient person who loves to discover the goodness in strangers, and train journeys have greatly contributed to this trait. These journeys, often filled with moments of shared struggles and revelations, have opened my eyes to the nuances of human connection and patience.

As we journey through the tracks, we discover more about ourselves and the world around us. The train is not just a mode of transport; it is a canvas where stories and memories are painted. From the comforting meals in the morning high tea to the engaging conversations with fellow passengers, each train journey is a unique episode that shapes our experiences.

Concluding Thoughts

The train journey, whether it is a hurried NEET PGI trip or a leisurely vacation to Mussoorie, carries within it the essence of travel. It is about the journey, not just the destination, and the connections we make along the way. Patience and kindness often emerge as valuable traits, and train travel provides the perfect environment to cultivate them.

So, the next time you step aboard a train, embrace the journey, connect with the strangers, and cherish the moments. After all, every journey is an adventure, be it a short one-hour commute or a long, scenic trip.