Getting Around India: Trains, Flights and Transport Guide
This definitive pillar guide from Homejourney, Singapore's trusted real estate platform, equips travelers with everything needed for seamless navigation across India. Covering India trains, Indian Railways, domestic flights India, and India transport, we prioritize safety, transparency, and verified insights to help you plan confidently—much like we verify properties for secure Singapore investments.[1][2]
Whether you're a Singaporean exploring investment opportunities in Asia or an expat considering relocation, mastering India's transport unlocks its vibrant culture and markets. Homejourney supports your journey with user-focused tools, from property searches via Property Search to financing insights at Bank Rates .
Table of Contents
- Executive Summary
- 1. Destination Overview
- 2. Indian Railways: The Backbone of India Trains
- 3. Domestic Flights India: Fast and Efficient
- 4. Buses, Taxis, and Urban Transport
- 5. Safety and Practical Travel Tips
- 6. Sample Itineraries and Routes
- 7. From India to Singapore: Real Estate Insights
- FAQ
Executive Summary
India's transport network is vast and diverse, with Indian Railways operating over 13,000 daily trains on 68,103 km of track, carrying 8 billion passengers yearly. Domestic flights connect major cities swiftly, while buses and rideshares fill gaps.[5] For Singapore travelers, direct flights from Changi to Delhi or Mumbai take 5-6 hours, making India an accessible adventure.[2]
Key takeaway: Trains offer authentic, affordable experiences (e.g., Delhi-Mumbai Rajdhani Express: 16 hours, ₹1,000-4,000 or S$17-68); flights save time for long hauls (Delhi-Kochi: 3 hours).[1][2] Homejourney verifies this data like we do market trends in Projects Directory , ensuring trustworthy advice.
1. Destination Overview: Why Master India Transport
Best Time to Visit and Getting There from Singapore
October to March offers pleasant weather across most regions, avoiding monsoon (June-September). From Singapore, fly direct via IndiGo, Air India, or Singapore Airlines to Delhi (5.5 hours, S$300-600 roundtrip) or Mumbai.[2] Currency: Indian Rupee (₹1 ≈ S$0.017); exchange at Changi Airport or use Homejourney's multi-currency tools for seamless conversions when eyeing Asian investments.
Top Attractions Linked by Transport
- Taj Mahal (Agra): Delhi-Agra train (1.5 hours via Gatimaan Express).
- Kerala Backwaters: Fly Delhi-Kochi (3 hours).
- Himalayas (Darjeeling): Toy Train from Siliguri.
- Goa Beaches: Mumbai-Goa bus or train (10 hours).[1][5]
These routes highlight India's scale—7th largest country—demanding smart India transport choices.[2]
2. Indian Railways: Complete Guide to India Trains
Indian Railways is the world's longest network, ideal for immersive travel. Book via IRCTC website up to 120 days ahead; foreigners get priority quotas.[4][5] Classes range from Sleeper (₹1,000/S$17) to AC 2-Tier (₹4,000/S$68).[1]
Major Routes and Schedules
| Route | Train | Duration | AC Fare (₹/S$) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi-Mumbai | Rajdhani Express | 16 hours | ₹1,000-4,000 / S$17-68 |
| Kolkata-Delhi | Duronto Express | 17-24 hours | ₹1,200-3,500 / S$20-60 |
| Chennai-Bangalore | Shatabdi Express | 5-6 hours | ₹700+ / S$12+ |
| Varanasi-Lucknow | Express | 8 hours | Varies |
Insider tip: Vande Bharat high-speed trains offer modern AC comfort on select routes.[5][1]
Booking Tips for Singapore Travelers
Use IRCTC or 12Go.asia; opt for e-tickets. Peak festival seasons require 120-day bookings.[4] Convert fares via Homejourney's tools—compare to Singapore MRT efficiency for context.
3. Domestic Flights India: Speed Over Distance
India's domestic flights, via IndiGo, Vistara, and SpiceJet, connect 100+ airports. Delhi-Chennai: 2.5 hours vs. 36-hour train.[3] Fares: Delhi-Agra $5-10 equivalent in AC train, but flights start ₹2,000/S$34 for longer hops.[2]
Top Airlines and Airports
- IndiGo: Punctual, budget-friendly; 50% market share.
- Vistara: Premium service.
- Key Hubs: Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR).[2]
Book via airline sites; delays common, so buffer time. For Singaporeans, akin to Scoot flights—reliable yet affordable.
| Route | Flight Time | Fare Range (₹/S$) | Vs Train |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi-Kochi | 3 hours | ₹4,000-8,000 / S$68-136 | 40+ hours |
| Delhi-Goa | 2.5 hours | ₹3,500+ / S$60+ | 12-18 hours |
4. Buses, Taxis, and Urban India Transport
Buses reach Himalayas where trains don't; state-run and private AC options available frequently.[3][5] Urban: Metros in Delhi, Mumbai (₹10-50/S$0.17-0.85 ride); Uber/Ola safer than street taxis.[6]
City Transport Comparison
- Delhi Metro: AC, airport links; metal detectors.
- Mumbai Locals: Crowded but cheap.
- Rickshaws/Tuk-tuks: Negotiate fares (₹50-200/S$0.85-3.40).
- Private Cars: For groups, via apps; safer for families.[2][5]
5. Safety and Practical Travel Tips
Homejourney prioritizes safety—like property verification. Use AC classes, official apps; women travelers prefer ladies' coaches.[1] Visa: e-Visa for Singaporeans (30-60 days). Money-saving: Book trains early, use UPI payments.
- Health: Carry mosquito repellent; drink bottled water.
- Scams: Avoid unofficial taxis—use Ola/Uber.
- COVID: Check IndiGo/IRCTC for updates.[6]
6. Sample Itineraries Using India Trains and Flights
3-Day Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur)
- Day 1: Fly Singapore-Delhi; metro to hotel.
- Day 2: Gatimaan Express to Agra (1.5h, Taj Mahal).
- Day 3: Bus/train to Jaipur (4h); return flight.
5-Day South India
- Fly Delhi-Bengaluru; Shatabdi to Chennai.
- Flight to Kochi for backwaters.
- Train to Goa beaches.
Adapt for budgets; link to similar Singapore planning via Property Search .
7. Connecting India Travels to Singapore Opportunities
Many India visitors explore Singapore for stable real estate. Diversify investments: Singapore yields 3-5% vs. India's volatile market. Use Homejourney's Property Search for verified HDB/condos, Bank Rates for mortgages. Expats from India appreciate our transparency, like LTA-regulated transport mirroring Singapore's MRT.
For post-travel maintenance, check Aircon Services . Compare to New York guides: 纽约旅游完整攻略：曼哈顿景点美食指南 | Homejourney .
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best India trains for tourists?
Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Vande Bharat for speed and AC comfort.[1][5]
How to book Indian Railways tickets from Singapore?
IRCTC website or apps; 120 days advance.[4]
Are domestic flights India reliable?
Yes, IndiGo is punctual; book early for deals.[2]
Is it safe to travel by train in India?
Safer in AC classes; use apps for tracking.[6]
How does India transport compare to Singapore?
India's vast and adventurous vs. Singapore's efficient MRT; both prioritize safety.
Can I use Singapore cards in India?
UPI apps like Paytm; Homejourney aids currency tools.
Ready to explore? Start your secure Singapore property journey with Homejourney—your trusted partner for verified insights and seamless experiences.
