Uttar Pradesh’s Vistadome ‘Train Safari’, launched by the UP Eco-Tourism Development Board, is a first-of-its-kind wildlife experience on rails through the state’s lush Terai region.
Running between Bichia (near Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary) and Mailani (gateway to Dudhwa National Park), this 107-km route unveils forests, wetlands, and grasslands teeming with life. The journey, lasting about 4.5 hours each way, operates on weekends, making it a perfect quick escape for nature lovers.
The Vistadome coach features panoramic glass windows, a rooftop viewing section, and transparent panels that blur the line between traveller and landscape. From dancing peacocks to grazing deer and darting langurs, every stretch offers a front-row seat to the raw beauty of the Terai.
What makes this safari truly unique is its quiet sustainability. The train uses existing tracks, reducing vehicular intrusion into forest trails while offering travellers an eco-friendly adventure.
The experience also encourages a digital detox, mobile networks fade out for most of the ride, allowing passengers to truly listen to the sounds of the forest.
Timings:
- From Mailani (Train No. 52260): Departs at 6:05 AM, reaches Bichia at 10:30 AM
- From Bichia (Train No. 52259): Departs at 11:45 AM, reaches Mailani at 4:10 PM
Whether tied with a stay near Dudhwa, Kishanpur, or Katarniaghat, or enjoyed as a day journey, the Vistadome Train Safari offers a rare blend of nostalgia, adventure, and serenity, redefining how travellers connect with the wild.
