Experience Jerin George, the Commuter Extraordinaire, who boasts an unwavering record of consistently catching every train.
Journeying Through India's Scenic Rails: A Passionate Trainspotter's Tale
In a country where the rhythm of life often echoes the steady beat of a locomotive, one man's passion for trains has taken him on a journey of discovery across India's picturesque rail routes. Jerin George, a dedicated trainspotter, has traveled far and wide, capturing the essence of vintage locomotives before modernization transforms the rails forever.
George's love for trains began early, ignited by the British Railway series Thomas the Tank Engine. His childhood rail journeys between Chennai and Cochin sparked a curiosity about Indian Railways that would later blossom into a deep-rooted passion. His first trainspotting experience came aboard the New Delhi-Chennai Rajdhani Express in 2007, and since then, he has embarked on countless journeys, each one a testament to his unwavering fascination with the iron horse.
One of George's most memorable train journeys was aboard the Mandovi Express in 2010. The scenic route through the Western Ghats offered breathtaking views that have stayed with him to this day. However, it was the New Jalpaiguri Shatabdi Express that took him the farthest, as he chased the train through West Bengal to capture its majestic journey.
Before embarking on a trainspotting trip, George follows a set routine. He seeks advice from experienced railfans and books tickets well in advance. His equipment of choice includes a GoPro for long journeys and a point-and-shoot camera for capturing those perfect moments. He also studies maps and directions to locate optimal trainspotting spots.
For those seeking the ultimate trainspotting experience, George recommends the Konkan Railway route. This modern high-speed scenic route along coastal Maharashtra and Goa offers a unique blend of technology and nature, featuring tunnels, waterfalls, rivers, and seaside views.
Other must-visit train routes and stations for trainspotting in India include the Kalka to Shimla Railway, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the Mumbai to Goa Vande Bharat Express, Mandapam to Rameswaram, the New Jalpaiguri routes (towards Darjeeling Himalayan Railway), Matheran Hill Railway, Solan near Shimla, and the Trichy-Rameshwaram section.
These routes combine scenic beauty, heritage charm, and unique landscapes, making them the top choices for trainspotting enthusiasts. The toy trains to hill stations and coastal/high-speed modern routes offer a variety of experiences for photography and railfanning. For the best views, visitors should aim for historic or hill stations like Barog (Kalka-Shimla), Ooty, and viewpoints along the Mumbai-Goa coastal route.
George's all-time favorite engine is the WDM2, which used to commonly haul the Chennai-Trivandrum Mail. He waited at Kulem station to spot the Howrah-Vasco Amaravati Express, which was still hauled by vintage ALCo locomotives. Despite a disappointing visit to Suravali station in search of ALCo diesel engines in 2017, he continues to cherish the camaraderie that forms between strangers on trains, a testament to the shared love for India's rich rail heritage.
In the end, George appreciates the beauty of train journeys and the simple joys they bring. He prefers sleeper class for his train journeys, allowing him to fully enjoy the experience and the ever-changing landscapes that unfold before his eyes. As he continues to document India's rail history, George remains a dedicated advocate for preserving the stories of vintage locomotives and the unique experiences they offer.
George's love for trains extends beyond India's scenic rails, as he equally cherishes the home-and-garden of vintage locomotives in his own life, meticulously maintaining a collection of model trains that embody the golden age of rail travel.
Moreover, George's passion for trains transcends borders, fueling his desire to embark on travel adventures that allow him to explore the world's most renowned train routes, from the Orient Express to the Trans-Siberian Railway, immersing himself in the wider culture of each location while capturing the essence of rail history on film.
In his quest for the perfect trainspotting moments, George indulges in a variety of hobbies, including photography, writing, and even dabbles in the exciting world of sports, often found cheering for the success of his favorite cricket team accompanying the hum of the train's engine.
