This Is India's Shortest Train Route: Journey Ends In Just 9 Minutes But Fare Will Shock You; Check Details

India, known for its vast railway network, holds several remarkable records. Among these is the shortest train journey in the country, which spans just 3 kilometers between Nagpur and Ajni in Maharashtra. Traveling this short distance may seem trivial, but the cost of the journey is anything but. 

For a 3-kilometer trip, passengers have several options depending on their choice of class. The general class ticket costs Rs 60, while a sleeper class ticket is priced between Rs 145-175. For those preferring more comfort, the AC-3 tier ticket costs Rs 555, the AC-2 tier ticket is Rs 760, and the AC-1 tier, the most expensive, is Rs 1,255. The entire journey takes just 9 minutes, making it one of the quickest trips you can take by train in India. 

The train route between Nagpur and Ajni may be short, but it is significant for several reasons. Maharashtra’s dense railway network ensures that even such short distances are well-served, allowing for quick and efficient travel between key locations. For the residents of these areas, the train serves as an essential link, providing a convenient mode of transportation that connects them to larger, more distant destinations. 

Interestingly, despite the availability of sleeper class and various AC coaches, most passengers opt for the general class due to the brevity of the journey. The idea of spending over a thousand rupees for a mere 3 kilometers may seem extravagant, but for those who value comfort, the options are available. The journey, though short, is a testament to the diversity and complexity of India's railway system. 

In comparison, the contrast between the shortest and longest journeys in India exemplifies the range of experiences that Indian Railways offers. From a quick 9-minute trip that costs as much as Rs 1,255 to a multi-day voyage that spans the length of the country, the railway network is a microcosm of India itself—diverse, expansive, and full of surprises. 

While the Nagpur-Ajni route is the shortest, India is also home to the country's longest rail journey, the Vivek Express. This train, which was introduced to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, travels from Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu to Dibrugarh in Assam, covering a staggering distance of approximately 4300 kilometers. 

The Vivek Express’s journey is as monumental as its namesake, taking more than 80 hours to complete. It traverses through 57 stations and 9 states, making it not just the longest route in India but one of the longest in the world. It ranks 24th globally in terms of distance covered, highlighting the vastness of India's rail network.