Michael Portillo's Great Indian Railway Journeys

Watch Michael Portillo's journey across India starting on BBC 2 at 8pm on 20th March 2018 in Amritsar and travelling to Shimla, then the week after from Jodhpur to Delhi.

From the high peaks of the Himalayas, the mountain range where resides Mount Everest, to the sand fringed beaches of Goa, this stunning country is a delight to explore at all levels. On a man-made level, the historical buildings burst with beauty and colour - the white glow of the Taj Mahal, the stately view of the 'Pink City' of Jaipur, and the red glare of the mighty Amber Fort. Discover also India through the ages - from the ancient kingdoms of old India, to the architecture of the British Raj, right through to the colourful streets that still buzz with life, sounds, and scents, today. All of these seen, of course, through the various trains that are scattered about the country, connecting these mighty cities and stunning viewpoints that define this incredible country.

The Shatabdi Express boasts of some of the fastest trains in India. Reaching speeds of up to 80mph (130km/h), sail through the majestic countryside of India in air-conditioned coaches. The Gatimaan Express is similar in speed and stature, and has been taking travellers about this colourful subcontinent since 2016.

The smaller trains, such as the 'Shivalik Express', affectionately referred to as the 'Toy Train', runs between Kalka and Shimla, taking you through 102 tunnels, over 864 bridges, and around 919 curves at a leisurely pace as you venture towards your destination. Delight in the marvellous scenery that the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas have to offer, on board one of three Indian Mountain Railways that constitutes a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is another one of these trains, located in the south of India, in Kurseong. This marvellous train is beloved around the world, and takes you through forests and past colourful Buddhist prayer flags.

Of course, the 'hotels on wheels' of India, which includes the 'Palace on Wheels', are more fabulous ways to see the country. Enjoy your time on board in comfortable carriages, whilst being looked after by a dedicated cabin attendant, enjoying local cuisine on board as you wind across India.

Each of our Indian train holidays is an adventure in itself, and whichever you choose you're assured of an experience that is unforgettable.

Michael Portillo's upcoming TV series documents his rail journeys across India visiting the following locations: Amritsar to Shimla, Jodhpur to Delhi, Mysuru to Chennai and lastly Lucknow to Kolkata.