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Deccan Queen: Discover the Iconic 100-Year-Old Train That Pioneered Women-Only Coaches in India
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News18•06-10-2026, 10:19
Deccan Queen: Discover the Iconic 100-Year-Old Train That Pioneered Women-Only Coaches in India
- •Introduced on June 1, 1930, the Deccan Queen has been connecting Mumbai and Pune for nearly a century as one of India's oldest operating named train services.
- •The iconic train was originally launched as a special weekend service for visitors traveling from Bombay to Pune for horse-racing events.
- •It holds a historic place in Indian Railways for introducing India's first women-only coach in 1930 to provide a secure travel option for female passengers.
- •The journey is famous for its breathtaking climb through the Bhor Ghat section of the Western Ghats, featuring stunning views of hills, tunnels, and waterfalls.
- •The Deccan Queen built a reputation as a premium service by featuring an onboard dining car, enhancing its nostalgic appeal over the decades.
Key Questions Answered
The Deccan Queen made its first run on June 1, 1930, as a special weekend service between Bombay and Poona primarily for people traveling to horse-racing events before becoming a regular part of the route.
The Deccan Queen is widely credited with introducing India's first women-only coach in 1930 to provide female passengers with a more comfortable and secure travel option.
It is the only running passenger train in India to offer restaurant-style table service where travelers can dine at tables instead of having meals served at their seats.
