A German traveler exploring India has caught the internet’s attention after sharing a surprisingly rave review of the Vande Bharat Express trip. His Instagram video, which has now amassed over 700,000 views, compares India’s semi-high-speed train to the sleek rail systems of Japan and China, prompting an outpouring of praise from Indian users.
“India’s Most Modern Train”
Documenting his journey across the country, Alexander Welder has posted a video titled “India’s Most Modern Train Ride”. In it, he and his companion guide the audience through their five-and-a-half-hour journey in the standing executive class ₹2,100 per person – including food.
“Today we will be traveling on what is believed to be India’s most modern train, the Vande Bharat, in executive class,” he says in the clip. “I’ll show you what the experience is like.
“I feel like I’m riding a Japanese or Chinese train”
Welder seems particularly impressed with the swivel seats designed to face the window — something he calls a “game changer” for travelers who want to take in the surrounding landscape. It also draws attention to the unusually spacious upper compartments.
“This luggage is crazy big, but it still fits comfortably,” he says, adding that the bus offers both Indian and Western-style washrooms—another detail that caught his eye.
Watch the video here:
A ticket that includes everything – even dessert
A few minutes after boarding, Welder is given a free bottle of water, followed by soup, snacks and a hot meal consisting of chapati, curry, rice, vegetables and ice cream.
“We just got snacks in the ticket too. How crazy is that?” he says, clearly surprised at the value for money.
At the end of the trip, he summarizes his experience:
“Five and a half hours. ₹2100 per person. And all meals were included.”
Online response
The video has been widely shared across platforms, with many users appreciating how the traveler captured the positive and modern aspect of Indian Railways. Some noted that he showcased an India that is often not highlighted internationally.
One user wrote: “I love it when our guests from all over the world enjoy our facilities to the extent of what is on offer. Atithhi Devo Bhavah!”
Another user suggested: “Try Maharajas’ Express, Palace on Wheels, Golden Chariot and Deccan Odyssey. You’ll love it.”
“That’s a really good price compared to Europe. Sometimes you can’t even sit in Germany without a seat reservation if the trains are very full,” wrote a third user.
Make in India brand success story
The Vande Bharat Express is exclusively manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. From design to engineering, the train is a showcase of indigenous technology under the government’s Make in India initiative.
