Top 10 Biggest Railway Stations in India (2025 Update)

India boasts one of the largest railway networks in the world, anchored by some of the biggest railway stations in India. As of 2025, stations like Howrah Junction, Sealdah, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus top the list in terms of platforms, daily footfall, and national significance. These largest railway stations in India are crucial nodes in the country’s vast transportation web, combining historic architecture with modern operations. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or a daily commuter, here’s a comprehensive look at the top 10 Indian railway junctions you should know about. Here are the top 10 biggest railway stations in India as of 2025:

1. Howrah Junction (HWH), West Bengal

• Platforms: 23

• Opened: 1854

• Highlights: The oldest, largest, and busiest railway complex in India, serving as a critical gateway to Kolkata and Eastern India. It handles massive passenger traffic and is under both Eastern and South Eastern Railways.

2. Sealdah Railway Station (SDAH), West Bengal

• Platforms: 21

• Opened: 1869

• Highlights: One of the busiest stations by daily footfall (over 1.2 million), Sealdah is a major suburban and long-distance terminal for Kolkata.

3. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Maharashtra

• Platforms: 18

• Opened: 1887

• Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mumbai, known for its Victorian Gothic Revival architecture and as a central hub for Western and Central India.

4. Chennai Central (MAS), Tamil Nadu

• Platforms: 17

• Opened: 1873

• Highlights: The principal railhead of South India, connecting Chennai to all major cities. Known for its iconic architecture and high passenger volume.

5. New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS), Delhi

• Platforms: 16

• Opened: 1926

• Highlights: Strategically located in the national capital, NDLS is among the busiest in terms of train movements and passenger handling.

6. Mumbai CST (CSMT), Maharashtra

• Platforms: 18

• Opened: 1887

• Highlights: Sometimes listed separately due to its operational scale, it is a major terminal for long-distance and suburban trains in Mumbai.

7. Ahmedabad Junction (ADI), Gujarat

• Platforms: 12

• Opened: 1863

• Highlights: The largest station in Gujarat, serving as a key hub for Western India.

8. Kanpur Central (CNB), Uttar Pradesh

• Platforms: 10

• Opened: 1930

• Highlights: One of the busiest stations in North India, known for its massive interlocking route system and connectivity.

9. Prayagraj Junction (PRYJ), Uttar Pradesh

• Platforms: 10

• Opened: 1859

• Highlights: A crucial station on the Howrah–Delhi and Mumbai lines, and the headquarters of the North Central Railway zone.

10. Vijayawada Junction (BZA), Andhra Pradesh

• Platforms: 10

• Opened: 1888

• Highlights: A vital junction in South India, located at the intersection of major routes. It is the fourth busiest station in India and has received a Platinum Rating for environmental efforts.

Comparison Table

Key Insights

• Howrah Junction stands out as the largest by platforms and overall scale.

• Sealdah and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus are notable for their immense daily passenger traffic and architectural heritage.

• Stations like Vijayawada and Kanpur Central are critical for regional connectivity and operational complexity.

• These stations are not only transport hubs but also historical and cultural landmarks, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of Indian Railways.

These top 10 railway stations are the backbone of India’s rail infrastructure, supporting millions of journeys every day and playing a vital role in the nation’s connectivity and economy.