Train journeys - Our experiences so far

We were warned to avoid sitting class trains in India so many times. So naturally, we were a little apprehensive when the first train we booked ONLY had 2S - second class non-AC seating available. We figured that we didn't have much choice and bought the tickets.

But it was totally fine. Actually, almost comfortable. Yes, I said almost. If only the chairs could recline, or you could spin them around so you could actually face in the direction the train was moving, it would have been pretty comfy!

We took lots of snacks and water, and enjoyed the scenery.
We took turns to go and sit at the open door and watch the world go by.

We didn't meet any crazy people. We weren't robbed. Actually, pretty much everyone kept to themselves. It wasn't over crowded. It was, for want of a better word, pretty normal! 

We have taken 2S twice now and both times have been the same.

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Just recently we took the Pathankot-Kangra toy train as well. It's such a tiny train and you can't make reservations so it was every man for himself. We got on the train over an hour before it departed and we still struggled to get a seat!! But it was a pretty amazing trip.

It travels a whopping 18km/hr and stops at random places for random amounts of time, but the scenery was pretty nice. I don't know if I would say it was a "must-do" unless you are a total train buff, but it was definitely a nice adventure!!

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And then yesterday we experienced CC, (which we joked stood for cattle class..) for the first time. Air conditioned Chair Class. 
I now know that CC actually stands for "Comfort class". Wow! Comfortable seats! Reclining seats at that! And did I mention there was AC? 

We were already so excited by the comfort of CC class, but then it got even better?!? FREE FOOD! And it was amazing food too!! And they even served ice cream for desert!! Now THAT is how to travel!