SL had its own charm and it was good till it lasted. Last couple of years it has changed. Because of the increase in migration to cities and different states the crowd has increased manifold. Unless it's off season even 3A is too crowded for a peaceful laid-back journey. Of late I've stuck to AC coaches just for comfort and relative hygiene.

While backpacking in North East (2 yrs back) I happened to hopped on a slow overnight passenger train in FC which was felt awesome.

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SL, 3A, FC: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Railways_coaching_stock...