Darjeeling Toy Train – Hidden treasure of Himalayan Foothill

Darjeeling, a hill station in the Indian state of West Bengal, is famous for its breathtaking views, greenery, and the enchanting Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, it is known as the "toy train" This narrow-gauge railroad is a World Heritage Site. UNESCO, has been charming visitors with its unique technology since the late 19th century.

Darjeeling Railway Station

HISTORY :

The Darjeeling Toy Train was originally established in 1881 to connect the town of Siliguri in the plains of Bengal with Darjeeling hill, located at an altitude of about 2,100 meters in the Lesser Himalayas. The railroad covers a distance of about 88 kilometers (55 miles) and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, green tea gardens,  waterfalls and the local villages .

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a marvel of engineering. The 2-foot (610 mm) gauge narrow gage railroad winds its way through the hilly landscape in numerous loops, spirals, and zigzag courses. It is the highest-operating railroad line in India. The highest point is Ghum, a small town at an altitude of 2,258 meters (7,407 feet) above sea level.

The trains are small and cute and look like toys, hence the name "Toy Train" was given.The steam-powered locomotives, some of which are over a century old, chug along at a slow  pace, allowing passengers to enjoy the breathtaking scenery at every turn. The carriages are decorated with bright colors that evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm.

 

boogies of toy train

Riding the Toy Train is an experience like no other. The train passes through dense forests, passes through picturesque villages in the mountains, and crosses numerous breathtaking bridges and tunnels. The Batasia Loop, a famous engineering marvel, offers panoramic views of the city of Darjeeling and the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

 

The Darjeeling Toy Train is not only the means of transportation, but also an integral part of the region's cultural heritage. Locals have a deep affection for this charming train, and it has become a symbol of Darjeeling's identity

 

Today, the Toy Train remains a major tourist attraction in Darjeeling, drawing visitors from all over the world to enjoy the old-world charm and experience a nostalgic journey through the picturesque landscapes. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway remains a jewel in India's rich railroad heritage.

How to reach :

Darjeeling can be reached by various means of transportation. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a cab or take a shared cab to reach Darjeeling, which is about 3 hours away by car.

darjeeling himalayan railway

Ticket prices for the toy train:

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway offers different classes of travel, each with different ticket prices. The classes include first class, second class, and joyride or short trips. The short journeys are usually shorter journeys where tourists can experience the toy train's beauty without traveling the entire distance in Darjeeling. Ticket prices vary depending on the class and distance traveled. It is advisable to check the official website or the ticket office for the current ticket prices.

What you should note:

Book in advance: the Toy Train is a popular attraction, especially in high season. Therefore, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure a seat.

Timetables: The train operates according to a specific timetable. Therefore, be sure to find out the departure and arrival times in advance to plan your trip accordingly.

Weather: Darjeeling experiences varying weather conditions throughout the year. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Remember that the train may not run in bad weather.

Toy Train on its way to Ghoom

Seating preferences: if you prefer a particular seat or would like to sit on a specific side of the train to enjoy the view, you can indicate this when booking your tickets.

Photography: The Toy Train ride offers numerous photo opportunities. If you enjoy photography, be sure to bring your camera and the necessary equipment to capture the beautiful scenery.

Exploring Darjeeling aboard the Toy Train is an unforgettable experience where you can immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the region. Whether you are a railfan or a nature lover, this ride promises to be an unforgettable highlight of your visit to Darjeeling.