Mountain Railways of India

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - The Toy Train of the Darjeeling Hills



Darjeeling (2134 m), the exotic hiss station in West Bengal and is connected to the plains by means of a 2 feet gauge, 83 km long railway line (operational since Sep 1881) on which runs a beautiful toy train. This train is still hauled by small steam engines which were built in the early 20th century. For a die-hard rail enthusiast, a trip to India is incomplete without a ride on this unique toy train. One day advance reservation will ensure your seat. Batasia loop on the railway line near Ghoom is a great engineering feet.

Places to Visit

Darjeeling is a major hill station with hills covered with tea plantations, complicated series of interconnecting roads, Victorian colonial mansions and a striking population of Nepalis and Tibetans.
Himalayan training institute, zoological park and museum, Lloyd botanical park, Rangeet valley rope way (5 km), Observatory hills, gardens, museums, temples, handicrafts, fishing, Ghoom Buddhist monastery (6 km), Senchal (11 km) : View of Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga from Tiger hill, picnic spot. Trekking (April-May, Oct-Nov).

How To Reach

Darjeeling is 666 km from Kolkata. One has to reach Siliguri/New Jaipalguri from Kolkata. New Jaipalguri connects Darjeeling by narrow gauge (86 km, 7.5 hour).

Time To Visit

The peak tourist season is Oct and Dec, while the best season is from mid March to May with clear skies. Share jeeps run in the town.