India > West Bengal > Darjeeling > Toy Train

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)

toy train in darjeeling, west bengal
Toy Train in Darjeeling, West Bengal

You simply can’t miss a chance to take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, in short the famous toy train when you are in Darjeeling. This is not only declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for being one of the highest railway stations but also for the engineering skills implemented while creating such a masterpiece.

Built in the year 1879 and 1881 the railway is around 78 kilometers long and best known for being the highest railway in India. The toy train runs in a 2 ft gauge track from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling via Siliguri , Sukna, Rongtong , sonada, Tung , Kurseong , Batasia Loop, and Ghum.

This is a complete passenger train service that has been running since the British Raj in India.

Attraction:

The scenic beauty of the lush green tea gardens on the slopes of the hills are the greatest attraction while travelling this toy train in Darjeeling. Beside there are certain loops through which the train passes. The famous Batasia Loop is worth mentioning.

Ghum is the highest railway station in India. It is situated almost 2258 meters from the sea level. The toy train stops at Ghum. Passengers can drop down to have a stroll at the historic station while the train is at a halt.

The misty view of the hills at Kurseong is a blessed scene that travelers enjoy on the journey. The train track goes parallel to the road till Siliguri. This is the famous Hill Cart Road of this region. Once only carts were moved though this road and since then this name was given.

Travelling through Sukna is an added advantage for the passengers. This is a famous forest reserve of North Bengal. They can enjoy a bit of a safari while passing through Sukna.

Route and Fare:

Toy Train Route

The route extends for around 80 kilometers from New Jalpaiguri (NGP) to Darjeeling via Siliguri, Ghum and Kurseong. The panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjunga is an additional surprise for the first time visitors.

darjeeling toy train route map

(Toy Train Route Map in Darjeeling, West Bengal)

Fare:

The first class Joyride will cost you an INR rupee800 per head for diesel engine and INR rupee1,300 for heritage steam engine. The second class ride will charge you a ticket worth INR rupee50 approx. a few cents less than a dollar.

The Timetable of the Darjeeling Toy train

The regular train starts from New Japlaiguri at 9 a.m in the morning and reaches Darjeeling at around 4.15 p.m in the afternoon. Besides, there is a train service from Kurseong to Darjeeling (diesel) that departs at 3 p.m and arrives at around 8 p.m.

The tourists enjoy the extra toy train service from 8 a.m in the morning from NJP to Kurseong during the rush.

The holiday safari trains that run from Siliguri to Tindharia return will let you enjoy the picturesque views of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.

For the Jungle Safari holiday train reservations contact the Siliguri Junction Station. Phone No: (+91) 353-2517246.