Complete Information about Darjeeling Toy Train Ride

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is fondly called as the “Toy Train”.  This toy train ride of Darjeeling is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this popular ride connects Darjeeling with Siliguri. It is one of a kind experience and is one of the famous narrow 2 feet gauge trains. This amazing toy train runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling and it also passes through one of the highest stations in the world that is Ghum. This station is nestled at an altitude of 2258 meters and offers a spectacular aura filled with natural bliss. Train Ticket Booking

Information about Toy Train Ride & Why you Should have this Experience!

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Train started operating in the year 1881 and it covers a total distance of approx 88 kilometers. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique experience and takes you to the beautiful landscape of the hill station. Darjeeling Toy Train is a true marvel of engineering which has the capabilities of covering some of the really treacherous hills and serves as a connection between the lower plains and hills. This toy train of Darjeeling still has certain locomotives which are steam based but those locomotives are not allowed for the steep areas.

The toy train moves really slowly so that one can absorb the breathtaking aura and can have a delightful visual treat. This train is a true icon of heritage since the colonial days and offers the best possible way to get lost in the charm of Himalayas. However, the diesel used currently makes the train move a little faster. Passengers on board can also see an attendant standing in the front and putting sand on the track to overcome the issues of monsoon time.

Best Time to Have Darjeeling Toy Train Experience

The best months to experience the services of toy train of Darjeeling are October, November and December. This is the time when the mist begins to disappear and one can get a better view while enjoying the toy train ride.

Number of Trips: The number of trips which the Darjeeling toy train conducts on the season. During the peak seasons the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways may conduct up to 20 train rides and this thing completely depend on the demand of the day. Moreover, the train also stops at Batasia Loop which is one of the major attractions of the toy train ride.

Iconic Sights Offered by Darjeeling Toy Train

There are other attractions too apart from the spectacular sights which are a continuous treat while enjoying the toy train ride in Darjeeling. Below are the iconic sights which the passengers can enjoy along with the mesmerizing views.

Batasia Loop

It is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling toy train ride and its construction was commissioned in the year 1919 as a requirement of the train to handle the steep gradient which the train has faced at Ghum. Without this lane it would have been impossible for the toy train to connect Darjeeling to Ghum which is the highest location. Here at this iconic point one can have a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Batasia Loop also houses the war memorial which was built in the honor of the Gorkha regiment.

Ghum

Ghum is the train station which is also known as highest altitude train stations on Darjeeling Himalayan Railway track. The toy train ride of Darjeeling operates from Darjeeling to Ghum on regular basis covering the distance of around 14 kilometers. It also serves as a junction between Lopchu, Sonada, Siliguri and Kurseong.

On Darjeeling to Ghum route, there are around 18 rides which are scheduled from morning 7.40AM to last train leaving at 4.30PM. Tourists are given the preference of choosing the train they want to ride in with two options including the one with steam engine or the one with diesel engine. However, the genuine experience of the toy train of Darjeeling can be experienced by hopping the steam engine toy train.

Certain coaches of Darjeeling toy train also offers first class seating with recliner chairs. In the steam engine toy train there are two first class cabins whereas in the diesel engine toy train, there are three first class cabins.

Ticket Price of Darjeeling Toy Train Ride

Steam Engine Toy Train: INR1300

Diesel Engine Toy Train: INR800

Important Points to Keep in Mind before Enjoying the Darjeeling Toy Train Ride

• No train tickets are required for kids below 5 years but they may asks for ID proofs
• No concession is provided to the senior citizens, children of 5 years or above & etc
• The fares of steam engines are high because they represent the heritage with unique experience and cost to maintain them is also high as compared to diesel engines.
• The first-class coaches of Darjeeling toy train can accommodate up to 17 people and has comforting recliner seats  
• You can check the PNR status and can generate Digital tickets as well using PNR through payment apps like Paytm.