Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) Tourism
Type of destination: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tourist Attraction
Ideal visit duration: 2-3 hours journey
Closed in: Varies (Check the official website for any scheduled maintenance or seasonal closures)
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the 'Toy Train,' is a 2 ft narrow-gauge railway that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal. A masterpiece of engineering, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its innovative use of a rugged terrain that is both steep and mountainous. The railway was completed in 1881 and covers approximately 88 kilometers (55 miles), traversing through a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, lush tea gardens, and forests. The journey aboard the toy train offers spectacular panoramas and a unique opportunity to experience colonial-era travel, with its vintage steam locomotives and quaint passenger cars. It is not merely a tourist attraction but also an essential mode of transportation for locals. The slow-paced journey, reaching altitudes of up to 2,200 meters, gives travelers an intimate look at the Himalayan environment and the culturally rich hill towns en route to Darjeeling.
Opening and Closing time of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
| Monday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Tuesday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Wednesday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Thursday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Friday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Saturday |
08:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Sunday |
Closed |
Disclaimer: It's important to check the most current information before planning your visit, as opening hours can vary and might be subject to change due to special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances. A reliable way to confirm the opening hours is to contact the local tourism board, check the official website (if available)
Entry Ticket Pricing for Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
| Adult |
1300 for the steam locomotive rides, 800 for the diesel engine rides |
| Child |
Children under 5 ride free, age 5-12 may have reduced fares. |
Disclaimer: Please note that prices are subject to change, cross check required .
Tips when you are visiting to Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
Booking Advance
Book tickets in advance to ensure a seat as it's a popular attraction
Morning Rides
Opt for morning rides to enjoy the clear sky and better views
Warm Clothing
Carry warm clothing as it can get chilly, especially in winter
Battery Charged
Have your camera battery fully charged for the picturesque journey
Top 5 Reviews on Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)
Curious729919
Wrote on 30th Dec, 2023
Darjeeling, Toy Train - An experience not to be missed!
If you are visiting Darjeeling, then do not miss to book your tickets on IRCTC from Darjeeling to Darjeeling!
This is close to a 1.5 hour travel with close to 2 stops (20 mins each approx). The train..
Charles_and_Susan
Wrote on 20th Dec, 2023
Smoky ride though the crowded streets on a train!
It's larger than what I'd call a "toy" train although not full size. As you ride up into Darjeeling you can see the tracks criss-crossing the road, cutting across the hairpin bends and in places suppo..
Dreamer09111245385
Wrote on 14th Dec, 2023
Worst toy train experience from Ghoom to Darjeeling
Worst experience ever !! Not recommended
Booked to board the toy train from Ghum station for a distance of 45min, but it was delayed by 9 hours. We have to board the train @3pm and it arrived at 09:30..
Kayem59
Wrote on 18th Nov, 2023
Waste of time & money
Complete waste of time. You pay a fortune to travel across the town and back! Having visited Batasia Loop the day before, I couldn't find one spot along the entire route, worth photographing.
Other th..
Navigator31260311027
Wrote on 6th Oct, 2023
Toy train ride, Darjeeling.
Enroute were amazing views, especially of valleys. The road and rail tracks run together and criss cross several times.
Lot of construction done by the rail side is not pleasant to eyes. Wonder how s..
