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West Bengal

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

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January

-0.4 - 15.0 °C

February

0.8 - 16.0 °C

March

3.0 - 20.1 °C

April

5.8 - 22.3 °C

May

7.9 - 22.4 °C

June

10.3 - 22.5 °C

July

11.7 - 21.8 °C

August

12.1 - 22.8 °C

September

10.7 - 23.1 °C

October

7.4 - 22.7 °C

November

3.8 - 21.0 °C

December

1.0 - 17.8 °C

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

Nearest Railway Station :

New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station (NJP)

Major Airports :

Bagdogra International Airport (IXB), Bagdogra

A fairytale experience

As you ride the 'Toy Train', a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through picturesque Himalayan foothills, you are transported into a world of crisp mountain air and towering Himalayan peaks. Mark Twain called his experience riding across verdant hills revealing rolling tea gardens, shimmering streams and charming villages "the most enjoyable day on earth." With dizzying zigzag bends and loops along its meandering course — leaving memories that you will cherish for life — "Toy Train rides are an unforgettable journey that you won't soon forget".

A timeless mountain journey

Experience an unforgettable journey on board the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly dubbed the 'Toy Train'. Constructed between 1879 and 1881 and officially opened to passengers in 1881, this narrow-gauge railway covers 88 kilometres of breathtaking terrain as you traverse lush forests, fragrant tea gardens, charming villages and the magnificent Darjeeling hills enroute. While travelling, visit notable stations like "Kurseong Ghoom Batasia Loop" that provide insight into local culture and history along the route.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, not only India's sole steam-powered rack-and-pinion railway but one of the oldest mountain railways worldwide, dates back to Franklin Prestage's vision in 1879 for connecting regions for rice and tea export. On September 15, 1881, Franklin's vision became a reality when Darjeeling Steam Tramway Co. officially transformed into Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Co. As you embark on this historic rail adventure you won't only experience something truly unforgettable but become part of its living legacy of engineering excellence that lives on today!

An adventure through history and scenic beauty

The Darjeeling Toy Train's journey, covering 88 km (55 miles), from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling promises an extraordinary adventure. Starting from 100 ft above sea level to 7218 ft (2,200 m), this remarkable railway winds through six zigzags and five loops to gain altitude — offering breathtaking vistas, steep gradients, tight curves, stunning vistas and rich local culture — while you experience it first—hand!

Bollywood classics

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Toy Train stands as an iconic icon of history. Boasting over 140 years of legacy, its charm still allows passengers to step back in time. Beyond historical significance, its iconic image can be found in Bollywood classics like "Aradhana" (1965), "Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman" (1992), "Parineeta" (2005), "Barfi" (2012) and "Jagga Jasoos" (2017) and more; even American writer Mark Twain couldn't resist its allure, calling it an unforgettable day filled with "ecstasy of deadly fear and unimaginable joy." Don't miss this unforgettable ride experience that brings history, culture, breathtaking landscapes all in one unforgettable ride!

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Experience
10 Unmissable Adventures In Darjeeling

Explore Darjeeling's natural and cultural treasures

Take in breathtaking views of the Teesta River from the Coronation Bridge, an engineering masterpiece. Next, lose yourself in Darjeeling's captivating beauty as you discover Batasia Loop and Gorkha War Memorial. The Batasia Loop, an engineering marvel set amid nature's grandeur, provides an expansive 360-degree view of the city - making it the ideal spot to witness Mt. Kanchenjunga and its surrounding hills in all their beauty.

Darjeeling boasts more than just natural beauty; its cultural legacy can also be found at Happy Valley Tea Estate and Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre. Explore India's oldest tea estate at Happy Valley Tea Estate and learn about Tibetan art at the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre - two truly compelling heritages to discover!

Craftsmanship meets tradition at these inspiring institutions. Start your Darjeeling adventure here at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - discover, learn, and conquer while simultaneously developing your passion for adventure and appreciating their natural splendour! Your Darjeeling adventure awaits!

Timings

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train) runs from New Jalpaiguri station (NJP) to Darjeeling station (DJ). The train departs from New Jalpaiguri at 8:40 am and arrives at Darjeeling at 12:15 pm. The return journey from Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri departs at 2:00 pm and arrives at New Jalpaiguri at 5:30 pm. The train departs Siliguri Junction at 10:30 am and passes Sukna before reaching its destination Rangtong at 11:50 am.