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The toy train experience in India is a charming reminder of slow travel amidst the hustle and bustle. Check out some of the scenic toy trains that are operational even today.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway features tea gardens and vintage steam engines.
India’s iconic toy trains are more than just scenic rides; they’re nostalgic journeys that connect you to the country’s colonial past and breathtaking hill stations. Officially called ‘narrow gauge’ or ‘hill railways,’ these toy trains are a charming reminder of slow travel and have stood the test of time.
Here are five of the best toy train routes in India that are still operational, and absolutely worth the ride.
1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (West Bengal)
Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling
Possibly the most famous of them all, the Darjeeling toy train weaves through tea gardens, misty valleys, and the mighty Kanchenjunga. It’s Batasia Loop, and vintage steam engines make this a photographer’s dream.
2. Kalka–Shimla Railway (Himachal Pradesh)
Route: Kalka to Shimla
This toy train offers stunning views of pine-covered hills, tunnels (more than a hundred), and colonial-era stations. The narrow-gauge marvel remains one of the most scenic ways to reach Shimla.
3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway (Tamil Nadu)
Route: Mettupalayam to Ooty
The Nilgiri train is India’s only rack-and-pinion railway, climbing steep slopes through dense forests, waterfalls, and tea estates. It’s the best way to experience the charm of the Blue Mountains.
4. Matheran Hill Railway (Maharashtra)
Route: Neral to Matheran
A car-free hill station, Matheran is best approached by its toy train that slowly chugs through deep woods and scenic cliffs. Though services pause during monsoons, it’s fully operational during other seasons.
5. Kangra Valley Railway (Himachal Pradesh)
Route: Pathankot to Joginder Nagar
Often overlooked, this lesser-known line offers incredible views of the Dhauladhar mountains, rustic villages, and lush valleys. It’s a quiet, authentic experience far from the tourist buzz.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a unique travel experience, these toy trains offer a charming, leisurely way to explore India’s hills. So next time you plan a trip, skip the flight, and take the train.
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Delhi, India, India
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