Some of the most captivatingly beautiful toy train rides are offered by India due to its diverse range of landscapes and historic sites. Narrow-gauge railways used mainly as tourist attractions are an excellent way to explore this nation’s breathtaking scenery and past. Here are the best five places in India where you can make an unforgettable trip on a toy train.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, West Bengal
The peak of all toy train experiences in India would be Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The unique journey from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling is followed through by Globe-trotters who cannot miss it since it has been declared UNESCO World Heritage Site known as “Toy Train.” In this ride, train goes through tea plantations which are green with hill mist spread across them while valleys across its path become more popular among tourists due to their beauty. The train also traverses through thick forests thereby offering beautiful Kanchenjunga peak views in certain stretches.With their twisty path including Batasia Loop that’ where by train circumvents itself while climbing hill slopes allowing panoramic Darjeeling Town view among others. Read more in detail about how to book Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site toy train that you can take is the Nilgiri Mountain Railway which plies between Mettupalayam and Ooty. This train ascends the steep slopes of the Nilgiri Hills passing through dense forests, tea estates as well as crossing deep ravines. When the train reached an altitude of 2,200 meters it passed several tunnels and bridges.Besides, this train is loved by many naturalists just it as it gives them an opportunity take delight at sight of steam engine passing over misty hills.
- Kalka-Shimla Railway, Himachal Pradesh
A wonder in itself for its unique engineering structures, the Kalka-Shimla Railway winds its way from Kalka to Shimla – the hill station. This route boasts of being UNESCO World Heritage site presenting 102 tunnels, 864 bridges and number of sharp curves.In this journey along Shivalik ranges, pines come into view where else passengers get a chance to stare at terraced fields and queer hill towns reposed in beauty.Through September-November Mukteshwar displays luxurious life but during May-April has bare foundation since winter covers with frost fall.
- Matheran Hill Railway, Maharashtra
The Matheran Hill Railway provides a delightful ride up from Neral to Matheran which is in close proximity with Mumbai city. Through striking views of valleys and forested lands surrounding these hills which rise steeply from Western Ghats can be enjoyed by using this small gauge train.Its slow pace enables travelers have quiet moments while viewing everything happening outside like they might have stepped back into their childhood years since they are most likely cartoon characters living inside books or television screens.
- Kangra Valley Railway, Himachal Pradesh
During lush green Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Valley visitors may embark on a beautiful trip through its narrow gauge, Kangra Valley Railway. This narrow gauge runs from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar passing through prosperous fields, bucolic villages as well foothills near grandiose Dhauladhar range.As such, the train journey is an excellent example of how one can explore the unspoiled rural beauty of Himachal Pradesh.Enroute one gets to see snow capped peaks far away and enjoy peace calmness around the valley.
Traveling on a toy train in India isn’t just about moving from one point to another; it’s an experience that takes you back in time and exposes you to the natural beauty and cultural opulence of this country. A trip on any of these toy trains; whether in mist-enveloped Darjeeling, greenly carpeted Nilgiri, Kalka-Shimla engineering wonderland, serene Matheran tracks or peaceful Kangra Valley, is a unique and memorable adventure in itself so board them for the most picturesque Indian destinations ever. Therefore, stop sitting around waiting for life happen take advantage right now and let those enchanting railways transport us through some of India’s best scenery.
