The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), affectionately known as the Darjeeling Toy Train, offers a unique travel experience through the scenic landscapes of West Bengal. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride, including how to book, timings, fares, and online booking ticket prices.
Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride
- New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling
- Distance: 88 kilometers
- Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
- Stops: New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Sukna, Rangtong, Tindharia, Gayabari, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Sonada, Ghum, Batasia Loop, and Darjeeling.
- Highlights:
- Sukna: Gateway to the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Rangtong: Known for its scenic views and tea gardens.
- Kurseong: Famous for its educational institutions and lush tea gardens.
- Ghum: The highest railway station in India at 2,258 meters above sea level. Features the DHR Museum.
- Batasia Loop: Offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and a war memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers.
2. Darjeeling to Ghum and Return (Joy Ride)
- Distance: 14 kilometers (round trip)
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Stops: Batasia Loop, Ghum
- Highlights:
- Batasia Loop: Spectacular view and war memorial.
- Ghum: Visit the DHR Museum to explore the history of the railway.
Key Attractions
- Batasia Loop: An engineering marvel built in 1919 to handle the steep ascent. Offers a 360-degree view of the mountains and a beautifully landscaped garden.
- Ghum Monastery: Located near Ghum station, this monastery is one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling.
- Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Sukna, home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
- Darjeeling: Famous for its tea gardens, vibrant culture, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride Timings and Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride Fare
- Diesel Engine Joy Rides:
- Train Number : 52591
- Train Timing: 09:35 – 11.15
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1000
- Diesel Engine Joy Rides:
- Train Number : 52597
- Train Timing: 11:40 – 13.20
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1000
- Steam Engine Joy Rides:
- Train Number : 52590
- Train Timing: 11:30 – 13.15
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1500
- Steam Engine Joy Rides:
- Train Number : 52594
- Train Timing: 09:25 – 11.10
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1500
- Steam Engine Vista Joy Rides:
- Train Number : 52544
- Train Timing: 15:35 – 17.20
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1500
- Steam Joy Ride Vista:
- Train Number : 52591
- Train Timing: 13:30 – 15.15
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1500
- Diesel Engine Rides:
- Train Number : 52599
- Train Timing: 05:35 – 17.20
- Train Class: First Class
- Fare: Rs. 1000
** As of August 2024. Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride Online Booking Ticket Price and Train Schedule may vary based on availability and season. It’s recommended to check the IRCTC website for the latest fares and Train details.
How to Book Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride
- Choose Your Route and Date:
- Select the desired route (e.g., New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, Darjeeling to Ghum and Back to Darjeeling Joy Ride) and date of travel.
- Check Availability:
- Visit the IRCTC website to check seat availability.
- Book the Ticket:
- Online: Log in to the IRCTC website
- VERY IMPORTANT : Use Darjeeling toy train station name and station codes DJ (Darjeeling) as Source and DZRJ (Darjeeling) as Destination to find the trains, and proceed with booking.
- Make Payment:
- Online payments can be made using credit/debit cards or net banking.
- Collect Your Ticket:
- For online bookings, you will receive an e-ticket.
Best Time to Visit Darjeeling Toy Train joy Ride
The ideal time to visit and enjoy the Darjeeling toy train joy ride is from October to December and February to April. The weather during these months is pleasant, and the views are clear.
Additional Tips
- Advance Booking: Book tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Class Selection: Opt for first-class or Vistadome seats for a more comfortable and luxurious experience.
- Special Packages: Consider booking special packages through IRCTC that include accommodation, sightseeing, and other amenities.
The Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride offers an unparalleled travel experience through the picturesque landscapes of West Bengal. And this article has provided you with all the essential information needed to plan your trip, including how to book the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride, understanding the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride timings, and knowing the fare.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train, also known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Toy Train, is a marvel of engineering and a significant part of India’s colonial heritage. This railway offers various journey options, including the scenic joy rides between Darjeeling and Ghum. The joy rides provide a short but memorable journey that encapsulates the charm and beauty of the region, making it a must-do activity for any visitor to Darjeeling..
Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and avoid last-minute hassles.
The best time to visit and enjoy the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride is from October to December and February to April, when the weather is pleasant and the views are clear. This period allows you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Himalayas and the charm of the Darjeeling tea gardens.
In conclusion
The Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride is more than just a journey; it’s an experience that combines the splendor of nature with the rich heritage of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth booking process and an unforgettable journey on the Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Ride. Make sure to share this post with your friends and family so they too can embark on this enchanting journey.