India’s Mountain Railways became a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites back in 1999. The mesmerizing view of the mountain top as one travels through the railways waving through the passes within the hills is to die for. Three of them – Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railway, and of course the Nilgiri Mountain Railway are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the fourth one, Matheran Hill Railway is still in the tentative list, talks are also going on to include the Pathankot – Jogindernagar Railway. The rail in these regions pass through terrain, passes, valley, railroads and hills!
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The toy train on the Darjeeling Himalaya is the best example of how engineers do wonders with their skills and art! It is a 83 km long section which connects the town of Darjeeling to Siliguri Corridor.
Fun Fact : It is India’s highest railway station, which means if you are travelling in this train then you are already on top from the rest of India! It is also an outstanding amalgamation of innovative transport system, with the economical, social and cultural influences from the surrounding.
Kalka-Shimla Himalayan Railway
The Kalka Shimla Railway line is the most popular hill railways in Asia. The trains are generally called “Toy Trains” because of their resemblance to toys. One can witness breathtaking views of the landscape while travelling through these railways. The majestic Himalayas, tunnels, bridges, lush green valleys, surrounded with the pointy pine and feathery oak trees.
One who travels in the railway is left with its memory for a long time.
Interestingly, it is also considered one of the most haunted places in India. Can you share with us a story telling us why is it considered so?
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
It is a 46 km long railway connecting Mettupalayam and Ooty. First section of the railways was completed way back in 1899 under the British Indian Government.
While passing through the Nilgiri Biosphere Nature Park, it provides one of the best natural scenic beauties of the wild.
Interesting Fact : Do you know Shahrukh Khan’s song “Chal Chaiyya Chaiyaa” song from the Superhit Movie “Dil Se” was shot here?
Which are the other two Railway, interestingly similar but on tentative?
Neral-Matheran Hill Railway
Matheran is on the hilltop of 800 m altitude hill in the state of Maharashtra near Mumbai. The two hour ascent in the toy train from the shady trees and pollution free air is supplemented by food vendors, jumping monkeys, and a dense forest.
The cliffs have an incredible height. The railways is one of the most known attractions of the town. It is situated in the Western Ghats, Rayagada district of Maharashtra.
Fun Fact : This is the smallest hill station in India!
Pathankot – Jogindernagar Railway
The Kangra Toy Train is where passengers most of their time through tunnels. This is the toy train linking Pathankot and Joginder Nagar passing through a maze of valleys and hills, making the travel an enchantingly scenic view.
The work for this route was started around 1926 in British India.
IRCTC is doing its best to make sure the travelling experience is wonderful. So pack your bags and make sure you ride one of these trains soon.
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