Van Rani Toy Train Set to Make a Nostalgic Comeback at Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Van Rani Toy Train Returns to Sanjay Gandhi National Park with New Tracks, Coaches, and Attractions

After a four-year pause, Mumbai is all set to welcome back one of its most beloved childhood icons—the Van Rani Toy Train. Fondly referred to as the “Queen of the Jungle,” this miniature train has long been a star attraction at the sprawling Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). Originally introduced in 1974, the Van Rani delighted families, school groups, and tourists for decades before operations halted due to Cyclone Tauktae’s destructive impact in 2021. Now, the Van Rani is preparing for a grand return, rekindling cherished memories while offering new adventures in one of India’s most unique urban green spaces.

Nestled within 106.95 sq km of lush forest in the heart of Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a sanctuary not only for wildlife but also for nostalgia. The revival of the Van Rani Toy Train is part of a larger redevelopment plan led by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, with crucial collaboration from the Ministry of Railways. This rejuvenation project is designed to bring the train back to life—better, safer, and more engaging than ever before.

One of the major highlights of the revival is the complete overhaul of the train’s 2.3 km track. All 15 bridges along the scenic route have been reconstructed from scratch to ensure the highest standards of safety and comfort. The new rail system promises a smooth and secure ride as it winds through the verdant landscape of SGNP, offering a unique way to explore the park’s rich natural environment.

But it’s not just the track that has received a facelift. The Van Rani now boasts a brand-new toy train unit, with trial runs having begun on June 30. By July 5, the train successfully completed a full-capacity trial, proving its readiness to welcome the public once again. The fresh coaches are expected to enhance passenger comfort and bring a touch of modernity to the classic experience.

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Visitors will also notice dramatic improvements at the stations. Krishnagiri Station, one of the main stops on the route, has seen complete upgrades to its building, platform, and accessibility ramps, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy the ride. Teenmurthy Station is also getting a makeover, with the platform complete and its station shed scheduled to be finished by July 25.

The reimagined Van Rani Toy Train isn’t just a nostalgic ride—it’s an immersive, educational journey. New features include wildlife information panels that educate passengers on the biodiversity of SGNP, as well as panoramic views of the nearby Deer Park. These additions are designed to connect visitors more deeply with the park’s unique flora and fauna, transforming the toy train into a moving classroom amid nature.

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The project is expected to be fully completed by the end of July 2025. As anticipation builds, the Forest Department is preparing to welcome back generations of visitors—from wide-eyed children discovering nature for the first time, to adults reliving fond childhood moments.

The return of the Van Rani Toy Train marks more than just the reopening of a recreational attraction. It symbolizes the revival of a cultural gem that has brought joy to Mumbaikars for over half a century. By blending nostalgia with innovation, the new Van Rani offers a perfect outing for families, school groups, and eco-tourists alike. With its revitalised tracks and enriching new features, the beloved Queen of the Jungle is once again ready to roll through the heart of Sanjay Gandhi National Park.

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