5 Beautiful Hill Stations in India Where the Toy Train Still Chugs Along

5 Scenic Hill Stations in India Where You Can Still Enjoy a Toy Train Journey Through the Mountains

Shimla – A Classic Toy Train Experience in the Queen of Hills

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most iconic hill stations in India, and its toy train is equally legendary. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 96-kilometer narrow-gauge line built in 1903. This charming journey is filled with 102 tunnels, 800 bridges, and over 900 curves, offering stunning views of pine forests, lush valleys, and colonial architecture. Riding the toy train here is like stepping into a bygone era, and it’s perfect for travelers looking to enjoy both history and scenic beauty.

read more: Why Every Hill Station In India Has A Mall Road – Discover the History Behind the Charm

Darjeeling – The World-Famous Toy Train Through Tea Gardens

Darjeeling, one of India’s most loved hill stations, is home to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Started in the 1880s, this toy train connects New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and winds through picturesque tea estates, misty mountains, and vibrant local villages. The Batasia Loop, where the train makes a spiral turn with the Kanchenjunga in the backdrop, is a highlight of the journey. The toy train in Darjeeling offers a magical blend of colonial nostalgia and natural splendor.

Ooty – The Nilgiri Mountain Railway Through the Blue Hills

Ooty, located in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills, offers one of the most memorable toy train rides in India. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor. Built in 1908, this toy train travels through thick forests, winding tunnels, and steep climbs with a rack and pinion system. The route is famous for its scenic landscapes, cool breeze, and the lush greenery of the Nilgiris, making it a must-experience ride for travelers seeking nature and nostalgia.

Matheran – A Toy Train Ride in a Vehicle-Free Hill Station

Matheran, a peaceful hill station in Maharashtra, is known for being one of the few vehicle-free towns in India. The Matheran Hill Railway, built in 1907, runs from Neral to Matheran and offers a slow, relaxing toy train ride through the Sahyadri hills. This 21-kilometer stretch features thick forests, panoramic valley views, and multiple viewpoints along the way. Since no vehicles are allowed in Matheran, the toy train becomes both a mode of transport and a scenic joyride, attracting families and nature lovers alike.

read more: Explore the Rich Culture of Maharashtra: 10 Must-Visit World Heritage Sites

Kangra Valley – A Hidden Gem with a Serene Toy Train Route

Lesser known but incredibly beautiful, the Kangra Valley Railway in Himachal Pradesh offers a peaceful toy train experience between Pathankot and Jogindernagar. Constructed in the 1920s, this route spans 164 kilometers and passes through the picturesque Dhauladhar mountain range. Unlike other busy hill stations, this journey is quiet and uncrowded, perfect for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty. The toy train passes through quaint villages, terraced fields, and old-world stations, offering a glimpse into the untouched charm of the Himalayas.

These five hill stations in India preserve the timeless romance of toy train travel. Whether you’re looking for historical charm, serene landscapes, or just a unique way to reach your destination, these toy trains provide a nostalgic and picturesque journey through the hills. A ride on any of these historic trains is more than just transportation — it’s a memorable travel experience wrapped in old-world elegance.

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