Trains are the most fascinating journey that overwhelms everyone. Be it a long family trip or a friend holiday, this trip offers a chance to discover the landscapes or experience the comfort of reaching the destination hassle-free. In India, trains connect different states, cities, and towns in its rail network. One such train route is the Kalka Shimla Toy Train, considered a one-of-a-kind experience in India. This narrow-gauge railway is the most famous in North India and is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. The toy train crosses 102 tunnels and 864 bridges. It takes you through several curvy rail tracks to reach its destination, giving you a glimpse of tall mountain peaks, lush pine trees, and gorgeous landscapes. When you take a trip from Kalka to Shimla on this toy train, you will be left stunned to see the artificial attraction in Shimla Tourism.
Here’s a complete guide for the Kalka Shimla Toy Train Journey, so let’s take a sneak peek at it –
About Kalka Shimla Toy Train Ride
The Kalka Shimla train ride is about 5 and a half hours long journey. This takes the passengers to the rugged mountains, several natural waterfalls, dense pine forests, and the changing landscapes. Every twist and turn of this ride comes with a picture-perfect view of nature that will surely leave you amazed. The scenic train ride begins at Kalka at a height of 656 meters and progresses towards Shimla, covering Dharampur, Solan, Tara Devi, and Barog.
If you go on a train ride, you’ll create some unforgettable memories with your loved ones during this experience. One can relish the time on the train by sharing stories with fellow travellers, admiring nature’s beauty, and relishing local food at various stations.
History of Kalka Shimla Toy Train
The history of this Kalka Shimla toy train connects us with the establishment of Shimla back in the British era. The hill station was established after the first Anglo-Gurkha war. Then, it became the summer capital of the British Empire, which meant a settled route was needed to reach Shimla. It was the time when narrow-gauge train routes were started in 1903 to provide better connectivity. So, the railway was used as a primary mode of transportation between Kalka and Shimla by the British Empire. It was also known as the British Jewel of the Orient. Since then, the train has been in operation and is a famous tourist attraction.
Kalka to Shimla Toy Train Booking, Timing, and More
If you are interested in relishing this once-in-a-lifetime experience during your Shimla Tour Package, then continue reading this article. We’ll share everything about this experience.
Rail Motor Car
A rail journey or motor car is equated with nostalgia that takes you back to your childhood days. Something that fascinates the passengers of the train is that it looks like a bus running on a rail track. With a seating capacity of 18 passengers, this train ride is the most famous among travellers. The single-coach train has a glassy roof that allows you to get a better view of the scenic surroundings. You can even get food during the train journey, so you can enjoy your great time by having some lip-smacking snacks.
- Timing of Toy Train: Departs at 5:45 AM from Kalka and arrives at 9:20 AM in Shimla.
- Timing of Rail Motor Car: Departs at 4:55 PM from Shimla and arrives at 9:25 PM in Kalka
Shivalik Deluxe Express
Shivalik Deluxe Express is one of the best trains from Kalka to Shimla, with on-board catering, comfortable seats, and even melodious music that plays throughout the journey. It takes five hours to reach Shimla. The train halts at the Barog station; it crosses one of the longest tunnels, which is thrilling in its way. You may capture beautiful pictures and videos of the outside surroundings from the window that offers a clear view of the landscape.
- Timing of Toy Train: Departs at 5:20 AM from Kalka and arrives at 10:00 AM in Shimla.
- Timing of Shivalik Deluxe Express: Departs at 5:50 PM from Shimla and arrives at 10:35 PM in Kalka
The Himalayan Queen
The Himalayan Queen is yet another toy train that runs from Kalka to Shimla. It travels on the curvy rail lines to reach its destination. There are well-cushioned car seats equipped on the train to give comfortable seating to the passengers. The train takes approx. There are nine halts in between, where locals and tourists can get off to soak in nature’s beauty.
- Timing of Toy Train: Departs at 12:10 PM from Kalka and arrives at 5:30 PM in Shimla.
Kalka Shimla Toy Train Ticket Price
| Train | Adult Fare (One Way) | Child Fare (One Way) |
|---|---|---|
| Rail Motor Car | INR 320 | INR 160 |
| Shivalik Deluxe Express | INR 510 | INR 255 |
| Himalayan Queen | INR 470 | INR 235 |
Conclusion
There are several exciting things to do in Shimla; a journey from the toy train is something that shouldn’t be missed at any cost. It’s an experience that will be etched in your memory forever. Book the Shimla Tour Package for 4 days that covers a toy train journey to have a well-rounded experience.