The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a fascinating railway that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling in the Indian state of West Bengal. This railway is also known as the “Toy Train” due to its small size, but it is a marvel of engineering and design that has been in operation since 1881.
History of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was built during the British Raj era in India, primarily for the transportation of tea and other goods from the Darjeeling hills to the rest of the country. The railway was initially constructed to ease the burden on the existing roadways and mule tracks, which were insufficient to handle the growing volume of tea exports.
The railway was designed and constructed by Franklin Prestage, an English engineer who had experience in building railways in the mountainous regions of India. The railway took over four years to build, with construction beginning in 1879 and the first train running in 1881. The railway covers a distance of 88 kilometers and has a maximum gradient of 1 in 19.
Design and Engineering of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a marvel of engineering and design, featuring 505 bridges and 689 curves along its route. The railway uses a unique “Zig Zag” system of switches to navigate the steep terrain, with the train reversing directions at several points to ascend the hill.
The railway also features a number of loops, including the famous Batasia Loop, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Darjeeling town. The railway also has a number of small stations along its route, including the Ghum station, which is the highest railway station in India at an altitude of 2,258 meters.
Significance of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is not just a means of transportation, but it is also a significant cultural and historical icon. The railway has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, and it attracts thousands of tourists every year.
The railway has also been featured in several movies, including the famous Bollywood film “Aradhana” and the Bollywood film “Barfi”. The railway has also been depicted on Indian postage stamps and is considered to be a symbol of India’s colonial past.
What is the fare of the Darjeeling Himalayan train?
The fare for a ride on this iconic Himalayan train is Rs 805 per head for diesel engine rides and Rs 1405 per head for steam engine rides with first-class seats. To avoid any last-minute hassles, we advise booking your tickets in advance by visiting the nearest railway reservation counter in India. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscape of Darjeeling.
Conclusion
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a fascinating railway that has a rich history and cultural significance. Its unique design and engineering make it a marvel of the modern world, and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ensures that it will continue to be an important cultural icon for generations to come.
If you are planning to visit Darjeeling, make sure to take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to experience the beauty of the region and the rich history of this iconic railway.
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