Among the many wonders that you can experience in India’s hills, a scenic toy train remains one of the most fascinating experiences you simply cannot miss. And among the few toy train rides that are running smoothly, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is simply a class apart. Recognized by UNESCO, this unique mountain railway takes travelers along a winding route nestled in misty hills, tea estates, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga. Are you excited to have this experience yourself, but not sure about the tickets and prices? Team unstumbled has got you covered!
How To Book The Toy Train In Darjeeling: A Complete Guide For You
Information At A Glance: The Darjeeling Toy Train
The DHR first began service in the 1880s and is operated by Indian Railways/Northeast Frontier Railway. It runs regular narrow-gauge passenger trains, particularly daily short joyride trains and occasional steam-hauled trains.
Today, it is one of the key attractions in Darjeeling, renowned for its engineering, cultural value, and legacy. In fact, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1999, cementing its iconic status as one of India’s most illustrious railway systems.
Darjeeling Toy Train Route
- Darjeeling ↔ Ghum: This is the most popular short tourist option – a joyride ‘toy train’ that takes about 1 to 2 hours for a round trip. It includes the famous Batasia Loop and a stop at Ghum – India’s highest railway station.
- Darjeeling ↔ Kurseong: This is an occasional steam-hauled service, locally known as the Steam “Red Panda”. Ideal for travel enthusiasts and adventurers, make sure to check schedules in advance as these are limited).
- New Jalpaiguri ↔ Darjeeling: This is a full-fledged train journey that covers about 84 to 88 km. Due to the rugged, hilly terrain, this train operates at low average speeds and halts frequently, taking about 7 to 8 hours. If you like slow travel in the truest sense with a side of heritage, this train route is made for you!
How To Book a Darjeeling Toy Train Ticket
There are multiple ways to book a Darjeeling toy train – you can do it yourself on-site or online, or take the help of travel agents and tour operators. Remember that while there are chances you’ll find available tickets on-site, advanced booking is strongly recommended. This is especially true in the peak tourist season, from November to April.
- Online: Book your tickets on the Indian Railways/ IRCTC website or the IRCTC Rail Connect App. Online booking is quick, convenient, and especially useful for booking tickets in advance.
- On-site tickets: You can easily get tickets at the Darjeeling Railway Station. However, on-site tickets tend to get sold out quickly, especially in the peak season.
- Third-party travel agents: You can reach out to local tour operators or travel agents who can book tickets on your behalf. Some tour operators offer a complete package, including accommodation and other sightseeing places. Verify their authenticity and ticketing source before booking.
Also Read: Toy Train Ride in Darjeeling: Timings, Tickets, and Must-Know Details For Visitors
Darjeeling Toy Train Ticket Prices (Estimated Figures; Subject To Change)
Darjeeling ↔ Ghum route
As the most popular route here on the Himalayan Railway, tourist-special diesel joy-rides are priced at INR 1,000 approximately. The steam joy-rides are priced comparatively higher at roughly around INR 1,500. Passenger fares usually range from a few hundred rupees for standard classes and can go up to INR 450 to INR 700 for first/AC class for short runs.
Darjeeling ↔ New Jalpaiguri
There are different coaches/classes on this train, meaning that ticket prices can vary and fluctuate depending on the coach/class as well as tourist season. Examples published by regional tourist sites list first-class fares to be somewhere around INR 1,400 for the full route; verify at booking.
These are rough estimates – and might not be completely accurate. For accurate pricing, check IRCTC or station ticket counters, especially for current and seasonal ticket prices.
Tips For Travelers Looking To Book A Ride On The Darjeeling Toy Train
- Book in advance to avoid any last-minute inconvenience. Steam joy-rides sell out fast, so book these tickets in advance in particular.
- Visit early for clearer views. Morning hours are particularly better for visible and pristine mountain views, especially in the Spring or Autumn. In the monsoon season, visibility might not be good, plus verify if the train is operational in the monsoon season in the first place.
- Choose seats wisely. While most compartments have large, open windows, choose which side of the train you wish to sit, whether on the left or right. Make sure to secure personal belongings, hats, and phones as the windows are open and exposed.
- Layer your clothes smartly. If you’re visiting this destination in the peak season, expect chilly weather, especially as you move higher in elevation. Carry shawls, scarves, mufflers, and wear or carry jackets for protection against the cold.
- Check local weather conditions and updates about the operations of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. DHR operations might be suspended during the monsoon or due to track repairs. So check local news to stay updated and keep plans flexible in case the train operations are halted.
Summing Up
The Darjeeling Toy Train is more than just a train – it is a heritage nestled in the Himalayas. It is a piece of culture and locomotive history, attracting thousands of visitors each year. If you’re in Darjeeling and looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, this toy train ride must be on your bucket list!
