Traveling by train is more than just moving from one place to another – it’s about enjoying the journey itself. In India, the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train in Himachal Pradesh and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu are two of the most scenic train journeys in India. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, these heritage railways offer breathtaking views, colonial-era charm, and engineering wonders. Whether it’s the pine-covered hills of Shimla or the tea gardens of Ooty, these toy train rides in India promise an unforgettable travel experience filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.
1. Kalka–Shimla Railway: The Himalayan Toy Train Ride
- Route: Kalka (Haryana) to Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
- Distance: 96 km approx.
- Journey Time: 5–6 hours
- Best Season: October to March (snow views) & April to June (summer escape
Why it’s Special:
- The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train winds its way through 103 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and countless sharp curves as it makes a steady climb into the majestic Himalayas. This scenic train journey is famous for its engineering brilliance and the stunning landscapes of pine forests, valleys, and colonial-era hill stations along the route.
- You’ll see pine forests, apple orchards, misty valleys, and colonial-era stations that feel straight out of a storybook.
- Popular halts include Barog Station, famous for its tunnel and breathtaking valley views.
Ticket Price (Approx):
- General Class: Rs25–50
- First Class: Rs250–350
- Shivalik Deluxe/Executive: Rs500–800
Travel Tip:
If you want a luxurious and comfortable ride, book the Shivalik Deluxe Express. For photography lovers, the Rail Motor Car offers a vintage experience with glass windows.
2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: The Queen of Hill Station Rides
- Route: Mettupalayam (Tamil Nadu) to Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
- Distance: 46 km approx.
- Journey Time: 5 hours
- Best Season: October to May (pleasant weather and blooming landscapes)
Why it’s Special:
- The only railway in India that still uses a steam locomotive on some sections.
- The train passes through dense forests, tea plantations, rocky terrains, waterfalls, and sharp bends.
- It climbs using a rack-and-pinion system, an engineering wonder from the British era.
- Stops at small scenic stations like Coonoor, where you can enjoy tea gardens and misty hills.
Ticket Price (Approx):
- General Class: Rs30–60
- First Class: Rs250–400
- Reservation needed, as tickets sell out quickly in peak season.
Travel Tip:
Book tickets well in advance through the IRCTC website, especially during summer vacations, as this route is extremely popular with tourists.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – The Toy Train of Bengal
Route: New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling
Distance: 88 km
Journey Time: 7 hours approx.
Highlights:
- Passes through tea gardens, pine forests, and the famous Batasia Loop.
- Offers clear views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range.
- Heritage steam engine experience.
Ticket Price: Rs50–70 (general), Rs600–1000 (joy ride from Darjeeling to Ghum).
Best Season: October to December (clear skies) & March to May (spring blooms).
4. Kangra Valley Railway – Himachal’s Hidden Gem
Route: Pathankot to Joginder Nagar
Distance: 164 km
Journey Time: 9 hours
Highlights:
- Runs along the Dhauladhar mountain range.
- Crosses over 900 bridges and through 2 tunnels.
- Scenic villages, terraced fields, and rivers.
Ticket Price: Rs20–50 only (super budget-friendly).
Best Season: October to April.
5. Konkan Railway – Coastal Beauty of India
Route: Mumbai to Goa (Panaji/Madgaon)
Distance: 580 km
Journey Time: 12–13 hours
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of the Western Ghats, Arabian Sea, and endless greenery.
- Crosses 2,000+ bridges and 90+ tunnels.
- Best way to enjoy Goa trips by train.
Ticket Price: Rs400–1500 depending on class.
Best Season: June to September (monsoon magic) & December (festive vibes).
6. Matheran Hill Railway – Journey to the Car-Free Hill Station
Distance: 20 km
Journey Time: 2 hoursHighlights:
- Matheran is Asia’s only vehicle-free hill station.
- Train passes through forests, waterfalls, and red-soil landscapes.
- Small toy train experience, very popular with families.
Best Season: October to February.
7. Jammu–Baramulla Railway – The Kashmir Valley Route
Distance: 345 km
Journey Time: 9–10 hoursHighlights:
- One of India’s most scenic modern railway lines.
- Views of snow-covered peaks, rivers, and apple orchards.
- Includes the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge.
Best Season: March to May (spring flowers) & December to February (snow views).
Stay Recommendations
- Shimla Stay: For a memorable hill station experience, travelers can choose from the best hotels in Shimla, such as Clarkes Hotel Shimla, Hotel Willow Banks, and Honeymoon Inn Shimla. These hotels offer colonial charm, comfortable stays, and panoramic Himalayan mountain views perfect for couples and families alike.
- Ooty Stay: Sterling Ooty Fern Hill, Club Mahindra Derby Green, Gem Park Ooty – ideal for hill views and cozy stays.
Why Choose These Train Journeys?
- Affordable luxury – Ticket prices are pocket-friendly compared to other hill travel options.
- Photography heaven – Perfect for capturing valleys, tunnels, tea gardens, and mountains.
- Relaxed travel vibe – The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway are perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic train journeys in India. Unlike flights or road trips, these heritage toy trains move at a gentle pace, letting you admire valleys, tunnels, tea gardens, and mountains throughout the ride.
- Cultural heritage – A chance to experience trains that are more than 100 years old.
FAQs – Scenic Train Journeys in India
1. What is the best season to enjoy the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train scenic journey?
The ideal time for a Kalka–Shimla scenic train journey is from October to March for snow-covered Himalayan views, and from April to June for pleasant summer weather in Shimla.
2. How long does the Nilgiri Mountain Railway journey take?
The Mettupalayam to Ooty toy train ride covers a distance of approximately 46 km in 5 hours, passing through tea gardens, forests, and misty hills.
3. Are tickets for these heritage trains expensive?
No, the trains are quite affordable:
Kalka–Shimla: Rs25–800 depending on class.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Rs30–400 depending on class.
4. Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, as tickets sell out quickly during peak seasons like summer and holidays.
5. Are these train journeys suitable for families and kids?
Absolutely. Both the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train and Nilgiri Mountain Railway are family-friendly, offering a safe, scenic, and fun travel experience for all ages.
6. Can I capture good photographs of these toy trains?
Yes! These are among the most scenic train routes in India, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Tunnels, bridges, tea plantations, mountains, and colonial stations provide endless photo opportunities.
