darjeeling toy train

Exploring the Enchanting Darjeeling Toy Train

The Darjeeling Toy Train, sometimes referred to as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, is a famous landmark that evokes a bygone period.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site transports you back in time as you travel through Darjeeling, a lovely hill station tucked away in the Himalayas, and its attractive villages.

A Glimpse into the Past

Both locals and visitors have a soft spot in their hearts for the Darjeeling Toy Train. It was initially designed to carry people and cargo between the plains and the hills when it was constructed in the late 19th century. It now acts as a tangible reminder of Darjeeling’s rich past and heritage.

The Joy of Riding the Toy Train

A trip on the Darjeeling Toy Train is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. You travel back in time when you get on the exquisite vintage carriages.

In addition to providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and gushing waterfalls, the train gently chugs down narrow-gauge rails.

Siliguri to Darjeeling Toy Train

The 88 kilometres that the Darjeeling Toy Train travels between New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri and Darjeeling are spectacular.

Passengers can spend the entire seven to eight-hour voyage taking in the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

The train travels via charming villages, lovely tea gardens, and lush forests, giving passengers a taste of the area’s stunning natural beauty.

Joy Ride Special Trains:

Joy Ride Special Trains: This train runs from Darjeeling to Ghum and back to Darjeeling with 10 minutes stoppage at Batasia Loop & 30 minutes stoppage at Ghum to visit the Rail Museum and the fare includes entry fee of the Ghum Rail Museum.

For Booking of Joy Ride special train opt From station- DJ and To station-DJRZ.

Joy Ride special train timetable:

Train No.	Train Name	Darjeeling Dep.	Darjeeling Arr.
02547	JOYRIDE SPECIAL (Diesel Loco)	09:20 Hrs	10:55 Hrs
02548	JOYRIDE SPECIAL (Diesel Loco)	11:25 Hrs	13:00 Hrs
02549	JOYRIDE SPECIAL (Diesel Loco)	13:25 Hrs	15:05 Hrs
02550	JOYRIDE SPECIAL (Diesel Loco)	15:30 Hrs	17:05 Hrs
52590	DIESEL JOYRIDE	15:45 Hrs	17:25 Hrs
52591	DIESEL JOYRIDE	09:35 Hrs	11:15 Hrs
52597	DIESEL JOYRIDE	11:40 Hrs	13:20 Hrs
52594	STEAM JOYRIDE	09:25 Hrs	11:10 Hrs
52598	STMJOYRIDEVISTA	13:30 Hrs	15:15 Hrs
52596	STEAM JOYRIDE	11:30 Hrs	13:15 Hrs
52599	DIESEL JOYRIDE	13:40 Hrs	15:25 Hrs
52544	STMJOYRIDEVISTA	15:35 Hrs	17:20 Hrs

Tickets for Joy Ride Special Train are available at the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) Network of Indian Railways, and at Darjeeling Railway Station ( For Joy Rides)

Joy Ride Train Ticket Price:

SN.	Train/Coach Name	Class	Total fare Including Service tax	From & To station
1	Joy Ride Steam Loco	1^st class	INR 1500/-	DJ-GHUM-DJ	Round Trip
2	Joy Ride Diesel Loco	1^st class	INR 1000/-

how to book toy train in darjeeling

You can book ticket by simply visiting your nearest Computerized Reservation Counter in India OR you can log in www.irctc.co.in for online booking.

If you are unable to book, don’t worry; simply visit the DHR station and follow the instructions to do so.

njp to darjeeling toy train ticket price

You can book ticket by simply visiting your nearest Computerized Reservation Counter in India OR you can log in www.irctc.co.in for online booking.

njp to Darjeeling toy train ticket price chart Including service tax:

SN.	Train/Coach Name	Class	Total fare Including Service tax	From & To station
1	Passenger Train	First Class (FC)	INR 1400/-	Between each station of NJP-DJ & vice versa
1	Passenger Train	AC Chair car (CC)	INR 1500/-	Between each station of NJP-DJ & vice versa

New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling toy train route

The Darjeeling Toy Train travels a distance of around 88 kilometres (55 miles) and passes by a number of well-known stations. This is a map of the path:

1. New Jalpaiguri (Siliguri): The voyage often starts at Siliguri’s New Jalpaiguri station, which is well-connected to important Indian cities. The train ascends in the direction of the hills from here.

2. Siliguri Junction: The train travels by Siliguri Junction, another significant Siliguri station.

3. Sukna: Sukna is a tiny station around 5.6 miles (nine kilometres) from Siliguri Junction.

4. Rongtong: The train arrives in Rongtong, a lovely station encircled by tea gardens, after crossing Sukna.

5. Tindharia: Tindharia is renowned for its railway workshop, where toy trains are maintained and repaired. Here, the train stops for a moment.

6. Gayabari: Gayabari is a charming station with stunning views of the hills and tea estates around.

7. Mahanadi: At an altitude of about 2,000 feet, Mahanadi is a little station through which the train travels.

8. Kurseong: Situated at a height of roughly 4,864 feet, Kurseong is a significant station along the route. It is a well-liked highland resort and a hub for travellers.

9. Tung: Tung is a charming station tucked away among the rugged mountains. Here, the train makes a brief halt.

10. Sonada: Sonada is renowned for its aesthetic appeal and expansive mountain views. The station is situated at a height of approximately 6,398 feet.

11. Ghum: With an elevation of roughly 7,407 feet, Ghum is the highest point on the route. It is a noteworthy station and includes a Darjeeling Himalayan Railway museum.

12. Darjeeling: The toy train’s journey ends at Darjeeling, a well-liked hill resort with breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga. At a height of roughly 6,812 feet, the Darjeeling station is situated.

NJP to darjeeling toy train timings

New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling Toy Train time table :

Train No.	Train Name	NJP Dep.	Darjeeling Arr.
52541	NJP DJ PASSENGER	10:00 Hrs	17:30 Hrs
52539	NJP DJ AC PASS	10:00 Hrs	18:30 Hrs

Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri Toy Train time table :

Train No.	Train Name	Darjeeling Dep.	NJP Arr.
52540	DJ NJP PASSENGER	09:00 Hrs	16:30 Hrs

how to book darjeeling toy train

You can book ticket by simply visiting your nearest Computerized Reservation Counter in India OR you can log in www.irctc.co.in for online booking.

Discovering the Train's Heritage

The Darjeeling Toy Train provides glimpses of its fascinating past throughout the voyage. The interiors of the carriages include hardwood panels and a vintage look.

They are scrupulously kept in their original condition. The recognisable chugging sound of the steam engines adds to the vintage appeal.

An opportunity to revisit the past and appreciate the artistry of a bygone age is travelling in this historic train.

darjeeling toy train inside

Engineering Marvels: The Batasia Loop and Ghoom Station

The Batasia Loop and Ghoom Station are two outstanding engineering wonders along the Darjeeling Toy Train route.

The Batasia Loop is a spiral railway route that offers panoramic vistas of the snow-capped mountains and the colourful floral displays of the Batasia Garden as the train negotiates a steep grade through a loop.

The highest railway station along the route, Ghoom Station, is located at an elevation of 2,258 metres and offers a mesmerising view of the surroundings.

FAQ

Is the Darjeeling Toy Train suitable for children?

Yes, children can enjoy the Darjeeling Toy Train ride. However, parental supervision is recommended to ensure their safety during the journey.

Can I book tickets for the Darjeeling Toy Train online?

Yes, online booking facilities are available for the Darjeeling Toy Train. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Can I hire a private charter for the Darjeeling Toy Train?

Yes, it is possible to hire a private charter for special occasions or group travel. Contact the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway authorities for more information.

Are there any age restrictions for riding the Darjeeling Toy Train?

There are no specific age restrictions. However, passengers should be able to board and alight the train safely without assistance.