This
is an unparalleled experience of exploring up the hills. If you have some
time in you hand, then take a slow toy train up to the hill resorts of
Shimla, Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Darjeeling or Matheran to enjoy every bit of
the hill resorts. The toy trains operates on narrow-gauge tracks -
henceforth the name toy trains. The toy trains were laid during the British
era to link stations in the plains with the hill stations. All the routes
offer a relaxing experience, where passengers takes the glimpse of the
diverse mountain scenery at leisure hours.
Some of these routes covered by toy trains are
Kalka-Shimla
107 tunnels, arched bridges and beautiful stations on the way are the
features of the 96-km journey connecting the one-time summer capital of
India to the plains of Punjab.
The Shivalik Deluxe Express
Runs twice every day, stopping only at Barog for providing meal services to
the passengers. The train has bay glass windows and wall-to-wall carpeting.
Seating: 120 seats.
The Shivalik Queen : Runs between Kalka-Shimla has been launched for
honeymooners. Each couple is offered exclusive privacy and big windows for
crystal clear view of the hills. Fare : Rs. 750 per couple, inclusive of
meals.
Deluxe Rail Motor Car
It runs twice everyday with a transparent roof, TV/VCP, music and an
altimeter.
Shivalik Palace
With a dining table, a refrigerator, folding cushioned beds, modern
bathrooms, catering by a special attendant on board and a well-knit kitchen
etc., this train offers an exclusive treat to the passengers on board.
Darjeeling
Hill Railway
This is the narrowest of the regular narrow gauges with a 2-feet gauge. The
route links the town of New Jalpaiguri with the east Indian hill station of
Darjeeling. This famous little toy trains is drawn by a 100 years old
engine, on its 86 km journey in 7.5 hours. With no tunnels on the way,
passengers get an unobstructed view of the Himalayas.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Crosses 46 kms of twists and turns from Mettupalayam to the hill resort of
Ootacamund at a speed of 33 km an hour. Passing through 16 tunnels and tall
girder bridges, the route offers breathtaking views of plantation and
fir-clad hills.
Matheran Railway
This 77-year-old line connects Neral (on the Mumbai-Pune line) to the
resort of Matheran close to Mumbai. The panoramic view of hills and plains
unwraps as the sturdy little train starts up for the peaceful retreat. The
train runs between sunrise and sunset, covering the distance in 1.5 hours.
Related Storie(s)
Five Best Railway Journey In
The World- By Pritha Banerjee
Deccan Odyssey - Dream
On Wheels- By Manonita Roy
