Imagine this: The gentle whistle of a train, the sight of steam puffing against the backdrop of lush green hills, and your kids waving excitedly from the window. Welcome aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), also known as the Darjeeling toy train! This historic and charming little train, winding through the beautiful tea plantations and misty mountains, is one of the best ways to experience Darjeeling with kids in tow.
But First, A Glimpse at History!
The DHR holds a special place in history as one of the most remarkable engineering feats of its time. Built between 1879 and 1881, the railway was designed to connect the bustling town of Siliguri to the hill station of Darjeeling, navigating steep mountain terrain and sharp curves along the way.
This narrow-gauge train, with tracks only 2 feet wide, overcame the challenges of the Himalayas using innovative techniques like the famous Batasia Loop and Zigzag reverses to manage the steep gradients. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the DHR remains a testament to British engineering and continues to enchant travelers with its old-world charm and panoramic views. It not only revolutionized transport in the region but also played a crucial role in boosting tourism to Darjeeling, making it the beloved ride we know today.
So, ready to make your family’s Darjeeling toy train adventure as fun and smooth as possible? Here are 10 tips to help you navigate the tracks!
1. Pick Your Toy Train Type – Steam or Diesel?
You’ve got two types of trains to choose from: the nostalgic steam engine or the more modern diesel engine. The steam train is a time machine on wheels, taking you back to the days of old with its classic charm and puffing clouds of steam. The diesel, while less dramatic, is still an exciting option for families who want a quicker or more flexible ride. Plus, if you’re traveling during peak season or are a bit pressed for time, you might find the diesel engine option easier to book.
BBB Says: The steam engine is a favorite among kids for its storybook feel, so if you want that wow factor, this might be the way to go for that timeless Darjeeling Toy Train adventure!
2. Know the Time-Table – When Do the Trains Run?
The Darjeeling Toy Train runs all year long, and have a pretty reliable timetable, though it’s important to keep in mind that the trains are as laid-back as the hills they navigate. That means you’re here for the experience, not a race against time. Here’s a basic rundown:
- Darjeeling to Ghum (Joy Ride): This is a super popular route, a 2-hour journey that loops you from Darjeeling to Ghum (the highest railway station in India!) and back. Trains run four to six times a day depending on the season. Morning rides (starting around 10 AM) are great to catch the clear skies, but afternoon rides (2 PM-ish) can give you that dreamy misty mountain feel.
- New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling (Full Route): Want the whole shebang? This 7-hour adventure takes you all the way from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, covering 88 kilometers of sheer scenic bliss. There are a couple of trains daily, but this is a longer haul, so it’s best suited for kids who are ready to handle a whole day of rail adventure.
BBB Says: Morning trains tend to offer clearer views, but if your family prefers a dreamy misty vibe, afternoon rides are just as magical. While the time-table is pretty set in stone, there are occassional cancellations on red-letter days and unscheduled maintenance. Hence, book your tickets in advance to get a sure-shot at the experience.
3. Book in Advance – Tickets Fly Fast!
Booking your Darjeeling toy train tickets can be a bit of a scramble, especially during peak tourist season (March to June and September to November). Here’s the lowdown on how to snag those golden tickets:
- IRCTC Website: The easiest way to book tickets is via the Indian Railways website (IRCTC). Just search for Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and you’ll see the options pop up. For the joy rides, look specifically for Darjeeling-Ghum-Darjeeling routes. It’s a bit like trying to buy concert tickets during a sale—move fast, because seats sell out quickly!
- On-the-Spot Booking: Not a fan of planning every detail in advance? No worries! You can also try for on-the-spot tickets at the Darjeeling station. Just keep in mind, during busy times, you might be left waiting for the next train—or end up at the café telling your kids, “Well, there’s always tomorrow!”
- Round Trip vs. One-Way: For the shorter joy ride, you’re looking at a round-trip ticket (Darjeeling-Ghum-Darjeeling). But if you’re doing the full route from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, you can opt for a one-way ticket and take a scenic car ride back (or vice versa). Either way, the flexibility is yours!
BBB Says: The Darjeeling toy train is a hot ticket, especially during peak tourist seasons (March to June and September to November). To avoid disappointment and ensure your little ones don’t miss out, it’s a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time. Booking a steam engine ride can be competitive, so get your tickets as early as possible! Keep refreshing that page like a pro.
3. Know Your Options: One-way or Round Trip!
Prices for the toy train vary based on the train type and route. You have options when it comes to booking your tickets. For the shorter joy ride, you’ll be doing a round trip—Darjeeling to Ghum and back. However, if you’re taking the full route, you can opt for a one-way ticket. This gives you the flexibility to explore Darjeeling at your own pace and return by car if your kids are all trained out.
Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Joy Ride (Steam Engine): ₹1,500 to ₹1,600 per person.
- Joy Ride (Diesel Engine): Around ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 per person.
- New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling: ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 depending on the class and engine type.
BBB Says: Children under 5 usually travel for free, and older kids (5-11 years) enjoy discounted fares.
4. Plan Your Seats – Sit on the Right for the Best Views
Want those postcard-worthy mountain and valley views? Sit on the right side of the train! It’s where you’ll get the most of your Darjeeling Toy Train adventure, when you see the rolling tea plantations, winding tracks, and endless vistas of the hills.
BBB Says: Arrive a bit early to ensure you can get seated on the right side of the train. Plus, it gives you time for those essential pre-train selfies! Also, for travelers using the steam engine, beware of flying pieces of coal that might enter the eyes. Though a small price to pay for the wonderous views, safety goes hand-in-hand with fun.
5. Learn the Route and Stops – What to Expect Along the Way
The toy train’s charm lies in its slow pace and scenic journey through the Himalayas. You’ll pass tea plantations, tiny villages, and jaw-dropping viewpoints. Here are some highlights along the route:
- Darjeeling Station: Where the fun begins! The hustle-bustle of the station, with vendors selling chai and locals waiting for their ride, sets the tone.
- Batasia Loop: A spiraling engineering marvel where the train makes a 360-degree loop! The kids will love the war memorial and the sweeping views of Mount Kanchenjunga on a clear day.
- Ghum Station: At 7,407 feet, Ghum is India’s highest railway station. There’s a cute little railway museum here if you have time between rides. The perfect photo op spot for families!
- Kurseong: For those on the longer route, this picturesque stop offers misty tea gardens and quaint charm. A nice place to stretch those legs and snap a few pictures.
BBB Says: The train ride is noisy, as the engine makes mighty huff and puff, so carrying ear muffs is a good idea for young kids.
6. Take Time to Explore the Batasia Loop
The toy train’s route is packed with cool highlights, but nothing beats the **Batasia Loop**. The train does a 360-degree loop around this spiraling track, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga on clear days. There’s even a war memorial here—perfect for a quick history lesson on the go!
BBB Says: Keep your camera ready as you approach Batasia Loop. It’s a great spot for family photos with the mountains as your backdrop.
7. Get a History Lesson at the Ghum Railway Museum
If you’re doing the joy ride, take a few minutes to visit the Ghum Railway Museum at Ghum station. This small but fascinating museum showcases the history of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. There are old photos, memorabilia, and a vintage steam engine to see—fun for curious kids and train enthusiasts alike!
BBB Says: Make sure to stretch your legs at Ghum Station; kids will appreciate the break from sitting, and it’s a perfect time for a quick snack at the multiple live counters on the platform.
8. Pack Snacks for the Hungry Explorers
Train rides, no matter how exciting, will eventually stir up those hungry bellies! While there are some food options at the stops, it’s always a good idea to pack your own snacks and drinks. Think easy-to-carry goodies like sandwiches, fruit, juice boxes, and cookies.
BBB Says: If you need some ideas and inspiration about everything food and travel for your kids, head over to our blog about 14 New Food Gadgets for Infants and Toddlers on the Go.
9. Bring a Jacket – It Can Get Chilly!
The Darjeeling toy train may be a cute little ride, but it climbs high—literally! You’ll be passing through some chilly mountain air, especially during the early morning or late afternoon rides. Make sure the kids (and you!) have a jacket or hoodie handy, so you can stay cozy as the train ascends.
BBB Says: If you’re visiting in winter (November to February), make sure everyone bundles up—temperatures can drop significantly!
10. Make Memories with Photos
Let’s be real: A ride on the Darjeeling toy train is an Instagram-worthy event! From the cute, colorful train cars to the breathtaking mountain views, you’re going to want to capture every moment. Keep your phone or camera charged and ready because every stop along the route is photo-op gold.
BBB Says: Get creative with angles—take shots of your kids leaning out the window, the steam rising from the engine, and the vast landscapes outside. Bonus points if you can catch a candid family moment on the Batasia Loop!
All Aboard the Darjeeling Toy Train Adventure!
And there you have it—10 tips to make your Darjeeling toy train adventure a day your family will never forget!
The Darjeeling toy train isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about the journey—through history, culture, and nature. For parents traveling with kids, it’s a ride filled with wonder and discovery, perfect for storytelling and bonding. So, when in Darjeeling, take the toy train. Let the mountains, the mist, and the memories whisk you and your family away! Happy Travels!
One Response