Toy Trains in India That are Unesco World Heritage Sites

The Darjeeling Himalayan train runs in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal (North East India), the Nilgiri Mountain railways run in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu (South India), but the Shimla to Kalka railway line in the Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh is one of the most well-known of the journeys (North West India). This excursion will allow you to witness some breathtaking scenery and a vision of India that will make you question if it is genuine or not.

All three trains and lines, which were built between 1881 and 1908, give an excellent example of steep mountain railways. These pathways are a work of art in one of the most difficult and challenging settings, with a design that is incredibly creative and finished with expert engineering. The task of constructing such a massive network of railway lines, with 103 tunnels and 864 bridges, must have been extremely tough and dangerous at times.

Traveling on the UNESCO World Heritage Toy Trains will enrich your senses in a variety of ways. This is a travel moment to remember, with the fresh mountain air, pine and cactus scents, and breathtaking views unfolding before your eyes.

List of heritage trains in India

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The toy train is another name for this rail system. Between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, this railway runs. This train, which began operations at the end of the nineteenth century, travels over six zigzag routes and five big loops to reach higher elevations. In 1999, UNESCO designated this road as a world historic monument. One of the country’s most well-known tourist destinations. Between Shimla and Kalka, this narrow-gauge railway runs. The stunning views of the highland areas and villages along this route are well-known. The British rulers of India frequently used this train, which was built at the end of the 19th century. This railway was on the verge of being designated as a national historic landmark in 2007. 

Kalka-Shimla Railway

Between Shimla and Kalka, this narrow-gauge railway runs. The stunning views of the highland areas and villages along this route are well-known. The British rulers of India frequently used this train, which was built at the end of the 19th century.

This railway was on the verge of being designated as a national historic landmark in 2007. It was added to the coveted line of heritage mountain railways in 2008. The Babu Bhalku rail museum features exhibits and memorabilia that detail the development and history of the line.

Matheran Hill Railway

In Maharashtra, between Neral and Matheran, this small gauge train travels. It follows the Western Ghats, which are well-known for their beauty. The heritage site for this train has yet to be added. The rail line has been in operation since 1907 and is 21 kilometres long.

In 2012, a few carriages were added to it with additional amenities such as a sofa and an LCD screen that displayed passing scenery, among other things. The train begins its journey in Neral, which is closer to Mumbai than Mumbai. Before finishing the 140-hour trek, it ascends the Matheran hill via two enormous zigzags and a massive bend.

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

After the Darjeeling toy train, this is one of the most well-known vintage trains in the country. Since 1908, this route has run. In the country, this is the sole route with a rack railway. This train has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2005, under the section of Indian mountain railways.

From Mettupalayam to Udhagamandalam, this route is followed (Ooty). It takes 4.8 hours to do this trip. Every day, only one train runs in each direction. During the high summer months of April and May, however, four trains per day run in each direction. More information on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train to Ooty can be found in the Complete Guide.

Calcutta Tramways Company

This is a tram system that runs through Kolkata, West Bengal. This is the continent’s oldest and still-operating electrical tram system. Since 1902, it has been fulfilling its mission.

This tram system was run by horses in the nineteenth century. Later on, steam locomotives were utilised. Electrical engines were widely employed at the turn of the century.

Raja bazar, Belgachhia, Gariahat, Park Circus, Khidirpur, Tollygunge, Khidirpur, and Kalighat are among the seven tram depots in Kolkata today. The most well-known and largest depots are Tollygunge and Raja bazaar.

Conclusion

The Indian Mountain Railways, which are made up of three majestic rail routes that go through various areas of the country, provide an unrivalled train ride experience. Due to their historic significance and iconic infrastructure, these railways were named Unesco World Heritage Sites. These trains can deliver a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with their abrupt turns and steep height.

Keep in mind the breathtaking images from this adventure wherever you go in the world. The Himalayan snow-capped mountains, the palms, pines, and cactus that grew in the warm climate, and the excellent staff all contributed to the railway’s extraordinary design, allowing many people to experience a voyage unlike any other.