This train runs from NJP station to the township of Darjeeling and covers a distance of 88 Km. A visit to Darjeeling is never complete without experiencing a joyride on the toy train. The diesel engines could easily be 100 years old and although the ride is not as fast as your usual car ride, there is a certain sense of nostalgia and pride in riding these age-old compartments. It’s a dream .. like in those fairy tales? Very local fairy tale though!! Darjeeling and Toy train ride are interrelated.. there was a time when travelling mode to/from Darjeeling was this Toy train.. nowadays it is only a tourist attraction.. but at least it’s still living with all pride.. that’s the best part.. May it lives forever.. Dugga Dugga!!
As I have already told you, this was my very first visit to Darjeeling, I wanted to experience Toy train by all means. During season time, it’s better to book your seats well ahead (the way you book rail tickets in India or your travel agent can help). Tickets cost about INR 1000 per person. There are trains available from 9:30 in the morning, there are trains after every 45 minutes till 1 or 2 pm maybe.
The first train of the day is a steam engine run, blowing coal-burnt smoke; but the rests are electric ones. Honestly, try for the electric ones, steam engine ones are good to look at from a distance.. you don’t want to take layers and layers of engine smoke on your face, do you?? Naahhh.. it’s not thick a layer of coal on your face!!
Toy Train Experience
While going uphill from NJP, there are three basic routes to reach Darjeeling through toy trains. Although these routes are faster and will save your time, there is nothing like taking the toy train up to Darjeeling. The experience is nothing short of legendary.
You can view the entire landscape, lush green valleys and sprawling tea estates more closely when you board this gem of engineering, the Darjeeling Toy Train. Since the journey is slow and steady, the photographer in you will cherish the innumerable moments of photography while riding the toy train.
One of the most spectacular views while going uphill in the toy train will, most definitely, be Batasia Loop.
