Darjeeling Toy Train resumes after four months; a relief for locals and travellers

Good news for Darjeeling travellers! After remaining shut for four months due to a severe landslide in July, the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) toy train has returned. The train has resumed services which has brought relief to both locals and tourists. The toy train, which connects New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, began operations on November 17, 2024.

For those who don’t know, the DHR is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The train journey is noted for its stunning 87-kilometer sojourn through lush tea gardens, stunning hills, and pretty villages. The route is famous for offering breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas, making it one of the most popular attractions for travellers from around the globe.

A journey through time
The Darjeeling toy train is not just a mode of transportation—it’s a journey through history. Established in 1881, it has been a beloved feature of Darjeeling’s landscape for over a century. In 1999, the railway was recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its cultural and historical significance. Over the years, it has captured the imagination of travelers, even appearing in various films, and creating countless cherished memories for those fortunate enough to experience it.
Read more: 90-million-year-old amber discovery reveals Antarctica was once covered with trees

Restore the service


The resumption of services comes after months of intense work to repair the damage caused by the landslide on July 5, 2024. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) worked diligently to restore the railway tracks and ensure the safety of the passengers. Several trial runs were conducted to verify the stability of the tracks before the train could safely carry passengers again.

The railway authorities have also announced plans to introduce three new engines to further enhance the toy train’s services. This expansion is expected to increase the frequency of trains and provide more travel options for tourists, further cementing the toy train’s role in boosting both tourism and the local economy.

Surinder Kumar, Divisional Railway Manager of Katihar, emphasized the global appeal of the DHR toy train. “The toy train is loved not only by Indians but also by tourists from all over the world. Safety was our top priority, so we conducted many trial runs before resuming operations. Soon, we will introduce new engines to meet the growing demand and ensure an even better experience for our passengers,” he said.

Read more: 5 fairy-tale like places in Europe most loved by travellers worldwide

The return of the Darjeeling toy train marks a significant milestone for the region, reaffirming its place as one of the most iconic and cherished railway journeys in the world.