About Darjeeling Toy Train
Running between Siliguri and Darjeeling, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
is quiet often referred to as Darjeeling Toy Train. The journey between the
two destinations is counted amongst the most wonderful journeys of the
world. The enchanting beauty enroute is something that sweeps the spectator
off their feet. Infact, the 83 km stretch of journey covered in around 8
hours is completely incredible.
As for the history of the train is concerned, it is said that Mr Franklin
Prestage (a representative of East Bengal Railway Company) was so bewitched
by the beauty of the place that he put up a proposal before the government
of Bengal to lay down a train line between Darjeeling and Siliguri. The
proposal was accepted in the year 1879 and the construction too began in the
same year. Originally, the rail line extended upto only Tindharia, however,
it was gradually extended. By the year 1879, the rail line was extended upto
Darjeeling.
The initial train was much different from what it is today. It was a small
four wheeled trolley with canvas and two wooden benches. The 26 feet long
bogey was introduced sometime later. Also, earlier it was an important mode
of transportation and carried not only the passengers but also cargo. It was
only with the passage of time and development of technology that the burden
on this train lessened and it was more used by passenger. Today, the
Darjeeling Toy Train is one of the best way to enjoy the scenic beauty 7000
feet above ground across the magnificent mountain terrain of Himalayas.
The ascent begins from Sukana and crosses Chunabati, Rungtong, Tindharia,
Agony Point, Kurseong and Ghoom before it reaches Darjeeling. The scenes for
tourists to enjoy on the way include delightfully green tea gardens, free
flow of Teesta river and beautiful native people in their colourful
traditional dress.
Route covered
From Siliguri -Kurseong in the plains up to Ghoom and Darjeeling in the
hills.
