Darjeeling Toy Train Resumes After Four Months Closure: A Relief for Locals and Travellers

The legendary toy train of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), which was closed for four months following a severe landslide in July, is back. The good news has brought relief to the locals as well as the visitors. The New Jalpaiguri-to-Darjeeling toy train resumed its scenic journey on November 17, 2024.
For the uninformed, DHR is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It spans 87 kilometers of tea estates, stunning hills, and quaint villages. It especially shines in its views of the Eastern Himalayas, which draw tourists to it in droves.

The toy train is more than just a way of traveling; it's a journey into the past. It was started in 1881 and has been a part of Darjeeling's landscape for over a century. In 1999, UNESCO added the railway to its list of World Heritage Sites, acknowledging the cultural and historical significance of the site. It has had the charm of travelers over the years and even featured in movies, making memories galore for the lucky few to ride it.

Months of robust activity to repair damage were put into rebuilding what the landslide on July 5, 2024, had destroyed. NFR was on its toes to get the damaged railway tracks repaired and passengers safely moving again. Several test runs were conducted to ensure the stability of the tracks before admitting passengers back on board.

Railway authorities have also announced the introduction of three new engines to enhance the toy train’s operations. This expansion aims to boost the frequency of train services, providing tourists with more travel options and reinforcing the toy train's contribution to tourism and the local economy.
The toy train is loved not only by Indians but by tourists across the globe. Safety was our major concern, which is why we conducted multiple trial runs before resuming service. We are excited to soon introduce new engines for catering to the rising demand and to get an even better experience for our passengers," remarked Surinder Kumar, the Divisional Railway Manager of Katihar.

The return of the Darjeeling toy train is an important landmark for this region and a reassertion of its status among the world's most iconic treasuries of railway journeys.