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There are many ways to explore India, but very few journeys touch your heart the way a toy trains ride does. Even today, these slow-moving heritage trains continue to offer experiences that feel peaceful, nostalgic, and truly unforgettable. Built during the British era, these narrow-gauge trains continue to run through some of India’s most scenic and untouched mountain landscapes.
As a traveler myself, I believe everyone should experience at least one toy train ride in their lifetime. It is not just about reaching a destination; it is about enjoying the journey, the mountain breeze, the green valleys, the tunnels, and the beauty of nature at a slow and comforting pace.
Here is the complete and updated 2025 guide to the five most iconic toy trains in India that deserve a place in every traveler’s bucket list.
What Makes Toy Trains in India So Special?
Toy trains differ from regular trains in many ways. They are smaller in size, slower in speed, and run on narrow-gauge tracks that pass through steep hills and dense forests. But the reason they attract millions of travelers is simple: they offer a level of natural beauty and peace that modern transport can never provide.
Why are these toy trains unforgettable?
- They pass through real, untouched nature: forests, waterfalls, tunnels, valleys and snow peaks.
- They allow you to enjoy slow travel where you absorb every moment.
- They are recognized by UNESCO for their historical and engineering importance.
- They are extremely photogenic and ideal for travel bloggers and families.
- They preserve India’s heritage and offer a vintage railway experience.
1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – The Most Legendary Toy Train in India
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the DHR or Darjeeling Toy Train, is the most iconic narrow-gauge railway in India. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer or casual traveler, this journey has something magical to offer.
Route Details
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling
Distance: 88 km
Approx Travel Time: 7 hours
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
What You Experience on This Route
The Darjeeling toy train climbs slowly through small villages, tea gardens, and misty mountain forests. The view of Kanchenjunga, one of the world’s highest peaks, is the biggest highlight of this journey. The train also passes through the famous Batasia Loop where the track spirals around beautifully landscaped gardens.
If you want a shorter experience, the Darjeeling to Ghoom Joy Ride is perfect. It is a two-hour round trip that gives you the essence of the toy train journey without taking the full-day route.
Why This Train Is a Must-Do
This train is a blend of history, nature and old-world charm. The sound of the steam engine, the slow curves on the Himalayan slopes and the scenic mountain views make this journey unforgettable.
2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway – The Steepest and Most Scenic Route in South India
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway connects Mettupalayam to the hill station of Ooty and is famous for its dramatic climbs through the Nilgiri Hills. This is the only railway in India that uses the rack-and-pinion system to climb steep gradients.
Route Details
Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor
Distance: 46 km
Tunnels: 16
Bridges: More than 250
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
What You Experience
The journey begins at the foothills of the Nilgiris and climbs all the way to Ooty. On the way, passengers see mist-covered mountains, tea plantations, waterfalls and deep valleys. The best part of the journey is between Mettupalayam and Coonoor, where the climb is steep and the scenery dramatic.
Why Travelers Love It
This toy train offers some of the most beautiful views in South India. The cool weather, lush green forests and heritage train carriages make it an unforgettable experience, especially for families and nature lovers.
3. Kalka–Shimla Railway – A Historic Mountain Journey Through 103 Tunnels
The Kalka–Shimla toy train is one of the most loved railway rides in North India. Built in 1903, the route is known for its engineering marvels and stunning natural beauty.
Route Details
Kalka to Shimla
Distance: 96 km
Travel Time: Around 5 hours
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes
Route Highlights
The train passes through 103 tunnels, 969 bridges and 912 curves. The most famous of these is the Barog Tunnel, which is the longest tunnel on this route. The journey also offers beautiful views of pine forests, mountain slopes, small towns and old British-era railway stations.
Why This Train Stands Out
The Kalka-Shimla railway is perfect for travelers who want a peaceful and scenic train ride. It is slow, relaxing and ideal for photography. Families, couples and solo travelers all enjoy this route for its soothing Himalayan views.
4. Matheran Hill Railway – A Unique Ride to India’s Only Vehicle-Free Hill Station
Matheran is one of the rare hill stations in India where no vehicles are allowed. That means no cars, no bikes and not even cycles. The toy train becomes the main mode of transport to reach this peaceful hill station in Maharashtra.
Route Details
Neral to Matheran
Distance: 21 km
Travel Time: Around 2 hours
First Run: 1907
What the Journey Offers
The train climbs up slowly in zigzag fashion, passing through dense forests, small bridges and viewpoints overlooking the Western Ghats. With only one short tunnel on the route, the pace is slow and peaceful. First-class seating is more comfortable and preferred by most travelers.
Why It’s Special
Matheran’s natural beauty, quiet environment and slow-paced charm make it one of the most refreshing getaways from Mumbai. The toy train enhances the overall experience because it allows you to enter the hill station in the most relaxing way possible.
5. Kangra Valley Railway – The Longest Narrow-Gauge Mountain Route in India
This route is considered one of the most scenic and underrated toy train experiences in the country. It passes through rural Himachal Pradesh and offers expansive views of the Dhauladhar mountain range.
Route Details
Pathankot to Jogindernagar
Distance: 164 km
Travel Time: Nearly 10 hours
Bridges: 993
Tunnels: 2
What You See on This Route
The Kangra toy train takes you through small villages, farms, tea estates, pine forests and rivers. The view of the Dhauladhar mountains remains constant throughout the journey. It is a peaceful and raw experience that many travelers miss because it is less commercialized.
Why This Route Is Recommended
If you enjoy long journeys through nature and want to experience Himachal in its purest form, this is the best choice. It is perfect for slow travelers, photographers and nature lovers.
Which Toy Train Should You Choose?
Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Best for snow peaks, tea gardens and heritage experience
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: Best for steep climbs, forest views and family trips
Kalka–Shimla Railway: Best for tunnels, colonial charm and Himalayan landscapes
Matheran Hill Railway: Best for peaceful travel and a vehicle-free hill station
Kangra Valley Railway: Best for rural landscapes and long scenic route3.
Final Words
Toy trains in India offer something that modern travel often fails to provide: peace, beauty and connection with nature. These journeys slow you down and allow you to appreciate mountains, forests and valleys in their true form.
If you want to experience travel that stays with you long after the journey ends, make sure to include at least one of these toy train rides in your upcoming plans. Whether you choose Darjeeling, Ooty, Shimla, Matheran or Kangra Valley, you will return with memories that feel timeless.
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