Weather: 2 - 17°C
Category: Fun for Kids, Scenic Travel
Tags: Heritage, Family-Friendly, Hill Station
Timings:

  • From Kalka:
    • Shivalik Deluxe: 5:20 AM – 10:00 AM
    • Himalayan Queen: 12:10 PM – 5:30 PM
  • From Shimla:
    • Shivalik Deluxe: 5:50 PM – 10:30 PM
    • Himalayan Queen: 10:40 AM – 4:10 PM
      Time Required: 5.5 hours (one way)
      Route: Kalka to Shimla (96 km)
      Elevation: 2,076 m

Overview of the Kalka Shimla Toy Train

Experience one of the most charming and picturesque train rides in India aboard the Kalka Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed route that takes you through the stunning landscape of Himachal Pradesh. The narrow-gauge track winds its way through lush green hills, deodar forests, and quaint villages, offering breathtaking views throughout the journey.

This historic toy train ride, carved during British rule, provides a nostalgic journey back in time. Traveling for about 5.5 hours, it is considered one of India’s most scenic train routes and a must-do for anyone visiting Shimla. Whether you’re a nature lover or history enthusiast, the ride promises to be a captivating experience for all ages.

Services and Fare

The Kalka Shimla Toy Train offers various services catering to different budgets and preferences, making the ride even more enjoyable.

  • Shivalik Deluxe:
    • Adults: INR 510 | Children: INR 255
  • Himalayan Queen:
    • Adults: INR 470 | Children: INR 235

Special Carriages & Services:

  • Self Propelled RA 100: A private carriage for 8 passengers, available for chartered bookings. (INR 36,000 round trip)
  • Shivalik Palace RA 200: A luxurious air-conditioned carriage for 9 passengers, featuring a modular kitchen. (INR 27,000 round trip)
  • Jharoka CT 14: An eco-friendly, air-conditioned carriage with balconies on both sides, offering panoramic views. (INR 29,000 return journey)
  • Composite Coaches CT 12 & 13: Ideal for groups, seating up to 22 passengers. (INR 18,135 single trip)
  • Vista Dome Coaches (Nihaar): Glass-roofed coaches offering a unique view of the landscape. (36-seater)

During peak seasons, the Hop-On-Hop-Off service allows passengers to explore stations along the route without purchasing additional tickets.

Kalka Shimla Toy Train Route

The toy train follows a 96 km uphill course, starting from Kalka and winding through 102 tunnels, over 869 bridges, and passing 919 curves. The route offers sweeping views of the Himalayan landscape, including famous spots like Barog, Solan, and Shoghi. The longest tunnel, Barog, lasts about 3 minutes, adding an adventurous twist to the ride.

Key Stations:

  • Kalka
  • Dharampur
  • Barog (longest tunnel)
  • Solan
  • Shoghi
  • Shimla

How to Reach Kalka Shimla Toy Train

  • By Train: Kalka is easily accessible by train from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Once in Kalka, you can board the Toy Train at the Kalka Railway Station.
  • By Road: Kalka is approximately 35 km from Chandigarh, and can be reached via a 1-hour drive. Shimla is about 90 km from Kalka.
  • By Taxi: You can hire a taxi to reach Kalka from Chandigarh or Shimla, which will take around 2 hours from Shimla.

Booking Tickets

Tickets for the Kalka Shimla Toy Train are available for booking one month in advance. It's advisable to book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on this popular ride. You can book tickets via the official IRCTC website or other authorized booking portals.

Why Ride the Kalka Shimla Toy Train?

Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or on your own, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train offers a memorable experience filled with scenic beauty, history, and adventure. The mesmerizing views, charming vintage trains, and historical significance of the route make it a must-do experience in Shimla. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!