Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is an exponent
train of the Indian Railways. The very appearance of the train,
replenishes the idea of "Toy Train". Certainly, the
cute-little train is well-known as the "Darjeeling Toy Train".
In West Bengal, the Toy Train runs on a 2 feet narrow-gauge track from
Siliguri to Darjeeling. Built between 1879 and 1881, the route-track of
Himalayan Railway extends to the length of 86 kms. The elegant railway
has been acclaimed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.
The Toy Train moves at a mere elevation of 100 m from Siliguri to an
altitude of 2,200 m in Darjeeling. The main point of consideration is
that it is powered by a steam engine till date. However, Darjeeling's
mail is motorized by the modern diesel engine. In 1878, the train was
started with a standard gauge, connecting Kolkata and Siliguri. By 1881,
a full-fledged steam tramway was made from Siliguri to Darjeeling. In
spite of various natural calamities, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
consistently worked to develop new extension lines.
The independence of India brought DHR into the spell of the Indian
Railway. In 1958, DHR developed as a part of the Northeast Frontier
Railway Zone. The route of this Toy Train covers the regions of New
Jalpaiguri, Siliguri Town, Siliguri Junction, Sukna, Rangtong,
Tindharia, Gayabari, Mahanadi, Kurseong, Tung, Dilaram, Sonada, Rangbul,
Jor Bungalow, Ghum, Batasia Loop and Darjeeling. The whole route has got
various loops, yet the incredible loop is certainly known as 'Agony
Point', which is the tightest curve on the line.
The picturesque background of the rail route has never failed to allure
people from all over the world. Many silver screen movies have pictured
this train to create an astounding ambiance. Darjeeling Himalayan
Railway has always been treated with gusto and fervor by travelers to
the county. In the early 1920's, the Earl of Ronaldshay gave a beautiful
description of his journey in 'Toy Train'. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
is indeed offers a pleasurable journey amidst the enchanting mountains
of India.
