Read More on Kalka Shimla Toy Train
History
In 1864, Shimla was designated as the summer capital of British India and served also as barracks of the Indian army. This necessitated that twice a year, the entire administration had to be transported by horses and cow-drawn carts from Calcutta to Shimla. This necessitated the installation of a well-designed train system to facilitate the relocation procedure. The federally financed Kalka–Shimla railway started building on June 29, 1898, following the signature of an agreement between the secretary and the corporation.
The authorities, on the other hand, supplied the firm with the land for free. By the point the line was operational, its projected value of 8,678,500 rupees had more than doubled. Herbert Septimus Harington was the project's Chief Engineer which is now an official UNESCO world heritage site.
Architecture
This track boasts 20 beautiful stops, 103 vaults, 912 bends, 969 arches, and a 3% grade (1:33 gradient). The greatest tunnel is 1,143.61 m at Barog, just before the Barog stop, the longest bridge is 18.29 m, and the steepest curve has a radius of curvature of 123 ft (38 m). The railroad line's primary rail weight was 20.8 kg/m, however, it was supplanted with 29.8 kg/m iron. The railway travels at a speed of 25–30 km/h, whereas the locomotive travels at about 50–60 km/h. Vista Domes are installed mostly on the train and the railcar.
Activities
- Rail Motor Car: Being one of India's most popular train rides, the Rail Motor Car is just a one carriage train that runs from Kalka to Shimla and likewise. The Rail Motor Car, which can seat 14 to 18 guests, also offers express service with lunch on the go.
- The Shivalik Deluxe Express: It has a carpet, wide glass panels, velvety cushioned seats, refurbished restrooms, and relaxing music, provides a comfortable journey from Kalka to Shimla and conversely. Furthermore, the locomotive has a pleasant seating configuration with a maximum passenger capacity of 120 persons.
- Himalayan Queen: This train, often regarded as a conventional train for exploring the grandeur of trekking trails, has exclusive and second-class carriages.
Tips for visiting
- The Shivalik deluxe express has no stops in between the journey.
- No food is served in the Himalayan queen.
- Charging points for phones and laptops are available in the trains.
- Trains run once a week from March to September so prior booking is advised.
Best time to visit
Summer months from May to September are best to enjoy this ride to the maximum level. Out of which, morning trains are deemed to be the best. At that time, the vista and the panorama have an indulgence of their own. Do book it prior as the trains operate once a week.
Nearby Atractions
- Himachal State Museum
- Jakhoo Temple
- Christ Church, Shimla
- Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Lakkar Bazaar: It is a market adjacent to the Ridge. Stores offer hardwood items aimed primarily at tourists.
- Tibetan Refugee Market: Tibetan artifacts are offered to benefit Tibetan refugees at the Tibetan Refugee Market. It's a nice spot to go shopping.
- Lower bazaar: This Shimla market is preferred by residents and visitors from surrounding villages. It begins at the bus terminal and is located beneath the mall road.
- The Mall Road: It is Shimla's busiest and most prominent site. The major market is situated here, where you can find all woolen clothing, antique shops, and fast food joints.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Dharam Villa, Kalka
- Lotus Grand AKM, Kalka
- Modis Hotel, Kalka
- The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla
- Hotel Surya, Shimla
- Hotel Baljees Regency, Shimla
Interesting Facts About Kalka Shimla Toy Train
- Apart from the regular railway network, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train provides additional seasonal excursions during the peak tourist season, which typically runs from May to December.
- Take full advantage of your toy train ride is by seating on the right side of the train when heading from Kalka and on the left side when coming back.
