Travelling back to the Heritage through Toy Trains of Shimla
Although, there are many routes long and short to reach by Trains of Shimla but one of my old time favourites has been taking the Toy train from Kalka. Though, the tracks of this special rail seem quite narrow, this route has prevailed to be a surreal journey between Kalka and Shimla.
The British Government inaugurated this charming toy train route in 1903, laying a meter gauge track that winds through the scenic hills of Himachal Pradesh. Designed to connect the summer capital Shimla with the rest of British India, this narrow path became an engineering wonder, offering breathtaking views and a nostalgic journey that still delights travelers today. It covers a distance of 96km between Shimla and Kalka thereby passing through 102 tunnels and 87 bridges.
The most adventurous part of this train travel is its interlocked tracks systems that connect Kalka at a height of 656 meter and Shimla at 2076 meter from mean sea level. Though called a toy train, this warrior treads through around 900 curves and the sharpest curve is of 48 degree. This uniqueness makes the five hour journey, one of the best train journeys operated by Indian railway.
The Historical Appeal
Shimla, then spelt Simla, was established under the British rule. Located at 7,116 feet in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Shimla – Kalka Train route had already developed as a major base for the British by the 1830s. As a result, Simla was turned into the summer capital of British India by 1864. Later, it also became the headquarters of the British army in India.
The Delhi-Ambala-Kalka Railway Company began constructing the Kalka–Shimla Railway in 1898 with a hefty budget of ₹1,50,000—a significant amount during that era. Due to its high capital investment, maintenance costs, and challenging working conditions, the railway received permission to charge fares higher than those on other lines. While traveling this scenic route, you’ll pass through Solan, a charming hill town often referred to as “Mini Shimla.”
It has its own aesthetic beauty nestling under the shady mountain belts of Himachal.
However, even this was not good enough to sustain the company and the Government had to purchase it on January 1, 1906 for Rs 1,71,07,748. And after about a century, in mid-August 2007, the government of Himachal Pradesh declared the railway a heritage property thereby preparing it for UNESCO’s review trip.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
After UNESCO’s visit around 2008, the Kalka–Shimla Railway earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition highlights the Kalka–Shimla Railway not just as a mode of transportation, but as a remarkable engineering marvel that played a vital role in connecting the hill regions with the rest of India. Its scenic beauty, vintage architecture, and historical relevance continue to attract travelers and heritage enthusiasts from around the world.
So, the next time you plan your trek-way to Shimla, this heritage ride would be just the most pleasant experience for you. And if you long for a hearty meal that completes this toy train travel, then order your food from TravelKhana, India’s leading on-the-go fresh and delicious food service. To place your order, call 8800138811.
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