Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train)

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the best things to do in Darjeeling and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This guide covers the Toy Train joyride, reported fares and how to plan your ride.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is a two-foot (610 mm) narrow-gauge line of about 88 km that climbs from the plains toward Darjeeling. It opened in 1881 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 5 December 1999, as part of the Mountain Railways of India. Ghum, at 2,260 m, is the highest station on the line and is described as one of the highest railway stations in India.

Most visitors ride the tourist 'joyride' between Darjeeling and Ghum, a short return journey of about 16 km that includes the stop at Batasia Loop on the descent. Darjeeling station is the town's terminus and is also the departure point for a steam-hauled service to Kurseong. Press reports from June 2026 say 13 joyrides run daily, with steam-hauled trips costing Rs 1,310 and diesel-hauled trips Rs 800, and that evening services were proposed after 21 June 2026.

Seasonal extra joyrides have also been announced for the Durga Puja period. Seats on popular trips fill quickly, so booking ahead is sensible, and timings and fares change; check with the railway or the station booking office. The Toy Train is as much a heritage experience as a means of transport: it runs through the streets of Darjeeling and its carriages are small.