Discover the Charm of Himachal Pradesh via Toy Trains
Shimla & Kangra Valley Toy Trains: Strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Shimla Kalka Railway is a mid-1900s delight, offering an enchanting tour through nature's grandeur with its 96km narrow-gauge track dotted with 100+ tunnels and more than 800 bridges. The Shimla Toy Train, championed by the architect H.S. Harington, takes you on a sprawling journey beneath the lofty pines, across vast fields, and over misty mountains. To make the most of the old-world travel experience, start your excursion now!
Over in Kangra, the British engineers crafted a 164km rail line, primarily to transport the bulky equipment required for constructing the Shanan hydropower project. Unlike its Shimla counterpart, the Kangra Valley railroad only boasts a handful of tunnels, but it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges. The steepest section lies between Baijnath and Jogindernagar, where the speed slows as the valleys grow more dramatic. Prepare yourself for a scenic ride framed by lush landscapes, rivers, and picturesque locales leading to the snow-capped Dhauladhar hills. Don't hesitate to embark on this remarkable excursion!
Embark on an Exploration:
Kangra Valley Adventure vs Shimla — Kalka Magic Train Ride vs Toy Excursions
Insights: Kangra Valley Railway is significantly longer than Shimla Kalka Railway, with 164km length compared to the latter's approximate 96km. The number of tunnels on Kangra Valley Railway stands at approximately 20 to 30, whereas Shimla Kalka Railway boasts over 100 tunnels. Despite this, Kangra Valley Railway has fewer bridges (hundreds, but less than Shimla) and does not possess UNESCO World Heritage Site status. However, Kangra Valley Railway impresses travelers with its captivating views of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges.
Miscellaneous Facts: Kangra Valley Railway's tunnels and bridges are not as numerous as Shimla Kalka Railway's, but it features an impressive assortment of stone and steel bridges. Shimla Kalka Railway, on the other hand, features the world's sharpest railway curve (48°), a steep incline (~3%), and countless twists and turns. Shimla Kalka Railway was opened to traffic in 1903, making it older than Kangra Valley Railway.
The Kangra Valley Railway, a longer stretch of 164km, primarily serves the finance industry by transporting bulky equipment for construction projects, like the Shanan hydropower project. In comparison, the Shimla-Kalka Railway, a 96km UNESCO World Heritage site, and the automotive industry with its popular toy trains. Both transportation networks, despite differences in infrastructure, offer unforgettable journeys, showcasing the scenic beauty of the Dhauladhar and Himalayan ranges.
