If there's one experience in Darjeeling you should never skip, it’s the toy train ride. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, built in the late 1800s, is more than a mode of transport - it's a moving postcard.
The toy train is slow, yes. But that’s the charm. As the small steam engine pulls its way through tightly winding loops and tea gardens, you’re gifted with some of the best views in the region.
The most popular stretch is between Darjeeling and Ghoom. It’s a short ride, but it includes the famous Batasia Loop where the train circles a beautifully kept garden and offers a panoramic view of Kanchenjunga.
On board, you’ll hear the whistle echo through the hills, feel the cool wind rush in through open windows, and see children waving as you pass by sleepy towns.
It’s more than just a ride - it's a reminder of slow travel, of heritage, and of how the journey can be the destination.
Tickets can be booked online through IRCTC or directly at the station, and both steam and diesel rides are available.
Don’t forget your camera, and be ready to wave back.
