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Darjeeling Toy Train Ride

 
 

What to Expect

 
Planning a ride on a Toy Train in Darjeeling? Why not? After all it remains as one of the top attractions of Darjeeling. The Toy Train is one of the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about Darjeeling. Do you know why? Because Darjeeling Toy Train is an iconic heritage of India and has been accorded the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
 
Darjeeling DHR Toy Train 
 
It is an engineering marvel, a feat that was achieved during the colonial days of 1880s to provide an important transport link between the lower plains of Siliguri and Darjeeling Town. Those days the coaches were hauled only by steam locos. Although the steam engines are still in service, most toy trains are hauled by diesel engines these days. 
 
Darjeeling Toy Train service is officially known as Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (or DHR in short). In 1958, DHR became part of the North-East Frontier Zone of Indian Railways. And in December 1999, it has been accorded the UNESCO World Heritage Site status. 
 
 
 
Go through The Saga of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to know why DHR Toy Train received the World Heritage status and remains so close to the heart of the Indians. 
 
But, that's not the only reason why you should ride the toy train. The ride also offers a wonderful way of soaking in the picturesque Himalayan views as you traverse through the mountains. 
 
DHR Toy Train between Rangtong and Tindharia 
DHR Toy Train near Tindharia 
 
Where else can you find a small engine pulling mini coaches up the steep mountains through breathtaking landscapes and overcoming almost impossible curves and gradients using sheer engineering ingenuity and creative skills? 
 
You will pass by lush tea gardens, villages and local shops on the way with children on the street waving at you as you take this relaxed and charming journey through the hills. 
 

Why is it named the Toy Train?

 
Do you know why the Toy Train of Darjeeling is so called? Because it runs on a narrow gauge track which is only 2 feet wide. The engines and the coaches had to be made much smaller than usual to run on such a track. And therefore, it is fondly known as Toy Train. 
 
Unlike usual trains, the toy train in Darjeeling moves very slowly. Just to give you an idea, for the upper stretch of the journey (between Kurseong and Darjeeling town), it has an average speed of about 11.26 kms per hour. 
 
Originally only steam engines were used to pull the coaches. Subsequently, diesel engines were also introduced to speedup the journey a little and also to negotiate the steep gradients and curves of the hills better. 
 
The steam loco hauled trains sometimes tend to skid in steep gradients. You can often see an attendant standing in front of the engine and sprinkling sand on the track to overcome such difficulties, particularly in monsoon time. 
 

Ways to Ride the Toy Train

 
There are several ways you can ride the Toy Train in Darjeeling. However, note that there is only a single track of 88kms length which has been laid from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) all the way up to Darjeeling (DJ). There are no other tracks for the toy train of Darjeeling. 
 
So, you have the option to embark on a journey traversing the entire track, or one of the designated sections of the track. Several toy trains run on this track or designated sections of the track during the day. Being a single track, two trains coming from opposite directions can not cross each other along the way, other than at the stations. 
 
If you want to traverse the entire toy train route and experience the original journey undertaken by passengers during the British colonial days, you can board the regular passenger train from NJP or Siliguri Junction and travel all the way up to Darjeeling. For details of this train and booking process, go through NJP to Darjeeling Toy Train Service. 
 
Although this train was earlier pulled by a steam engine and took over 10 hours for the one-way journey, now it is pulled by a diesel engine, shortening the duration to around 7 and half hours. 
 
If that's too long a journey for you, you can also board this train from Kurseong (KGN). A slip coach gets added to this train carrying passengers from Kurseong. The one-way journey from Kurseong to Darjeeling takes around 2 hours 45 minutes. 
 
But, among the general tourists, the most popular is the Toy Train Joyrides that operate from Darjeeling Station, go up to Ghum (the highest station in Darjeeling Hills), and return to Darjeeling. It's around a 2-hour round trip from Darjeeling. 
 
Steam Engine hauled Toy Train at Batasia Loop, Darjeeling 
Toy Train Darjeeling 
 
And in joyrides, you have the option of riding either a heritage steam engine pulled toy train or a diesel engine hauled one. Several such joyrides operate during the day, and the number of such joyrides depends on the tourist season and demand. 
 
In each of the above toy train rides, you also get the option of choosing a class of travel. There are usually 2 to 3 coaches attached to the engine depending on the type of ride. 
 

The Toy Train Joyride

 
The joyrides start from Darjeeling Railway Station. It's roughly a 2-hour round trip from Darjeeling up to Ghum and back via Batasia Loop covering a total distance of 14kms.  
 
There are several such round trips during the day starting in the morning. Number of rides per day depends on the demand during the season. In high seasons such as summers, several trains operate on a daily basis and there could be 18-20 rides a day. 
 
Ghum Railway Station 
Ghum Station 
Photo: Pinakpani, cc by-sa 
 
Ghum is the highest altitude station on the Darjeeling Himalayan Rail track. Altitude of Ghum is 2225.7 meters (7407 ft). Here the toy train stops for 30 minutes for a visit to Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum or the DHR Museum. The ticket fare includes the entry fee to the DHR Museum at Ghum. You will only need to show the train ticket. 
 
The DHR Museum is located at the station premises. The highlight here is the oldest toy train engine which is showcased outside - The Baby Sivok. 
 
Baby Sivok, the oldest Toy Train Engine of DHR 
Baby Sivok Toy Train 
 
The train stops for 10 minutes at the Batasia Loop on its return. At Batasia the train makes a loop around a wonderful manicured garden. The view of Darjeeling town and the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga on a clear day from here is unparalleled. 
 
The War Memorial built in honor of the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives is located at the center of the Garden. 
 
Batasia Loop Darjeeling 
Batasia Loop Darjeeling 
Photo: Ankur P, cc by 2.0 
 
While Batasia Loop and Ghum DHR Museum are the two main attractions of this ride, the journey itself will remind you of the old transportation that has been in use since the British colonial period. During most part of the journey, the road runs parallel to the railway track. 
 
You can see shops, stalls and houses lined up along the track sometimes giving you a feel that they are too close to the track to be safe. You can see locals and children going through their daily routines and some of them even waving at you. 
 

Engines & Coaches for Joyrides

 
In Joyrides, you can either go for a Steam Engine pulled train or a Diesel Engine hauled one. The Steam Engines are 'B' Class Steam Locomotives and resemble the original ones used during the British days. They are operated by charging coal. They release steam intermittently and you can hear the old yet familiar whistles when they move. 
 
While you get authentic experience of the heritage train when you ride a steam engine hauled toy train, a downside is, it emits a lot of coal dust, and if you keep your windows open, there is a chance that they settle on your clothes and body. 
 
The Diesel engine trains normally use NDM6 Type Diesel Locomotives. While they too whistle, you won't see the steam release. They are smoother and do not have the problems of coal dust, but, you won't be actually riding a heritage train. 
 
In Joyrides, there are usually two first class coaches provided in a steam engine train, and two or three first class coaches in diesel engine toy train. A First Class coach has individual reclining seats and can accommodate up to 17 persons. They are not air-conditioned. 
 
A few joyride trains have a Vistadome coach which have large window panes, glass roofs and chairs that allow rotation for better viewing. However, Vistadome coaches are also not air-conditioned. 
 
Note that the coaches of Joyride Toy Trains do not have toilets. There is no food or drinking water available onboard the trains, so carry your own. 
 

Joyride Fares

 
(Fare updated: July 2024) 
  • Diesel Engine Rides: Rs. 1000/-. All first class seats. 
  • Steam Engine Rides: Rs. 1,500/-. All first class seats including ones with vistadome coaches. 
    •  
    The fares of Steam Engine pulled trains are higher because they represent the original heritage trains and their maintenance cost is higher. Fares for both Diesel and Steam trains include admission to the DHR Ghum Museum. 
     
    NOTE:  
  • Joyrides are round-trips and you can not book a one-way ticket. 
  • Children of age 5 or above, as well as senior citizens need to pay full adult fare. 
  • No tickets required for children below 5 years. 
    •  

    Best time to ride a DHR Toy Train

     
    When you ride the toy train in Darjeeling, the first objective would be to get great views around, particularly that of the mountain landscapes, villages and even that of Kanchenjunga snow peaks. And for that, you should choose the right season and timing. 
     
    The spring and the summer time, that is March to May, and then Autumn and the beginning of winter, that is October to December, are the best time to take a ride on the DHR Toy Train. This is when the weather usually remains clear and the views are the best. 
     
    There are multiple DHR joyrides that operate daily during the high season (i.e. during spring, summer and autumn). As a rule of thumb, the mountain views are best seen during the early mornings. So, try to take a ride on the first morning train. 
     
    Try to avoid the monsoon time for taking the ride, that is from mid-June to mid-September. Not only that it often rains incessantly, the sky almost always remains cloudy and the views of the snow peaks are quite rare. 
     
    Also, the monsoon time is prone to landslides that sometimes causes track damages. It is quite common that DHR toy train rides getting cancelled during the monsoon due to such track damages. Operations resume once the tracks get repaired and that can take days. 
     
    One more point to keep in mind... the type of coach you choose (that is the class of travel). Vistadome coaches offer the best viewing experience. They have large windows for better viewing, rotating seats and even glass roof. Although all toy trains do not have Vistadome coaches, some services do have such coaches. 
     

    How to book DHR Toy Train Joyrides?

     
    The toy train in Darjeeling is like any other normal train in Indian Railways and the process of booking seats is similar. You can book the joyride either online through the Indian Railway's website (IRCTC.CO.IN) or at any computerized reservation counter in India. 
     
    But, there is a catch. The joyride is a roundtrip from Darjeeling. So, while booking online, the source and destination stations will be the same. But unfortunately, the Indian Railways' Online Reservation System does not accept the same station for both Source and Destination. 
     
    There are other intriguing factors as well that you are likely to encounter while booking a toy train ticket online, such as, how to identify a steam engine train or a diesel engine train? How to book a seat on a Vistadome coach? And so on... So, what do you do? 
     
    Go through How to book Toy Train Rides where I have discussed in detail about how to book the tickets online as well as offline for all types of toy train rides including joyrides. 
     
    TIPS: 
  • During the high seasons, there is a lot of rush for the joyrides and you should try to book tickets well in advance. Don't plan to buy the joyride tickets after you reach Darjeeling because you won't likely get them. 
    •  
  • Just in case you don't get the joyride tickets, an alternative plan is to buy a ticket on the morning passenger toy train operating between Darjeeling and Kurseong, which too goes via Batasia and Ghum. This is a diesel engine hauled train. 
    •  
    Get off at Ghum and take a shared or reserved taxi back to Darjeeling. You can get almost a similar experience as the joy ride. The only difference is, this train won't stop at Batasia Loop. And once in Ghum, you will need to purchase the entry ticket if you want to visit the DHR Museum. 
     

    Related Articles

     
     
    1) Check out DHR Toy Train Story to know about the complete story of the toy train including its history and how it was introduced as one of the highest mountain railways by the British. 
     
    2) DHR Toy Trains Charters: Get details about how to privately charter a toy train and know about all the possible routes and compositions for chartered trains, fares, and how to book the charter trains and coaches. 
     
    3) Check out Darjeeling Tours & Sightseeing for many other great tours and rides in Darjeeling. 
     

    Visitors' Reviews/Comments

     
     
    Ranganathan (September 2024) 
    I am planning a trip to Darjeeling in December. I will have 2 pieces of luggage (26" and 22"). Is it possible to accommodate these in the train? Please let me know. If not possible, I have to try some other means of reaching Darjeeling. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2024 
    NJP to Darjeeling toy train usually has a separate luggage van for storing luggage. You can not accommodate large bags in the coach... there is hardly any space. 
     
    Ranganathan (September 2024) 
    Sir: Then is it possible for us to put our luggage in the luggage van? This van, is this attached to the train? Or is it a regular van that goes on the road? If so, where does the luggage get delivered? Is there a separate payment for this? Lastly, can we at least carry a 22 inch suitcase in the train with us?  Thanks, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2024 
    The luggage van is attached to the train. No separate payment is required to store your luggage in the van. Inside the passenger coaches, the only storage space you get is your seat's leg-space, and that's quite small. 
     
    You can keep a small soft bag there or under the seat. If you keep a suitcase there (even if it's a cabin-size hard bag of 22 inch), you may not be able to sit comfortably... it's a 7 and a half hour journey and often takes longer. 
     
    If a seat is going vacant, then you can keep your bag on that if it doesn't disturb any other passengers. There is also a small space behind the last row of seats... but that is often the first space to get used up. In any case, one is not supposed to get into a toy train's passenger coach with luggage that can cause inconvenience to others. 
     
    Yusuf (July 2024) 
    Hi Raj, Would like to know if we book a joy ride to Kurseong from Darjeeling and back on the same day, would it be beneficial as we get a 2:30 mins ride. Also are there any tourist spots near Kurseong station which we can cover in couple of hours. The fair would be pp 1500 Darjeeling-  Kurseong - Darjeeling and same for roundtrip to Ghoom and back (steam). How would be the scenery on the way to Kurseong and would you suggest this trip ? Thank you 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) July 2024 
    Hi, the toy train ride from Darjeeling to Kurseong is a nice idea if you want a longer ride. Actually, there are not much views between Darjeeling and Ghum other than in Batasia Loop. The ride beyond Ghum towards Kurseong is scenic at several places... but, it's mostly the same as what you see when you approach Darjeeling by car... the toy train track runs mostly parallel to the road on this stretch. 
     
    Once you reach Kurseong, you can get back to Darjeeling by a shared or reserved cab as and when you want... the taxi stand is located next to the station area. Unless you get stuck in a traffic jam between Ghum and Darjeeling, this could be faster and more economical, plus you have the time flexibility. (Note: You may not always get shared taxis after 3pm). 
     
    There are no sightseeing spots near the Kurseong station area... you need to take a cab. All cab drivers there offer local sightseeing tours. Alternatively, you can spend some time checking out the stores in Kurseong market which starts from the station area and stretches along the Hill Cart Road (NH-110)... there are a few basic roadside stores and bakeries. By the way, bakeries in Kurseong are quite well known. 
     
    There are a few nice cafes here as well. The cafe 33 Dreams is located across the road and right opposite the station entrance... go to the top-floor terrace and you can get nice views of Kurseong town, the mountains and even Eagle Craig (a viewpoint). 
     
    There is another great cafe (Kurseong Diaries), a 2-minute walk from the station and on top of Hotel Amarjeet (4th floor)... take a window-side table for a view of Hill Cart Road below or the mountains. Good luck! 
     
    Sankar Haldar (August 2023) 
    Three questions : 
    1. Can I book a toy train joyride, pay for round trip, but board at Ghoom station and end journey at Darjeeling? 
     
    2. can I carry one backpack and one small suitcase in toy train ? Is it allowed ? 
     
    3. I believe, there will be toilet in the train, since journey from NJP to Darjeeling is about 8 hours. Thanks in advance. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2023 
    Hello, Below is my response to your questions... 
     
    1. Earlier, there was a provision to specify a separate boarding station while booking a train ticket, but that has been eliminated by the railways. So, the Ticket Checker can now release the seat if it goes empty. 
     
    However, since there is no other stoppage between Darjeeling and Ghum station, it is likely that the seat will remain unused and you can board at Ghum if you have paid the full round trip fare. 
     
    But, you must time it right and board the same train and the coach where your seat was allocated. Not sure though, why you want to get into such complications. 
     
    2. If you carry any luggage of any form, you need to manage it within the small leg space you get in front of your seat. 
     
    However, the NJP - Darjeeling passenger toy train usually has a luggage van attached to the end where you can keep your suitcases. 
     
    3. The coaches of passenger toy trains between NJP and Darjeeling usually have toilets at one end (mostly in AC Chair Car coaches, but may not be available in all non-AC coaches). The joyride toy trains between Darjeeling and Ghum, do not have toilets. 
     
    Hope this helps! 
     
    David McGill (July 2023) 
    Hi, do you have any information regarding when steam hauled trains are operated on the line in September and October please.  Thanks for your help, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) July 2023 
    Hi, you will need to check out the IRCTC website and see the schedule of the DHR trains... the name of the train indicates if it's a steam engine hauled one or not. 
     
    Renuka (June 2023) 
    The experience was very bad. The train gets delayed often and goes through Darjeeling city which is extremely dirty. There is nothing exciting about the ride. Wouldn't recommend this to any of the tourists. 
     
    Balaji Ramachandran (May 2023) 
    Travelled in April 23. Experience was very average. Small seats. Also cityscape was anything but beautiful. Worth only Rs. 500 per person. Sorry to say not recommended for the price and experience. 
     
    Kamal (March 2023) 
    Dear sir, I understand from your review that Steam is costlier than diesel because of the heritage and high maintenance but can you please let me know if the Vistadome is there in both diesel and steam train. 
     
    I would like to go with Rs 1000 per head ticket vs Rs 1500 for steam if diesel also has vistadome options. Please mention the train number if diesel has vistadome. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) March 2023 
    You will need to check IRCTC site for the list of toy trains that are available on your date... the trains will bear 'Vista' as part of their names if they have a Vistadome coach. Usually, a Vistadome coach is attached to steam engines. 
     
    Priya (January 2023) 
    Hi ... we are planning to visit Darjeeling in March 2023. I just want to know, if we want to go from Bijanbari to Darjeeling then which  station is preferable to board on a toy train ? Guide me please. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2023 
    Hi, there is no toy train station on the usual route between Bijanbari and Darjeeling unless you take a detour and come via Mariabong and Ghum... there is a toy train station at Ghum but this detour doesn't make sense and a toy train ride from Ghum may not work out for several reasons. It's better to come directly to Darjeeling and take a 2-hour round-trip toy train joy ride from Darjeeling station... usually, there are several joy rides daily. 
     
    Mrs B Banerjee (November 2022) 
    We have a plan for Kurseong from 13th December to 15th December '22 and like to return to NJP on 16th December '22 by toy train. 16th December is a Friday. Can we avail toy train for returning from Kurseong to NJP that day ? One more question-- is there any toilet facility with the coach ? As both of us (me and my husband) are seniors, it is necessary to know about toilet. What is the train no of the train (Kurseong to NJP) and what is the procedure for advance booking ? Advance thanks for your valuable answers. Waiting for your answers. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) November 2022 
    Presently there is no provision to book the toy train from Kurseong to NJP... the only option is to book from Darjeeling to NJP by paying the full fare and you can board at Kurseong. However, it is possible to book from Kurseong to Darjeeling and return... they add a slip coach at Kurseong to the train that comes from NJP where you can book seats. You can book online using the railway's website IRCTC.CO.IN. Coaches of the passenger trains operating between NJP and Darjeeling usually have a toilet each. 
     
    Zuber Bhatuk (October 2022) 
    Hello Sir, We visited Darjeeling between 22nd to 25th October. Everything was good but the toy train experience was the WORST. We paid ticket of Rs 1500 per person (total 9000 for 6 persons) and very disappointed with the services. We did toy train on 23rd Oct, timing 1:50PM. Few problems we faced as below. 
    1. It was sunny day and sun was coming to our face directly, no curtain in the train. 
    2. The window frame was full of coal sand, and If we open window, that coal sand comes inside train. 
    3. The toy train timing was 1:50PM to 3:45PM, and it covers a distance of 14KM. But still our train was late by 40 minutes. It reached by 4:25PM. 
    4. The engine failed 3 times during the journey, and train was standing on the roadside with full sunny rays on our faces. Our cab driver was saying, these are usual things with these trains, they don't do any maintenance of the trains and just robbing the people. 
     
    We had lots of expectation of this world heritage site seeing, but unfortunately we were very very disappointed with Toy Train. 
     
    Radhika VN (October 2022) 
    For toy train ride from NJP to Darjeeling, FC and AC coaches are there. Can you advice which one is preferred to have better view and enjoyment. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) October 2022 
    If you get a vistadome coach, the views will be much better, otherwise, it won't make much difference in views. The recently introduced train NJP DJ AC PASS (52539) has an AC vistadome coach, but it runs only 3 days a week. 
     
    Dr Farheen Khan (May 2022) 
    Hello, I want to know that whether I can carry my luggage in the Darjeeling toy train from NJP station to Darjeeling. Can you please tell me that is there a separate compartment for luggage or we have to carry the luggage with us... Please help. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) May 2022 
    The NJP-Darjeeling toy train has a luggage van at the end where you need to keep your luggage. You can not carry your suitcases in the passenger coaches. 
     
    Heiko Scharnberg, Germany (April 2022) 
    Hello Mr. Raj, first let me thank you for doing a excellent job on this website! It is very helpful! I was wondering whether it is possible to take a longer break (90-120min) in Ghum on the Joyride Trip (DJ-DJRZ), because it would be great to go the Monastery, when in Ghum. Thanks! 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2022 
    Hello, the train won't wait at Ghum station for more than 10 minutes and return to Darjeeling station. If you take a longer break and visit the Old Ghum Monastery, you will then need to get back by taxi. 
     
    Heiko Scharnberg, Germany (April 2022) 
    Alright Raj, thank you. As you didn't mention it, I conclude it is not possible to just board a different train for the trip back to Darjeeling. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2022 
    That's correct Heiko. A joyride ticket is issued for a specific ride (journey)... just like any normal train. The train number for each such ride is different and the combination of train no., date, class, coach no. and seat no. is unique for each ticket issued and those are printed on the ticket. So, if one misses a ride or fails to board, the same ticket can not be used to board another train. 
     
    Anabil Sarkar (April 2022) 
    Hello Raj, can you please tell me if there is any difference(s) between the diesel joyride and the newly put out joyride special toy trains, both the train types operating between Darjeeling and Ghum. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2022 
    Hello, I don't see any difference between the two... they are called specials because those rides have been temporarily introduced in addition to the regular rides because of the surge in demand. They are similar to Puja Specials that get introduced from Howrah/Sealdah during the Puja rush :) 
     
    Manish (April 2022) 
    Hi, Can you please confirm if all joy ride trains consist of Vista-dome coaches? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2022 
    No, all joyride trains do not have vista-dome coaches... only some of them do and they are clearly indicated on IRCTC website as part of the train names. 
     
    Abhi Ghosh (April 2022) 
    What are the cancellation charges for Toy Train? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2022 
    Hi, the cancellation charges of DHR toy trains are levied as per Indian Railways ticket cancellation policy and will depend on several factors including class of travel (AC Chair / First Class, etc), how many days/hours before the scheduled departure you are cancelling it, status of your ticket (confirmed/ waitlisted), etc. 
     
    Amit Goyal (March 2022) 
    Hello DJ Tourism Team, Is there any toy train ride from Kurseong to Darjeeling between 17th-20th March 2022? My kids want to take long toy train ride and I am avoiding 7hr long ride from NJP to DJ due to less time. There is no option except 52541 in IRCTC, which doesn't stop anywhere as per shown route. Please suggest. Will appreciate your response. Thanks, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) March 2022 
    Hello, the toy train Him Kanya (52546) runs between Kurseong and Darjeeling on the weekends... so, you can ride the train on the 19th or 20th of March, 2022. It starts at 1:15 pm from Kurseong and reaches Darjeeling at 4.05 pm, and has fist class coaches (Rs. 1000 per seat). You can book through the IRCTC website. 
     
    Mayukh Ray (February 2022) 
    I have booked tickets on the NJP to Darjeeling train (52541) for April 2022. However judging by the most recent comments here, it looks like that service is still not operational. Do you have any latest update on the train service from NJP to Darjeeling? Also the DHR site it seems does not provide any up-to-date information. Also if the service is available, does it start from the same NJP station where Darjeeling mail arrives from Kolkata? Or do I have to take a cab to somewhere else to board this train? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2022 
    The NJP-Darjeeling toy train is not yet operational. However, as per the IRCTC train schedule, the train will resume operation from 21st February 2022. The train leaves from NJP station itself. Once you arrive at NJP station, you need to get to the right platform to board the toy train. 
     
    Ashwini Pailoor(February 2022) 
    We took a taxi to Darjeeling station and bought tickets for a joy ride on the toy train. It was fun. We got some good photographs of ourselves in Batasia Loop and Ghum station. It was really cold, around 2 - 3 degrees, and this kind of weather was new to us. We shivered and froze and still enjoyed the ride. We bought some snacks at Ghum and munched it while on our way back up. 
     
    Diali Chandra (February 2022) 
    In the Joy ride can I ride with my Golden Retriever? He is very calm and a friendly baby. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2022 
    According to Indian Railways guidelines, dogs can be carried either in boxes in luggage vans or alternatively in AC First Class or First Class coaches provided the entire cabin is booked by the passenger or the group, and there is a separate charge for the dog. Since the joyride toy trains have no cabins or luggage vans, you can not ride with your dog. 
     
    Greg Schlotthauer (December 2021) 
    Hello, I keep getting error messages on the IRCTC website trying to book a train from Darjeeling to Kurseong on Jan. 21. The system only allows me to book from Darjeeling to Ghum. Is this an error? On Jan. 21, I really want to travel in the Toy Train from Darjeeling as far as I can go. Please advise. Also, there are 8 departures from Darjeeling, are ALL of them on a "Toy Train"?  
     
    Hello from New York and I really appreciate any info you have. Every time I contact IRCTC they give me confusing information referring me to websites or phone numbers in India that do not answer my query. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2021 
    Hello, there is no train from Darjeeling to Kurseong on Jan 21, and therefore it shows the error. Presently, the toy train between Darjeeling and Kurseong (known as Him Kanya) runs only on weekends. So, if you try for 22nd or 23rd Jan (Saturday / Sunday), you will be able to book the ticket. It departs Darjeeling at 8:30am and reaches Kurseong at 11am. 
     
    All departures from Darjeeling are by Toy Trains... it's a narrow-gauge track here and only toy trains can run on that. Some departures from Darjeeling to Ghum are by steam engine pulled trains while others are by diesel engine hauled ones... that's the only difference. The one from Darjeeling to Kurseong is a diesel engine hauled train. 
     
    Greg Schlotthauer (December 2021) 
    Perhaps you know how much I appreciate getting a personal and understandable response. Thank you very very much. I'm so excited to go back to India in January. 
     
    Mantasha Ahmed (September 2021) 
    Hi All. This is to bring to your kind attention that never ever plan to take the toy train from NJP to Darjeeling. It is the most tragic, pathetic and uncomfortable ride I had ever experienced in my life. Though IRCTC shows the coaches to be AC CC but they don't even have fans. The seats are all very uncomfortable. Their charges are very high but they don't even bother to take care of the basic need of the passengers. I went with my husband and 3 kids aged 10,5 & 2 years respectively. The train had to wait at Sukna for more than an hour because there was some tree which had fallen on the tracks. Instead of 5:30 pm the train reached Darjeeling at 7:30 pm. The view also was not clear since the sides of the tracks are having overgrown wild bushes. I think DHR should take some immediate steps to take care of their heritage toy train. The joy ride which is for 2 hours is recommended. Thanks 
     
    Sanjoy Basak (September 2021) 
    Is it possible to book a ticket for Ghoom- Darjeeling-Ghoom toy train ride. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2021 
    No, that's not possible. The Toy Train Joyride is a return trip that originates from Darjeeling station. 
     
    Mangalya (July 2021) 
    Hello, I just wanted to know if we plan Darjeeling trip in August last-weekend, what will be the status of toy train journey at that time? Last time I took the train from Jalpaiguri... is the route same... Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) July 2021 
    Hi, there is only one track route of the DHR toy train... from NJP (New Jalpaiguri) to Darjeeling via stations such a Kurseong, Ghum etc. Presently NJP-Darjeeling train is not operational due to Covid19 as well as landslides along the way. Whether it will be operational in August 2021 will depend on the prevailing Covid situation and how quickly the landslide-caused damages get repaired. However, joyrides are available from Darjeeling up to Ghum and back. 
     
    Disha (January 2021) 
    After Covid, we will be traveling to Darjeeling. I wanted to ask whether the toy train will be operational or not? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2021 
    The toy train joyride from Darjeeling to Ghum and back is currently operational. The one from NJP to Darjeeling has not yet started. 
     
    Myriam Sonneveld (from Eindhoven, The Netherlands) December 2020 
    Hi Raj, thank you for all your information on Darjeeling and Sikkim. Great help! I hope to come in October 2021, after covid and having been vaccinated. 
     
    I'd love to do the toy train. Is the train from NJP to Darjeeling back on track? I will arrive midday in Bagdogra. Option is hotel in Siliguri, next day 08.30 hrs train to Darjeeling, with luggage. Other option is transport (pre ordered taxi) from Bagdogra to Darjeeling and do the loop from Darjeeling, without luggage. Apparently train and cars follow approx the same route? So the experience of scenery is much the same but more comfortable by car? Thanks for your help! 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2020 
    Hi, NJP to Darjeeling toy train route is still not operational (it would be soon), but the joy ride loop from Darjeeling was restarted on Christmas Day. From Bagdogra, the taxi usually takes the route via Rohini which joins the main road (NH-110) to Darjeeling at Kurseong and roughly at the midpoint between NJP and Darjeeling. So, you will basically follow the next half of the route along the toy train track except for some sections and the track loops like Batasia. 
     
    Personally, I find this second part of the main road more interesting and scenic compared to the first part. And the cab journey from Bagdogra (once you go past Matigara) along the Rohini route up to Kurseong too is quite scenic. So if you take the cab from Bagdogra airport and later do the joy ride loop on the toy train from Darjeeling, you should enjoy best of both the worlds :) 
     
    The 7-hour toy train journey at snail pace all the way from NJP/Siliguri to Darjeeling can be uncomfortable for some. And it is not unusual for the train to run late. And on this end-to-end route, there is no option to avail a steam engine hauled train which is the original one and part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites... DHR only operates Diesel engine hauled trains on this long route to reduce pollution and time. 
     
    Ekta (November 2020) 
    Hello Raj, Hope you are doing well!!! I am planning to visit Darjeeling in the last week of December and hoping to experience the Joy ride. However, due to Covid, have heard it is not operating currently. Could you please help me if it's gonna resume? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) November 2020 
    Hi, booking is currently suspended by railways till further notice. There is no communication when this may resume. 
     
    Soumya (February 2020) 
    Hi Raj, Your website is very informative and well updated. I hope you would expand your website for other tourist destinations in West-bengal/India. Could you please suggest which toy train to book for joy ride, the steam one or the diesel one? Are facilities in both same? Tickets for Steam powered train is more expensive than diesel powered. Please suggest. Thanks! 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2020 
    Hi, coaches are the same for both steam and diesel toy train joy rides. Steam engines are more expensive to maintain and operate, plus steam engines are the main heritage of Darjeeling Himalayan Railways since the colonial era... so you pay a higher price in steam engine hauled trains to get the authentic heritage experience. 
     
    Varun Sharma (January 2020) 
    We have a plan to visit Darjeeling in April. Our hotel is in Ghum, hence wanted to travel one side either Darjeeling to Ghum or Ghum to Darjeeling instead of a round trip. My query is that as like joy ride (round trip) if we book single side journey, do we get the opportunity of train halt of 10 minutes in Batasai loop or the single journey train will pass the Batasia loop without halt? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2020 
    Joy Rides can only be booked for the round trip and not for the single journey... the joy ride toy trains stop at the Batasia Loop for 10 minutes. The other passenger toy trains that operate between Darjeeling and Ghum (where you can book one-way journey), do not stop at Batasia Loop. 
     
    Sumana Das (December 2019) 
    Hi,  you have described very elaborately but I would like to know about seating arrangement in Joy ride train. Could you please help in this matter. Thanks 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2019 
    Hi, most coaches have 4 (2+2) individual reclining seats in a row with an aisle in-between. 
     
    Chris H (July 2019) 
    Raj, Your website is excellent and we shall be following as many of your recommendations as we can when we visit Darjeeling in September. We have booked on the Darjeeling Mail (12343) from Kolkata Sealdah that is now scheduled to arrive at New Jalpaiguri at 08:15, and on the Toy Train to Darjeeling that leaves at 08:30. However, the Mail is often late at the moment, sometimes well over an hour late. Will the Toy Train wait at New Jalpaiguri until the Darjeeling Mail arrives, or do I need to rebook on another, earlier train from Kolkata instead? Many thanks for any advice you can give us. Very best regards. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) July 2019 
    Hi, the toy train is not supposed to wait unless it too gets late for some reason (which is not uncommon either). There is no official communication that the toy train would wait, but I guess it does if Darjeeling Mail is late by few minutes and not hours. In order to ensure the ride from NJP, you need to book a train from Kolkata that reaches NJP earlier. Alternatively, if Darjeeling Mail is late by an hour or so, you can take a taxi, go up to Kurseong and board the same toy train there (it departs Kurseong at 12:56pm). That would be a much shorter ride, but perhaps the best part of the ride. 
     
    Mihir Kumar (July 2019) 
    I am coming to NJP on 4th Nov 2019 and would like to take steam engine toy train ride from NJP to Darjeeling but in IRCTC website steam engine is not shown. Are steam engines operated from NJP to Darjeeling? It shows NJP DJ PASSENGER (52541) train. Thanks in advance for your tip. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) July 2019 
    There is no steam engine operated toy train from NJP to Darjeeling. For that you need to take a 2-hour joy ride from Darjeeling. 
     
    Rupa (July 2019) 
    I want to speak about Darjeeling toy train as I went with high hopes. First I want to talk about the station. It's really in a very poor condition. Such a small station but administration is unable to maintain it properly. People come from different places thinking money would be worth such a visit. Surrounding of station is also full of dirt, uncountable garbage. Now about the toy train, they charge Rs 1000 for diesel  and Rs 1600 for steam engine toy train which is a huge amount for the track from Darjeeling to Ghoom and then back to Darjeeling. It takes only one and half hours in which there is 10 minute break in Batasia Loop and half an hour in Ghoom and it also travels through dirty surroundings. There is no proper restaurants. Highly unsatisfied. 
     
    Sourav (May 2019) 
    Please let me know the distance from the toy train station at Darjeeling to Mall road, how can we reach the station from Mall road and how long will it take. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) May 2019 
    It's about 25-minute uphill walk. You can also take a taxi to get off at Gorkha Bhawan on Mall Road. Some people confuse Nehru Road (Keventers to Chowrasta Mall) as the Mall road, that would take about 20 minutes walk. 
     
    Suresh V (April 2019) 
    Hi Sir, I have a first class ticket from Siliguri to Darjeeling toy train. Grateful if you could guide me on the following -  
     
    1. Whether there is a separate luggage van in this train 
    2. Can we avail this luggage facility from Siliguri Jn also or only from NJP 
    3. Do we need to book ticket separately for the luggage 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2019 
    Hi, yes there is usually a luggage van in this train. There is no separate booking required for storing your luggage. It will be difficult to avail that at Siliguri Jn because the train stops there only for 5 minutes, but possible if you can manage the logistics through station master's office. 
     
    Vinodh (March 2019) 
    Sir, I knew that both Joy toy train and Normal toy train would follow the same track from one of your many Posts. I just want to know whether the Normal Train, that is the train from NJP to DJ would take this Circular Loop (Batasia loop) or only the Joy toy train would cover that loop? Thanks in advance for your answer. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) March 2019 
    Hello, NJP to Darjeeling toy train also takes the same route from Ghum onwards going along the Batasia loop. The only difference is, the joy ride train stops at Batasia loop for 10 minutes so that one can get off and enjoy the views around. The NJP Darjeeling train won't stop at Batasia. 
     
    Sandra (January 2019) 
    Hi Raj, Namaste. I will be visiting Darjeeling next month February. I would like to take the toy train journey. Can you recommend which is the nicest and more popular train journey. Thank you. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2019 
    Hi, steam engine hauled toy train joyride is more popular... a morning train would give you better chances of views from Batasia loop. 
     
    Rati Satish Chunletia (December 2018) 
    Hi Raj, Can we have just one way ride to Ghoom through toy train and then go around the monastery and near by areas and return by another train or by a sharing vehicle. We are to visit during new year. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2018 
    Hi, you can get off at Ghum but can not board another toy train with the same tickets. Once you visit the monastery, you can walk back to the taxi stand and take a shared Jeep back to Darjeeling lower town (Chowk Bazaar). 
     
    Gary Collinson (November 2018) 
    Namaskar, I will be in India in February 2019. Is the toy train between NEW JALPAIGURI DARJEELING operating in February 2019. Await your response so I can plan my tour. Thank you very much - Dhanyawad. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) November 2018 
    Hello Gary, the toy train between NJP and Darjeeling is presently operational and unless for any unforeseen circumstances, it should continue to operate in February as well. You can check availability in Indian Railways website (irctc.co.in). Regards. 
     
    Michael Gill (October 2018) 
    Please can you confirm whether the DHR is running at the moment? I have bought a ticket from New Jalpiguri to Darjeeling in November but some websites say that the service is suspended due to a landslide? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) October 2018 
    NJP to Darjeeling train is currently suspended although DHR is operational between Kurseong and Darjeeling as well as for the Joy Ride (Darjeeling - Ghum - Darjeeling). Administration is working on clearing out the debris which is expected to be done in the next few days. A major festival time (Durga Puja) starts from October 15 when tourist arrivals would surge and they are targeting to complete the work by then. So I think in November there should not be an issue. 
     
    Debjyoti Roy (August 2018) 
    Dear Raj, I'm planning to visit Darjeeling in Dec 2018. Your blogs are excellent. I found Joy Rides are very costly & sometimes canceled. So, I booked DJ KGN NJ Train (52588) from DJ (4pm) to Ghum (4.30pm) at Rs. 30 only. In the evening time, how to go back from Ghum Station to Darjeeling Mall? Is there any shared vehicle available at evening time? What would be the cost? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2018 
    Ghum to Darjeeling road route is quite busy... you might get a shared jeep around that time. Otherwise private taxi would be the other option (which too would be far more economical compared to joy ride fare). Shared jeep would take you up to Chowk Bazaar (lower town) and then you need to walk up to the Mall. 
     
    Harpreet (August 2018) 
    Dear Sir, Thanks for providing great information. I am planning to visit Darjeeling in first week of October'18. I have read lot of information and reviews. I was about to book tickets for joy ride (2 hours) . However, after reading reviews I'm confused. Most people are saying the route is not good. There are lot of shops & so on. Now, I am confused between Darjeeling to Ghum and from Kurseong to Darjeeling. Please Help. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2018 
    Kurseong to Darjeeling train will also go through Ghum station and then take the same last stretch up to Darjeeling. There are shops close to the track when the train passes through townships, and there are several scenic stretches as well. Kurseong to Darjeeling would have more number of scenic stretches and also more number of townships along the way. 
     
    Rafi (August 2018) 
    Hello, I want to go Darjeeling from Shilliguri and stop at Ghum. From Ghum via toy train reach Darjeeling. My question... is there availability of toy train from Ghum to Darjeeling? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2018 
    You can book one that comes from Kurseong or NJP (check the timings) and board at Ghum. 
     
    Paramartha Chakraborty (May 2018) 
    I am travelling from NJP to DJ with my family. I have already booked toy train tickets from NJP to DJ (Train No.: 52541). Just wanted to know whether the Joy Ride from DJ to Ghum (the 2 hours one) is the one I should go for? And, do these basically cover the same places? Could you compare the two journeys? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) May 2018 
    The route from Ghum to Darjeeling (about 7kms) is the same for both the journeys including Batasia Loop. The only difference is... the train on joyride stops at Batasia for 10 minutes allowing passengers to enjoy the views and also at Ghum station for 30 minutes for visiting the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum. Additionally in Joyride you have a choice of riding a steam or diesel engine hauled train while the one from NJP is always diesel engine hauled. 
     
    Ranjith (May 2018) 
    The ticket cost for joyride is too expensive, the journey is not that worth. The train passes through crowded markets and you will hardly enjoy the view of the valley or the mountains. its construction everywhere and not even an inch of space is left for enjoying the view from the train. If you want to see the train you can go to Darjeeling station or Batasia or Ghoom and take a closer look at the steam engine. Overall Darjeeling is a crowded over exploited tourist place which is already saturated. This is a classic example of what mindless tourism development can do to a place. 
     
    Sayantan (March 2018) 
    In order to reach Darjeeling station for joyride how to reach there from club side. Are there any shared jeeps available? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) March 2018 
    Shared jeeps are occasional at Clubside (i.e. below Planters Club). You can easily walk down to the station (15-20 minute downhill walk, less than a kilometer). 
     
    Gerard Bain, UK (February 2018) 
    What station do you pick the toy train up in Siliguri? Many thanks. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2018 
    Hi, in Siliguri the station is Siliguri Junction. The starting station is the one prior - NJP (New Jalpaiguri). 
     
    Chitra (January 2018) 
    Hi, I read so many of your articles and they are so informative. It's like Encyclopedia of Darjeeling. Seriously I mean it.  I wanted to know about Darjeeling Himalayan toy train. We are planning in last week of February 2018 and our hotel is Sterling Ghoom. Can we go from Ghoom to Darjeeling ? Or Darjeeling to Ghoom only .. which one do you suggest ? Or is it mandatory to go from Darjeeling to Ghoom and return to Darjeeling? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2018 
    Hi, currently you can board the toy train Joyride from Darjeeling for a 2-hour return journey although you can get off at Ghum if you want (but you pay for entire return trip). For Ghum to Darjeeling one way journey you can avail one of the two other passenger toy trains... one coming from NJP and the other from Kurseong. The route from Ghum is the same as joyride. 
     
    Sanjida Khan (November 2017) 
    I am Sanjida khan from burdwan west Bengal.. Want to go Darjeeling on 29th December 2017. Please inform me does the toy train run between NJP To Darjeeling ? Can I book ticket from irctc website ? But I searched for the train running status 52541 ...then it shows train canceled... Please help me ..thank you. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) November 2017 
    You need to keep checking the irctc website. Currently it shows cancelled because there is not enough tourist demand. 
     
    Katja (September 2017) 
    Hello,  we will travel to Darjeeling in October. As we fly to Siliguri and want to take the Toy Train to Darjeeling, we are wondering if we need a ticket for the train in advance, or if we can book it in Siliguri. We arrive Friday, 13th October, and want to take the train Monday, 16th October (therefore we have some days to organise permits and tickets). Thank you very much for your help, kind regards. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2017 
    Hi, toy train is not operating currently due to unrest in Darjeeling. You can check in irctc (railway) site few days before your departure and book if available. 
     
    George from Australia (August 2017) 
    Hi, You advise that the Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling No 52541 runs Monday, Wednesday & Friday. On the irctc.co.in website you can book 7 days a week. Is there more than one Toy Train that does this trip? We are planning to get this train on a Thursday if it runs otherwise we have to spend another night in Siliguri and go on a Friday. Can you please advise. Kind Regards, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2017 
    Hi, the toy train schedule changes frequently. Currently it's not operational due to political unrest in Darjeeling. Although irctc website might show available seats for future dates, the status might be updated later. So do check the status and weekly schedule few days before your planned arrival. 
     
    S Roy (June 2017) 
    Hi,  I am Dr. Roy.  Can you please guide me about the permissible baggage allowance for Toy train from NJP to Darjeeling as i am planning to travel this month end with 5 family members. Am in Pune and your guidance will help me plan my vacation. Regards. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2017 
    Hi, NJP to Darjeeling toy train has a luggage van (coach) attached. There is no luggage allowance as such (like any other trains). Heavy luggage has to be kept in the luggage van and not in the passenger coach. 
     
    Sujeet (June 2017) 
    Hi Raj, I am planning to visit Darjeeling next month and I am interested in taking Toy train ride from NJP to Darjeeling or Darjeeling to NJP. any one way is fine for me. I have few doubts about the Toy Train ride and I hope you can guide me about it: 
     
    1. Is the Toy Train between NJP and Darjeeling operational? IRCTC is showing that tickets are available but some websites report that Toy Train between NJP and Darjeeling is not Operational. 2. Will I lose my money if I book the tickets through IRCTC and later I see that there is not train from NJP to Darjeeling?  3. Fare for Toy Train between NJP and Darjeeling is INR 1300 per person. Is the journey worth paying 1300 for 7 hours ride? Many people has mentioned that the Journey is not worth the money. It's dirty and boring.  Please advice. Thanks in advance.  
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2017 
    You should go by IRCTC website to know if the train is running for a day and book it. Like any other train, if it gets cancelled, the cancellation policy will apply and you can claim refunds. Enjoying the 7-hour ride is quite subjective and depends on the individual concerned. Many like to trace the entire historic narrow gauge DHR route to go through all stations, loops and zig-zags ... for them the journey has a different meaning compared to those who are looking only for enjoyment and views. If you belong to the second category, you can instead consider the 2-hour joyride from Darjeeling. 
     
    Also note... toy trains have no toilets in most coaches... for some it can cause discomfort. If you do plan to take the full ride, you can also consider taking the train from Siliguri (i.e. Siliguri Junction) ... you can avoid the train journey through the traffic congested plains. 
     
    Sankar V (June 2017) 
    I am planning to visit Darjeeling and return to NJP by toy train.  Will it cover steam ride and forest ride? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2017 
    Darjeeling to NJP is a diesel engine hauled train.... you will pass through the forested area near the plains. 
     
    Preeti Bhide (April 2017) 
    Dear Mr. Raj, You have a wonderful forum. I have a question about taking the train to Darjeeling. My parents are visiting Darjeeling and arrive at Bagdogra on 30th April at around noon. I would like to book them on the train to Darjeeling but noticed that there is only one departure at 8:30am. Is there a possibility to join the same train at another station by catching up with a taxi, or is there a later train from Kurseong or some other station. Please advise. Thanks in advance for your help. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2017 
    First check if NJP - Darjeeling toy train is at all available on the day. They can try to catch the train from Kurseong, there are also other trains from Kurseong to Darjeeling. Check the train schedules from irctc website. But if they carry heavy luggage, then it can be a problem boarding the train from an intermediate station because only the one from NJP has a luggage van, and one can not keep heavy luggage in passenger coaches. 
     
    Tim Alexander (April 2017) 
    Hello, I am planning a trip to India starting this coming June. I plan to travel from Calcutta to Darjeeling in mid-june, and I want to take the toy train. I know that I first have to get from Sealdah to NJP, but after this I am not so sure what to do. This is because whilst I also know that ordinarily I could get the toy train from NJP straight to Darjeeling - because of damaged tracks at Tindharia - I can only board the toy train from Kurseong. This is my problem - I cannot find how to get from NJP to Kurseong + I can also not actually find where I can book the toy train. Regarding the latter, I know the station codes etc - but when I search for them on train booking websites they do not appear! Please help! Much appreciated if you do!! Thank you. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2017 
    Hi, the track has been repaired quite sometime back. You can board the train from NJP or Siliguri, however it runs on few days of the week. You can book your seat from Indian railway site irctc.co.in . 
     
    Brenda D. (February 2017) 
    Hi Raj, I plan on boarding the Toy Train at Siliguri.  Will there be enough room in the luggage van for my medium sized suitcase?  Also, how long is this portion of the trip? Thanks so much.   
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2017 
    Hi, yes... medium size suitcase is okay. Will take nearly 6.5 hours to Darjeeling. 
     
    J K Parikh (January 2017) 
    Dear RAJ, I went through many of your posts. Hats off to you. You are offering a great help to tourists. My query is that if I travel via Road DARJEELING TO NJP VIA MIRIK. Then also, is the toy train trip is so different that I need to incorporate it in my itinerary? Thanks... 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2017 
    Mirik route meets the main hill cart road at Ghum. This road runs parallel to the toy train track. So from Ghum onward up to Darjeeling (about 25 minutes drive) you will get similar views as toy train except that the toy train also traverses the wonderful & fascinating Batasia Loop which you can not really see from the road. But you can certainly get off the vehicle and enter the loop. Most tourists consider riding the heritage toy train an experience by itself, leave aside the views. 
     
    Dipanshu Yadav (November 2016) 
    Hi Raj, I must say that this is a very helpful website and you are helping a lot of travelers by providing your comments. I have a question though, I am not able to find that jungle safari train from SGUJ to SGUD as mentioned by you. Is that train run everyday? if not, which train I must take to enjoy nature and landscape. Thanks and Regards, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) November 2016 
    Jungle Safari is usually a seasonal train. You can take the regular toy train from NJP to Darjeeling (it does not run everyday though). This train also goes through the same stations as Jungle Safari. You can go all the way to Darjeeling (about 7 hours) or get off at Kurseong and take a road transport, like a private or shared taxi. 
     
    Sandhya Sunil (September 2016) 
    Hi, We were planning on a trip to Darjeeling from Kolkata in December. Wanted to know can we do say from NJP to Darjeeling we travel by toy train part way & then taxi, or alternatively taxi part way first and then the toy train? If so what would the recommended route be & which one affords the better scenic experience? Thanks 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2016 
    What you take first (taxi or toy train) will depend on toy train timings and the time when you reach NJP. One possibility is take a taxi up to Kurseong and then toy train. All toy trains from NJP pass through Kurseong plus there are toy trains that start from Kurseong for Darjeeling. So check your arrival time and toy train timings, and plan accordingly. 
     
    Meher Sangle (September 2016) 
    Hi Raj, Thank you for the amazing details that you have taken the trouble of writing down for all of us. Just a quick question. My mother and her collugues are travelling to Darjeeling for a conference and have a Return flight from Bagdogra. I have recommended that they take the toy train upto Siliguri instead of a car, halt near NJP /Siliguri for the night and then proceed to the Bagdogra. I understand that the train stops at stations will compensate for not having bathroom on-board ? Correct? Thanks a ton! 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2016 
    Hi, unfortunately the toy trains briefly stop at the intermediate stations and such stops can not be used for toilet breaks. In fact most stations along the route do not have toilets. So alternatively she can get off at Kurseong (half way), take a cab and go down to a hotel in Siliguri or Bagdogra. 
     
    Azeem (August 2016) 
    Hi Raj,  Is it true that 52541 toy train from NJP to DJ doesn't have toilets?? I am planning for Darjeeling trip in September this year with my parents who are aged. I believe it will be a big problem if the train doesn't have toilets. What is the alternative if the doesn't have one? 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2016 
    Most Darjeeling toy trains do not have toilets in the coaches. If that's a problem, go for a shorter ride (like the 2-hrs Joy Ride from Darjeeling, alternatively 3-hrs one way ride from Kurseong to Darjeeling or the reverse). 
     
    Vanshul Pali (June 2016) 
    Hi Raj, thank you for uploading all the relevant stuff regarding the travel to Darjeeling. It's because of this I am able to understand and make an itinerary for my family to make a visit to Darjeeling. I am planning to come down to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in the month of September. My train (Dibrugarh Rajdhani Exp) reaches NJP at around 10:45 AM. I want to take the RED PANDA train from kurseong to Darjeeling which leaves at 02:00 PM from Kurseong. I have like a 3 hour window, will it be sufficient for me to make it on time? Thanks. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2016 
    If your train reaches on time, you can easily reach Kurseong by taxi before Red Panda leaves. It takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to reach Kurseong from NJP. 
     
    Manish Mote (May 2016) 
    Sir, I along with my 8 family members are schedule to visit Kurseong. And then we will move to Darjeeling. I get to know that Toy train is running from Kurseong to Darjeeling. Also joyride is there in Darjeeling. Joy ride is costlier than toy train ride. So, what are the main differences between these rides, whether the train appearance is different? Or we will get the different experience in joy ride? Main motto of our journey will be surrounding nature. But, if we got some special experience in joyride train, then I can go for its booking. Thank you sir. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) May 2016 
    Kurseong to Darjeeling train is a regular commuter train pulled by diesel engine and mostly availed by the locals. It makes several stops at the stations in between. However goes along the same track as the joy ride from Ghum onwards. So you will pass by the same places. The Joy Ride is meant for tourists, has only first class coaches and all services (except the first one in the morning) are hauled by original steam engines. It stops at Batasia for views and also at Ghum station for visit to the DHR museum (entry included in ticket price). 
     
    Arundhati Sawant (April 2016) 
    Hello Raj, Thank you for your valuable information. Please can you let me know what is the best time of the day to take the train. I know it would be dependent on lots of variable factors like weather, etc but assuming ideal conditions, what would be the best time to take the 2 hr joy ride? We will be there in the first or second week of May 2016. On the railways website I see steam or diesel options. The earliest steam engine option is at 10:40am. There is another steam engine journey in the evening. The one that starts at 8am is the diesel engine. Thank you. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2016 
    The earliest train is usually best for the views. If steam engine is a must do for you, then the one at 10:40am should be the choice. 
     
    Nitesh Jain (April 2016) 
    Hi Raj, I am planning to come to Darjelling in last week of April. My toy train tickets are already booked from NJP to Darjeeling. I would like to know that "Toy Train Joyride - Darjeeling to Ghum & Back " is a worthy trip? As we are already travelling on this route from NJP to DJ. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2016 
    Since you are already taking the regular toy train, you need not take the joy ride again as you will also go by the places which the joy ride covers. 
     
    Sathya Dev (February 2016) 
    Hi Raj, If I take the Darjeeling Mail 12343 from Kolkata to NJP which arrives at New Jalpaiguri by 8:00 am, is it practically possible to catch the Darjeeling Toy Train #52541 that leaves NJP to Darjeeling by 8:30am ? Also do we get enough luggage space in the Toy Train for a comfortable journey that lasts 7.5 hours. If your response is encouraging I prefer to take this option rather than a taxi from NJP to Darjeeling. Really appreciate your time and expert advice. Best regards. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2016 
    Usually a luggage van is attached to the toy train between NJP and Darjeeling, so luggage won't be an issue. The time could be short unless Darjeeling Mail reaches on or before time, and all of you have able legs to walk fast or even run. 
     
    Nitin L (February 2016) 
    Dear Raj, Not seen a better travel website than yours. Simple, Easy to read, very informative. Can't stop from asking the below query. I am traveling with my parents around end of March. After taking the jungle safari from Siliguri, will it be possible to cover Mirik site seeing and then go to Darjeeling. If so, what is the latest time by which one should leave Mirik for Darjeeling. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) February 2016 
    During Jungle Safari, get off at Sukna on your return instead of going all the way back to Siliguri Junction. You will pass by Sukna anyway on your way to Mirik. Leave Mirik by 3:30pm if you like to travel in daylight and spend a few minutes at Simana. 
     
    Beth Ann Klink (January 2016) 
    Greetings Mr. Bhattacharya! I have read almost every word of your website in preparation for a trip to West Bengal and, specifically, Darjeeling district; and I have found it to be incredibly helpful. Thank you for this labor of love. We are being asked to provide scanned and e-mailed copies of our passports to a tour operator (Nature Beyond) we have engaged in order to secure room reservations at Jaldapara Tourist Lodge and toy train tickets from Kurseong to Darjeeling (among other services). Please forgive us, but his is our first trip to India, and we are wondering if this is usual practice as we are somewhat concerned given we have never been asked to provide this information to tour operators in other countries. Many thanks for any guidance you can provide. Sincerely. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) January 2016 
    Good day, while booking toy train tickets across the counter, a valid photo Id (photocopy of passport for foreigners) is required. This is however not a requirement for hotel booking. Some government hotels may ask for photo id number (like driving license number) at the time of booking, but not the private hotels. At the time of check in, it is mandatory to show your photo Id though (like passport) at all hotels in India. 
     
    For Toy Train booking, the easiest is to book online through irctc.co.in website (Indian Railways). While registering for a user account, it will however ask for an Indian mobile phone number where confirmation and other SMSs would be sent. That is the only problem for foreigners. Tour operators can also do your online train booking through their own irctc registered account. Not sure why they are not doing it for your toy train booking in this case and instead proposing to do it manually across the counter and asking for passport copy. You can get into a dialogue with them on this. 
     
    Beth Ann Klink (January 2016) 
    Dear Raj: Thank you so very much for your timely reply! The information you provide is not only helpful in regard to my initial question but also explains why I have been unable to set up an irctc account (I have been providing a USA, rather than an Indian, cell phone number), which led to my seeking assistance from a tour operator. I will proceed as you suggest in every regard. Again, many thanks, and we are very excited to experience Darjeeling! Sincerely, Beth Klink 
     
    B Mondal (December 2015) 
    Hi! I want to know whether I need to carry food while travelling in the Toy Train from NJP to Darjeeling? Its 7.5Hrs journey so food and toilet is essential for such a long time. Thank you 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2015 
    Carry food if you need. No food or water is served on the train. Neither there are any toilets in most Toy Train coaches. 
     
    Jürgen Heckmann (December 2015) 
    Hello Raj, in March 2016 we would like ride Toy Train to Darjeeling. What is the better railway station for tourists Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri ? New Jalpaiguri is a very big junction and perhaps it's not so easy to find the right train, but the train starts in the morning and we have a lot of time. What station would you prefer ? Many thanks for your help. Best wishes and warm regards from Germany. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) December 2015 
    Hi, I personally prefer the station Siliguri Junction to board the toy train for Darjeeling. The main reason being the train comes from NJP and waits here for 35 minutes (from 8.55am to 9:30am). You can avoid wasting time if you board from Siliguri (note the station is Siliguri Junction and not Siliguri Town, they are 3kms apart). This part of the ride (i.e. on the lower plains of Siliguri) is not very interesting either. However if you have reached NJP by train and want to connect to the Toy Train, then NJP would be a convenient option. 
     
    Arijit Gangooly (September 2015) 
    Hi, Your site is super duper informative. So thought of seeking clarity from you. We have some tickets confirmed in first class in the morning train from Kurseong to Darj, and some unconfirmed. Can the waitlisted board the train? Having a seat is not an issue, as I want to enjoy the experience. Are there any unreserved compartments available, or can he board the 2S? Regards, 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) September 2015 
    Hi, wait-listed passengers can not board the train. There is no unreserved compartment, all seats are allocated. 
     
    Richard Le Mare (August 2015) 
    Hello Raj, Your website is fantastic and so full of very useful information. Thank you. We are visiting your beautiful corner of the world in mid-October, from UK. Of course we want to travel on the toy train. Is it possible to get on it in Siliguri? have heard that there has been a landslide and a section of the line is closed. Is this true? If it is closed, where is the first station that we can get on the train after Siliguri? Many many thanks for your help. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2015 
    Hi, NJP-Darjeeling toy train re-started in June but had to be suspended again due to further damages to the track in monsoon. However it's operational between Kurseong and Darjeeling (daily two services). You can either board from Kurseong, or take a 2-hour joy ride from Darjeeling. 
     
    Richard Le Mare (August 2015) 
    Raj, Thanks a million times for your really helpful response. I think what we will do is get to Darjeeling by bus / taxi from Bagdogra when we arrive, and then leave Darjeeling by train to Kurseong, picking up a taxi / bus in Kurseong to get us to Bagdogra for our flight home, at the end of our holiday. Thanks so much for your help. 
     
    Balaji Balasubramani (August 2015) 
    Hi Raj, I looked at your site, and I found all the information very helpful. Thanks for providing those. I have one doubt... I am planning to take the Jungle Safari 10am train from Siliguri Jn and get down at Tindharia(12.20pm) or Gayabari(12.43 Pm). Is is possible to get down at Tindharia or Gayabari, if it's possible please suggest which is the best place to get down, since I plan to reach Kurseong from there, but I am not sure whether I can reach Kurseong from Tindharia or Gayabari through any means like Jeep or bus. And from Kurseong, I am planning to catch 3.00pm toy train and reach Darjeeling. Could you please let me know is this possible and if so will I be missing any scenery or important things that I shouldn't be when the train goes back to siliguri. I will be booking the Jungle Safari tickets for full length but if it's possible I will get down and move to Darjeeling via Kurseong. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) August 2015 
    Hi, you can not go beyond Gayabari towards Kurseong by road as the road is damaged since 2010. You need to return to Sukna and take a taxi to reach Kurseong via Rohini. 
     
    Sumanta Nandi (June 2015) 
    Hi Raj, You mentioned that NJP to DJ Toy Train Service has resumed. However I am unable to make a booking on IRCTC as it says 'No direct train found'. Do you have any update on this? Thanks & Regards 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2015 
    IRCTC takes time to incorporate into their database. However the NJP-Darjeeling train has been suspended temporarily because of rains and some large boulders falling on the track. 
     
    Noaman Rasheed (June 2015) 
    Dear Raj, I hav gone through ur website and have found it very informative and helpful. Still I have got few queries for my plan. It would be very kind if u could clarify them to me. 
     
    1) instead of taking the 2hr joyride trip from darjeeling to ghum I opt for darjeeling to kurseong regular morning train will it halt at batasia loop and ghum for sigh viewing as in case of joy ride train. 
    2) I am planing of having the jungle safari trip as well. Can u help me plan it so that I can have a halt at batasia loop, ghum and den go forward and enjoy the ride. 
     
    Kindly suggest. I would be waiting for your kind assistance. Do email me your reply. Regards 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) June 2015 
    Hi, regular toy trains don't stop at Batasia, but they stop at Ghum for couple of minutes. Jungle Safari train operates from Siliguri up to Gayabari and doesn't come up to Batasia or Ghum. 
     
    Amit Arora (April 2015) 
    Hi Raj, I was to travel by the 52547 Joyride at 4:05pm on 12th May, but the steep increase in fare has made me change my mind. Instead, I have booked First Class seats (Rs.140 per person) in the regular train service number 52588 departing Darjeeling at 4pm and reaching Ghum at 4:30pm. For returning from Ghum, I have booked the service 52545 departing Ghum at 5:08pm and reaching Darjeeling at 5:50pm. The downside of taking this option will be that there will be no 10 minute halt at Batasia loop and the engine will be diesel rather than steam. However, the saving will be substantial without much decrease in comfort and enjoyment, as I assume that the First Class coaches in the regular train will be the same as that in the Joyride. What do you think of this change in plan? I have not yet cancelled my Joyride tickets and waiting for your advice. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2015 
    Hi Amit, Overall a great move! If everybody starts thinking the same way, I imagine DHR would seriously start thinking of reverting their joyride fare. You can always cover Batasia separately if you are taking tour of Tiger Hill sunrise. It's covered under the standard 3-point tour. Otherwise on your way back from Darjeeling to NJP/Bagdogra, you can ask the taxi to stop at Batasia for 10 minutes. It's on the same route. I guess looking at a steam engine moving and taking its picture is arguably a better experience than riding it. You are right, first class coaches are all the same. However there could be one more downside to your move though... morning trains are usually better for views, chances of sky remaining clear in the morning half is higher than in the afternoon. This is where DHR may look at your move with a subtle smile at the corner of its lips ;) 
     
    Arijit Banerjee (April 2015) 
    Dear Raj, How are you? I am from Kolkata and would be reaching Darjeeling on 12th of April. We have booked the joy ride vide irctc but unfortunately we have got the 4 O'clock slot. There was no morning slot available at the time of booking. How is this time for the ride? I have read in the blog that you prefer morning ride but will this slot be worthwhile considering the fact that the sun would go down in sometime. Can we expect some visibility or should we consider it bad luck and let go off the ride and do something else. Need your suggestion. 
     
    Raj (darjeeling-tourism.com) April 2015 
    Hi, Suggest you go ahead with the ride and hope to get good views. In the morning you get bright lights and usually great view of Kanchenjunga snow peaks from Batasia loop.... ideal for photo shoots. The last train (at 4.05pm) will reach Batasia around 4:45pm. There will still be daylights for taking pictures. But in the afternoon, the peaks are not always visible as they get covered with cloud. But you may be lucky. However the flowering gardens of Batasia and the scenes on your journey will be equally enjoyable. 
     
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