From Darjeeling to Ooty: 5 toy train rides in India worth planning a trip around

Long before scenic road trips and mountain highways, India's toy trains were carrying travellers through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. Built during the colonial era and still running today, these narrow-gauge and mountain railways wind through forests, tea gardens, tunnels, bridges, and mist-covered hill stations at a pace that encourages passengers to slow down and take in the view.

Several of these historic railways have also earned UNESCO recognition, making them as much a cultural experience as a scenic one. Here are five toy train routes every traveller should try at least once.

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, West Bengal

Arguably India's most famous toy train, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been operating since 1881 and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow-gauge railway climbs from the plains to the hill town of Darjeeling, passing through tea estates, bustling markets, mountain villages, and dramatic loops that help the train gain altitude.

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One of the highlights is the iconic Batasia Loop, where travellers are treated to panoramic views of the Himalayas and, on clear days, Kanchenjunga. The steam-hauled joyrides between Darjeeling and Ghum are particularly popular among visitors.

2. Kalka–Shimla Railway, Himachal Pradesh

The Kalka–Shimla Railway is another UNESCO-listed mountain railway and one of India's greatest engineering achievements. Stretching nearly 96 kilometres, the route passes through more than 100 tunnels and hundreds of bridges as it climbs towards Shimla.

The slow journey offers stunning views of pine forests, valleys, and colonial-era stations that appear frozen in time. Travelling on this route feels less like a train ride and more like stepping into a vintage postcard.

3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu

Running between Mettupalayam and Ooty, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway is famous for its unique rack-and-pinion system, which helps the train navigate steep mountain gradients. The route climbs through dense forests, tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered hills before reaching the beloved hill station of Ooty.

The blue-and-cream train has become one of India's most photographed rail journeys and was famously featured in several Bollywood films.

4. Matheran Hill Railway, Maharashtra

For travellers seeking a quieter escape, the Matheran Hill Railway offers a charming ride through the Western Ghats. The route connects Neral to Matheran, one of India's few automobile-free hill stations.

As the train snakes through thick forests and mountain curves, passengers are rewarded with sweeping valley views and a refreshing break from city life. The experience feels delightfully old-fashioned, perfectly matching Matheran's laid-back atmosphere.

5. Kangra Valley Railway, Himachal Pradesh

While it may not enjoy the same global fame as some of India's UNESCO-listed mountain railways, the Kangra Valley Railway remains one of the country's most scenic train journeys. Running between Pathankot and Joginder Nagar, the route passes through lush valleys, terraced fields, rivers, and picturesque villages.

Snow-capped Himalayan peaks often appear in the distance, making this one of the most rewarding railway journeys for landscape lovers and photographers.