Kalka to Shimla

The Kalka to Shimla Toy Train is a narrow-gauge railway that travels through the picturesque Himachal Pradesh hills and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges, this picturesque trip spans over 96 kilometers and provides stunning vistas of valleys, pine forests, and little hill settlements. Travelers looking for a nostalgic and gorgeous ride to the hill town of Shimla love this famous mountain rail journey in India because of its slow, winding speed and vintage charm.

On the ancient Kalka–Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern India, runs the famous Himalayan Queen train. This picturesque trip connects Kalka in Haryana with Shimla in Himachal Pradesh over a distance of roughly 96 kilometers (60 miles). With 102 tunnels, more than 864 bridges, and over 919 twists, the road is renowned for its technical feats and provides travelers with breath-taking views of rocky mountains, thick pine forests, and tumbling waterfalls. Before arriving in Shimla, the train travels via 18 stations, including Dharampur, Solan, and Barog, in an average of 5 to 5.5 hours.

 

Kalka to Shimla

           

  1. State:Haryana
  2. Located in:Panchkula district, at the foothills of the Himalayas.
  3. Known for:Being the starting point of the Kalka–Shimla toy train and its proximity to Chandigarh.
  4. Name origin:Derived from the Hindu goddess Kali, with a prominent Kali Mata Temple in town.
  5. Significance:
  6. Kalka serves as a railhead for travelers heading to Himachal Pradesh.
  7. It's a quiet town, but a crucial connection point for tourists.
  1. State:Himachal Pradesh
  2. Located in:The mid-Himalayas at about 2,200 meters elevation.
  3. Known for:Colonial charm, scenic views, and cool weather year-round.
  4. Former Summer Capital:During British rule, Shimla was the summer capital of British India.
  5. Highlights:
  6. The Ridge & Mall Road– Popular walking streets with shops, eateries, and mountain views.
  7. Jakhoo Temple– Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched atop a hill.
  8. Christ Church– One of the oldest churches in North India.
  9. Scandal Point, Kufri, and Chadwick Falls– Great for sightseeing and adventure.

 

The Himalayan Queen leaves Kalka every day at 11:55 AM and reaches Shimla by 4:45 PM, taking approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete the trip. The train stops at important stations on its itinerary, such as Dharampur Himachal, Barog, and Shimla. Notably, the Barog station is well-known for both its longest tunnel and its picturesque surroundings. ​

Chair Car (CC) and First Class (FC) are the two seating classes available on the train. According to the most recent data, the prices are as follows:

Route and Schedule:

Departure:Kalka (KLK) at 11:55 AM​

Arrival:Shimla (SML) at 4:45 PM​

Duration:Approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes​

Distance Covered:Approximately 96 kilometers​

Stops:The train halts at several stations, including Dharampur Himachal (DMP) and Barog (BOF). ​

Extra Details:

A unique experience is provided by the train's passage through multiple tunnels and across scenic bridges, which offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a well-liked option for travelers who want to take in the allure of the Kalka-Shimla heritage railway.

 

Similar Train Travel News

San Antonio de los Cobres to Viaducto La Polvorilla countries

San Antonio de los Cobres to Viaducto La Polvorilla countries

San Antonio de los Cobresand Viaducto La Polvorilla are both located in Argentina, in the Salta Province in the northwest of the country. San Antonio de los Cobres: A high-altitude town situated at about 3,775 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains. It is known for its mining history, indigenous culture, and as a stop on the famous Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds). Viaducto La Polvorilla: A spectacular railway bridge located near San Antonio de los Cobres. It stands at 4,220 meters above sea level and is the most iconic part of the Tren a las Nubes route, showcasing impressive engineering in a dramatic mountainous landscape. The Salta Province in northwest Argentina is home to both the Viaducto La Polvorilla and San Antonio de los Cobres. About 13 kilometers from San Antonio de los Cobres stands the famous steel railway bridge known as the Viaducto La Polvorilla. It is one of the highest railway bridges in the world, rising 4,220 meters (13,845 ft) above sea level. The "Tren a las Nubes" (Train to the Clouds), a tourist train that travels through the picturesque Andes, includes this viaduct as one of its main features. Argentina is home to the full route, which includes the Viaducto La Polvorilla and San Antonio de los Cobres.​

More Info
Viedma to Bariloche

Viedma to Bariloche

San Antonio de los Cobres is a high-altitude town located in the Los Andes Department of Salta Province, Argentina. Situated at approximately 3,775 meters (12,385 feet) above sea level, it serves as a gateway to the Puna de Atacama region and is a key stop on the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) railway line. The town's name, which translates to "Saint Anthony of the Coppers," reflects its historical association with copper mining in the surrounding Sierra de Cobre. Today, San Antonio de los Cobres is known for its indigenous culture, traditional weaving, and as a starting point for tourists embarking on one of the world's highest train journeys. ​ The Tren a las Nubes is a renowned tourist train that traverses the rugged terrain of the Andes, culminating at the Viaducto La Polvorilla. This impressive steel viaduct, located about 13 kilometers from San Antonio de los Cobres, stands at an altitude of 4,220 meters (13,845 feet) above sea level. Spanning 224 meters in length and reaching a height of 63 meters, the viaduct is a testament to early 20th-century engineering. Constructed between 1930 and 1932 under the direction of engineer Richard Maury, it was designed to overcome the challenging topography of the region. Today, the Viaducto La Polvorilla remains a highlight of the Tren a las Nubes experience, offering passengers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. ​  

More Info
Alameda to  Chillán

Alameda to Chillán

Alamedais not a country but rather a city or county name found in several places, most notably in the United States. Alameda County is located in the state of California and includes cities like Oakland, Berkeley, and Fremont. The area is known for its cultural diversity, proximity to San Francisco, and key role in the technology and education sectors, particularly with the presence of institutions like the University of California, Berkeley. The county also boasts scenic waterfronts and a strong commitment to sustainability and green living. Chillán, on the other hand, is a city in central Chile, located in the Ñuble Region. It is known for its historical significance, including its connection to Bernardo O'Higgins, one of Chile’s founding fathers. Chillán is a regional economic and cultural hub, with notable attractions such as its cathedral, local markets, and nearby ski resorts in the Andes. The area is also known for agriculture and artisanal crafts, blending traditional Chilean culture with modern development.  

More Info
Viedma to Barilocheby

Viedma to Barilocheby

Viedma is a quiet city in southern Argentina, located near the Atlantic Ocean along the Río Negro River. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, historical charm, and proximity to nature, including coastal wildlife and scenic beaches. San Carlos de Bariloche, often just called Bariloche, is a picturesque city in the Andes, famous for its beautiful lakes, snow-capped mountains, and chocolate shops. It’s a top destination for skiing, hiking, and nature tourism in Argentina. The Palace on Wheelsis a luxury train operating exclusively in India, offering royal journeys through Rajasthan and other northern regions.It does not operate in Argentina, and therefore cannot be used for travel between Viedmaand Bariloche.​ Viedma to Bariloche by Train: Tren Patagónico For travel between Viedmaand San Carlos de Bariloche, the Tren Patagónicois the primary rail service:​ Route: Viedma → San Antonio Oeste → Valcheta → Sierra Colorada → Los Menucos → Maquinchao → Ingeniero Jacobacci → Clemente Onelli → Comallo → Pilcaniyeu → Bariloche Distance: Approximately 700 km (435 miles) Duration: Around 17.5 hours Departure: Typically departs from Viedma on Fridays at 3:00 PM Classes: First Class, Pullman, and Sleeper cabins Fares: Range from approximately $5 to $374, depending on class and booking time

More Info
Tokyo to Yokohama

Tokyo to Yokohama

Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the most populous cities in the world. It’s a global hub for finance, culture, and technology. Known for its mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional temples, cutting-edge fashion, and efficient transport, Tokyo is a vibrant and fast-paced city. Yokohama is Japan’s second-largest city, located just south of Tokyo. It’s a major port city known for its beautiful waterfront, international influence, and modern architecture. Yokohama has a relaxed vibe compared to Tokyo, with attractions like the Cup Noodles Museum and a large Chinatown district.   Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Line: Tokaido Shinkansen Travel Time: Approximately 18 minutes Fare: Around ¥1,380 for an unreserved seat and ¥3,210 for a reserved seat JR Tokaido Main Line Travel Time: Approximately 23–30 minutes Fare: Approximately ¥500–¥1,000 ​ Keihin-Tohoku Line Travel Time: Approximately 40 minutes Fare: Approximately ¥500–¥1,000 ​TravelPander+6 Narita Express (N'EX) Service: Direct service from Narita Airport to Yokohama Booking: Reservations can be made online ​ All these trains are modern, punctual, and offer a comfortable travel experience. If you're looking for a scenic or luxury train journey within Japan, options like the Saphir Odoriko or Seven Stars in Kyushu might be of interest.​

More Info
Seattle to Los Angeles

Seattle to Los Angeles

Seattle: Location:Pacific Northwest, Washington State. Climate:Known for its cool, wet weather, especially during the winter months. It often experiences cloudy skies and moderate temperatures. Summers are mild and pleasant. Culture:Seattle has a reputation for being tech-savvy, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft headquartered there. The city has a rich arts and music scene (think grunge music, influenced by the likes of Nirvana and Pearl Jam). It's also known for its coffee culture, with Starbucks originating there. Attractions:Iconic landmarks include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture. Outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring the nearby mountains and islands are popular. Los Angeles: Location:Southern California. Climate:Known for its warm, dry weather, especially in the summer. The city boasts mild winters, making it a year-round destination for tourists. Culture:Los Angeles is a global hub for entertainment and the arts, especially in Hollywood, where the film and television industry thrive. It's also known for its fashion, diverse food scene, and laid-back lifestyle. Attractions:Major attractions include Hollywood Boulevard, the Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach, and the Getty Museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are nearby beaches, mountains, and desert landscapes to explore.  

More Info