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

London - Milan Train Travel

London - Milan Train Travel

Traveling from Milan to London by train is a scenic and comfortable journey, but it requires at least one change, usually in Paris. Here’s a breakdown of the trip: Route Overview:   1. Milan to Paris (TGV INOUI or Frecciarossa)   1. Duration: ~7 hours 2. Departure: Milan Centrale 3. Arrival: Paris Gare de Lyon 4. Booking: SNCF or Trenitalia   2. Paris to London (Eurostar)   1. Duration: ~2 hours 20 minutes 2. Departure: Paris Gare du Nord 3. Arrival: London St Pancras International 4. Booking: Eurostar   The average travel duration is about 14 hours and 36 minutes, although the fastest services may finish the trip in about 10 hours and 35 minutes. London to Paris: Begin with the Eurostar service from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. Paris to Milan: From Paris, transfer to a high-speed train such as the TGV or Frecciarossa, departing from Paris Gare de Lyon to Milano Centrale. Advance-purchase tickets can start from approximately £102.46 (€118) .   When traveling by train from London to Milan, you will typically pass through several key destinations, depending on the route and transfers.   1. London St Pancras International (UK) 2. Lille (France) - Some Eurostar trains stop here 3. Paris Gare du Nord (France) 4. Paris Gare de Lyon (France) - Transfer station 5. Lyon Part-Dieu (France) 6. Chambéry (France) - Optional stop 7. Modane (France-Italy border) 8. Turin Porta Susa (Italy) 9. Milan Centrale (Italy) - Final destination          

More Info
Picton to Christchurch

Picton to Christchurch

Picton to Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes, especially if you take the Coastal Pacific Train. The journey follows the rugged eastern coastline of the South Island, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Kaikōura Ranges on the other. Along the way, you might spot seals lounging on the rocks and enjoy glimpses of vineyards in the Marlborough region. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to travel between the ferry port town of Picton and the South Island’s largest city, Christchurch. Picton – South Island (Top/North of the Island) About: A small, scenic port town. It’s the gateway between the North and South Islands, connected by ferry from Wellington. It’s surrounded by beautiful water and green hills—perfect for chilling or outdoor adventures. Top Things to Do: Marlborough Sounds– Take a cruise or kayak in this stunning network of sea-drowned valleys. Queen Charlotte Track– One of New Zealand’s most beautiful hiking and biking trails. Edwin Fox Maritime Museum– See one of the world’s oldest ships. Eco tours & dolphin watching– Plenty of marine wildlife around. Christchurch – South Island (East Coast) About: The largest city on the South Island. Known as the “Garden City”, with English heritage and a creative, resilient vibe (especially after the earthquakes). It’s also a major base for exploring the Canterbury region and Southern Alps. Top Things to Do: Christchurch Botanic Gardens– Gorgeous gardens perfect for a relaxing walk. Tram City Tour– Ride in vintage trams around the central city. Quake City Museum– Learn about the 2010/2011 earthquakes. Punting on the Avon River– Think Venice meets New Zealand. New Regent Street– Colorful street with boutique shops and cafés. Day trips to Akaroa, Kaikoura (whale watching), or Arthur's Pass.

More Info
British Pullman - London

British Pullman - London

The British Pullman is a luxurious vintage train operated by Belmond in the UK. It features beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s carriages with elegant interiors, fine dining, and exceptional service. Often used for day trips and themed journeys departing from London, the train offers a nostalgic experience reminiscent of the golden age of rail travel.   In the UK, the British Pullman is an opulent train service that provides a sophisticated journey evocative of the heyday of rail. It is run by Belmond and has exquisitely restored vintage carriages from the 1920s and 1930s. The train usually takes tourists on day trips to ancient towns, stately estates, and rural locations throughout England, leaving from or returning to London Victoria Station. Fine meals, flawless service, and traditional British charm are all enjoyed by passengers on board.  

More Info
Los Angeles to New Orleans

Los Angeles to New Orleans

With more than 10 million inhabitants, Los Angeles County in Southern California is the most populated county in the US. The San Gabriel Mountains, busy cities, suburban areas, and beaches along the Pacific Ocean are all part of its expansive and varied geography. The city of Los Angeles, a major center of industry, culture, and entertainment with famous sites like Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills, serves as the county's anchor. Los Angeles County is a thriving and significant area on a national and international scale because of its diverse population and dynamic fusion of cuisine, art, and lifestyle.  Situated in the state of Louisiana in the southeast of the United States, New Orleans is a thriving metropolis. It combines French, Spanish, African, and American influences to create a distinctive atmosphere that is unmatched in the nation. It is well-known for its rich cultural legacy. New Orleans is well-known for its vibrant music culture, particularly jazz, and for hosting world-renowned celebrations like Mardi Gras. The city is a cultural treasure of the United States because of its rich history, delicious Creole and Cajun food, and ingrained customs. The Sunset Limited is an Amtrak train that travels about 1,995 miles between Los Angeles, California, and New Orleans, Louisiana. The trip, which includes two train nights, takes roughly 46 hours. ​ Schedule: Departures from Los Angeles:Trains depart at 10:00 PM on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday. Arrivals in New Orleans:Scheduled arrival is at approximately 9:40 PM, two days later. ​ Onboard Accommodations: The Sunset Limited offers various seating and sleeping options: ​ Coach Class:Standard seating. ​ Sleeping Accommodations:Roomettes and Bedrooms are available, providing added comfort for the overnight journey. ​    

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