Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train Resumes — The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), affectionately known as the ‘Toy Train’, has resumed its operations following the restoration of tracks damaged by recent landslides near Kurseong, marking a major milestone for heritage tourism in the region. The resumption of the train service not only restores an iconic travel experience but also provides a significant boost to local tourism and the economy after months of disruption caused by natural calamities.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Toy Train Resumes: Impact of Landslides on DHR Services
In early October 2025, heavy monsoon rains triggered several landslides near Kurseong, severely affecting sections of the DHR track as well as adjacent roadways. The New Jalpaiguri (NJP) to Darjeeling toy train service was suspended as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety.
Officials from the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) conducted a thorough inspection of the landslide-affected tracks and implemented extensive repair works. The restoration involved clearing debris, stabilizing embankments, and replacing damaged sleepers and rails to meet safety standards. The suspension had led to disruptions in tourism and local transport, affecting businesses dependent on the heritage train and the flow of visitors to the hills.
Restoration Efforts and Resumption
After diligent repair work spanning several weeks, the DHR resumed operations on October 9, 2025. The resumption began with a heritage coach ride for a group of Italian tourists traveling from Kurseong to Darjeeling, symbolizing the revival of the toy train experience for international and domestic visitors alike.
The current operations feature two coaches—one air-conditioned and one non-AC—each accommodating more than 60 passengers. On the first day of resumed service, both coaches ran at full capacity, reflecting strong demand and confidence among travelers. Railway officials emphasized that passenger safety was the top priority, with all inspections and repairs completed to international standards for heritage trains.
Significance for Heritage Tourism
The DHR is not only a mode of transportation but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its historical and engineering significance. The toy train’s journey from NJP to Darjeeling covers 87 kilometers of the Eastern Himalayas, offering panoramic views of tea gardens, rolling hills, and picturesque villages.
The resumption of services has been welcomed by tourism stakeholders, as the temporary suspension had impacted revenue for hotels, local businesses, and travel agencies. The toy train serves as a major attraction for domestic and international visitors, making its operational continuity vital for sustaining Darjeeling’s tourism economy.
Tourist Experience and Attractions
Passengers aboard the toy train enjoy a nostalgic journey through scenic landscapes, with stops at quaint stations and views of heritage architecture along the route. The train provides an immersive experience of Darjeeling’s colonial-era charm, combining the excitement of narrow-gauge rail travel with breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
Tourists often complement the toy train ride with visits to tea estates, local markets, and hilltop viewpoints, making it an integral part of the Darjeeling tourism circuit. The resumption of the train after a natural disaster highlights the region’s resilience and commitment to preserving its cultural and heritage attractions.
Economic and Social Implications
The temporary suspension of DHR services had significant economic implications. Hotels, homestays, and restaurants in Darjeeling experienced reduced bookings, while transport operators faced losses due to decreased tourist traffic. The restoration of the train’s services is expected to revive business activity, encourage domestic and international visitors, and sustain livelihoods dependent on the tourism industry.
Additionally, the toy train contributes to cultural preservation by maintaining traditional railway operations and supporting the conservation of historic rolling stock. Its operations foster community engagement and pride in Darjeeling’s unique heritage.
Future Prospects and Infrastructure Measures
Railway authorities have committed to monitoring landslide-prone areas along the DHR route and implementing preventive measures, including improved drainage, slope stabilization, and early warning systems. These interventions aim to reduce future disruptions and ensure safe, uninterrupted operations for heritage rail enthusiasts.
The success of the current restoration efforts may also encourage further investments in tourism infrastructure, such as upgraded stations, passenger amenities, and promotional campaigns highlighting Darjeeling’s unique heritage travel experiences.
Conclusion: A Milestone in Darjeeling’s Heritage Revival
The resumption of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway toy train is more than just a return to normalcy—it represents resilience, heritage preservation, and tourism revival. For both locals and travelers, the toy train embodies a journey through history, culture, and natural beauty.
As the train chugs along its restored tracks, it brings renewed hope, economic activity, and cultural pride to the Darjeeling hills, reaffirming the Toy Train’s status as a symbol of the region’s enduring charm and resilience in the face of natural calamities.
External References:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site – Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
- Northeast Frontier Railway – Official Updates on DHR
- Darjeeling Tourism Information
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