Darjeeling’s Iconic Toy Train Chugs Back to Life Post-Landslide Pause
The beloved Darjeeling Himalayan Railway resumes services Thursday, delighting tourists after a two-day halt triggered by rain-induced landslides.
The cherished Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), fondly known as the toy train, will roar back into action on Thursday, reconnecting New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling after a two-day suspension prompted by minor landslides along its scenic route. Heavy rainfall had destabilized the tracks, particularly between Tinbatti and Tindharia stations, forcing a precautionary halt, according to railway officials.
DHR Director Rishabh Chaudhary confirmed to PTI that services will resume fully, restoring the joyrides that draw thousands of tourists annually. "The tracks are now clear, and we're ready to roll," he assured, signaling relief for travelers eager to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s charm.
The DHR, a marvel of engineering, operates a mix of vintage steam locomotives—crafted between 1889 and 1927—and modern diesel engines, winding through mist-laden hills and tea gardens. Its serpentine 88-kilometer journey, climbing from 100 meters to over 2,200 meters above sea level, remains a bucket-list adventure for global visitors.
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The brief disruption underscores the region’s vulnerability to monsoon-triggered landslides, but swift restoration efforts highlight the railway’s resilience and its enduring allure as a timeless symbol of Darjeeling’s heritage. Tourists can once again board the narrow-gauge wonder, soaking in panoramic Himalayan vistas that make every trip unforgettable.
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