Old, outstanding, functional, and the pride of the mountains, the Mountain Railways of India stands as one of the most important and recognized UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country.

This exceptional heritage site comprises three unique railways:

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, established in 1881

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, established between 1891 and 1908

Darjeeling Himalayan Railways: A Marvel of Engineering

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, often considered the first and still the best, was a pioneering achievement in engineering when it was first introduced. Built during a time when technology was far less advanced, the railway engineers created the first hill passenger railway, a two-feet gauge railway line stretching from Siliguri to Darjeeling in West Bengal. This innovative approach remains an engineering marvel to this day.

In 1878, Franklin Prestage, the Agent of the Eastern Bengal Railway, recognized the challenges faced by businesses in the area and proposed a railway link between the two towns to facilitate transportation of essential goods at a much lower cost. Today, the train runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and remains a top tourist attraction.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 5, 1999, due to its innovative nature and significant contribution to the region's social and economic development.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railways: A Journey Through Scenic Beauty

Dear Lykkers! Next is the Nilgiri Mountain Railways, an iconic metre-gauge, single-track railway in Tamil Nadu. Construction began in 1891 and was completed in 1908. The toy train has since become a beloved means of travel between Mettupalayam and Ooty, offering a picturesque ride through the stunning landscapes of the Western Ghats. Originally popular with the Britishers who used it to escape the summer heat, this railway retains its old-world charm to this day.

For train enthusiasts, the Nilgiri Mountain Railways offers unparalleled views of the Western Ghats. For the best vistas, sit on the right-hand side of the train. The Mettupalayam to Coonoor route is especially scenic, and the monsoon train ride is one of the most beautiful experiences on the railway.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railways was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.

Kalka-Shimla Railway: A Journey Through Time

The youngest of the three, the Kalka-Shimla Railway, was built in 1903 to connect Shimla with the northern plains. The toy train, as it’s affectionately called, was the preferred way to reach Shimla, the summer capital of British India. In 2008, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A journey on the Kalka-Shimla Railway offers a memorable experience with breathtaking scenery, particularly on the stretch from Barog to Shimla. The railway line is known for its numerous curves and tunnels, adding a sense of adventure to the trip. The Kalka-Shimla line passes through 20 train stations, 102 tunnels (out of the original 107), 864 bridges, and 919 curves.

Together, these three mountain railways provide some of the most remarkable travel experiences in India. Each railway offers a glimpse into a bygone era while immersing travelers in the breathtaking beauty of India's diverse landscapes. Whether you’re riding through the hills of Darjeeling, the verdant Nilgiri mountains, or the enchanting terrain of Shimla, these railways promise a journey like no other.