kalka shimla railway

 

The Kalka-Shimla Railway, also known as the Himalayan Queen, is a historic narrow-gauge railway line that runs between Kalka and Shimla in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most scenic train journeys in India and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the Mountain Railways of India.

Historical Background:

• The Kalka-Shimla Railway was inaugurated in 1903, and it was constructed to provide a link between the plains of Kalka (in Haryana) and the hill station of Shimla, which served as the summer capital of British India.
• The railway was built to overcome the steep gradient of the Shivalik Hills, and it took 7 years to complete the 96 km track.

Route and Scenic Beauty:

• The journey on the Kalka-Shimla Railway takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Shivalik Range and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, forests, and villages.
• The train travels through 103 tunnels, crosses over 969 bridges, and makes its way through lush forests, terraced fields, and quaint hill villages.
• The route climbs from Kalka, located at an altitude of 656 feet, to Shimla, which is at an altitude of 7,238 feet. This gives passengers an incredible view of the Himalayas.

Key Features of the Kalka-Shimla Railway:

1. Narrow-Gauge Train:

   • The railway line is narrow-gauge (2 feet wide) and runs through steep gradients and curves, making the train ride quite an adventurous experience.

2. Old Coaches:

   • The trains still retain their old-world charm with wooden coaches and historic engines. Some of the trains, like the Shivalik Express, are restored to resemble the original colonial-era coaches, giving travelers a nostalgic experience.

3. The Experience:

   • The Himalayan Queen is one of the most famous trains on this route, providing a comfortable and scenic journey. The ride is smooth and slow, giving you enough time to admire the beauty of the surroundings.
   • The train is equipped with modern facilities for a comfortable journey, including reserved seating, snack services, and air-conditioned coaches.

Notable Stops Along the Journey:

1. Kalka Station:

   • The starting point of the journey, Kalka is a small town that connects the railway line to the broader Indian railway network.
   • Kalka is a major transport hub, and the station is the gateway to the Shimla Hill Station.

2. Taksal:

   • A scenic stop along the route where the train crosses a beautiful mountain range and offers great views of the valley.

3. Barog Station:

   • Barog is a famous stop known for the Barog Tunnel, the longest tunnel on the route, which is about 1.14 km in length.
   • The station is surrounded by pine trees and is a popular stop for tourists.

4. Solan:

   • Known as the "Mushroom City of India," Solan is famous for its mushroom farms and picturesque surroundings. It offers beautiful views of the hills and valleys.

5. Shimla Station:

   • The final destination of the Kalka-Shimla Railway, Shimla is a popular hill station known for its colonial architecture, pleasant weather, and scenic landscapes. Visitors often explore landmarks like the Ridge, Mall Road, and Jakhoo Temple.

Train Timings and Frequency:

• The Kalka-Shimla Railway operates several trains throughout the day, but the most popular train is the Shivalik Express.
• The journey generally takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the type of train service you choose.
• The trains generally run early in the morning or in the afternoon, with a few special trains available during peak tourist seasons.

How to Book Tickets:

• Online Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the Indian Railways website or apps. You can also use third-party booking platforms.
• Railway Booking Counters: Tickets can be purchased at the railway booking counter in Kalka or Shimla stations.

Best Time to Travel:

• The best time to travel on the Kalka-Shimla Railway is during the summer months (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
• Winter (December to February) offers a magical experience, with snow-capped mountains and chilly weather, but snowfall can sometimes cause delays or interruptions in services.

Accessibility:

• The Kalka-Shimla Railway is easily accessible from Kalka, which is well connected by road and rail to cities like Chandigarh (by a 1.5-hour drive) and Delhi (by train).
• Shimla, the endpoint of the journey, is a popular hill station that can be explored for its colonial architecture, gardens, and scenic viewpoints.