Prepare for an adventure on one of the most beautiful train experiences of your life on the Kalka Shimla Toy Train. It is a vital part of every Shimla visit. The Kalka Shimla Toy Train encourages travelers to see Himachal Pradesh’s natural splendor by providing a beautiful view of the lush green valleys, uneven mountains, waterfalls, and pine-covered woods.
The Toy Train Shimla is one of the greatest ways to see the hill station’s rich colonial heritage, as well as an array of fine-dining restaurants, pubs, and stores lining the Mall Road and the Ridge.
The Kalka Shimla Toy Train, a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages, travels 60 kilometers over more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was built in the year 1903, transports you back in time with a showcase of breathtaking scenery.
The view you will witness along the way is just spectacular! The finest aspect is that the train helps you forget about the destination, allowing you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel with a different mindset.
The Kalka Shimla Toy Train’s History
Shimla was formally designated as the British Empire’s summer capital during the British occupation of India. There was no good way to get to Shimla during that time. Whatever method was accessible, it was dangerous and time-consuming.
So, in November 1903, Britishers launched the Kalka Shimla narrow-gauge train to enable simple and speedy access to Shimla. Lord Curzon enjoyed the inaugural train journey, and the train has been operating continuously since then, except for maintenance interruptions.
Experience The Scenic Kalka Shimla Toy Train Route
The Kalka Shimla Toy Train departs from Kalka railway station in Haryana’s Panchkula region. It begins its first rise at 656 meters and begins a 96-kilometer journey to Shimla, which is located at an elevation of 6,812 feet among the gorgeous hills and magical woodlands.
Kalka, Taksal, Gumman, Koti, Sonwara, Dharampur, Kumarhatti, Barog, Solan, Salogra, Kandaghat, Kanoh, Kathleegat, Shoghi, Taradevi, Jutoh, Summer Hill, and Shimla are among the 18 stations it serves. The train stops for a few minutes at each station so passengers can enjoy local cuisine while sipping tea and snacking on the way.
The most refreshing aspect of the voyage is the sensation of gazing out at the breathtaking scenery, inhaling in the fresh air, basking in the nice environment, appreciating the lush foliage, dancing to the strains of birds singing, and grazing along the path.
Kalka Shimla Toy Train Booking Guide
If you plan on taking the Kalka Shimla Toy Train, be sure to reserve your tickets ahead of time, especially during April, May, and June. Similarly, during the Dussehra vacation, which normally happens in October, Shimla receives a large number of travelers. Aside from that, there will be a rush over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. It is really very important to buy rail tickets in advance during these hours.
Kalka Shimla Toy Train Timings
| Day | Timing |
| Monday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Tuesday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Wednesday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Thursday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Friday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Saturday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
| Sunday | First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am |
How To Reach Kalka Shimla Railway Station?
- By Bus: There are various bus routes linking Shimla to important towns in North India, including Himachal Road Transport Corporation buses and private operators. Chandigarh is 117 kilometers away, Manali is 260 kilometers away, and Delhi is 343 kilometers away. You may take an overnight air-conditioned luxury bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate if you are coming from Delhi. Buses run early in the morning or late at night; times vary by season; Check them online before making a reservation.
- By Railways: Shimla’s relatively small railway station is only one kilometer from the town center and is linked to Kalka by a narrow gauge rail track. Shimla’s famous toy train runs between Kalka and Shimla, covering 96 kilometers in around 7 hours. Kalka, in turn, is the nearest railhead, with daily trains connecting it to Chandigarh and Delhi. The Kalka Shatabdi train runs from New Delhi Railway Station to Kalka Railway Station via Chandigarh.
- By Road: If you are traveling from Delhi, use the Outer Ring Road to GT Karnal Road, then turn onto NH 1. After arriving at Ambala, exit NH 1 and go on NH 22 towards Kalka. Continue on the same highway towards Solan and eventually Shimla. Depending on traffic, the travel normally takes approximately 6-7 hours.
- By Air: The nearest airport is at Ubarhati, about 23 kilometers from town. Regular flights connect Jubbarhatti with Chandigarh and Delhi. Passengers may simply take a cab from the airport to Shimla, or they can request airport transport from their hotel.
Kalka Shimla Toy Train Time Table
Let’s have a look at the complete Kalka Shimla Toy Train timetable for your convenience. You can book the Kalka Shimla Toy Train booking at your convenience.
Timetable from Kalka to Shimla
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure | Arrival |
| Rail Motor Car | 72451 | 5:10 a.m. | 9:50 a.m. |
| Shivalik Deluxe Express | 52451 | 5:20 a.m. | 10 a.m. |
| Himalayan Queen | 52455 | 12:10 p.m. | 5:30 p.m. |
Timetable from Shimla to Kalka
| Train Name | Train Number | Departure | Arrival |
| Rail Motor Car | 72452 | 4:25 p.m. | 9:35 p.m. |
| Shivalik Deluxe Express | 52452 | 5:50 p.m. | 10:30 p.m. |
| Himalayan Queen | 52456 | 10:40 a.m. | 4:10 p.m. |
Kalka To Shimla Toy Train Ticket Price
Discover the Kalka Shimla toy train ticket price for enjoying the beautiful journey, and experiencing a delightful mountain experience.
| Train Name | Adult Charges | Children Charges |
| Rail Motor Car | INR 320 | INR 160 |
| Shivalik Deluxe Express | INR 510 | INR 255 |
| Himalayan Queen | INR 470 | INR 235 |
