Introduction
India’s railway heritage is a treasure trove of history and culture, with the rhythmic chug of heritage trains echoing through time. In this article, we delve into the intricate world of heritage train schedules, exploring their significance and the cultural impact they bring.
What is Heritage Trains
In the vast network of Indian Railways, “heritage trains” are more than just modes of transportation. They’re rolling museums, nostalgic journeys through time, and windows into the country’s rich history and engineering marvels. Some of the unique heritage trains in the network of Indian railways are as follows:
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR):A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s known for its “toy train” charm and breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR):Another UNESCO site, it boasts stunning Nilgiri Hills scenery and unique rack and pinion technology.
Kalka-Shimla Railway (KSR):Also a UNESCO site, it features remarkable feats of engineering like the world’s highest bridge (at the time of construction).
Matheran Light Railway (MLR):This charming railway offers a delightful journey through the Matheran hills, a popular eco-destination.
Kangra Valley Railway (KVR):This heritage line traverses the picturesque Kangra Valley, known for its tea plantations and historical significance.
Key characteristics of Heritage Trains
Historical significance: They represent a bygone era of railway engineering and design.
Scenic beauty:Many routes traverse picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking views.
Unique experiences: They provide a glimpse into Indian heritage, culture, and local traditions.
Limited availability:Seats are often limited, making them exclusive and sought-after.
Unique Locomotives: Heritage trains showcase a variety of unique locomotives, each with its distinct features and aesthetics.
Educational Narratives: Heritage trains often provide educational narratives during the journey, offering insights into the history of the railways and specific regions.
Limited Stops: Heritage train schedules often include limited stops, allowing passengers to savor the journey without the rush of frequent halts.
Popularity Among Enthusiasts: Heritage trains attract railway enthusiasts, historians, and travellers seeking a unique and memorable journey.
Heritage Stations: The starting and ending stations for heritage trains are often chosen for their historical significance, adding to the overall thematic experience.
ALSO READ: Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Cultural Impact
Beyond the tracks, heritage train schedules have a profound cultural impact. They contribute to the preservation of traditions, with festivals and events organised around these journeys becoming integral to the cultural fabric of regions served by heritage trains.
Heritage Train Schedule
Embarking on iconic routes like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the Matheran Hill Railway is a journey back in time. Each route has its unique charm, offering travellers breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the history of these railroads. Timings of Heritage trains of Indian Railways are as follows:
| Train No & Name | Frequency | From (Time & Station) | To (Time & Station) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52457 KLK-SML MEX SPL | Daily | 03:45 KALKA | 08:55 SHIMLA |
| 04506 KLK-SML SPL | Daily | 04:45 KALKA | 10:05 SHIMLA |
| 52451 KLK-SML SHIVALIK DELUXE | Daily | 05:45 KALKA | 10:50 SHIMLA |
| 52453 KLK-SML MAIL SPL | Daily | 06:20 KALKA | 11:50 SHIMLA |
| 52459 KLK-SML EXP SPL | Daily | 07:00 KALKA | 12:30 SHIMLA |
| 52455 KLK-SML HIMALAYAN QUEEN | Daily | 11:55 KALKA | 16:45 SHIMLA |
| 52458 SML-KLK SPL | Daily | 10:55 SHIMLA | 16:35 KALKA |
| 04505 SML-KLK MEX SPL | Daily | 14:15 SHIMLA | 20:10 KALKA |
| 52460 SML-KLK MEX | Daily | 15:50 SHIMLA | 20:55 KALKA |
| 52452 KLK-SML SHIVALIK DELUXE | Daily | 17:25 SHIMLA | 22:05 KALKA |
| 52454 SML-KLK MAIL | Daily | 17:45 SHIMLA | 22:50 KALKA |
| 52456 SML-KLK HIMALYAN QUEEN E | Daily | 18:30 SHIMLA | 23:25 KALKA |
| 52104 MAE-NRLN PASS | Daily | 14:45 MATHERAN | 17:30 NERAL (NG) |
| 52106 MAE-NRLN PASS | Daily | 16:00 MATHERAN | 18:40 NERAL (NG) |
| 52103 NRLN-MAE PASS | Daily | 08:50 NERAL (NG) | 11:30 MATHERAN |
| 52105 NRLN-MAE PASS | Daily | 10:25 NERAL (NG) | 13:05 MATHERAN |
| 06136 MTP UAM PASS SPL | Daily | 07:10 METUPALAIYAM | 11:55 UDAGAMANDALAM |
| 06137 UAM MTP PASS SPL | Daily | 14:00 UDAGAMANDALAM | 17:30 METUPALAIYAM |
| 06141 ONR-UAM PASS SPL | Daily | 07:45 COONOOR | 09:00 UDAGAMANDALAM |
| 06143 ONR-UAM PASS SPL | Daily | 12:35 COONOOR | 13:45 UDAGAMANDALAM |
| 06138 ONR UAM PASS SPL | Daily | 16:00 COONOOR | 17:10 UDAGAMANDALAM |
| 06139 UAM ONR PASS SPL | Daily | 09:15 UDAGAMANDALAM | 10:20 COONOOR |
| 06142 UAM-ONR PASS APL | Daily | 12:15 UDAGAMANDALAM | 13:15 COONOOR |
| 06140 UAM ONR PASS SPL | Daily | 17:30 UDAGAMANDALAM | 18:35 COONOOR |
| 02540 DJ-KGN SLIP TRAIN | Daily | 09:00 DARJEELING | 11:30 KURSEONG |
| 52540 DJ – KGN – NJP PASSENGER | Daily | 09:00 DARJEELING | 11:30 KURSEONG |
| 52538 DJ-KGN-NJP AC PASSENGER | Tue, Thu, Sun | 09:10 DARJEELING | 11:55 KURSEONG |
| 02541 KGN-DJ SLIP TRAIN | Daily | 14:45 KURSEONG | 17:30 DARJEELING |
| 52541 NJP-KGN-DJ PASSENGER | Daily | 14:45 KURSEONG | 17:30 DARJEELING |
| 52539 NJP-KGN-DJ AC PASSENGER | Mon, Wed, Sat | 15:30 KURSEONG | 18:30 DARJEELING |
| 52594 DJ – GHUM – DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 10:35 GHUM | 11:10 DARJEELING |
| 52591 DJ – GHUM – DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 10:40 GHUM | 11:15 DARJEELING |
| 52596 DJ-GHUM-DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 12:40 GHUM | 13:15 DARJEELING |
| 52597 DJ – GHUM – DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 12:45 GHUM | 13:20 DARJEELING |
| 52598 DJ-GHUM-DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 14:40 GHUM | 15:15 DARJEELING |
| 52599 DJ – GHUM – DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 14:45 GHUM | 15:25 DARJEELING |
| 52544 DJ-GHUM-DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 16:45 GHUM | 17:20 DARJEELING |
| 52590 DJ-GHUM-DJ JOY RIDE | Daily | 16:50 GHUM | 17:25 DARJEELING |
