Explore the Best Time for A Scenic Kalka Shimla Toy Train Ride

Best Time to Ride Shimla Toy Train: Seasonal Breakdown

The best time for the Train travel depends on your preferences for weather, scenery and crowd levels. Each season offers a unique perspective on this heritage line, so let’s explore the best seasons to book tickets for Kalka to Shimla Toy Train.

Spring (March to May): Ideal for Clear Views and Rhododendron Blossoms

Spring is one of the best months in summer, offering pleasant weather for train rides. With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C in May, the weather is comfortable for enjoying the journey.

• Why Visit ? The hills come alive with lush greenery and vibrant rhododendron blossoms in Shimla, creating a colorful backdrop for your journey. The clear skies ensure unobstructed hillside views, perfect for photography.

• Best Time of Day for Scenery: Morning departures, like the Rail Motor Car (5:10 AM) or Shivalik Deluxe Express (5:45 AM), offer crisp light for capturing the scenic mountain train route.

• Photography Tips: Use the early morning light for vibrant shots of tunnels, bridges and pine forests. Choose a right-side window seat when heading from Kalka to Shimla to enjoy the best views along the way.

• Tip: Book tickets early, as summer holidays attract families and tourists escaping the heat of the plains.

Summer (June): Peak Season for Family Trips

June marks the peak of the summer season, making it a recommended season for a family trip on the Toy Train. The weather remains cool in Shimla, with temperatures between 18°C and 28°C, offering relief from the scorching Indian plains.

• Why Visit ? The route is a visual feast during this month, with clear skies and vibrant greenery, treating passengers to the charming sights of historic stations including Dharampur, Solan, and Barog.

• Best Month for Clear Views: June offers consistently clear weather, ensuring you don’t miss the panoramic vistas.

• Train Travel Tips: Book tickets 60-120 days in advance via IRCTC booking, as summer is a busy season. Opt for the Shivalik Deluxe Express for a comfortable ride with cushioned seats and large windows.

• Note: Avoid carrying heavy luggage, as baggage allowance on the toy train is limited, especially in general coaches.

Monsoon (July to August): A Misty Adventure

Monsoon travel on the Kalka Shimla railway is a unique experience, with misty forests and lush landscapes creating a dreamy atmosphere.

• Why Visit ? The monsoon toy train ride offers a moody, fog-laden journey through pine and deodar forests. The greenery is at its peak and the fewer crowds make it a serene experience.

• Challenges: Rain can cause delays, and visibility may be reduced due to fog. The Kalka Shimla Toy Train is rarely closed due to rain, but check the train schedule for updates.

• Photography Tips: Capture the misty tunnels and bridges for dramatic shots. Carry a rain cover for your camera.

• Tip: Opt for Vistadome coaches with glass roofs for a cozy, rain-protected view of the monsoon scenery.

Autumn (September to November): Golden Foliage and Crisp Air

Autumn is another ideal time of year for a scenic ride on the Toy Train, with crisp air and golden autumn foliage in the Himalayas. This season is less crowded, making it perfect for a relaxed journey.

• Why Visit ? With its crisp air and brilliant fall colors, the period from September to October offers a perfect picturesque setting to capture the charm of stations such as Kandaghat and Tara Devi.

• Best Season to Book Tickets: Autumn offers a great experience on the Kalka to Shimla Toy Train, making it the ideal season to secure your tickets as availability is higher than in the busy summer months. Book 15-20 days in advance for a hassle-free experience.

• Best Time of Day for Scenery: The Himalayan Queen (12:10 PM departure) offers midday light for stunning photos of the heritage line.

• Tip: Pack light layers, as temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.

Winter (December to February): Snowy Wonderland

The winter season turns the Toy Train ride into a magical, snow-dusted fairy tale. For those wondering if it’s a good time to visit, the answer is a resounding yes, offering a uniquely enchanting experience.

• Why Visit ? The hills transform into a stunning winter wonderland from December through February, making this period the best for a magical snowy ride. A January journey, in particular, when Shimla receives its heaviest snow, is a bucket-list adventure on this historic train.

• Is the Toy Train Running in December ? Yes, the train operates year-round, but check for updates, as heavy snow may cause rare delays. The Toy Train is rarely closed due to snow, but it’s wise to confirm with IRCTC.

• Toy Train Snowfall Journey Timings: Early morning trains like the Rail Motor Car or Shivalik Deluxe Express offer the best chance to see snow-covered landscapes.

• How to Plan a Toy Train Trip in Winter: Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop to 0°C in Shimla. Book Vistadome coaches for a cozy, panoramic view of the snowy hills.

• Photography Tips: For optimal winter photography, attach a polarizing filter to reduce glare and capture the snow’s glitter. Prioritize iconic structures like the Barog Tunnel and the numerous bridges for compelling shots.

Difference Between Himalayan Queen and Shivalik Deluxe

Choosing between the Himalayan Queen train and Shivalik Deluxe Express depends on your priorities for comfort and timing:

• Shivalik Deluxe Express: The most luxurious option, with cushioned seats, large windows, onboard catering and soothing music. It’s an express service with minimal stops, ideal for a comfortable train experience. Fare: ₹800-₹1,200 per person.

• Himalayan Queen: A popular choice with first- and second-class coaches, but less luxurious than the Shivalik Deluxe. It has nine stops, allowing you to hop off and explore stations like Barog or Solan. Fare: ₹260-₹470 per person.

For the best experience, opt for the Shivalik Deluxe or Vistadome coaches, especially if traveling with family or seeking luxury.

Toy Train Timings and Schedule

The train schedule includes 5-6 daily departures, with the journey time ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 hours, covering 96 kilometers. Here are the key train timings:

• KLK SML EXP (52457): Departs Kalka at 3:30 AM, arrives Shimla at 8:50 AM (5 hours 20 minutes).

• Shivalik Deluxe Express (52451): Departs Kalka at 5:45 AM, arrives Shimla at 10:35 AM (4 hours 50 minutes).

• KLK SML EXP (52453): Departs Kalka at 6:20 AM, arrives Shimla at 11:50 AM (5 hours 30 minutes).

• Him Darshan Express (52459): Departs Kalka at 7:00 AM, arrives Shimla at 12:20 PM (5 hours 20 minutes).

• Himalayan Queen (52455): The train departs from Kalka at 12:10 PM and completes its journey in Shimla at 5:30 PM, making the total travel time 5 hours and 20 minutes.

For the return journey, trains from Shimla to Kalka include the Himalayan Queen (52456) departing at 10:40 AM and the Shivalik Deluxe Express (52452) at 5:55 PM. Check the IRCTC website for real-time updates, as delays are possible in winter or monsoon.

How to Book Tickets for Toy Train Online

Booking toy train tickets is straightforward with these steps:

1. Visit IRCTC Website or App: Begin by visiting the official IRCTC Website, irctc.co.in, or by installing the IRCTC app on your mobile device.

2. Select Stations: When booking, select Kalka (KLK) as your departure station and Shimla (SML) as your arrival station.

3. Choose Date and Train: Select your preferred date and train (e.g., Shivalik Deluxe or Himalayan Queen).

4. Enter Passenger Details: Provide personal and payment details.

5. Confirm Booking: Receive your ticket via SMS or email with a PNR number.

Best Time to book Tickets: Book 60-120 days in advance for summer and festive seasons (Dussehra, Christmas, New Year). For autumn or winter, 15-20 days is usually sufficient.

Toy Train Travel Tips

• Seating: Sit on the right side (Kalka to Shimla) or left side (Shimla to Kalka) for the best views.

• Luggage: Carry minimal baggage, as storage is limited, especially in general coaches.

• Food: Shivalik Deluxe and Rail Motor Car include meals, but bring snacks for other trains.

• Clothing: For a comfortable trip, dress in layers to stay warm in the cold weather, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the stations.

• Photography: Carry a camera with a polarizing filter for tunnels and snowy landscapes. Avoid leaning out of windows for safety.

Toy Train vs. Car Journey to Shimla

While the toy train to Shimla is a scenic delight, some travelers consider driving. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Toy Train: Offers a leisurely 5-6 hour journey with unparalleled views of tunnels, bridges, and forests. Ideal for tourists seeking a heritage experience.

• Car: Takes 3-4 hours but misses the charm of the narrow-gauge railway. Roads can be winding and congested during peak seasons.

For the ultimate Himachal experience, the toy train is the way to go.

Is the Kalka Shimla Toy Train Worth It ?

Absolutely! The Kalka Shimla narrow-gauge railway is a journey through history, nature, and adventure.

Whether you’re chasing the snow experience in winter, the rhododendron blossoms in spring, or the golden autumn foliage in the Himalayas, this UNESCO World Heritage delivers a magical experience.

With proper planning and the right season, your experience will be a highlight of your Himachal Pradesh adventure.

Book your tickets, pack your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable ride on the Indian Railways toy train!