Every time we recall a memory, our brain subtly rewrites it, stripping away the boredom or stress and leaving behind a polished, idealized version of events. This is what I felt after boarding a narrow gauge train in the recent trip to mountains. It brings back my 23 years old memory when me and few of my college friends first enjoyed travelling in Toy Train.
Toy train travel brings pure joy because it trades high speed efficiency for slow, nostalgic immersion, turning a basic transit route into an intimate, experience of misty mountains, echoing valleys, and vibrant local life. The Kalka-Shimla Railway are few of the toy train services still operative In India. This particular routes cruises across hundreds of bridges and through 103 tunnels in the lap of Himachal Pradesh.
The rhythmic clatter of narrow-gauge tracks, the sharp toot of the steam whistle, and the rush of cool mountain air make us feel alive. Moving at a gentle chug allows us to fully absorb the landscape instead of watching it blur past. Spiraling loops, sharp zigzags, and passage through dozens of hand-carved tunnels highlight clever historical design. Unlike fast normal trains built for speed and heavy transit, this heritage mountain ride is all about panoramic valley views, sharp loops, and steep climbs at a relaxed pace.
These operational railways in the mountains are called "toy trains" because they use very small steam or diesel engines and tiny, narrow-gauge carriages that look like miniature play models compared to regular trains. On way to our destination we umable to click the picture, as we were running late to board because there was slight confusion about the platform. But later I made sure to click some of the coaches on my way back.
The engines and passenger coaches are much shorter and narrower than standard big trains. The engines and bogies are lightweight and small, earning the service its "toy train" nickname. These trains runs on narrow-gauge tracks often just 2 feet wide which lets them fit tight mountain turns.
While I getting nostalgic remembering my first travel on this route. My daughter too get fascinated with the train. It was her first time and may be more to come in next few years. The scenic Kalka-Shimla route winds through 102 tunnels and over 800 bridges making it more memorable and 3xciting for the youth. I heard some of the youth already laughing and shouting on the other bogies.
The rail route Offers close up views of pine forests, mountain gorges, and deep valleys right outside our window. Some of the trains have glass roof Vistadome coaches. The slow speed and vintage design make them feel like a storybook model running through the hills. I am sure my daughter has many things to share from her first experience. I am sure she will express it on her own way through online videos. This train services id purely meant for sightseeing rather than quick commuting. But whatever it was, we enjoyed it. It is a proof that big fun comes in small sizes.
In good faith - Peace!!
