The Indian Railways has embarked on a new venture of introducing a seven-coach glass-enclosed train, named Him Darshan Express, on the historical Kalka-Shimla route. This move is intended to enhance passengers’ travel experiences by offering panoramic views of the picturesque hilly terrain through the train’s luxurious vistadome coaches, fitted with transparent window screens and glass ceilings.
The Kalka Shimla Railway Heritage Line
An integral part of India’s rich history and culture, the Kalka Shimla railway line was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. This official recognition was under the category of “Mountain Railways of India”. Since the time of its listing, it has been attracting numerous tourists from across the globe who keenly explore this historical site. The distinctive track is 96.6 kilometers long and was built back in the mid-19th century, aimed at ensuring connectivity to Shimla.
Overview of Mountain Railways of India
In addition to the Kalka – Shimla Railway line, the Mountain Railway of India comprises two other notable railways. One of them is The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, situated in the beautiful foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal, Northeast India. The other one is The Nilgiri Mountain Railways, nestled in the serene Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, South India. These unique railways serve as significant contributors to India’s robust rail network while also being treasured tourist attractions.
Vistadome Coaches: A New Age for Railway Travel
Vistadome coaches are a recent innovation in the Indian Railways designed to provide passengers with a luxurious travel experience. These special coaches are equipped with glass ceilings that offer a captivating view of the skyline. Furthermore, the see-through window screens ensure that passengers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the route in all its glory.
Indian Railways and Its Contribution to Tourism
| Railway | Location | Length of Route |
|---|---|---|
| Kalka-Shimla Railway | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh | 96.6 Kilometers |
| Darjeeling Himalayan Railway | West Bengal | 88 Kilometers |
| Nilgiri Mountain Railway | Tamil Nadu | 46 Kilometers |
Him Darshan Express: A Fusion of Heritage and Luxury
The introduction of the Him Darshan Express is seen as a fusion of heritage and luxury. The train, with its top-of-the-line vistadome coaches, aims to provide an immersive travel experience on the Kalka-Shimla route. This initiative highlights the Indian Railways’ continuous efforts to boost tourism while maintaining its rich cultural heritage.