Durga Puja special: Darjeeling’s iconic toy train returns with a magical mountain ride
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway brings back special Durga Puja joyrides with steam and diesel trains, including Tagore-inspired Mukta Dhara and Red Panda heritage mountain journeys.
- Aug 30, 2026,
- Updated Aug 30, 2026 6:15 AM IST
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Heritage Ride
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is bringing back the charm of old-world travel with special joyride services during the Durga Puja season. Tourists will get a chance to experience the UNESCO-listed railway, winding mountain tracks, misty hills and the unique heritage atmosphere that has made the DHR famous worldwide.
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Tagore Tribute
A new journey named ‘Mukta Dhara’ will connect Kurseong and Mahanadi as a tribute to Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Inspired by the natural beauty of the Paglajhora stream and Tagore’s celebrated poem, the ride blends literature, landscapes and railway heritage into one experience.
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Steam Revival
The iconic steam locomotive will return to the tracks with the ‘Red Panda’ joyride. The Kurseong-Mahanadi round trip will allow visitors to experience the romance of steam-powered travel while passing through one of the most scenic sections of the historic Himalayan railway route.
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Festival Tracks
Ahead of Durga Puja celebrations, DHR is adding more special services to attract tourists seeking unique festive experiences. Starting October 1, visitors will have additional options including Darjeeling-Ghum and Kurseong-Mahanadi joyrides across the mountain landscape.
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Mountain Journey
The special rides offer more than just transportation — they promise a slow journey through Darjeeling’s natural beauty and cultural history. With diesel and steam options, tourists can choose between different heritage experiences priced from ₹800 to ₹1,530 per passenger.