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Known as the Mountain Railways of India, these railway lines traversing the mountains in India have left a lasting imprint from the era of British colonialism.
This is the 'heritage' they left on Indian soil during the colonial period.
It's also a remarkable triumph of railway engineering. They've established a special rail system. One of the most crucial roles of these railway lines is to foster connections between rural and urban areas, contributing to India's modernization over the past century.
The three most impressive mountain railway lines, recognized as world heritage sites in 1999, 2005, and 2008 respectively, are the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and Kalka Shimla Railway.
These three railway routes will take adventurers into the mountain ranges, allowing them to truly appreciate the craftsmanship of the engineers of yore.
1. Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Travelers can behold breathtaking landscapes while riding the Nilgiri Mountain Railway route.
This route spans 46 km, traversing the mountain ranges of Tamil Nadu state.
Unlike the Himalayan route up north, steam engines will commence from Mettupalayam, cutting through southern forests, ascending to Udhagamandalam.
The mountain station was once called Ootycamund or 'Ooty', named after a British official who sought a cool retreat from India's characteristic heat.
The Nilgiri railway was proposed in 1854. However, the challenging terrain demoralized planners until 1891 when construction finally began, and it officially opened in 1908. The single track railway ascends from 326 m to 2,203 m—a remarkable feat over a century ago.
This railway system is distinctive for its steam engines and cogwheel system positioned in the middle of the track. This design ensures a secure ascent, preventing slipping.
Furthermore, the handbrake system connected to the train wheels and cogwheels enhances safety for the Nilgiri railway.
Location: Ooty – Southern India – Tamil Nadu State. You can take a train from Bangalore, to Mysore and then onward to Ooty.
2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
A small locomotive on this railway line is often dubbed a 'toy train' due to its modest size, inaugurated in 1881.
The total length of this route is 82 km, spanning from an altitude of 120 m above sea level at Siliguri to 2,257 m at Ghum.
The railway tracks twist and turn, almost without a definitive end in sight.
The loops, bends, tunnels, and bridges are all meticulously designed to safely elevate the train to over 2,000 m.
Darjeeling is also renowned for its lush green tea gardens.
Location: Siriguri – West Bengal State, northern India, near the Nepal border to the west. You can reach Siriguri from Kolkata (Calcutta) by bus or train.
3. Kalka Shimla Railway
Spanning 96 km and ascending to 1,420 m, this route was designed and put into operation in the late 19th century.
During colonial times, colonial rulers could easily and swiftly escape the heat of the Raj capital by taking a train up to Shimla station.
This particular railway line passes through 102 tunnels, with the longest tunnel reaching 1,143 m. It also crosses 864 bridges, both large and small, with arches supporting them below, reminiscent of ancient Roman aqueducts.
These routes are a must-visit for railway enthusiasts. All are still in use today, ready to take you from point A to point B, showcasing the ingenuity and skill of engineers of yore without a doubt!
These marvelous routes also have to contend with complex political issues in the areas they traverse. Additionally, frequent flash floods threaten their existence, as a single deluge can necessitate repairs to both rail and roadways.
Preserving and continuing the use of this precious heritage may pose challenges and require substantial funds, but the interest of tourists has somewhat helped sustain the existence of these three legendary routes.
Location: Northwestern India – Kalka – States of Himachal Pradesh & Haryana. From New Delhi, you can take a train to Chandigarh, then connect to Kalka.
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Source: Mytour Travel Guide – By: Tinnong.
MytourJune 27, 2013
