VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS: A Make in India

 VANDE BHARAT EXPRESS: A Make in India Success Story

400 Vande Bharat Trains to be introduced in next 3 years: Union Budget 2022 Vande Bharat 2.0: Offering a Novel Travel Experience for New India Eighth Vande Bharat Train flagged off by 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

(Ministry of Railways)

Introduction 

The Indian Government has dedicated significant efforts towards strengthening the ‘Make in India’ campaign. As an excellent example of the ‘Make in India’ success story, the Indian Railways launched India’s first indigenous Semi High Speed train, Vande Bharat Express.

The first Vande Bharat Express train was flagged off on February 15, 2019, on the New DelhiKanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route.1 On January 15, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the eighth Vande Bharat Express train connecting Secunderabad (Telangana) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). 

The Vande Bharat Express can run up to a maximum speed of 160 kmph and has travel classes like Shatabdi Train but with better facilities. It aims to provide a totally new travel experience to passengers. Speed, Safety and Service are the hallmarks of this train. Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, a Railways Production unit, has been the force behind a completely inhouse design and manufacture, computer modelling and working with a large number of suppliers for system integration in just 18 months.

Objectives behind Vande Bharat Express

 This train has been introduced to upgrade maintenance technologies and methodologies and achieve improvement in productivity and performance of all Railway assets and manpower in which inter-alia would cover reliability, availability, utilization and efficiency.

 Culmination of ‘Make in India’ effort of Indian Railways

 In keeping with the Prime Minister’s vision of "Make in India", the major systems of the train have been designed and built in India. Impact of this train, matching global standards of performance, safety and passenger comfort and yet costing less than half of global prices, has the potential to be a game changer in the global rail business.

Union Budget 2022: 400 Vande Bharat Trains in three years

In the Union Budget 2022-23, Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced that four hundred new-generation Vande Bharat Trains with better energy efficiency and passenger riding experience will be developed and manufactured during the next three years.

These trains would be in addition to the two existing Vande Bharat Express Trains. The Howrah – Ranchi Vande Bharat Express is now being planned by Indian Railways, and the Railway Board has approved this rail route. This will be the third Vande Bharat Express Train in the country, which will connect Howrah (Kolkata) with the Capital of Jharkhand, Ranchi.

Features and Amenities in Vande Bharat Express

• The Vande Bharat Express train has an intelligent braking system which enables better acceleration and deceleration.

• All coaches are equipped with automatic doors; GPS based audio-visual passenger information system, on-board hotspot Wi-Fi for entertainment purposes, and very comfortable seating. The executive class also has rotating chairs.

• All toilets are bio-vacuum type. The lighting is dual mode, viz. diffused for general illumination and personal for every seat.

• Every coach has a pantry with facilities to serve hot meals, hot and cold beverages. The insulation is meant to keep heat and noise to very low levels for additional passenger comfort.

• The Vande Bharat Express has 16 air-conditioned coaches of which two are executive class coaches. The total seating capacity is 1,128 passengers. It is much more than the conventional Shatabdi rake of equal number of coaches, thanks to shifting of all electric equipment below the coaches and seats in the driving coach also.

• It also has provision for Divyang-friendly facilities. 

• Adding up the green footprints, the train has a regenerative braking system in the Vande Bharat Express coaches which can save up to 30% of electrical energy.

• The Vande Bharat Express train has fully sealed gangways and censored interconnecting doors for a dust free environment.

• A fire survival cable indoor circuit will also be an available on the train. There will also

be an improved air conditioning system.

Routes:

Currently, the eight Vande Bharat Express Trains are running on the following routes:

1. New Delhi – Shri Vaishno Devi Mata, Katra

2. New Delhi – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

3. Gandhinagar Capital – Ahmedabad - Mumbai Central

4. Amb Andaura – New Delhi

5. Mysuru – Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR Chennai Central

6. Nagpur, Maharashtra – Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

7. Howrah – New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal

8. Secunderabad, Telangana – Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh

Vande Bharat 2.0

The Indian Railways has introduced the new avatar of Vande Bharat: Vande Bharat 2.0 with the first train being flagged off by the Prime Minister on September 30, 2022 from Gandhinagar to Mumbai. 11 The Vande Bharat 2.0 will be equipped with a range of advanced features over its predecessor. It will be able to attain maximum speed up to 180 kmph, and will be lighter, weighing 392 ton instead of the earlier 430 ton.

Enhanced Safety:

The Vande Bharat 2.0 trains have the KAVACH (Train Collision Avoidance System) for enhanced safety in operations. There will be improved security with four emergency windows added in every coach. There will be four platform side cameras

including rear view cameras outside the coach instead of two earlier. The new coaches have Level-II safety integration certification for better train control. The Vande Bharat 2.0 will also have better fire safety measures with Aerosol based fire detection and suppression system in all electrical cubicles and toilets. There will be superior flood proofing for under-slung electrical equipment to withstand floods up to 650 mm height as compared to 400 mm earlier. The train will also have four emergency lightings in every coach in case of electric failure.

Improved Amenities for Passengers:

There will be enhanced riding comfort for passengers at 3.5 riding index. The new Vande Bharat will also have 32-inch LCD TVs in place of the earlier 24-inch TVs. There will be a passenger information and communication system in Vande Bharat

2.0. 15 percent more energy efficient ACs with dust free clean air cooling of traction motor will make the travel more comfortable. Side recliner seat facility which is being provided to Executive Class passengers, will now be made available for all classes. The Executive Coaches have the added feature of 180-degree rotating seats. The train will also have bio vaccum toilets with touch-free amenities. The trains will also have wifi content on demand.

 Other Enhancements:

The Vande Bharat 2.0 will have finer heat ventilation and air-conditioning controlthrough higher efficiency compressor, with Ultra Violet (UV) lamp for germ-freesupply of air. The train’s time to reach 160 KMPH will be 140 seconds, compared to

145 seconds earlier. There will be driver-guard communication with voice recordingfacility. There will be change of formation with non-driving trailer coach in themiddle for better acceleration and deceleration. The train will have better ventilation

for traction motor for better reliability. There will also be two signal exchange lights on the coaches for exchange of signal with the way side stations. 

INDIAN RAILWAYS : Journey extraordinaire—Kashmir to Kanyakumari

 INDIAN RAILWAYS : Kashmir to Kanyakumari 

The 16317 / 16318 Himsagar Express is a weekly Express train of the Indian Railways running between Kanyakumari ... Vaishno Devi Katra in Jammu and Kashmir- the northernmost state of India.

Himsagar_Express_(Jammu_Tawi_-_Kanyakumari)_Route_map

New Delhi: Railways Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that Indian Railways will connect the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari before August 15, 2022.

"Katra to Banihar section is being constructed quickly and work on Chenab bridge is underway. Soon Indian Railways will connect the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari before August 15th, 2022. Earlier, work was halted due to terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir," he said at the flagging-off ceremony of Vande Bharat train from New Delhi to Katra.

Hailing the Centre's decision of abrogating Article 370, he added, "Acting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision of abrogating Article 370, Amit Shah has taken bold steps. People are now associating themselves with Kashmir. Prime Minister on August 15 said Vande Bharat train will go to every corner of the country. Indian Railways will connect the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kamrup to Kutch before August 15, 2022.

The minister also outlined that WIFI facility is available at 5,000 railway stations and in the coming days around 6,500 stations will be connected with the facility.

The Home Minister has emphasised on security in trains and railway stations. We are installing CCTV cameras at railway stations," he said.

Goyal and Union Home Minister Amit Shah along with Union Ministers Dr Jitendra Singh and Dr Harsh Vardhan flagged-off the Vande Bharat Express from New Delhi to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.

Shah said that the train will boost tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

"Before the abrogation of Article 370, there were many obstacles in J-K's path to development. In the next 10 years, J-K will be one of the most developed states. The journey of development has begun with Vande Bharat Express set to boost tourism in the state," he said.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who represents Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency also said that new opportunities will become available in the valley after the abrogation of Article 370.

He also said that the Vande Bharat Express will further propagate the message of Prime Minister Modi's new vision about Jammu and Kashmir.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

Indian Railways : Luxury Trains

Indian Railways : luxury trains 

 Here is the list of the top 7 luxury trains in India :

1. The Deccan Odyssey.

2. Maharaja's Express.

3. The Golden Chariot.

4. Royal Rajasthan on Wheels.

5. Palace on Wheels.

6. Fairy Queen Express.

7. Royal Orient Train.

The Deccan Odyssey

The Deccan Odyssey was devised by Indian Railways and the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corp in 2001 in an effort to increase tourism in Maharashtra. Integral Coach Factory started construction in 2002 and finished in 2003.

The dawn of 16th January, 2004 brought a new turn to the Maharashtra tourism industry with the inaugural ceremony of the regal journey of Deccan Odyssey Indian from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Mumbai.

The Deccan Odyssey is a luxury train in India that offers a unique and extravagant way to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. The train operates on a seven-night itinerary, covering destinations in the Indian states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Rajasthan.

Passengers can expect a truly royal experience with plush cabins, multiple dining options, a bar, a lounge, a spa, and cultural programs such as classical music performances and cooking demonstrations. The train also makes several stops at popular tourist destinations, allowing passengers to explore and visit historic monuments, temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and beaches.

The Deccan Odyssey has gained popularity over the years and is now considered one of the most luxurious train journeys in the world. If you're looking for an unforgettable way to discover the wonders of India, the Deccan Odyssey is definitely worth considering.

Maharaja's Express

One of the most expensive and luxurious luxury train rides in the world, the salons of the Maharajas’ Express train draws inspiration from the private saloons of the erstwhile Maharajas’ of India. Even before the inception of rail traveling in India, Maharajas’ of India had a keen fascination with these moving wonders on wheels invented by James Watt.

Luxury train traveling in India has come a long way since the introduction of Palace on Wheels train in 1982 for promotion of tourism in Rajasthan. The most recent and unarguably the most luxurious tourist train in India with finesse at par with the Orient Express of the West, Maharajas’ Express has redefined the art of elegant train traveling in India. A fascinating voyage across some of the finest destinations in India let you discover the true spirit of this incredible nation.

The Maharaja's Express is another luxury train in India that offers a lavish travel experience to visitors. Like the Deccan Odyssey, it covers a wide range of destinations in India and provides passengers with a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

The Maharaja's Express operates on five itineraries, each of which spans across several days and covers different regions of India. The train features state-of-the-art cabins and dining cars, a lounge bar, and a conference car, offering passengers all the comforts and amenities of a 5-star hotel.

Some of the popular destinations covered by the Maharaja's Express include the Taj Mahal in Agra, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, and the wildlife sanctuaries of Madhya Pradesh. The train also makes several stops at off-the-beaten-path destinations, allowing passengers to discover hidden gems and experience local cultures.

If you're looking for a truly indulgent travel experience in India, the Maharaja's Express is an excellent choice. With its luxurious amenities, diverse itineraries, and rich cultural offerings, it's sure to be an unforgettable journey.

The Golden Chariot.

The Golden Chariot is a luxury tourist train that connects the important tourist spots in the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala & Tamil Nadu as well as Pondicherry, depending on the selected itinerary. It is named after the Stone Chariot in the Vitthala Temple at Hampi.

The Golden Chariot is another luxury train in India that offers travelers an exclusive and unforgettable way to experience the country's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The train operates on two itineraries - the Pride of the South, which covers destinations in the Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, and the Southern Splendour, which covers destinations in the Indian states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.

The Golden Chariot offers its passengers a range of luxurious amenities, including elegantly furnished cabins, multiple dining options, a lounge bar, and a conference car. The train also provides several recreational facilities, such as a spa and a library, making it a truly self-contained world of comfort and luxury.

Some of the popular destinations covered by the Golden Chariot include the historic city of Hampi, the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, the ancient temples of Mahabalipuram, and the scenic beaches of Goa. The train also provides several opportunities for passengers to discover local cultures and interact with the communities they visit.

If you're seeking a luxurious and indulgent way to explore South India, the Golden Chariot is an excellent choice. With its comfortable cabins, diverse itineraries, and rich cultural offerings, it's sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels

The Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a luxury tourist train run by Indian Railways. It is modelled on the Palace on Wheels, and follows a similar route through Rajasthan. Tourists are taken to several important tourist, wildlife and heritage sites across Rajasthan.

Palace on Wheels ticket price ranges between INR 3.50 lakhs and 5.35 lakhs. However, for children up to 5 years, there is no tariff. The amenities of the royal train include spa, bar, laundry, gym and salon, as well as the design highlights the heritage and culture of Rajasthan.

Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a luxury train in India that takes passengers on a journey through the colorful and culturally rich state of Rajasthan. The train operates on a seven-night itinerary, covering destinations such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur, and Agra.

The train features plush cabins and dining cars, a lounge bar, and recreational facilities such as a spa and a conference car. Passengers can enjoy a range of cultural activities during their journey, such as classical dance performances and visits to local bazaars and villages.

Some of the popular destinations covered by Royal Rajasthan on Wheels include the historic city of Jaipur, the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the tranquil lakes of Udaipur, and the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. The train also provides several opportunities for passengers to interact with local communities and experience the rich traditions and culture of Rajasthan.

If you're interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes of Rajasthan, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels is a fantastic choice. With its luxurious amenities, cultural offerings, and picturesque destinations, it promises to be a truly unforgettable journey.

The Royal Rajasthan On Wheels has been re-named as Palace on Wheels. In the new Palace on Wheels, there are three cabins per carriage. Each cabin is bigger. Carriage suspension is also better.

Travelling on the Palace on Wheels is one of the memorable ways to explore India's stately splendour. The carriages have been refurbished as replicas of the original saloon carriages of the Maharajas.

Enjoy international cuisine, relax in the library, have a drink at the bar, or just retreat into your extensive cabin and watch the tapestry of the Rajasthan countryside unfold.

The efficient traditional liveried staff take care of everything one can think of, from accommodation, food, organized guided tours to shopping; there is nothing left to chance for passengers on The Palace on Wheels.

Fairy Queen Express

Fairy Queen is a Royal Luxury Tourist train that only operates with two royal coaches with all modern facilities and covers Delhi, Sariska, Alwar Cities.

The Fairy Queen Express is a luxury train in India that offers a unique travel experience to visitors. The train operates on a one-day excursion from Delhi to Alwar in the Indian state of Rajasthan.

The Fairy Queen Express is the oldest operating steam engine in the world, and its journey is a true celebration of India's rich railway heritage. The train features plush cabins, dining cars, and a lounge bar, providing passengers with all the comforts and amenities of a 5-star hotel.

The journey covers a scenic route through the Aravalli Hills, passing by charming rural landscapes, historic forts and monuments, and traditional villages. Passengers can also enjoy a range of cultural activities during the journey, such as folk music performances and visits to local bazaars and heritage sites.

If you're looking for a unique and indulgent travel experience in India, the Fairy Queen Express is definitely worth considering. With its rich history, picturesque destinations, and luxurious amenities, it promises to be a truly unforgettable journey.

The Fairy Queen, also known as the East Indian Railway No. 22, is a steam locomotive built in 1855, restored by Loco Works Perambur, Chennai in 1997, and housed at the Rewari Railway Heritage Museum. It occasionally runs between New Delhi and Alwar.

1855, The year when the majestic Fairy Queen rolled out for the erstwhile East Indian Railway. For the first time after 1908, the Fairy Queen rolled again on Feb. 1st, 1997 from Delhi to Alwar. The steam engine is the oldest working engine in the world. Finding its pride of place in the Guinness Book of World Records and also capturing the National Tourism Award, this prestigious pristine beauty that graces the National Rail Museum, New Delhi, is steaming once again. The Queen, with the privileged ones aboard reaches the picturesque town of Alwar in Rajasthan the same day, from where the guests are taken to Sariska National Park. The selected guests will certainly go back with fond memories of a once-in-a lifetime experience. Go ahead and book your journey back into time.

7. Royal Orient Train

The train started in 1994-95 as a joint venture of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and the Indian Railways. The livery follows a blue scheme to differentiate it from the Palace on Wheels.

Royal Orient promises eight memorable days and seven lavish nights journey. This royal expedition takes traveller through Delhi, Chittorgarh, Udaipur.

Royal Orient Train is a fascinating train which is all set to offer its passengers a royal experience. Its opulence makes it among the most luxurious trains of the world. The highlight of the train is its royal richness, providing an opportunity to feel and taste the Raj culture. A royal sojourn takes you to the culturally rich states of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

This popular luxury train offers eight days and seven nights' journey for a memorable experience. The royal expedition takes passengers through Delhi, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Junagarh, Veraval, Somnath, Sasan Gir National Park, Ahmedpur, Mandvi, Palitana, Sarkhej, Ahmedabad and Jaipur. The journey comes up with a perfect opportunity to enjoy sight-seeing tours and desert safaris for a unique experience.

The Royal Orient Train is a luxury train in India that offers an exclusive way to explore the rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes of the country. The train operates on two itineraries - the Jewels of the Royal Orient, which covers destinations in the Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, and the Indian Panorama, which covers destinations across several states in northern India.

The Royal Orient Train features plush cabins, dining cars, a lounge bar, and recreational facilities such as a library and a spa. Passengers can enjoy a range of cultural activities during their journey, such as traditional dance performances, visits to local bazaars and villages, and guided tours of historic monuments and palaces.

Some of the popular destinations covered by the Royal Orient Train include the historic city of Udaipur, the vibrant city of Jaipur, the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, and the tranquil hills of Darjeeling. The train also provides several opportunities for passengers to interact with local communities and experience the rich traditions and culture of India.

If you're looking for a luxurious and culturally rich travel experience in India, the Royal Orient Train is an excellent choice. With its comfortable cabins, diverse itineraries, and rich cultural offerings, it's sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime journey.

INDIAN RAIL : List of Heritage Trains in India

 List of Heritage Trains in India

Heritage rails are a little more than just tourist attractions. These trains and routes are integral parts of the history of the land. These heritage trains are preserved to create a nostalgic feel. The heritage railways have modified their trains and routes for safety purposes, technical advancements and requirements.

Top Heritage Train in India :

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway :

The settlement at Darjeeling really began in 1828 with British interest. By 1835, it was separated from Sikkim for establishing a Sanatorium for the invalid servants of the East India Company. It then consisted of a monastery on observatory hill clustered with about 20 huts and a population of about 100 people. Planning began in 1839, to lay out the Darjeeling town and construct a hill road connecting Siliguri, Pankhabari, Kurseong and Darjeeling. At the same time, evolution of hotels began, the first being The Darjeeling Family Hotel’s, followed by other hotels. By 1840, Darjeeling town had about 30 buildings and a few respectable houses.

In the year 1878, Franklin Prestage, Agent of the Eastern Bengal Railway, foresaw the utility of a rail link between the hills of Darjeeling and the plains. His scheme was mainly driven by hard economic considerations viz., the huge difference in the cost of essential commodities between Darjeeling, and Siliguri, the need to carry out tea for export and the inability of the existing road to handle the growing traffic. He submitted a scheme for the construction of a two feet gauge railway line from Siliguri to Darjeeling.

In a detailed scheme submitted to the Government of Bengal and approved by the Lt. Governor Sir Ashley Eden, he pointed out how a railway could substantially reduce the cost of transport between Darjeeling and the plains. Rice, which sold at  98 a ton at Siliguri, Cost  238 at Darjeeling! He was also convinced that the cost of construction of the 2 feet gauge rail-line would not be prohibitive, and locomotives, small but powerful enough to climb steep gradients, could be designed

Prestage received final sanction for his project on April 8, 1879 and formed the Darjeeling Steam Tramway Co. However, the idea of operating the line as a steam tramway was soon abandoned and, on September 15, 1881, the company adopted the designation of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Co. (DHR), which remained effective until it was taken over by the Government of free India on October 20, 1948. Throughout that period Gillanders Artbuthnot & Co., one of the oldest managing houses in Calcutta, handled its financial, legal and purchasing interests.

This rail is also called as the toy train. This railway travels between New Jalpaiguri station and Darjeeling station. Started in end of 19th century, this train covers six zigzag routes and five large loops to get to the higher altitude. This route was declared as a world heritage site in 1999. This is one of the most famous tourist attractions of the country.

This narrow gauge railway runs between Shimla and Kalka. This route is famous for the grand view of the hill regions and the villages. Built during the end of 19th century, this train was extensively used by the British rulers of India. In 2007, this railway was in line to be recognized as a heritage site. In 2008, it was introduced into the line of prestigious mountain railways heritage site. Babu Bhalku rail museum has displays and collections explaining the development and history of this rail line.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

2. Kalka-Shimla Railway :

Magic Of The Himachal Himalayas One must remember, the Kangra valley is not one place in particular. It happens to be the name given to the entire region that lies between the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas to the north and the last strangling foothills to the south. So, roughly speaking, this talk is about a slim rectangular belt running 90 miles in length and 30 miles in breadth through the mountains.

The section has 864 bridges, only one of which is a 60 feet plate girder span and a steel truss. The others are viaducts with multi-arched galleries like the ancient Roman aqueducts. Bridge No. 493, historically known as the "Arch Gallery", situated between Kandaghat and Kanoh stations, is an arch bridge in three stages, constructed with stone masonry that stands good even today.

KSR runs through 102 tunnels, some of which have hoary tales to tell. For instance, the longest tunnel at Barog, named after the engineer in charge of construction, bears the blood of it's creator who apparently committed suicide after making a mistake in laying the alignment. This tunnel is 1143.61 meters long and remained the second longest tunnel on Indian Railways for a long time. It is a straight tunnel, passing through fissured sand stone.

This narrow gauge railway runs between Shimla and Kalka. This route is famous for the grand view of the hill regions and the villages. Built during the end of 19th century, this train was extensively used by the British rulers of India.

In 2007, this railway was in line to be recognized as a heritage site. In 2008, it was introduced into the line of prestigious mountain railways heritage site. Babu Bhalku rail museum has displays and collections explaining the development and history of this rail line.

3. Matheran Hill Railway :

This toy train is considered to be one of the most historic mountain railways and was founded by Abdul Hussain Peerbhoy. The founder is an entrepreneur based in Mumbai. This train had its first run in the year 1907. This happened after almost 3 years after the railway lines were constructed. Though the founder is Abdur Peerbhoy, however, this was financed by his father, Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy.

This narrow gauge train runs in Maharashtra, between Neral and Matheran. It runs along the famous Western Ghats. This train is yet to be added to the heritage site list. The rail route is 21 km long and has been in operation since 1907.

matheran-hill-railway

Interesting Facts :

1.The most interesting fact about the Matheran Hill Railway Toy train is that all the stations have solar power. There are also LED lights and fans along with energy plants and winds. The LED lights and fans help you to save a lot of energy.

2 Matheran, unlike the other hill stations do not have a large mountain range. It is in fact the smallest hill station of the country and covers an area of 7 kms. The total population of this hill station is barely 6000.

3. Matheran, unlike the other hill stations do not have a large mountain range. It is in fact the smallest hill station of the country and covers an area of 7 kms. The total population of this hill station is barely 6000.

4. This is the only place in Maharashtra where you to get toy trains.

5. The literacy rate of this place is 75% which is actually higher than the literacy rate of India.

6 This is a place where there is very heavy rainfall and the average temperature of this place ranges between 32 degree centigrade and 16 degree centigrade.

In 2012, a few carriages with additional comforts like sofa, LCD screen showing passing sceneries and others were added to it. The train starts in Neral, closer to Mumbai. It ascends the Matheran hill by going through 2 large zig-zags and a big bend before completing its 140 hours journey.

Train Services :

This toy train is quite small and has a passenger carrying capacity of just about 100. There is a first class carriage along with another three second class carriages. The first class carriage is for people who want to enjoy a relaxing as well as a comfortable journey. The seats in this particular carriage are quite cozy and also padded. There are also shuttle train services that operate between Aman Lodge which is situated just next to the car park in Dasturi and Matheran.

Trains from Mumbai to Bangalore

4. Nilgiri Mountain Railway :

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is a meter-gauge single- track railway in Tamil Nadu State, 46km long. Its construction was first proposed in 1854, but due to the difficulty of the mountainous location, the work only started in 1891 being completed in 1908.

The Madras Railway broad gauge line from Madras to Calicut in 1862, a 26 mile, broad gauge branch from Podanur to Mettupalaiyam, the 'Mettupalaiyam Branch Line' was opened to traffic in 1873 and plans discussed to extend this into the Nilgiri Hills - the "Blue Mountains".

In 1885, the Nilgiri Railway Company was formed with construction beginning in 1891. Initially, it was intended to adopt the Rigi rack system but eventually the Abt rack system was chosen. Horace Bell continued to act in a private capacity as Consulting Engineer in London, he had in 1894 retired from his position in India as Consulting Engineer for the State Railway Board.

In 1896, a new company was formed with a guarantee (3% return during the construction period) from the Government of India(GoI) following the failure of the 1885 company.

In 1899 the first section, from Mettupalaiyam to Coonoor (including 12 miles of rack), was opened to working by the Madras Railway. In 1903 the GoI purchased the line and contracted its working to the Madras Railway.

When the Madras Railway was merged into the Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway in 1907, the NMR contract was awarded to the South Indian Railway(SIR). The railway was included as part of the 'SIR System Metre Gauge'.

Construction of the extension from Coonoor to Ootacamund was completed by the GoI Public Works Department in 1908,

This is one of the common heritage trains of the country, right after the Darjeeling toy train. This route is operated since 1908. This is the only route with rack railway line in the country. Since 2005, this train has been added to the world heritage site list under mountain railways of India section.

The route runs from Mettupalayam to Udhagamandalam (Ooty). This route takes 4.8 hours. There is one train each way, every day. However, during the peak summer season of April and May, four trains run each way, every day. Read more about the Complete Guide On Nilgiri Mountain Railway Toy Train to Ooty.

Nilgiri-Mountain-Railway

5. Calcutta Tramways Company :

This is a local tram system running through the city of Kolkata in West Bengal. This is the oldest electrical tram system of the continent, which is still in use. It is serving its purpose since 1902.

In 19th century, this tram system was operated by horses. Later, steam locomotives were used for the purpose. By the beginning of 20th century, electrical engines were used.

Today, there are seven tram depots in Kolkata at Raja bazar, Belgachhia, Gariahat, Park Circus, Khidirpur, Tollygunge, Khidirpur and Kalighat. The Tollygunge and Raja bazar are the most famous and largest depots of all.

Calcutta-Tramways-Company

6. Palace on Wheels Train India

This is one of the earliest luxury trains of the country operating in and around Rajasthan. Launched in 2009, this train is the modified versions of the ancient train carriages used by the royals of India to travel. The train has many luxurious facilities like restaurants, bars, spa, lounge room, laundry services and so on. The train takes 7 nights and 8 days to complete its trip, stopping for excursion at each of the following destinations like Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur and Agra. The train journey starts and ends in Delhi. The excursions are also conducted by the train team.

Make sure to pre-book your train tickets, especially during the peak tourism season. Indian Railways is famous for being crowded and in high demand, throughout the year.

Palace on Wheels