The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has taken steps to preserve the heritage of the renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Train by revitalising the historic Sukna railway station, which is 146 years old. This initiative aims to promote tourism and is underscored by a series of cultural events held at the station on October 4, 2026. The highlight of the celebration included a ceremonial cake-cutting, followed by traditional Nepali folk dances and musical performances, which not only enlivened the atmosphere but also engaged local communities.

The ceremony was officially inaugurated by Chetan Kumar Srivastava, the General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railways. He emphasised the importance of enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the historical significance of the railway. The festive events attracted a large crowd, contributing to the growing popularity of the toy train among both domestic and international tourists.

Alongside the festivities, a photo gallery was unveiled to commemorate the occasion. This gallery features a collection of historic images of the DHR Toy Train, with each photograph equipped with a QR code. Visitors can scan these codes to access detailed information about the history and significance of each picture, thereby enriching their understanding of the railway’s legacy.

Increased Passenger Traffic and Future Plans

According to Srivastava, the DHR Toy Train has seen a substantial rise in passenger traffic, with this year’s numbers reaching record levels. He noted that the increasing global attraction of the heritage railway is prompting the NFR to implement various measures to enhance its appeal. “Every year, the traffic is increasing, and this year, we have witnessed record-breaking footfall,” he stated. To cater to the growing demand, the NFR plans to introduce additional train services during the upcoming Durga Puja celebration, which is a significant festival in Bengal.

Currently, the DHR operates eight pairs of daily joy ride services, focusing on the scenic Darjeeling–Ghoom stretch. Additionally, two direct services connect New Jalpaiguri station with Darjeeling, further enhancing travel options for both tourists and locals. These services remain a major attraction, providing a unique experience of the lush landscapes and cultural richness of the Darjeeling region.

The railway, built between 1879 and 1881, spans 88 kilometres and employs a two-foot (610 mm) narrow-gauge system. It is celebrated for its innovative engineering, particularly its use of zig-zag reverses and loops to navigate steep gradients. The railway ascends from an altitude of around 100 metres (328 feet) at New Jalpaiguri to approximately 2,200 metres (7,218 feet) at Darjeeling, making it a remarkable feat of engineering in such rugged terrain.

UNESCO Recognition and Historical Significance

In recognition of its outstanding contributions to the history of transportation, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 2, 1999. This designation highlights the railway’s significance as an innovative example of transportation engineering designed to traverse challenging mountainous landscapes. The NFR’s efforts to revitalise Sukna station are aligned with broader initiatives to preserve and celebrate this vital component of Indian heritage.

The redevelopment of Sukna station not only aims to attract more tourists but also seeks to foster a sense of local pride and cultural identity. By showcasing the historical aspects of the DHR, the NFR is making strides towards ensuring the longevity and appreciation of this iconic railway.

With plans for future enhancements and increased service offerings, the NFR is committed to maintaining the allure of the DHR Toy Train, ensuring that it continues to be a cherished aspect of the region’s heritage for years to come.

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