Exploring India’s UNESCO World Heritage Train Routes

Train travel is one of the most fascinating and enjoyable ways to explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes of India. Whether you are looking for a scenic getaway, a cultural experience, or an adventure, there is a train route that will suit your preferences. Some of the most stunning and historic train routes in India are the ones that have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. These are the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Kalka-Shimla Railway, which offer spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, forests, and villages along the way.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a 46-km long narrow-gauge railway that connects the hill station of Ooty with the town of Mettupalayam in Tamil Nadu. The railway was built in the late 19th century by the British and is the only rack railway in India. The train passes through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, and 208 curves, as it ascends from an elevation of 326 m to 2,203 m. The journey takes about five hours and offers breathtaking views of the Nilgiri Hills, tea plantations, waterfalls, and wildlife.

The Kalka-Shimla Railway

The Kalka-Shimla Railway, also known as the Himalayan Queen, is a 96-km long narrow-gauge railway that connects the plains of Kalka with the hill station of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. The railway was built in the early 20th century by the British and is the highest railway in India. The train passes through 103 tunnels, 864 bridges, and 919 curves, as it climbs from an elevation of 656 m to 2,076 m. The journey takes about six hours and offers splendid views of the Shivalik Mountains, pine forests, orchards, and villages.

Both these train routes are not only scenic but also rich in history and culture. They showcase the engineering marvels and the colonial legacy of the British Raj. They also provide an opportunity to interact with the local people and experience their traditions and cuisines. If you are planning to take these train routes, you will need to book your tickets well in advance, as they are very popular and often sold out.

One of the challenges of train travel in India is finding good quality and hygienic food on board. Most trains do not have pantry cars or offer limited options of snacks and beverages. This is where ZOOP comes in handy. ZOOP is a service that delivers fresh and delicious food in trains across India. You can order your food online or through their website www.zoopindia.comapp, and choose from a variety of cuisines and dishes. ZOOP will deliver your food at your seat or at your preferred station, at the right time and temperature. You can also track your order and pay online or cash on delivery.