Taking a trip on the historic UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla train line is like traveling back in time. The railway, built by the British in 1903 to provide access to their summer capital of Shimla, provides one of the most scenic train journeys in India. It enlivens passengers as it gradually winds its way steeply upwards along the narrow track, though mystical mountains and pine forests.
- Shivalik Deluxe Express -- a premium express train with carpet, wide glass windows that open, cushioned seats, and relaxing music. It fits 120 passengers. Food is provided.
- Himalayan Queen -- a standard toy train service, with bench seats. Food isn't provided but can be purchased at the 10 or so stations that it stops at along the way.
- Rail Motor Car -- uniquely resembles a bus from the time of the Second World War. It's got a transparent roof, and fits only 14 passengers. It's also an express service, with food provided.
In addition to the normal train services, there are two special luxury tourist carriages that can be booked. These are:
- Shivalik Palace -- is designed to be like a hotel room for parties of up to six people. The carriage has its own attendant, folding cushioned bed, refrigerator, on-board kitchen, and dining table. It can be attached to any train on the Shimla-Kalka route. Meals are provided.
- Shivalik Queen -- especially for honeymooners. Compartments offer privacy in a luxurious environment, with wall to wall carpets and huge curtained windows. Meals are provided.
Trains from Kalka to Shimla run daily as follows:
- Shivalik Deluxe Express -- is timed to connect with the Howrah-Kalka Mail train, which comes from Kolkata via Delhi. It departs Kalka at 5.30 a.m and arrives in Shimla at 10.15 a.m.
- Himalayan Queen -- connects with the Himalayan Queen train from Nizammudin station in Delhi. It departs Kalka at 12.10 p.m. and arrives in Shimla at 5.20 p.m. However, in reality the journey can often take up to seven hours.
- Rail Motor Car -- is for early risers! It departs Kalka at 5.10 a.m and arrives at 9.35 a.m.
To Kalka, trains depart from Shimla in the evenings.
In addition to the normal train services, a number of extra trains run during the busy holiday seasons in India. This is usually from May to July, September and October, and December and January.
The Rail Motor Car is also a temporary service that only operates for part of the year, to serve the holiday rush.
- Shivalik Deluxe Express -- 280 rupees ($6) one way.
- Shivalik Queen -- 790 rupees ($17) one way.
- Shivalik Palace -- 4,790 rupees ($100) from Kalka to Shimla and 3,495 rupees ($75) from Shimla to Kalka. The fare is for the whole carriage, and includes accommodation in two retiring rooms at Shimla for the day and meals during the journey.
- Himalayan Queen -- 167 rupees ($3.50) one way.
- Rail Motor Car -- 247 rupees ($5.50) one way.
You can make a reservation for travel on the Shivalik Deluxe Express, Himalayan Queen, and Rail Motor Car services on the Indian Railways website or at Indian Railways booking offices. It's recommended that you book your tickets as early as possible (up to 90 days in advance), especially during the summer months from April to June.
Here's how to make a reservation on the Indian Railways website. The Indian Railways codes for the stations are Kalka "KLK" and Simla (no "h") "SML".
The Shivalik Queen and Palace can only be booked though the Divisional Railway Manager's Office, Rail Vihar, Ambala. Ph: (91-171) 264-5500.
