About Toy Train & DHR Loops
Kurseong is one of the most photogenic stops on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The narrow-gauge track runs through the town's main street — literally between the market stalls and the houses, closer to pedestrians than any railway line has a right to be — before negotiating the famous Tindharia loops below town, where the locomotive reverses direction three times in a tight zig-zag to gain altitude without a continuous incline. Joy rides on the restored steam locomotive run between Kurseong and Darjeeling on select days, and the steam engine maintenance yard at Kurseong station is occasionally open to visitors. Watching the morning goods train pick its way through the market at 8km/h, whistling at every crossing, is one of the more surreal and charming railway experiences in India.
Why go to Toy Train & DHR Loops
UNESCO heritage railway through the market street
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway runs through the middle of Kurseong town — the track is in the road, between the stalls. The morning train passes at market stall height, occasionally slower than walking pace.
The Tindharia reversal loops — most dramatic section of the DHR
Below Kurseong, the locomotive reverses direction three times to climb the gradient without a spiral tunnel. The Tindharia loops are the engineering showpiece of the line and best viewed on foot or from a hillside above.
How to reach Toy Train & DHR Loops from Kurseong
Kurseong station is in the town centre — walkable from all Kurseong hotels. For the Tindharia loops viewpoint, taxi 4km south of Kurseong (15 min).
Best time to visit Toy Train & DHR Loops
Year-round. Joy rides are more frequent between October and May. Check current joy ride schedules with the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Time of dayEarly morning (7–9am) for the goods train through the market.
Things we always tell our guests about Toy Train & DHR Loops
- Check current joy ride schedules directly with the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) — the service is popular and books out in advance on weekends.
- The Tindharia loops viewpoint (4km south) gives the best aerial perspective on the reversal mechanism — accessible by taxi and a short walk.
- The station platform at Kurseong is a pleasant place to sit in the early morning waiting for the steam engine.
Toy Train & DHR Loops — your questions answered
Other places in Kurseong
- GardenViewpointTrekHeritage