Most Scenic Train Rides in the World - Kangra Valley Railway

India (KVR) Holidays

Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) Holiday Trip - Overview

A trip on the Kangra Toy Train is a thrilling experience. It is an unmatched way to savour the beauty of the Kangra Valley. At Joginder Nagar, Himachal Tourism offers a unique herbal package track in Himalayas, which unfolds the ecstasy of Himalayan medicinal plants and creates awareness about depleting bio-resources.

The Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) is a linear Property which is 163.720 Kilometers long and 0.762 meter wide runs from Pathankot. It is located at an elevation of 383.820 m to Joginder Nagar in Kangra Valley, in Gurdaspur District (Punjab) and Mandi districts (Himachal Pradesh). 

What is unique in “Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) Holiday trip”?

This train package is the Most Scenic Train Rides in the World, It starts from North Indian City of Pathankot & embark this incredible Himalayan Journey through Rivers, Tea Estates, Himalayan Mountains to reach Kangra Valley in Himalayas. You can get down at quaint stations, enjoy incredible site seeing through window, explore the mountain lives around the train junctions and also to see famous tourist places.

Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) Holiday package: Highlights

Enjoy the Ravishing sightseeing’s while travelling the most beautiful railway of world.

Enjoy the Himalayan towns of Dalai Lama's Dharamshala

Explore the tea garden city of Palampur

Visit Hindu Shaktipeeth & places of worship at Jwalamukhi Devi, Chintpurni Shaktipeeth and Baijnath Temple

Awesome trip of Kangra Shaktipeeth temple, Kangra Fort and Andretta Village

Explore the beauty of Tea Estates, Tea Factory, Saurabh Van Vihar, Karaeri Lake and Indrahar Pass

Grab adventurous activities in Bir Billing for paragliding, and Mcleodganj fro Trekking to Mountain peaks ( Triund, Indrahar, Mon peak)

Heavenly & beautiful Hill Stations like Joginder nagar, Barot , Macchial Lake and Joginder Nagar Valley

Package Inclusion

• Complete Journey through KVR Railways & sight seeing

• Daily Breakfast & Dinner

• 2Nights accommodation in Kangra

• 2Nights accommodation in Dharamshala

• 2Nights accommodation in bir

• 1Nights accommodation in Joginder nager

• Private Taxi (Indigo/ Dzire) from Pathankot for 8 days

• Pickup and Drop from Pathankot

• All Toll taxes, Parking, Driver night hault

• All Taxes

Package Exclusion

• Lunch not include in this package

• Any expenses of a personal nature like laundry, telephone calls, beverages, gratuities etc.

• Entrance Fees and Camera fees at monuments and other places of interest

• Travel insurance

Beauty of Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) Journey

Enjoy the enchanting ride with the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Mountains on one side, lush green fields on the other side, tea gardens, and significant pilgrimage centers; for the benefit of the tourists as well as the local communities and offer a rich and scenic expanse of the spectacular Himalayan Mountains.

The Kangra valley is the region between the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas to the north (a low chain of ridges about 2500 metres high in front and peaks 5000 meters tall behind) and the foothills to the south, about 50 kilometers wide, ascending from West to East and the KVR runs through its entire length. It remains a well known tourist attraction in Northern India. The portion of the line in Gurdaspur and Kangra districts forms the lower section (smoother gradients and curves) and the portion in Mandi district forms the upper section (steepest gradients and curves). The route of the KVR, developed as a cultural corridor and provided access to the Kangra Valley; linking important towns, very holy Hindu pilgrimage centers & settlements. It also, provides access to the Dalai Lama's abode at Mcleodganj.

The railway can be divided into three sections 

i) The first section is 12 kilometers long from Pathankot (elevation 383.820 meters) to Chakki Bridge (elevation 398.780 meters); In Gurdaspur district, in the state of Punjab. Pathankot has the locomotive shed, carriage sub-depot of the KVR. Starting from Pathankot, the narrow gauge line runs out of the town and crosses the Chakki river in a scenic manner. Significant locations and structures along this route include inter-alia the Pathankot station and Chakki bridge. The maximum gradient is 1 in 40 that is the maximum gradient in the lower section of KVR.

ii) The second section is the pilgrim section, 130 kilometers long from Chakki Bridge (elevation 398.780 meters) to Baijnath Paprola (elevation 979.750 meters): Significant locations and structures along this route include inter-alia the railway stations, Reyond Khad bridge, Bathu Khad bridge, both the tunnels of KVR (Dhundi tunnel and Daulatpur tunnel) and the heritage bunglow at Palampur. Kangra is around midway along the KVR. The KVR passes just away from Kangra town separated by a gigantic cleft in the hills at the bottom of which runs the picturesque Ban Ganga River and provides spectacular views of the ruins of the historic Rajput Fort. Onwards along KVR, approaching Palampur, the ever present background of snowy peaks (about 5000m high and about 15 kilometres away) run parallel. The spectacularly beautiful area around Kangra & Palampur is famous for very significant Hindu pilgrimage temples (attracting millions of pilgrims each year), Tibetan monastery of Dalai Lama, Tea gardens and numerous popular locations. The best access to this beautiful area is provided by the KVR.

iii) The third section is 22 kilometres long, from Baijnath Paprola (elevation 979.750 meters) to the end of the line i.e. Joginder Nagar station (elevation 1184.160 m): Ajhu station is about midway and is the highest point of the line (elevation 1290.230 m). Significant locations and structures along this route include inter-alia the railway stations and flume bridges. Here, the KVR threads its way among the pines of the Bhir gorge and the journey in wilderness in far superior to the journey by road.

Justification of Outstanding Universal Value

Mountain Light Railway (MLR) & Kangra Valley Railways (KVR) are outstanding, example of hill passenger railways. Opened in early in the 19th century, these Railways applied bold and ingenious engineering solutions, to the problem of establishing an effective rail link across a mountainous terrain of great beauty and also, they are still fully operational as living example of the engineering enterprise of the 19th century.

These Railways are spectacular example of technology transfer. The coming of MLR & KVR resulted in development of transport in those areas which otherwise were used on foot or with animal transport (virtually no access).  Indeed, one of the interesting effects of these Railways has been the way they have contributed to the creation of a cultural corridor made by human intervention.  The technological and social interchange is also evident through the application of steam engine technology. These Railways are outstanding and possibly the longest surviving heritage railways in the world.

As an outstanding example of a technological ensemble illustrating a significant stage in human history, these Railways are unique example of the construction genius employed by Railway engineers of the 19th century. Today, MLR & KVR stand out as heritage symbol of the regions.  As ensemble with their impeccably maintained track, their elegant original stations and their old rolling stocks; they are genuinely outstanding and unique type of a 19th century development that is preserved over time.  Thus, it is clearly and spectacularly illustrative of a significant stage in human history that saw pioneering rail construction and its extension for socio-economic development in a mountainous region.

Also, these Railways have been constructed with great technical skill in harmony with the beauty, serenity and grandeur of the surroundings and also; led to the social, cultural and economic creation and development of the areas. These Railways are the best preserved heritage Railways in the world and remain much as they were at the time of their completion in: stations, signals, rural environment. Such railways are rare and deserve conservation and global recognition of their qualities.

Criteria (ii): The Extension to the Mountain Railways of India are outstanding examples of the interchange of values on developments in technology and the impact of an innovative transportation system on the social and economic development of a multicultural region, which was to serve as a model for similar developments in many parts of the world. The Mountain Railways of India exhibit an important cultural and technological transfer in the colonial setting of the period of its construction.

Criteria (iv): The Extension to the Mountain Railways of India are outstanding examples of a technological ensemble, representing different phases of the development in high mountain areas. The Extension to the Mountain Railways of India are outstanding examples of how access has been provided to the plains and plateaus of the Indian mountains. They are emblematic of the technical and material efforts of human societies of this period to disenclave mountain populations through the railway that are still well maintained and fully operational living lines. They are used in a spirit and for purposes that are the same as those at their inception.

Statements of authenticity and/or integrity

Matheran Light Railway and Kangra Valley Railway are surviving example of the engineering enterprise of the 19th century. These Railways retain their original features of early 19th century when these lines were opened. It is also noteworthy that these lines, besides being a tourist attraction, are also a regular mode of transport for pilgrims and the neighboring communities. Maintenance standards on these Railways are good, as the railway is used fairly intensively but no more intensely than it was designed to be used. The stations are being well maintained as in the original construction and are still in use. They are pretty structures constructed like cottages. They have thin walls, wooden trusses, decorated sloping roofs, large verandahs, wooden pillars, simple & elegant looking and with flowering trees / shrubs around. These have been conserved in the same style. The locomotives and rolling stock are old and of heritage value. The signaling system of these Railways is original of 19th century. Rod operated switches for tracks, kerosene lamps, token instruments are still maintained on these Railways.

The Ministry of Railways, Government of India place great emphasis on the preservation of the entire railway system including the line, rolling stock and all associated buildings in their original shape to the extent possible. The countryside served by the Railway also retains the charm that over time. The natives look upon the Railway as a friendly symbol of the mountains rather than as a harbinger of change. Overall, these Railways are authentic and well preserved.  These Railways play an important economic and social role serving the people of the district. They also have the necessary legal / management protection.

Comparison with other similar properties

• The property can be compared to following World Heritage Sites:

• Semmering Railway, Austria. Inscription: 1998, criteria: ii iv

• Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes. Inscription: 2008, criteria: ii iv

Semmering Railways Austria: This is one of the greatest feats of civil engineering from this pioneering phase of railway building between 1848 -1854. However, Mountain Railways of India is much later example (1881-1926). Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes is a site of early 20th century only. Hence, Mountain Railways of India represents the technological advancements in the period.

Mountain Railways:This is in India began with the DHR in 1881, NMR in 1899, KSR in 1903 and the MLR in 1907. KVR followed and its construction began in 1926. These railways are all living example of the engineering enterprise of the 19th century. These railways were constructed with significant engineering at a very early stage of railway development and overcame the challenges of the steep terrain in distinct innovative ways; to provide access and socio-economic development in the mountains. The DHR used zig-zags & spirals, the NMR used rack & pinion, the KSR used very heavy engineering with significant and numerous roman multi-arch aqueducts & tunnels, the MLR used floating axles (special design of articulated wheels and axles to negotiate the sharp curves and take misalignments) to negotiate the sharp curves and the KVR came last based upon the successes earlier to become the longest of the lot. They provide spectacular panoramic views to travellers.

These are all outstanding examples of the earliest hill passenger railways constructed one after the other that are fully operational with most of their original features intact; as tourist attractions as well as a regular mode of transport for the local population. Following the inscription of the DHR, inscription of the NMR and inscription of the KSR; application already made for MLR; KVR is proposed as a World Heritage Site as an extension to Mountain Railways of India.

Internationally too the KVR is unique and an immensely long heritage railway. The Narrow Gauge Heritage Railways of the world date back to 1850. These are of short lengths (average length is less than 10 kilometers as compared to about over 160 kilometers in KVR). Most of the narrow gauge railways, were earlier used to transport freight and passengers but were later abandoned and restarted as heritage railways that have become tourist attractions.

However, the KVR was built for transport of construction material and then patronized by passengers to create a new mountain settlement for tourism and has been in continuous service as such from its inception, now for over 80 years. Also, the closure and subsequent re-emergence of the old railways in Europe as heritage / tourist railways has resulted in loss of authenticity (railways have been converted to modern railways) whereas the KVR has remained almost original while continuing to remain in service with minimal change. Added to this, the KVR is not only a major tourist attraction, but is also one of the main means of transportation and pilgrimage.

Palampur sightseeing

 Sobha Singh's Art Gallery: The Sobha Singh Art Gallery is situated in Andretta village. it is dedicated to Artist sobha singh.Sobha Singh is a veteran painter from the Sikh community and his masterpiece of Guru Nanak (with his one hand raised as if to bestow blessings) has brought him ample of fame. The art gallery displays some of the finest work of Sobha Singh, which include portraits of Sohni-Mahinval and Hir-Ranjha (famed Punjabi couples).

Jakhani Mata: Jakhani mata temple is situated at chandpur village in kangra distt. this temple is dedicated to Devi latti Jakhani.The temple is located at a vantage point, from where the view of the Dhauladhar range, the valley and the rural human settlements is simply spectacular.

Neugal Khad: The panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Range from Neugal Khad is commendable; the mountains in a distance can be seen clad with snow; which makes the view even more pleasing. The major attraction apart from the stream is the massive iron bridge. Those interested in photography have the good opportunity to capture the beauty of this colossal bridge and the surrounding landscape. Apart from photography, walking along the pebbled path of Neugal Khad is ideal

Birni Devi Temple: Birni Devi Temple is a popular shrine in Palampur. The temple can be reached via Lohna, Upper Bundla and Gallu Langha. From Gallu Langha, there is a moderate trek for Birni Devi Temple, which takes from 3hrs to 5hrs to complete.The entire Palampur can be seen from here and with the help of a binocular, Baijnath town is also visible from here.

Bundlamata Temple: Bundlamata Temple is one of the popular Hindu Shrines located in the ambit of the township in Kangra district.  One of the holiest sites in the region, the temple is believed to have been constructed five centuries ago.

Saurabh Van Vihar: Saurabh Van Vihar is dedicated to Indian Army martyr Capt. Saurabh Kalia, who lost his life during the Kargil War in 1999 Saurabh Van Vihar is at a distance of about 4kms from Palampur. Overlooking the mighty Dhauladhar Range, the beauty of this nature park is enhanced with the different varieties of plants and trees. The park also shelters a sizable population of birds' species, which further adds to its charm.

Baijnath Shiva temple: Baijnath is famous for its 13th-century temple. The temple attracts a large number of tourists and pilgrims from all over India and abroad throughout the year. Special prayers are offered in the morning and evening every day besides on special occasions and during festive seasons.

Dhauladhar National Park:  Just a few hundred Kms always from the sweltering heat of Delhi. The mountains are so inviting. They seem as a wall following or preceding us all the time. The weather suddenly changes and the veritable nip in the air was really there in the middle of the hot Indian summer. The range is inviting and beautiful. Dhauladhar National Park, also known as Gopalpur Zoo, is one of the chief attractions that draw attention of wildlife enthusiasts. Located at a distance of 13 km from Palampur, this national park is one of the major attractions of the destination.

Joginder Nagar railway station

 this popular railway station located at Joginder Nagar town, Himachal Pradesh in India. It lies on Kangra Valley Railway (KVR)and under Firozpur railway division of Northern Railway Zone. Basically It is located at 1189 m above sea level and has one platform Joginder Nagar Railway Station which is connected to the major cities of Himachal Pradesh.

Joginder Nagar to Manali distance 

Distance between Joginder Nagar to Manali is 163 km by Road along with an aerial distance of 47 km.

Mumbai to Pathankot

Distance between Mumbai to Pathankot is 1876 km by Road along with an aerial distance of 1489 km.

There are no direct flights or trains or buses between Mumbai to Pathankot.The convenient and fastest way to reach from Mumbai to Pathankot is to take Spicejet from Mumbai to Amritsar then take Indica from Amritsar to Pathankot.The cheapest way to reach Pathankot from Mumbai is to take Swaraj Express from Mumbai to Ptkc then take a taxi from Ptkc to Pathankot.

BY train: There is no direct train between Mumbai and Pathankot. You can go from Mumbai to Jammu then take Jammu Mail from Jammu to Pathankot

BY road: There is no direct bus between Mumbai and Pathankot. You can take personal vehicle from Mumbai to Chandigarh then take State Transport Bus from Chandigarh to Pathankot

BY air: There is no direct connectivity of flight between Mumbai and Pathankot. You can take Spice jet from Mumbai to Amritsar and road taxi move to Pathankot.

Delhi Pathankot Express

Delhi Pathankot Express (14037) is a Mail/Express starts from Delhi station and runs upto pathankot. It runs on SUN/ MON / TUE / WED / FRI / SAT.  It covers total journey of 554 km and reaches its destination on day 0. Delhi Pathankot Express -14037 departs from Panipat Junction at 09:15 and arrives Pathankot at 18:40 on day 0. 1 Delhi Pathankot Express has total 12 stopping stations in its route including both source and destination stations are:               

• Karnal   Junction

• Kurukshetra Junction                    

• Ambala Cantt Junction  

• Sirhind Junction               

• Ludhiana Junction           

• Jalandhar City    Junction              

• Beas Junction                                   

• Amritsar Junction            

• Batala Junction 

• Dhariwal Junction           

• Gurdaspur  Junction

Himachal Pradesh Toy Train

Kalka to Shimla and Pathankot to Jogindernagar is the two narrow gauge Rail tracks of Himachal Pradesh. On both these lines run the mini trains, popularly called 'Toy Trains' by the tourists. Travelling on these trains is a thrilling experience as the lines, trains and the landscape of charming hills, tunnels and bridges and valleys, which one encounters on the way leaves a lasting impression of ecstasy and joy. The Guinness Book of 'Rail Facts and Feats' records Kalka-Shimla Railways as 'The greatest narrow gauge engineering feat in India.

Kalka to Shimla Trains: The 96 km. journey by train from Kalka to Shimla offers an unforgettable experience. The Kalka-Shimla railway is often termed as a scientific fiction. Covering the distance through 103 tunnels and 969 bridges, it has 919 curves ( 68 km. ), 20 railway stations and 5 level crossings on the route. This is one of the most unique railway tracks of the world. It is said that a correspondent of the Delhi Gazette had first sketched this railway line

Pathankot to Jogindernagar Trains : The Shimla-Kalka train, where the passengers spend most of the time going through tunnels, the Kangra toy train linking Pathankot and Joginder Nagar gently meanders through a maze of hills and valleys, offering the travellers enchantingly scenic view. The work on this line started in 1926. Three years later this, 163 km. long route was opened to traffic. The entire route commands glorious views of nature and unveils myriad facets of history, art and culture.

Barot valley attraction

• Barot valley is a very beautiful tourist place in Himachal Pradesh , India . It is located in mid Himalayan region and is 45 K.M. from Joginder Nagar and 66 K.M. from Mandi , the district headquarter place full of natural beauty and calmness and wants to have some time away from crowds , pollution and daily tensions ,You can do a lot of things here like camping , trekking , picnic , games ,trout fishing etc.

• The forests surrounding the barrage and village comprise deodar and oak trees. A number of popular trekking trails to Bara Bangal and Palampur begin here. Even the ones that start at Kullu or Jogindernagar go through Barot. The Barot-Kothi Kohr trek is around 4-6 hours whereas Barot-Billing is a day-long trek.

• Place to explore is Luhardi (6 km/1 hour north). Explore trails leading up the mountainside for vistas of the Uhl and Lamba Dug rivers. A short walk up a slope parallel to the Lamba Dug will give you a full view of the cloud-kissed Dhauladhars.

• Set some time aside for the village of Multhan, 1.5 km/15 min by road from Barot. Instead of driving though, take the more picturesque walking route over a makeshift wooden bridge across the Lamba Dug.

Dharamshala nearest railway station

• Pathankot - 64.17 Kms

• Amb Andaura - 64.23 Kms

• Sujanpur - 67.57 Kms

• Mirthal - 68.37 Kms

• Madhopur Punjab - 70.21 Kms

• Kathua - 75.35 Kms

• Chakki bank - 64.78 Kms (Major Railway Stations)

• Mukerian  - 73.68 Kms (Major Railway Stations)