Steam Railway is off to Darjeeling - and YOU can come with us!
Steam Railway develops bespoke enthusiasts’ trip to Indian UNESCO line.
British steam, working hard. there’s one place it still happens - and Steam Railway can take YOU there.
We have teamed up with specialist Darjeeling Tours to offer a bespoke tour to India’s famous 2ft-gauge line that still uses Sharp Stewart designed saddletanks, dating back more than a century. UNESCO World Heritage listed, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has connected India’s northern plain with the hill station at Darjeeling since 1881. The working steam fleet comprises distinctive blue ‘B’ class 0-4-0ST/WTs, the oldest dating back to 1893. Planned for January 31February 10 next year, the tour includes steam on seven consecutive days, with dedicated specials to run over all sections of the 55-mile route from New Jalpaiguri. As well as the passenger specials intended for both riders and linesiding, a photographic charter will use the recently restored goods wagons that have been out of use for a quarter of a century (SR462). Time is also factored in for passengers to enjoy the regular Darjeeling-Ghum ‘Joy Trains’, and to visit Tindharia Works, where the ‘Bs’ are maintained. “There’s nowhere quite like Darjeeling,” said Steam Railway editor Nick Brodrick. “It’s not just a real outpost - it was always a remarkable line in a stunning part of the world. That it uses century-old British engines is a real bonus. “However, you can’t just turn up if you want to get the most out of it - and we want to make sure it’s special. That’s why we’ve teamed up with the experts at Darjeeling Tours. There are limited places though, as we’re keeping the group size down to make sure we can really make it a memorable experience. “I think we’ve come up with a really exciting itinerary. You could be there, with us, on an adventure to one of the last steam outposts anywhere on earth.” For full details and how to book, turn to pages 77-81.