India Toy Trains and the Hill Stations – Shimla & Darjeeling

Our Tour features the following locations

DELHI: The largest mosque, the biggest temple, honky auto-rickshaws; it’s easy to distinguish Delhi. The city has been at the centre of the Indian civilisation for centuries and a major seat of power ever since the Mughals built their capital here. Modern Delhi presents a mix of colonial-era architecture, Mughal forts, and mausoleums, ancient bazaars, glitzy malls and world class restaurants. It often feels overwhelming, but given a chance, it always grows onto you. Be sure to visit Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal wonder inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal and Lodi Gardens, the best spot for sunsets in Delhi. There’s also the Hauz Khas Village, a throbbing hub that gained popularity with its Open Nights when those narrow alleys are transformed into cultural wonders, adorned with lights and decorated with streamers. There really is no better place to discover Delhi’s rich culture and mingle with its locals.

SHIMLA: The capital of Himachal Pradesh is everything you’d expect from a bustling Himalayan town. It has a penchant for presenting some of the best weather in the country and awe-inspiring scenery which attracts visitors from far and wide. The Mall Road, Shimla’s main street, is home to a bustling bazaar, incredible car-free experiences and maze-like alleys that are full of colonial-era relics. For a unique adventure, head over to Jakhoo Hill, the highest point of Shimla. The place really does have some of the most stunning views of the surrounding peaks and pastures. Sunrise and sunset views of Scandal Point are equally amazing. Adventure lovers cannot miss out on Kufri and Chadwick Falls either.

KURSEONG: Discover tranquillity in Kurseong, which in Lepcha means ‘the Land of White Orchids,’ referring to the small white orchid prolific here. Often you can look down on the clouds below. It seems like the sea, stretching for miles, filling the valleys and the peaks. Ranges rise out of it like islands and peninsulas. Kurseong is developing as a quiet hill station. Tea gardens include Castleton, Makaibarie, Ambotia and Goomtee.

DARJEELING: Ever heard of Darjeeling Tea? Made popular all over the world by the British, Darjeeling is among the top tea-growing regions on the planet. It hosts beautiful tea gardens and sipping tea while watching mesmerising mountain views is among the best things to do here. Nestled among the clouds, the Queen of the Hills has always been famous because of its lofty plantations and beautiful handicrafts, but it’s slowly emerging as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts as well. Victorian-era architecture is sure to be another highlight of your tour, while places like Mall Road and Chowrasta are perfect spots to watch life go by.

GLENBURN: Glenburn is a heavenly little plantation retreat that lies on a hillock above the banks of the River Rungeet, high in the Himalayas, overlooked by the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain range. Started by a Scottish tea company in 1859, Glenburn has now passed into the hands of one of India’s pioneering tea planting families. The Prakashes, who have over the years come to be known as the “Chaiwala family” – which means “tea planters”.

KOLKATA: Kolkata is often seen as a poor and chaotic place to be in, thought to be undeserving of its status as one of India’s top four metros, and that may have something to do with the fewer number of travellers visiting the city. It certainly looks that way, until you realise that its true charms lie in its deep-rooted culture, its unique way of life and its quintessential East meets West attitude. The city is surrounded by fascinating natural beauty, ranging from the iconic Sunderbans and their man-eating tigers to the serene hills of Darjeeling. Popularly called the intellectual and cultural capital of the country, Kolkata is also one of those few destinations where traditional gentlemen’s clubs, an ancient way of life, historic customs and that ‘friendly vibe’ still exists. Don’t miss out on the colonial architecture, never ignore that mouth-wateringly delicious Bengali food and just have a blast talking to the locals. The best time to visit Kolkata is during Durga Puja, a celebration that engulfs the entire city in festival lights, street carnivals, beautiful fairs and spectacular displays of its rich cultural and artistic heritage.