Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Records Prominent Growth In Revenue

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which runs premium tourist and heritage trains through the hill region, recorded prominent growth in earnings and passenger footfall in the 2025-26 financial year compared to the previous fiscal, an official said. The toy train, which has been accorded UNESCO World Heritage Site status, earned Rs 24.6 crore in 2025-26, up from Rs 21.2 crore in 2024-25, the official said. Passenger footfall also rose, increasing from 1.74 lakhs in 2024-25 to 2.08 lakhs in 2025-26.

“By prioritising premium tourism experiences, the DHR has positioned the region successfully as a premier travel destination,” he said.

Launched in 1879, the mountain railway now operates both steam and diesel locos for joyrides between Darjeeling and Ghum, situated at 7407 feet, the highest point through which DHR passes. It also runs tourist specials on the Darjeeling Mahanadi and Darjeeling Kurseong routes, as well as on the Jungle Safari between Siliguri and Tindharia stations.

The DHR official said restoration is currently underway for 15 additional heritage coaches designed to provide passengers with a unique historical experience. He stated that the rise in tourism has created numerous job opportunities, providing a significant economic boost to residents and small businesses and ensuring sustainable, inclusive growth in the region.

“Our focus remains on blending heritage with modern excellence. By investing in our infrastructure and our people, we are not just moving passengers, we are driving the local economy forward,” the DHR official said.

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