The iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) has achieved a record-breaking revenue of ₹24.6 crore in 2025, surpassing last year’s earnings of ₹21.2 crore, according to officials. The increase comes as the number of tourists riding the historic toy train rose from 1.74 lakh in 2024 to 2.08 lakh in 2025, highlighting its growing popularity as a major tourist attraction in West Bengal.
The DHR, a UNESCO World Heritage steam-engine railway, runs between Ghum, Darjeeling, and New Jalpaiguri (NJP). It is famed for its scenic hill routes and vintage charm. During peak tourist season, the railway increases its joyride services to accommodate demand. Currently, eight joyrides operate during the off-season, showcasing the train’s year-round appeal.
“The growth in revenue is not only encouraging for DHR but also a boost for Darjeeling’s tourism sector. We aim to make the toy train an even bigger attraction for visitors,” said Rishav Choudhury, Director of DHR.
The railway began as the Darjeeling Steam Tramways in 1879, with the Siliguri–Kurseong stretch opening in 1880 and Siliguri–Darjeeling line in 1881. It was later renamed the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Company and was recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO on December 2, 1999.
Currently, two passenger services run daily between NJP and Darjeeling, alongside nine joyrides between Darjeeling and Ghum. Four joyrides use steam locomotives, while the rest are diesel-powered. Additionally, weekend jungle safari trains operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode between Siliguri Junction and Ghayabari. Plans are also underway to introduce a new PPP service connecting Siliguri to Tindharia later this year.
With rising tourist interest and continuous improvements in services, the DHR is poised to remain a beloved and profitable heritage attraction in India for years to come.
