The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, famously known as the Toy Train, is one of the most iconic attractions near Nature Lover Homestay Sittong. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic narrow-gauge railway offers a breathtaking journey through the misty hills, lush tea gardens, and charming mountain villages of Darjeeling. Guests staying at our homestay can easily plan a day trip to experience this scenic train ride that showcases the beauty and heritage of the Eastern Himalayas. The rhythmic chug of the steam engine, panoramic views of the valleys, and glimpses of local life along the route make it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or nature enthusiast, a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a must-do activity during your stay at Nature Lover Homestay Sittong, adding a perfect blend of adventure and nostalgia to your hill getaway.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway built between 1879 and 1881, it is about 88 km (55 mi) long. It climbs from about 100 m (328 ft) above sea level at New Jalpaiguri to about 2,200 m (7,218 ft) at Darjeeling, using six zig zags and five loops to gain altitude.

Siliguri, at the base of the Himalayas, was connected with Calcutta (now Kolkata) by a metre gauge railway in 1878. Between Siliguri and Darjeeling, Tonga services ran on a cart road – the present-day Hill Cart Road.[3] Franklin Prestage, an agent of the Eastern Bengal Railway, approached the government with a proposal to lay a steam tramway from Siliguri to Darjeeling.[3] Ashley Eden, lieutenant governor of Bengal, formed a committee to assess the project's feasibility. The proposal was accepted in 1879 after a positive report by the committee,[3] and construction began that year.

A major difficulty faced by the DHR was the steepness of the terrain. Loops and zig-zags were incorporated along the route to achieve a comfortable gradient. When the train moves forward, reverses and then moves forward again (climbing a slope while doing so), it gains altitude along the side of the hill.