The Great Facts...
1. The Fastest train in India: New Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi Express is the fastest train in India. The all air-conditioned super fast train clocks a maximum speed of 150km/h on the Faridabad-Agra section. It also has the highest commercial speed – 89.87 km/h- and covers the 704 km New Delhi – Bhopal stretch in 7 hours 50 minutes.
2. Longest run by a train: Vivek Express from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari travels a distance of 4273 km, making it the longest run in terms of total time and distance in Indian Railways.
3. Longest station name: Venkatanarasimharajuvaripeta on the Arakkonam-Renigunta section near Chennai.
4. Busiest station: Lucknow, with 64 trains per day.
5. Longest Platform: Indian Railways owns the longest railway platform in the world at Kharagpur (West Bengal) witha length of 2,733 ft (1072.5 m) in length.
6. Oldest Working Locomotive: Indian Railways still have the oldest preserved locomotive in working order, the Fairy Queen which was made way back in 1855. It has the oldest functioning steam engine in the world, which finds a place in the Guinness Book of World Records and got Heritage Award at the International Tourist Bureau, Berlin in March 2000.
7. First Railroad: The first railroad was constructed by two Indians (Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Jaganath Shunkerseth) and not the British.
8. Labor Force: Indian Railways is the world’s ninth largest commercial or utility employer, by number of employees, with over 1.4 million employees. It is also the India’s largest employer.
9. Distance Covered: The total distance covered by the 14,300 trains daily on the Indian Railways daily equals three and half times the distance to the moon.
10. Longest Tunnel: The country’s longest tunnel is Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel 11.215 km that was completed in December 2012 in Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel is yet to become a functional railway route. Karbude on Konkan Railways, which is 6.5 km in length previously held the title for the longest tunnel in India.
11. Passenger Load: The Indian Railways (IR) carry over 25 million passengers daily which is perhaps more than the entire population of Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania put together. Annually Indian Railways ferries 7.2 billion passengers (nearly 6x India’s current population).
12. Total Number of Trains: Indian Railways run as many as 19,000 trains every day. Some 12,000 trains are for passengers and 7,000 for freight.
13. Age: Indian Railways have had an operation span of nearly 170 years.
14. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: CST in Mumbai caters to 33 million passengers annually and is the only terminus in the world to be listed as a monument of global heritage by UNESCO.
15. Longest Bridge: Vembanad Rail Bridge 4.62 km in length in the state of Kerala connects connecting Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. It is the longest rail bridge in India and it is dedicated solely for freight.
16. Sea Bridge: India’s first sea bridge, the Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge in the Palk Strait. It connects Rameswaram to Pamban Island (Tamil Nadu) to mainland India.
17. Highest Bridge: The world’s highest rail bridge being constructed over the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district (Chenab Bridge) will be ready by December, 2015. Coming up at Kauri, it will be 359 meters (1,180 feet) above riverbed (five times the height of Qutub Minar and 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower
18. The luxury Trains in India are some of the best Luxury Trains in the world: These train not just gets you to places but they get you there in style. Presenting seamless fusion of romance, of a bygone era with contemporary finesse, luxury rail journeys in India offer unparalleled ways to explore the true essence of Indian culture.
Choices:
PALACE ON WHEELS
MAHARAJAS EXPRESS
THE GOLDEN CHARIOT
THE DECCAN ODYSSEY
ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS
HERITAGE TRAINS IN INDIA
Source
Traveling by train is the best way to experience the real India. A rail journey in India is one of the most memorable experiences which travel lovers would explore at any given time. The pleasure of being on a train and gazing at beautiful landscapes from the window seat is one of the most exciting experiences, at least I have experienced!
Top Ecstatic 7 Train Journeys in India..
Kalka to Shimla..
When it comes to incredible and amazing rail route journey, the first route that comes to our mind is Kalka to Shimla rail route. The majestic toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla is a real treat for people who are passionate about rail journeys.
About Shimla Kalka Toy Trains..
Soon after the introduction of railways in India, Shimla came into limelight because of a proposal to construct a rail line. It is also interesting to note that intensive surveys were carried out before the actual work began. The first of these survey was carried out in the year 1884 followed by another one the very next year. On the basis of results obatined from these two survey, a project report was prepared and presented before the government of India in the year 1887. After plenty of brainstorming, an adhesion line for the route was preferred to the rack system. Initially, in the year 1898, when the contract was signed, the rail line was supposed to be only two feet broad. However, later with the insisitence of the military authorities, the guage breadth was increased to the standard 2 feet six inches. Finally, the route was opened for traffic in the year 1903.
The Shivalik Deluxe Express provides for a seating arrangement of 120 passengers. The coaches are well furnished with wall to wall carpets and glass windows enhancing the overall look. Moreover, light music playing in the background creates an atmosphere that is engrossing. The train takes around four and a half hours to complete a journey from Kalka to Shimla. Enroute, the train passes through 103 tunnels, 969 bridges, 919 curves and twenty railway stations. Apart from few stations, the train sweeps past other station very quickly. At Barog station, the train halts for fifteen minutes so as to allow the passenger to get down and enjoy some refreshments in the restaurant which is regarded as one of the best at any hill station in India.
The entire journey (96 km) is laced with magnetic beauty. Rising from Kalka at 640 m, the rail track reaches Shimla which is at a height of 2060 m. The train twists its way uphill slowly to enable the passengers to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty around. The best of the scenes around can be seen at Kushalya River, Koti, Barog, Kanoh and Jabli, 1,240 meters above sea level. Out of 103 tunnels that the train crosses, only four are big ones. The Barog tunnel takes about three minutes to be crossed completely. The other three important tunnels include Koti, Taradevi and Tunnel no 103.
The train departs from Kalka at 0530 hrs and reaches Shimla at 1015 hrs. The return journey from Shimla starts off at 1730 hrs and reaches Kalka at 2215 hrs.
Konkan Railways..
Konkan Railways is another most incredible rail journey in India, which starts from Mumbai to Kerala. This rail route passes through the Konkan coast, making the journey, one of the most exciting and offers picturesque scenic beauty on the way. It passes through 1998 bridges and 92 tunnels!
Jaipur- Jaisalmer..
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway..
This is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling. The route passes from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. One can enjoy the transformation of climate and picturesque landscape while travelling to this route, as the rail passes through various landscapes along with various altitudes.
About Darjeeling Toy Train...
Running between Siliguri and Darjeeling, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is quite often referred to as Darjeeling Toy Train. The journey between the two destinations is counted amongst the most wonderful journeys of the world. The enchanting beauty enroute is something that sweeps the spectator off their feet. In fact, the 83 km stretch of the journey covered in around 8 hours is completely incredible.
As for the history of the train is concerned, it is said that Mr Franklin Prestage (a representative of the East Bengal Railway Company) was so bewitched by the beauty of the place that he put up a proposal before the government of Bengal to lay down a train line between Darjeeling and Siliguri. The proposal was accepted in the year 1879 and the construction too began in the same year. Originally, the rail line extended upto only Tindharia, however, it was gradually extended. By the year 1879, the rail line was extended upto Darjeeling.
The initial train was much different from what it is today. It was a small four wheeled trolley with canvas and two wooden benches. The 26 foot long bogey was introduced sometime later. Also, earlier it was an important mode of transportation and carried not only the passengers but also cargo. It was only with the passage of time and development of technology that the burden on this train lessened and it was more used by passengers. Today, the Darjeeling Toy Train is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic beauty 7000 feet above ground across the magnificent mountain terrain of Himalayas.
The ascent begins from Sukana and crosses Chunabati, Rungtong, Tindharia, Agony Point, Kurseong and Ghoom before it reaches Darjeeling. The scenes for tourists to enjoy on the way include delightfully green tea gardens, free flow of Teesta river and beautiful native people in their colorful traditional dress.
The Route covered:From Siliguri -Kurseong in the plains up to Ghoom and Darjeeling in the hills.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway..
3. There is always a nuisance of hawkers and beggars entering especially in general compartments and even sometimes in 2 and 3 Tier AC coaches. This irritating scene, with the additions of cows, dogs and monkeys you may observe on the station platforms also.
4. Some of the stations are dirty with a stench. This, unfortunately, includes Delhi and New Delhi as well.
So, be prepared for a chaos.
Look for the incredibly brighter side of Indian Railways and enjoy your travel!
Collection & Written by : M.Ajmal Khan.
 |
| Shatabdi Express |
2. Longest run by a train: Vivek Express from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari travels a distance of 4273 km, making it the longest run in terms of total time and distance in Indian Railways.
 |
| Impressive Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station |
 |
| Longest Platform at Kharagpur |
 |
| Oldest Working Locomotive of Fairy Queen Train |
7. First Railroad: The first railroad was constructed by two Indians (Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy and Jaganath Shunkerseth) and not the British.
8. Labor Force: Indian Railways is the world’s ninth largest commercial or utility employer, by number of employees, with over 1.4 million employees. It is also the India’s largest employer.
9. Distance Covered: The total distance covered by the 14,300 trains daily on the Indian Railways daily equals three and half times the distance to the moon.
10. Longest Tunnel: The country’s longest tunnel is Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel 11.215 km that was completed in December 2012 in Jammu and Kashmir. The tunnel is yet to become a functional railway route. Karbude on Konkan Railways, which is 6.5 km in length previously held the title for the longest tunnel in India.
11. Passenger Load: The Indian Railways (IR) carry over 25 million passengers daily which is perhaps more than the entire population of Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania put together. Annually Indian Railways ferries 7.2 billion passengers (nearly 6x India’s current population).
12. Total Number of Trains: Indian Railways run as many as 19,000 trains every day. Some 12,000 trains are for passengers and 7,000 for freight.
13. Age: Indian Railways have had an operation span of nearly 170 years.
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| Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: CST in Mumbai |
 |
| Longest Bridge: Vembanad Rail Bridge |
 |
| Pamban Bridge |
 |
| Highest Bridge: The world’s highest rail bridge in Jammu and Kashmir |
 |
| The luxury Trains in India |
Choices:
PALACE ON WHEELS
MAHARAJAS EXPRESS
THE GOLDEN CHARIOT
THE DECCAN ODYSSEY
ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS
HERITAGE TRAINS IN INDIA
Source
19. The India's first longest
transport tunnel and Asia's second longest tunnel is Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel . 6.5 km long
Karbude tunnel of the Konkan railway was India's longest tunnel so far.The Pir
Panjal Railway Tunnel or Banihal railway tunnel is a
11.215 km (7 mile) railway tunnel located in Pir Panjal Range of middle Himalayas in Jammu
and Kashmir, India north of
Banihal town.
20.Get the taste of India
Top Ecstatic 7 Train Journeys in India..
India is a land of varied topography - plains, deserts and hills together enhance the charm of this country. For tourists desirous of exploring the beautiful interiors of the country, there are many options. Luxury trains run between different destinations to enable tourists to enjoy the pleasure of not only the treatment accorded, but also scenic beauty around. The hill stations of the country, especially are so endearing that tourists invariably flock in large numbers to visit these areas. And to encourage them in their plans, the government operates numerous hill trains tours in India in the country that take tourists to some of the most outstanding hill stations of the country.
Moreover, there are Toy Trains that run only in the hilly areas. The trains usually run usually on a narrow guage. They are not very fast as the main intention is to let the beauty of the region seep in gradually into the hearts and soul of the passengers. These trains, as per their names, are much smaller in size and capacity than the usual ones. However, the exhilaration felt during the journey far exceeds than the one experienced in a usual train.
Moreover, there are Toy Trains that run only in the hilly areas. The trains usually run usually on a narrow guage. They are not very fast as the main intention is to let the beauty of the region seep in gradually into the hearts and soul of the passengers. These trains, as per their names, are much smaller in size and capacity than the usual ones. However, the exhilaration felt during the journey far exceeds than the one experienced in a usual train.
When it comes to incredible and amazing rail route journey, the first route that comes to our mind is Kalka to Shimla rail route. The majestic toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla is a real treat for people who are passionate about rail journeys.
About Shimla Kalka Toy Trains..
Soon after the introduction of railways in India, Shimla came into limelight because of a proposal to construct a rail line. It is also interesting to note that intensive surveys were carried out before the actual work began. The first of these survey was carried out in the year 1884 followed by another one the very next year. On the basis of results obatined from these two survey, a project report was prepared and presented before the government of India in the year 1887. After plenty of brainstorming, an adhesion line for the route was preferred to the rack system. Initially, in the year 1898, when the contract was signed, the rail line was supposed to be only two feet broad. However, later with the insisitence of the military authorities, the guage breadth was increased to the standard 2 feet six inches. Finally, the route was opened for traffic in the year 1903.
The Shivalik Deluxe Express provides for a seating arrangement of 120 passengers. The coaches are well furnished with wall to wall carpets and glass windows enhancing the overall look. Moreover, light music playing in the background creates an atmosphere that is engrossing. The train takes around four and a half hours to complete a journey from Kalka to Shimla. Enroute, the train passes through 103 tunnels, 969 bridges, 919 curves and twenty railway stations. Apart from few stations, the train sweeps past other station very quickly. At Barog station, the train halts for fifteen minutes so as to allow the passenger to get down and enjoy some refreshments in the restaurant which is regarded as one of the best at any hill station in India.
The entire journey (96 km) is laced with magnetic beauty. Rising from Kalka at 640 m, the rail track reaches Shimla which is at a height of 2060 m. The train twists its way uphill slowly to enable the passengers to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty around. The best of the scenes around can be seen at Kushalya River, Koti, Barog, Kanoh and Jabli, 1,240 meters above sea level. Out of 103 tunnels that the train crosses, only four are big ones. The Barog tunnel takes about three minutes to be crossed completely. The other three important tunnels include Koti, Taradevi and Tunnel no 103.
The train departs from Kalka at 0530 hrs and reaches Shimla at 1015 hrs. The return journey from Shimla starts off at 1730 hrs and reaches Kalka at 2215 hrs.
Konkan Railways is another most incredible rail journey in India, which starts from Mumbai to Kerala. This rail route passes through the Konkan coast, making the journey, one of the most exciting and offers picturesque scenic beauty on the way. It passes through 1998 bridges and 92 tunnels!
India is a land of diversity. On one hand it offers lush green sceneries and on the other hand it offers the beauty of barren deserts. A train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer is another exciting journey where one can experience the flavor of barren deserts. The beauty of this route is that the view of the landscape keeps changing such as, after traveling a few hours from Jaipur, you can see the change of landscape from desert to pastoral landscapes, beautiful mud huts that are made up of red clay bricks and you can also enjoy the view of camels gazing in the flat desert
This is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling. The route passes from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. One can enjoy the transformation of climate and picturesque landscape while travelling to this route, as the rail passes through various landscapes along with various altitudes.
About Darjeeling Toy Train...
Running between Siliguri and Darjeeling, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is quite often referred to as Darjeeling Toy Train. The journey between the two destinations is counted amongst the most wonderful journeys of the world. The enchanting beauty enroute is something that sweeps the spectator off their feet. In fact, the 83 km stretch of the journey covered in around 8 hours is completely incredible.
As for the history of the train is concerned, it is said that Mr Franklin Prestage (a representative of the East Bengal Railway Company) was so bewitched by the beauty of the place that he put up a proposal before the government of Bengal to lay down a train line between Darjeeling and Siliguri. The proposal was accepted in the year 1879 and the construction too began in the same year. Originally, the rail line extended upto only Tindharia, however, it was gradually extended. By the year 1879, the rail line was extended upto Darjeeling.
The initial train was much different from what it is today. It was a small four wheeled trolley with canvas and two wooden benches. The 26 foot long bogey was introduced sometime later. Also, earlier it was an important mode of transportation and carried not only the passengers but also cargo. It was only with the passage of time and development of technology that the burden on this train lessened and it was more used by passengers. Today, the Darjeeling Toy Train is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic beauty 7000 feet above ground across the magnificent mountain terrain of Himalayas.
The ascent begins from Sukana and crosses Chunabati, Rungtong, Tindharia, Agony Point, Kurseong and Ghoom before it reaches Darjeeling. The scenes for tourists to enjoy on the way include delightfully green tea gardens, free flow of Teesta river and beautiful native people in their colorful traditional dress.
The Route covered:From Siliguri -Kurseong in the plains up to Ghoom and Darjeeling in the hills.
Nilgiri Mountain Railway..
The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is truly an incredible rail journey that starts from Mettupalayam, the plains of Tamil Nadu to Ooty, passing through Coonoor in between. It passes through 250 bridges and 16 tunnels. Throughout this journey you can enjoy the view of lush green hills, tea gardens and the tall girder bridges.
About Nilgiri Mountain Rail
Covering a distance of 46 km in around 5 hours, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway takes tourists from Mettupalayam to Ootacamund or Ooty. This is a truly amazing journey that takes tourists from a height of 1069 feet to 7228 feet. The history of the train can be traced back to the times when it was very difficult to reach Udhagamandalam - as Ooty was called in those days. Travellers needed to ride on a horse back or carried on 'dollies' through a forested path to reach Ooty. It was this access difficulty that gave birth to an idea of constructing a rail line to connect the hilly areas of Coonoor and Ooty from plains. The first thought was kept in the year 1854, however, it took around another forty years before the actual work could begin. A Swiss inventor, Riggenback worked on it, and built up the initial line upto Coonoor by the year 1899. Later, by 1908, the track was extended upto Fernhill and then Ooty.
The uniqueness of this rail line lies in it being the steepest one in Asia. To cope with it, a unique system, ABT (Alternate Biting System) is used, which is also called the rack and pinion system. In this the method, pulling the train is quiet different from the usual one. Instead of the engine pulling the train on level lines, here there are two rack bars out of steps with each other between the rail lines. On these racks, the pinions of the train climbs in the same fashion as a person climbs a ladder. The engine, while going upwards, is on the backside to push the train from behind. On the other hand, it is on the front side on the return journey downhill so as to prevent any collision or derailing.
The journey itself from Mettupalayam to Ooty is full of scenic beauty enroute. Starting from Mettupalayam, a small place that sits on the banks of river Bhavani, the train passes through plain areas for the first five miles or so. Thereafter, in the next 12 miles the line rises to an impressive 4363 feet, and passes through nine tunnels. The tourists are treated to outstanding views of the eastern slopes of forested Nilgiris. From here, tourists can concentrate more on their left side as it is on this side that more beautiful views can be seen. The train passes amidst tranquil and serene views of Coonoor, Wellington, Lovedale to finally reach Ootacamund. It covers a total distance of 116 km and crosses 250 bridges and 16 tunnels
Goa-Vasco DA Gama to Londa..
The wonderful train journey from Vasco DA Gama to Londa Junction is truly an amazing experience one can rejoice. Adding to it, you can experience the view of an attractive falls at Dudhsagar, on the way from Vasco DA Gama to Londa junction. Another most attractive view of the route is when the train moves through the Western Ghats, where the train accelerates its speed and passes through the woods. Also, you can enjoy the view of gigantic falls and red clay surroundings.
Neral to Matheran Mountain Railway..
Matheran is a splendid hill destination situated at a distance of around 108 km from Mumbai. The name Matheran implies 'Jungle Head', or 'Forest on Top.' The views from Matheran are exceptional with surrounding hills providing enamoring scenes for the eyes. Also, Matheran being a vehicle free zone is completely pollution free.
The Matheran Toy Train commences from Neral, which lies on the Mumbai Pune line, and culminates at Matheran. The credit for the discovery of the route between Matheran and Neral and the subsequent launching of the train goes not to any foreigner, but to an Indian. Abdul Hussein, son of business tycoon, Sir Adamjee Pheerbhoy of Mumbai, first thought of setting up a line between the two destinations. After obtaining permission from his father, he based himself at Neral and started working on the project. By 1907, the line was complete and opened for functioning.
The 90 minute journey is actually a visual delight for the tourists with a range of scenes to enjoy. The ascent begins a little after the Hardar Hills and reaches the Jamnapatti station, where it appears that road and rail have almost come together. They part here, though to meet again a little further beyond the steep slope of Bhekra Kund. The Horseshoe embankment near the Mount Barry is a captivating scene to look at. The route runs another mile before it enters into the long tunnel on the way. Emerging from the tunnel, the line zigzags sharply backwards and forward twice. Thereafter, the train crosses the Panorama Point and the Simpson Tank to reach straight to the Matheran Bazaar.
The twelve and half hour journey on a 2 feet gauge commeces from Neral at 08.40 hrs, 11.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs. The journey from the other direction begins at 17.45 hrs, 13.10 hrs and 14.35 hrs. The train covers a maximum of 12 miles in an hour, thereby allowing the passengers ample time to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
The Route covered:Neral - Hardal Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry- Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.
2. The quality of food you get on the intermediate stations and even by the pantry car is poor.
About Nilgiri Mountain RailCovering a distance of 46 km in around 5 hours, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway takes tourists from Mettupalayam to Ootacamund or Ooty. This is a truly amazing journey that takes tourists from a height of 1069 feet to 7228 feet. The history of the train can be traced back to the times when it was very difficult to reach Udhagamandalam - as Ooty was called in those days. Travellers needed to ride on a horse back or carried on 'dollies' through a forested path to reach Ooty. It was this access difficulty that gave birth to an idea of constructing a rail line to connect the hilly areas of Coonoor and Ooty from plains. The first thought was kept in the year 1854, however, it took around another forty years before the actual work could begin. A Swiss inventor, Riggenback worked on it, and built up the initial line upto Coonoor by the year 1899. Later, by 1908, the track was extended upto Fernhill and then Ooty.
The uniqueness of this rail line lies in it being the steepest one in Asia. To cope with it, a unique system, ABT (Alternate Biting System) is used, which is also called the rack and pinion system. In this the method, pulling the train is quiet different from the usual one. Instead of the engine pulling the train on level lines, here there are two rack bars out of steps with each other between the rail lines. On these racks, the pinions of the train climbs in the same fashion as a person climbs a ladder. The engine, while going upwards, is on the backside to push the train from behind. On the other hand, it is on the front side on the return journey downhill so as to prevent any collision or derailing.
The journey itself from Mettupalayam to Ooty is full of scenic beauty enroute. Starting from Mettupalayam, a small place that sits on the banks of river Bhavani, the train passes through plain areas for the first five miles or so. Thereafter, in the next 12 miles the line rises to an impressive 4363 feet, and passes through nine tunnels. The tourists are treated to outstanding views of the eastern slopes of forested Nilgiris. From here, tourists can concentrate more on their left side as it is on this side that more beautiful views can be seen. The train passes amidst tranquil and serene views of Coonoor, Wellington, Lovedale to finally reach Ootacamund. It covers a total distance of 116 km and crosses 250 bridges and 16 tunnels
The wonderful train journey from Vasco DA Gama to Londa Junction is truly an amazing experience one can rejoice. Adding to it, you can experience the view of an attractive falls at Dudhsagar, on the way from Vasco DA Gama to Londa junction. Another most attractive view of the route is when the train moves through the Western Ghats, where the train accelerates its speed and passes through the woods. Also, you can enjoy the view of gigantic falls and red clay surroundings.
Neral to Matheran Mountain Railway..
Matheran is a splendid hill destination situated at a distance of around 108 km from Mumbai. The name Matheran implies 'Jungle Head', or 'Forest on Top.' The views from Matheran are exceptional with surrounding hills providing enamoring scenes for the eyes. Also, Matheran being a vehicle free zone is completely pollution free.The Matheran Toy Train commences from Neral, which lies on the Mumbai Pune line, and culminates at Matheran. The credit for the discovery of the route between Matheran and Neral and the subsequent launching of the train goes not to any foreigner, but to an Indian. Abdul Hussein, son of business tycoon, Sir Adamjee Pheerbhoy of Mumbai, first thought of setting up a line between the two destinations. After obtaining permission from his father, he based himself at Neral and started working on the project. By 1907, the line was complete and opened for functioning.
The 90 minute journey is actually a visual delight for the tourists with a range of scenes to enjoy. The ascent begins a little after the Hardar Hills and reaches the Jamnapatti station, where it appears that road and rail have almost come together. They part here, though to meet again a little further beyond the steep slope of Bhekra Kund. The Horseshoe embankment near the Mount Barry is a captivating scene to look at. The route runs another mile before it enters into the long tunnel on the way. Emerging from the tunnel, the line zigzags sharply backwards and forward twice. Thereafter, the train crosses the Panorama Point and the Simpson Tank to reach straight to the Matheran Bazaar.
The twelve and half hour journey on a 2 feet gauge commeces from Neral at 08.40 hrs, 11.00 hrs and 17.00 hrs. The journey from the other direction begins at 17.45 hrs, 13.10 hrs and 14.35 hrs. The train covers a maximum of 12 miles in an hour, thereby allowing the passengers ample time to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
The Route covered:Neral - Hardal Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry- Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.
What is the Bad...
1. Online travel booking through official portal irctc.co.in is terrible. Firstly, the site takes its own time to open and move. Secondly, even if you plan 1 month in advance, the chances are that you may get a wait-listed tickets. However, if you are prepared to pay Rs.500-1000 to an agent, you will get a confirmed booking. There is no respite for the senior citizen who wants a lower berth. There is no chance unless you plan 2 months in advance.
3. There is always a nuisance of hawkers and beggars entering especially in general compartments and even sometimes in 2 and 3 Tier AC coaches. This irritating scene, with the additions of cows, dogs and monkeys you may observe on the station platforms also.
4. Some of the stations are dirty with a stench. This, unfortunately, includes Delhi and New Delhi as well.
So, be prepared for a chaos.
Look for the incredibly brighter side of Indian Railways and enjoy your travel!
Collection & Written by : M.Ajmal Khan.
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