The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

In 1878, the railway line from Calcutta (later called Sealdah) station to Siliguri was in two stages – 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm) broad gauge from Calcutta to Damookeah Ghat, on the southern bank of the Padma, across the river in a ferry and then 1,000 mm (3 ft 3+3⁄8 in) metre gauge to Siliguri. In 1881, the 610 mm (2 ft) narrow-gauge line from Siliguri to Darjeeling was added. In 1926, with the Hardinge Bridge in position, the entire Calcutta–Siliguri line was converted to 1,676 mm broad gauge and in 1947, following the partition of India the line was severed, as a major portion of the line ran through East Pakistan. In the post-partition era, with makeshift arrangements via Barsoi and Kishanganj being metre gauge and narrow gauge, the focus shifted in 1949 to a new Siliguri Junction railway station and later still, in 1961 to the new broad-gauge station at New Jalpaiguri.

Reader's Guide

Mostly unreserved trains along with some important trains like Jogbani–Siliguri Town Intercity Express etc are available at this station. The station is located almost at the centre of the city. It opened in 1878. The other important stations serving the metropolis are Siliguri Junction, Bagdogra, Gulma, Rangapani, Matigara and New Jalpaiguri Junction.

Did You Know?

• Siliguri Town railway station opened in 1878.
• The station has three platforms: two broad-gauge and one narrow-gauge.
• The Darjeeling Mail (43 up and 44 dn) started its first journey from Siliguri Town station.
• In 1881, a 610 mm (2 ft) narrow-gauge line from Siliguri to Darjeeling was added.
• After the 1947 partition, the Calcutta–Siliguri line was severed because a major portion ran through East Pakistan.

Common Misconceptions (Editorial)

Some people mistakenly believe the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was built by a company that always used its current name. In fact, construction was begun by Gillanders, Arbuthnot and Company, which was only later renamed the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Company. Another common error is assuming the railway uses only loops to gain altitude; it actually employs six zig zags and three loops (originally five).

Why It Matters (Editorial)

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway endures as a marvel of engineering and a living link to colonial-era transport, climbing steep Himalayan terrain through innovative zig zags and loops. Its role in World War II—moving military personnel and supplies—reminds us that even scenic railways can serve critical historical purposes beyond tourism.