Heritage train aimed at Shimla tourists launched

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has launched a special heritage package train that is aimed at attracting tourists that visit Shimla. The train has saloon coaches built in as early as 1966, between Kalka and Shimla.

The Shivalik Palace Tourist Coach, RA-4, built in 1966 and the Shivalik Queen Tourist Coach, RA-67, built in 1974 have been rebuilt to be run under this package. “The old world charm of these two heritage coaches is sure to evoke nostalgia amongst the tourists and give them a chance to experience the luxury of travelling in an ambience of a bygone era. Two other heritage coaches and two first class chair cars will complement the composition of this special heritage train comprising 6 passenger coaches altogether,” said Pradip Kundu, Joint General Manager (PR), IRCTC.

The one-way tariff for travelling in the Shivalik series of coaches would be Rs 2,600, while people choosing to travel in other four coaches would have to shell out Rs 2200. However, the train would run only on specific dates every month. In February, can travel on the train from Shimla to Kalka on 21 and 28. The train will make one trip from Kalka to Shimla on February 25.

The train will depart at 12.40 pm from Kalka and reach Shimla at 6.10 pm. The downward journey would start at 9.30 am from Shimla and reach Kalka at 3 pm.

The heritage train is targeted at both domestic and international travellers, for whom it is a popular destination. There is a huge rush to the mountain resort throughout the year.