February 06 (TSP Bangla) – The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) has recorded a significant rise in both earnings and passenger numbers in 2025, reflecting a steady recovery and renewed tourist interest in the iconic hill railway.
Official data show that the Unesco World Heritage site earned ₹24.6 crore in 2025, up by ₹3 crore from ₹21.2 crore in 2024. Passenger footfall also increased sharply. Around 2.8 lakh people travelled on various toy train services this year, compared with 1.74 lakh passengers last year.
Railway officials attributed the growth to continued efforts to improve tourism infrastructure in the hills and stronger engagement with local communities.
“The toy train remains one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the Darjeeling hills. By prioritising premium tourism experiences, the DHR has successfully positioned the region as a premier travel destination,” the official said.
The DHR, which was granted World Heritage status by Unesco in December 1999, operates regular passenger services between Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri. It also runs 12 popular joy rides between Darjeeling and Ghoom, along with short-distance services catering to tourists and heritage railway enthusiasts.
To further enhance the travel experience, railway authorities are restoring 15 additional heritage coaches. These coaches are expected to provide passengers with a distinctive historical ambience while preserving the legacy of the century-old railway.
DHR director Rishabh Chaudhary said the growth in tourism had brought tangible economic benefits to the region, strengthening the local economy alongside the railway’s revival.
“The rise in tourism has created numerous employment opportunities, providing a significant boost to residents and small businesses. Through collaborative initiatives, we are strengthening the heritage railway’s bond with the region while ensuring sustainable growth,” he said.
