India, a land of eternal heritage has sixth largest number of World Heritage assets in the World. One such world heritage asset is the 116 years old ‘Kalka-Shimla Train’, representing India’s rich heritage, symbolizing an engineering marvel and offering an ‘out of the world’ experience.
The 96 km long Railway line from Kalka to Shimla, having 102 tunnels and 988 bridges, passes through beautiful terrain. The train offers an enchanting journey because of its ‘smallness’, uniqueness and its heritage value. It is also the best way to enjoy the scenic beauty of breathtaking Himalayan Mountains, Valleys and the forests falling on its way.
I took the opportunity to travel in this wonderful train from Shimla to Kalka, during my visit to Shimla this week, for a meeting with Govt of HP on Tourism issues.
Kalka – Shimla train journey is a ‘Must-Visit’ & ‘Must-Experience’ for both, International and domestic travellers. The train has an immense potential to be India’s USP. However, like other lesser known world heritage destinations of India, Kalka-Shimla Heritage train deserves greater attention and higher level of Promotion by Ministry of Tourism, Railways, the State Governments of Haryana & Himachal Pradesh and all Stakeholders in Tourism Industry. 
