Himalayan Queen (52455): A Regal Journey Through the Hills
The Himalayan Queen, proudly bearing the train number 52455, isn’t just another hill train. It’s an embodiment of a regal legacy that traverses the magnificent Shivalik range, forming a bridge between the plains of Kalka and the charming hill station of Shimla.
Overview
The Himalayan Queen, with its charmingly adorned coaches, promises a journey like no other. Covering a stretch of about 96 kilometers, this train takes passengers through the heart of nature’s beauty, punctuated by tunnels, bridges, and panoramic vistas that are nothing short of breathtaking.
Timings and Duration
- Departure from Kalka: 12:10 PM
- Arrival at Shimla: 05:20 PM
The journey spans approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes, ensuring travelers have enough time to be enthralled by the mesmerizing landscapes and rhythmic churn of the train.
Stations Along the Route
Starting its journey from Kalka, the Himalayan Queen gracefully stops at several picturesque stations en route to Shimla:
- Taksal – 12:23 PM
- Gumman – 12:33 PM
- Sonwara – 12:45 PM
- Dharampur Himachal – 01:22 PM
- Kumarhatti Dagshai – 01:39 PM
- Barog – 02:02 PM
- Solan – 02:36 PM
- Salogra – 03:00 PM
- Kandaghat – 03:32 PM
- Taradevi – 04:32 PM
- Jutogh – 04:58 PM
- Summer Hill – 05:08 PM
Once the train reaches Shimla at 05:20 PM, passengers are warmly welcomed by the cool air and the enchanting atmosphere that the hill station is renowned for.
Unique Features
1. Legacy of Heritage: The track upon which the Himalayan Queen glides is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing a marvelous feat of engineering with its 102 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and close to 900 curves.
2. Window to Nature’s Wonders: The spacious windows of the train grant passengers uninterrupted views of the verdant valleys, sprawling mountains, and the quaint settlements nestled among them.
3. Timeless Charm: The coaches, with their vintage aesthetics, transport travelers to an era long past, enhancing the train’s old-world charm.
Fare and Reservation
Fares for the Himalayan Queen vary based on seating preferences, ranging from general sitting to first-class accommodations. Given the train’s popularity, especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to secure bookings well in advance.
Conclusion
The Himalayan Queen (52455) offers more than just a means of transportation—it’s a journey back in time, a trip through nature’s art gallery, and an experience that remains etched in one’s memory forever. For those who wish to explore Himachal Pradesh’s beauty from a unique vantage point and enjoy a leisurely ride through its heart, this train journey is an unmissable experience.
