Steam vs. Diesel Joy Rides, Ghum Station Route, Ticket Prices, IRCTC Booking Procedures & Heritage History.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Joy Ride is a scenic 2-hour, 14-kilometer round trip between Darjeeling Station and Ghum (7,407 ft). Operated on a 2-foot narrow gauge track, the train loops around Batasia Loop with views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, pauses for 10 minutes at the war memorial, and stops for 30 minutes at Ghum DHR Museum. Fares average ₹1,000 to ₹1,100 for diesel locomotives and ₹1,500 to ₹1,600 for vintage British steam locomotives.
Both services travel the identical route between Darjeeling and Ghum, but the ride experience differs substantially:
Powered by original British-built "B-Class" steam engines dating back to the 1890s. The smell of burning coal, piercing steam whistles, and retro mechanics deliver true vintage romanticism. (Note: minor coal soot may enter open windows).
Powered by modern NDM6 diesel engines. Offers smoother acceleration, smoke-free windows, and slightly lower ticket prices. Highly recommended for travelers with respiratory sensitivities or young infants.
DJ (Darjeeling) to DJRZ (Joy Ride return). Seats sell out rapidly during peak holiday periods (April–June & October–November).