Train Operations Resume on Kalka-Shimla Railway Line Following Three-Month Suspension
Revitalized Kalka-Shimla Railway Line, UNESCO Heritage Site, Resumes Operations
After three grueling months, the legendary Kalka-Shimla railway line, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has made a triumphant comeback. The historic track succumbed to relentless monsoon rains that battered the region in July and August, causing extensive damage. But, thanks to the relentless work of the railways, the path is now ready to provide an incredible journey once more for passengers.
The rail line halted service on July 9, 2023, due to damage at over 175 points across the state, triggered by heavy rainfall. The second round of intense rainfall in August intensified matters, causing mainly landslides that affected the Summer Hill-Jutogh section, shattering a massive 50-meter bridge and threatening the safety of the track nearby.
The Kalka-Solan, Kalka-Koti, and Solan-Taradevi stretches reopened last month, providing limited connectivity for travelers.
Averaging 96 kilometers in length, this remarkable railway track winds through rugged Himalayan terrain, featuring 102 tunnels, 800 bridges, 919 curves, and steep gradients, reaching an altitude of around 1590 meters. The rail route not only showcases engineering marvel but also captivates travelers with its stunning vistas.
The resumption of the railway line brings elation to both locals and tourists, who eagerly await the chance to embark on an extraordinary adventure through the heart of the Himalayas.
Journeying Across the Kalka-Shimla Railway
For a glimpse into the current experience, here’s some information on the temporary arrangements due to ongoing repair works:
- As of mid-June 2025, four trains (two in each direction) operate between Kalka and Tara Devi. Passengers seeking to continue their trip to destination Shimla may avail of special bus services organized by the Indian Railways in collaboration with the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC).[1][3][4][5]
- These buses run synchronously with the train timetable, charging a reasonable fare of Rs 22 per rider. Those traveling are kept informed via SMS to minimize any potential disruption.[1][3][4]
- The repair work encompasses bridge removal and replacement between Jatog and Summer Hill stations, as well as hillside stabilization to curb monsoon-related landslide risks in the future.[4]
- The overall project cost is estimated at around ₹2.95 crore and is crucial to prevent further disruption and ensure passenger safety.[4]
- Passengers can access the exceptional beauty of the route up to Tara Devi, with shuttle bus services providing transport to the remaining distance, eventually connecting to Shimla once the bridge replacement and corollary safety work are completed.[1][3][4]
Stay tuned for updates on the full restoration of the Kalka-Shimla railway line, as the Indian Railways work tirelessly to bring back the unforgettable experience of journeying through the heart of the Himalayas.
Further Reading:
- Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh: Crowned India's Best Tourism Village of the Year
- Hanle Village Opens for Foreign Tourists
Industry experts applaud the Indian Railways for their swift finance initiatives, ensuring the public-transit system can sustain temporary alterations in transportation, such as the Kalka-Shimla Railway's bus shuttle services, during repair works. The automotive sector also plays a vital role, as buses are an essential means of transport when railway lines are disrupted.
