The Shimla Old Railway Station serves as the picturesque terminus for the renowned Kalka-Shimla Railway, a narrow-gauge line measuring 2 feet 6 inches (762 mm). This historic railway stretches 96 kilometers, connecting Kalka Railway Station in Haryana with Shimla Railway Station in Himachal Pradesh, India.

The Kalka-Shimla Railway (pronounced locally as "Shimla") was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, as part of the "Mountain Railways of India," alongside the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This recognition underscores its exceptional engineering, historical significance, and scenic beauty.

Construction of this railway line was completed in 1898 during the British rule in India. Shimla was then a crucial summer capital and popular hill station for the British owing to its cooler climate. The railway, an astonishing feat of engineering for its time, navigates through the mountainous terrain of the Himalayan foothills, featuring an impressive 107 tunnels and 864 bridges. The journey offers passengers breathtaking views of the natural landscape and various quaint villages along the route. Furthermore, this line connects with the Delhi-Kalka railway system, providing access to New Delhi and other parts of the country.

Historically, the Kalka-Shimla Railway initially utilized steam locomotives to pull its trains. However, between 1955 and 1970, these were gradually replaced by diesel locomotives, which continue to operate the service today.

• By Train: Most visitors travel from New Delhi (typically from New Delhi Railway Station) to Kalka Station. From Kalka, they transfer to the narrow-gauge "Toy Train" for the scenic ascent to Shimla.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (SLV), which has limited flights connecting to other major Indian cities.

• By Road: Shimla is accessible by road from nearby major cities like Chandigarh and Delhi. Buses and taxis are readily available.

• Best Time to Visit: The period from October to March offers pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing. Avoid the hot summer months (April-June) and the monsoon season (July-September).

• Dress Code: As it's a culturally significant location, modest and respectful attire is recommended. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple or designated areas.

• Facilities: Ensure you carry sufficient drinking water. Modern amenities and a wide variety of food options might be limited in certain areas.

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for getting around Shimla and to other local attractions.

Admission Fees 

• Generally, there is no separate admission fee for the Shimla Old Railway Station itself. However, train tickets for the Kalka-Shimla Railway are required based on the class of travel and distance. 

Opening Hours 

• The railway station operates according to its daily train schedule. It's advisable to check the train timings in advance to plan your journey.