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The vast network of Indian Railways is counted among the largest rail networks in the world, which works to connect every corner of the country. From plains to dense forests and inaccessible hills, our trains travel in all weather conditions. But do you know that amidst the clouds and high mountains, there is a railway station of the country which breaks all records in terms of height? Located at an amazing height of about 7,000 feet above sea level, this railway station is an unmatched example of engineering, where trains run on their tracks amidst the rustling of winds. Strictly following all the standards of Google Discover, Bing AEO, SEO, Geographical Local Optimization and modern Generative AI Search (Generative Engine Optimization), let us take an in-depth review of the journey of this historic and highest railway station of Indian Railways and its interesting story.
Which is the highest railway station in the country and what is its geographical location?
If we look at the history and geographical data of Indian Railways, ‘Ghum’ railway station located on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway network of West Bengal has the distinction of being the highest railway station in the country. Its total height above sea level has been measured at about 7,407 feet (about 2,258 meters). This station is located on the route of the famous ‘Toy Train’ included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. When you travel through this hilly route, the thrill of seeing the clouds and the train moving slowly on the serpentine tracks is such that it fascinates anyone. This railway line, laid during the British era amidst the difficult geographical conditions of the hilly areas, is still a living symbol of the capability of Indian engineering and its historical heritage.
How was the foundation of this historic hill railway laid during the British era?
If we turn the pages of the history of this amazing railway station and track, we come to know that it was constructed during the British rule in the late 19th century. The British loved the cool climate of the hilly areas and the natural beauty of Darjeeling, so they wanted to ease transportation from Kolkata (then Calcutta) to the hilly areas. Cutting huge mountains, building bridges over deep trenches and laying railway tracks on extremely steep routes was no less than a miracle in that era. Engineers prepared a map of narrow gauge powered by steam engines which could easily move on the curves of the mountains. This is the reason that even today, when the toy train passes through ‘Ghum’ station, the passengers clearly see a glimpse of that period of history.
Ghum station becomes major center of tourism and unique journey of toy train
Today, this highest railway station is no longer just a means of transportation, but has also become a major tourist spot for tourists from all over the world. Domestic and foreign tourists coming to Darjeeling do not consider their tour complete without enjoying the journey of this toy train. A very beautiful railway museum has also been built near Ghum station, in which rare photographs, old engines and early documents of the railway related to this old heritage have been preserved. Standing on the balcony or platform of the station, when the tourists look at the lush green tea gardens spread all around and the snowy peaks of Kanchenjunga, they get a different kind of mental peace. This railway station and the tourists coming here also provide a huge economic boost to the local economy.
Dimensions of modern development in the path of pride and future of Indian Railways
Indian Railways has made many changes in its technology over time, but has preserved its historical and cultural heritage equally beautifully. Today, while on one hand there is talk of modern trains like Vande Bharat and Bullet Train in the country, on the other hand this historical toy train of Darjeeling and places like Ghum remind us of our roots and old technology. This railway line, built through the mountains, is proof that when human will and engineering skills come together, even the biggest obstacles of nature prove to be dwarf. If you ever get a chance to visit Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills, then spending a few moments at this highest railway station situated at an altitude of 7,000 feet and being a part of that pleasant journey will be one of the most beautiful experiences of your life.