Wes Anderson is a director like no other – he creates dream-like worlds full of color and life, and his style of work is embodied perfectly in his 2007 movie, The Darjeeling Limited, which is about three brothers traveling across India by train. |
While there is no train with that actual name in real life, fans of the movie will be delighted to hear that there’s a real train called the “Darjeeling Himalayan Railway”, which is close enough to the fantastical movie version, and every bit as charming. |
The train runs along a 53-mile-long railway track, which links Siliguri and Darjeeling via West Bengal. Darjeeling was a major station at the center of a flourishing tea-growing district during the late 19th Century. While the area was only previously accessible via horse-drawn cart, the booming tea trade necessitated the creation of a railway, and that’s how the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was born. Construction was completed in 1881. |
Less than 30 years after its completion, the railway carried 174,000 passengers and 52,000 tons of goods annually. The route is now one of India’s most famous mountain railway lines, and it was the very first to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, being awarded the status back in 1999. |
The train’s Disney-esque look has given rise to numerous nicknames, such as the “train to the clouds”, and “toy train”. Furthermore, its route along the railway line is truly unique, rising through an elevation change of nearly 7,000ft. When you get to Darjeeling along the railway line, you can go even further should you choose – to India’s highest railway station in a vintage B-class steam locomotive. |
An earthquake, which occurred in 1897, caused some damage to the railway line, and this was the catalyst for various improvements to be made, such as that addition of bogie-equipped carriages in place of basic four-wheel train cars. |
|
In the present day, you can ride in one of the train’s two first-class carriages to make the mountainous trip as comfortable as possible. While the full journey takes about eight hours, the most picturesque part runs between Darjeeling and Ghum, and takes just half an hour. |
The last leg of the trip is also magical, bending and twisting through the city with proximity to its people and their livelihoods that has to be seen to be believed. Further adding to the train and railway’s charm is a train carriage named after author Mark Twain, who spent time traveling through India during the 1890s. His trip is documented in his book, Following the Equator. |
“In other countries a long wait at a train station is a dull thing and tedious, but one has no right to have that feeling in India. You have the monster crowd of bejeweled natives, the stir, the bustle, the confusion, the shifting splendors of the costumes–dear me, the delight of it, the charm of it are beyond speech.” – Mark Twain |
Image Source |
All Other Images and Content Source: The Plaid Zebra |
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
Incredible Northern India Is Packed with Spectacular Sites
Filmed in high definition, this beautiful video will take you through some of the most spellbinding views of this land.
The Future Will Be Fast With These High-Speed Trains
Take a look at some high-speed trains of the future and imagine what a thrill it would be to ride in them.
You Feel like Royalty Inside These 10 Exotic Trains
Hop aboard some of the most luxurious train rides of the world in this video.
The World's Best Underground Train Systems, Revealed
Today, let us take you on a ride on some of the most impressive metro systems in the world.
The Fascinating Transformation of Trains through the Ages
Learn about the fascinating evolution of trains over the last 200 years - from the first locomotive to the fastest ever train.
Introducing the 10 Biggest Shopping Malls in the World
So where are the biggest and most expensive malls in the world? Right here in this article.
The Most Breathtakingly Beautiful National Parks in Japan
These Japanese national parks will delight all nature enthusiasts.
The 7 Oldest Cities on Earth that Still Stand
Many cities have been erected through history, and many have fallen to natural disaster or war. These cities have stood the test of time.
These Pictures Will Make You Desperately Crave the ‘70s
Rediscover the charm of the '70s with these delightful pictures.
This Unbelievable Map Lets You Travel Like Marco Polo
This wonderful interactive map enables you to visit great oriental cities and follow in the steps of the adventurous Marco Polo.
Enjoy 21 Stunning Sunrises from Around the World
Sunrises have something mystical about them. They captivate us with their beauty and enamor us with hope. Here are 21 beautiful sunrises around the world.
Remembering the World’s Long Lost Architectural Gems
There have been countless architectural gems built over centuries. Sadly, many no longer exist. Here’s a look at some of them.
14 Cool and Interesting Things From Around the World
Check out these cool and interesting things from around the world that will leave you surprised.
The Netherlands Is a Country of the Future For 7 Reasons
The Netherlands is a country that others should emulate for a whole variety of reasons, not least these 7 we're about to show you in this article.
Oh Nice, Let Me Count the Reasons I Love Thee...
An amazing coastline, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the city of Nice, a pearl of the French Riviera ...
Around the World in 10 Unique New Year's Eve Traditions
Discover the different ways New Year’s Eve is celebrated around the world.
See 13 Of the Most Magical and Breathtaking Sites in Vietnam
After visiting Vietnam, a country of natural beauty, fascinating history, and authentic cultural heritage, I compiled a list of 13 must see sites!
Belize Is An Unspoiled Caribbean Paradise Waiting For You
It's quite often that Belize isn't thought of by people when they think of the Caribbean, but it actually should be. Here are the country's top 10 destinations.
COLLECTION: 9 Incredible Festivals From Around the World
his unique interactive image is your gateway to exploring nine of the world's most vibrant and unique festivals.
Escape From the World to These Beautiful US Hideaways
Did you know that you can escape from the world right here in the United States? Here are 10 beautiful US hideaways to escape to.
10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching
If you wish to encounter whales, here are the top 10 destinations to do so
This Dutch Tulip Garden is the Most Magnificent on Earth...
Take an exclusive look at the most beautiful tulip garden on the planet - the world-famous Keukenhof - through 15 stunning photos
Here Are 8 New Countries That Might Exist by 2030
This video takes a look at some potential new countries that might exist by 2030.
12 Great Wineries for Fine Wine and Architecture
These wineries are spectacular! Their impressive facilities are without a doubt, a sight to behold.
Why Train Tickets Are so Expensive in America
Did you know traveling by train in the U.S. is often more expensive than flying? Find out why.
These Photos Could Only Be Taken in India...
India is an enormous, diverse and complex place. Some of the sites you'll see in this fascinating country are unlike those you'll see anywhere else. Take a look
First-Class Travel Looks Very Different on These Airlines
First-class air travel is one of the most luxurious modes of transport you can take, but the experience differs from airline to airline. Take a closer look.
Fascinating! Never-Before-Seen Images of the Titanic
Explore the Titanic like you've never seen it before with these rare photos.
Learn 42 Different Politeness Rules From Around the World!
Here's everything you need to know about the various principles of politeness that exist in different countries. It's both fascinating and a handy travel tool!
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
These Are Simply the Most Stunning Bays in the Whole World
There are many spectacular bays around the world, but these are just the most beautiful of all. So here's the top 10, in all its glory. Enjoy!
Arabian Nights: The Magic of Saudi Arabia
Come with us to fly above and within the magic of Saudi Arabia.
I Would Be So Happy in One of These Beautiful Little Towns
When you get out of the big cities and start visiting the small ones, you realize you've missed some of the most beautiful places..
12 Towns in Germany That Bring Old Magic to Life
Germany has a reputation for being a cold country, which may be true about its big cities, but not to these 12 small old towns surrounding them ...
Is This the Most Beautiful Place in Italy? We Think So!
Take a look at two breathtaking UNESCO sites in Tivoli, Italy: Hadrian's Villa and the Villa d'Este.
25 of China's Hidden Treasures That All Visitors Must See
China is a land of beauty and mystery, filled with countless spots of natural, as well as man-made beauty.
The Ashikaga Flower Park is Truly a Sight to Behold
Only the Japanese could make a flower garden this stunning. Check it out!
18 Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites to See in Italy
Apart from well-known attractions like the Colosseum, Pompeii, Rome, Venice, and Florence, there are 18 impressive locations that showcase a captivating blend of natural landscapes and ancient architectural wonders.
Why Are Countries Named the Way They Are? This Map Tells!
Have you ever wondered why the countries of the world are named the way they are, and what on Earth they might literally mean? Wonder no more...
Thailand Never Looked More Enchanting than In This Video...
Never have I seen a video shot with more love for its subject matter. Thailand is indeed one of the most stunning places on earth.
15 Cheerfully Colorful Towns and Villages Around the World
Take a look at 15 of the most vibrant and cheerful towns and villages around the world and brighten your day!
Pearl of Southeast Asia: 5 Reasons You Need to Visit Burma
A comprehensive travel guide to Myanmar in Southeast Asia
13 Charts & Maps That Tell Us So Much About the World
These informative charts and infographics tell us so much about the world!
10 Unforgettable Places In the World Full Of Color & Charm
Admire 10 astonishing and colorful tourist destinations all around the world.
Shocking Facts About New York’s Flatiron Building
New York City's Flatiron building is one of the world’s most iconic structures. However, it faces an uncertain future.
WATCH: Visit the Stunning Old Chinese Town of Lijiang
The beautiful Old Town of Lijiang in China's Yunnan province is a truly spectacular place that allows you to step into the past. View it in full high definition