A Glimpse into History at the Sukna DHR Museum: The Fascinating Journey of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Sukna DHR Museum, also known as the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Museum, is a fascinating museum located in the town of Sukna in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. The museum is dedicated to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), which is also known as the "Toy Train" due to its small size. The DHR is a narrow-gauge railway that was built in the late 19th century and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Sukna DHR Museum was opened in 2000 and is housed in a restored railway station building that was originally built in 1881. The museum showcases the history of the DHR and its importance to the region. It features a range of exhibits, including vintage locomotives, carriages, photographs, and other artifacts that tell the story of the railway.



Main Attraction of Sukna DHR Museum

The Sukna DHR Museum showcases the rich history and heritage of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train." Some of the main attractions of the museum include:

  1. Antique Locomotives: The museum houses some of the oldest steam locomotives, including the B-Class and C-Class engines, that were used on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. In this  display of a fully restored DHR steam locomotive, visitors can climb aboard and explore. 
  2. Vintage Photographs and Artefacts: Visitors can explore a collection of vintage photographs, documents, and artefacts that provide insights into the history and evolution of the railway.
  3. Model Train Sets: The museum features various model train sets that showcase the different types of locomotives and rolling stock that were used on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
  4. Interactive Exhibits: The museum also has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the various components of a steam locomotive and how they functioned.
  5. Souvenir Shop: Visitors can purchase souvenirs such as books, postcards, and other merchandise related to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the museum.
  6. Library: The museum also has a small library with a collection of books and documents related to the DHR, as well as a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase mementos of their visit.


Visiting Time 

Visiting the Sukna DHR Museum is a great way to spend a day in the Darjeeling region. The museum is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays and from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on Saturdays. 

Admission is free, although donations are appreciated.

Overall, the Sukna DHR Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of railways or the Darjeeling region. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the past and a unique perspective on the engineering and ingenuity required to build and maintain a railway in such challenging terrain.



In conclusion, the Sukna DHR Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of railways or the Darjeeling region. It is a fascinating museum that provides a unique perspective on the challenges of building and maintaining a railway in such a challenging environment. Visitors are sure to come away with a newfound appreciation for the ingenuity and hard work required to create such an engineering marvel.

Read: Kurseong DHR Museum 

Read: Ghum DHR Museum 

Read: Extensive post of DHR Toy Train 

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