Indian Railways is upgrading the Metre-Gauge route through Gir forest in Gujarat for a special Heritage Train experience
The Metre Gauge railway route between Junagadh, Visavadar, and Sasan Gir is being transformed into a dedicated Heritage Train route by the Indian Railways.
The railway route between Junagadh, Visavadar, and Sasan Gir is a scenic and historic metre-gauge section in Gujarat, which is operated by Western Railway division of Indian Railways. This scenic railway route passes through the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, India.
Most of India's railway network has already been converted to Broad Gauge by Indian Railways. The remaining Meter Gauge lines are being preserved specifically for their historical and aesthetic value.
What makes this railway route special?
The "Forest Safari" on Rails: This is one of the few railway lines in India that cuts right through the heart of a protected sanctuary. Train passengers on this railway route often get a "mini-safari" experience, with chances to spot lions, leopards, and spotted deer right from their windows.
A Byegone Era Charm: This metre gauge railway line dates back to the era of the Princely States of Saurashtra. By keeping it as a Meter Gauge, the railway aims to preserve that old-world, "slow-travel" charm.
Heritage and Eco-Friendly Tourism: As it passes through a sensitive ecological zone, the train travels at a very low speed to ensure the safety of wildlife, which also enables enjoying the lust greenery of this route in a slow and relaxed manner.
What to Expect from the Heritage Train?
Vistadome Coaches: Indian Railways plans to introduce Vistadome coaches with large glass windows (and potentially glass roofs) on the heritage train along this route, so that tourists can have an unobstructed view of the magnificent Gir forest canopy.
Vintage Aesthetics: The interiors and exteriors of the coaches are expected to be redesigned with a "retro" look, reminiscent of the royal trains of the past.
Station Upgrades: Small, picturesque stations like Sasan Gir and Visavadar are being maintained to reflect their original heritage architecture.
Current Status of this Metre Gauge Heritage Train project
As per the report by PIB Railways, Western Railway has already proposed the plan, and it has received significant support as it connects the historic city of Junagadh with the wildlife hub of Sasan Gir, in Gujarat.
While regular railway services by Indian Railways have existed on this line since years, the shift to a "Heritage" branding means better amenities and a focus on a pleasant passenger experience rather than just a transit through the railway route.