Vistadome chugs off on heritage track but arrives late in Shimla on first day

The Vistadome coach introduced on the 96-km-long Unesco world heritage Kalka-Shimla track reached late on the very first day of its service, the reason, Howarah Express train arrived late at Kalaka station and from there when it finally touched Shimla, it was late by three hours and ten minutes. The Vistadome was expected to depart from Kalka to Shimla at 6.20 am, but the late arrival of Howarah Express at Kalka led to reach Shimla at 2.30 pm. The heritage coach was scheduled to arrive in Shimla at 11.20 am.

There is no online or advance booking for the Vistadome coach, and the booking can be done manually. Those who are eager to travel by the Vistadome coach would have to buy the ticket at the Kalka station counter only. Station Superintendent of Shimla told Bhaskar news that work on facilitating online booking is on.   

The new classy train attached to train No. 52453/52454 has created an added attraction for tourists, who will be able to explore more adventure on this route. With a seating capacity of 36, a glass roof, modified windows and the air-conditioning system, the coach is endowed with designer LED lights, window blinds and cushioned wooden interiors. 

On the first day, as many as 20 passengers enjoyed the journey on Shimla-Kalka track, while 16 travellers in the return journey.

The Vistadome coach, also known as ‘Nihaar’, is the first of its kind on this section. Those who are interested to enjoy the journey through this heritage coach can book teckets through passenger reservation system for Rs 70 for a child and Rs 130 for others. 

The travellers will be able enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills while negotiating through 103 tunnels and 988 bridges on the track.