- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:16 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a bid to promote tourism and improve occupancy in government-run hotels, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The partnership aims to leverage the heritage Kalka-Shimla toy train and IRCTC’s nationwide railway tourism network to attract more visitors to Himachal Pradesh.
Under the agreement, IRCTC’s rail-based tour packages will be integrated with HPTDC hotels, particularly along the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla heritage railway route. Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen heritage tourism while ensuring better utilisation of tourism infrastructure in the state.
ALSO READ: Fact Check: Viral Video Of PM Modi Praising Jesus Christ Is AI-Generated
IRCTC Chief Regional Manager Harjot Singh Sandhu said the corporation’s extensive digital reach and pan-India presence would help promote railway-based tourism in Himachal Pradesh. He added that Kalka serves as IRCTC’s last major rail base connecting the state, from where tourists will be routed to destinations such as Shimla, Barog and Kiarighat through composite travel packages.
HPTDC Managing Director Rajiv Kumar told ANI that the collaboration is part of a broader strategy to increase hotel occupancy and revenue. He noted that HPTDC operates 1,111 rooms across the state, and higher occupancy would support timely renovations, salary payments and financial stability. Kumar added that HPTDC has also partnered with online travel platforms and encouraged hotel managers to host official and social events to maximise utilisation.
As part of the MoU, IRCTC and HPTDC have launched a special “Shimla Toy Train Weekend Getaway” package, a two-night, three-day tour scheduled from March 27 to March 29, 2026. The package begins at Kalka and includes a journey by a chartered toy train coach to Shimla, accommodation at HPTDC’s Hotel Holiday Home, and sightseeing in Shimla and Kufri.
The itinerary includes visits to-
- Mall Road
- Ridge
- Kufri
- Himalayan Nature Park
- Jakhu Temple
- Viceroy Lodge
The package provides-
- Confirmed toy train tickets
- Road transport
- Hotel stay
- Three breakfasts
ALSO READ: Gurugram CEO’s US Visa Denied Over 'Weak Ties To India,' Points Out Irony In Viral Post
Priced from Rs 8,255 per person (triple occupancy), the package has limited availability with 30 seats and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Officials said the initiative is expected to give a significant boost to heritage tourism, especially during peak seasons such as snowfall.