Friday 22nd October - Return to Delhi

The fact that our luggage was transferred direct to Agra, and we weren't re-united with it in Delhi tonight upset the equilibrium of some members of the GRJ party today.
Only about half the group opted for the return trip to Kalka by toy train - the rest deciding to spend an extra morning in Shimla followed by an afternoon taxi to Kalka station (the journey taking less than half the time of the train).

The guy in the photo below is one of the reasons why we came on this trip. Maqsood featured in the TV programmes on "Indian Hill Railways" broadcast earlier in the year, which prompted our search for a holiday to visit the area. He is a 90 year old station porter at Shimla who has spent many years carrying unfeasible loads, often on his head, to and from the station. He seems well aware of his new-found fame, and now probably makes more money from posing for photographs than carrying loads! Well-earned retirement long overdue.

The 10.20 Himalayan Queen service to Kalka

We were joined on the train by a group of friendly and giggly Japanese ladies (of a certain age!), whose local guide out-negotiated ours for a space in our carriage. They only went 40 minutes down the line, but supplied sweets and chocolates, and insisted on getting Robert's autograph.

Great photo - Thanks Dave!

The photo below (thanks Keith) shows Barog tunnel - the longest on the line. Construction of the original tunnel started at both ends - and unfortunately did NOT meet up in the middle. The chief engineer subsequently committed suicide - and this new tunnel was successfully completed later.

In the later stages of the journey, the skies darkened and we had a spectacular thunderstorm - with strong winds and heavy rain. As we approached Kalka, the train stopped while fallen trees and branches were cleared from the line. We eventually arrived at around 4pm.
The Shatabdi Express service to Delhi left at around 6pm, and we eventually got back to the hotel at 11.30.
Delhi had also experienced unseasonal heavy rain this evening - leading to headlines in the local paper "DELHI DRENCHED ON FREAKY FRIDAY" with photos showing areas of severe waterlogging - and uprooted traffic lights in the city.

An early morning call was set for 4.30 - we leave at 5.20 for the train to Agra!