Mumbai's Iconic Van Rani Toy Train Set To Return To Sanjay Gandhi National Park
The Van Rani toy train service had to be paused after severe damage caused by Cyclone Tauktae that passed by Mumbai in 2021.
Mumbai's iconic toy train, Van Rani, is set to start chugging again at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park after Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, confirmed its return to the city locals. 'I am delighted to see the return of the Van Rani toy train at Sanjay Gandhi National Park," Goyal said, as quoted by Deccan Herald.
'This will undoubtedly boost tourism in North Mumbai and further highlight the area's presence on India's tourism map. I sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the revival of this joy train."
Goyal had made persistent efforts in the revival of Van Rani, making consistent follow-ups with the park authorities before it was formally reintroduced. Unfortunately, the services had to be paused after severe damage caused by Cyclone Tauktae that passed by Mumbai in 2021.
The new Van Rani has been migrated from Ahmedabad and boasts of transparent roofs and large glass windows. The toy train's trials have already begun, raising excitement among the locals. The Van Rani's revival sets in stone a return to its glory days, where it was a favourite among children and offered families a memorable day out at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The park also features a mini zoo with visitors getting a glimpse of animals, birds, and vegetation around. Due to its scenic experience, it is a popular photography and selfie location for its visitors.
The timing of Van Rani's return seems perfect with the onset of the monsoons, when the park witnesses a surge of locals. The services are set to commence soon after the trials are completed, evoking also a sense of nostalgia for old Mumbai residents, who would've seen the introduction of the original Van Rani toy train in the 1970s. The original version had only three coaches but became famous among Mumbaikars with its old yellow-coloured jungle-theme.
The revamped Vistadome Van Rani carries a mix of red and black and consists of four coaches, operating on an advanced battery engine, which is environmentally friendly. Unlike the previous diesel-powered model. Each train will have a capacity of around 80 passengers at a time, another valuable upgrade. The route will span across 5.5 square kilometres through the Krishna Giri sub-forest and will take riders past amazing biodiversity zones, a mini-zoo and artificial tunnels.
'Thanks to transparent roofs and large windows, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the natural surroundings. The seating layout is metro-style, making the ride more comfortable. A second toy train will also arrive soon, with completely open coaches (without windows or doors), allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in nature," officials said.
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July 20, 2025, 17:19 IST
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