Pre-reading questions:
- Could you tell me about the trains in your country?
- What are some of the unique experiences that one can have while traveling by train?
Vocabulary:
- diverse /dih-VURS/
- valley /VAL-ee/
- breathtaking /BRETH-tey-king/
- tunnel /TUHN-l/
- picturesque /pik-chuh-RESK/
[adjective] – including many different types of people or things
In our school, we have a diverse student body, with students from many different countries and cultures.
[noun] – an area of low land between hills or mountains, often with a river running through it
The road through the valley was winding and narrow, surrounded by tall mountains covered in lush green forests.
[adjective] – extremely exciting, beautiful, or surprising
When we reached the top of the hill, the breathtaking view of the sunset over the ocean took our breath away.
[noun] – a long passage under or through the ground, especially one made by people
The train rushed through the dark tunnel, and I closed my eyes as I felt the cool air rush past me.
[adjective] – (especially of a place) attractive in appearance, especially in an old-fashioned way
We stopped at a small, picturesque village on our way to the mountains, where we saw colorful houses and beautiful gardens.
Article reading:
The Kangra Valley Railway, with a maximum speed of 25 km/h, covers a distance of 164 km and takes around eight hours to complete the journey. This leisurely pace is perfect for travelers who want to take in the breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range and the verdant valleys dotted with terraced fields. The train passes through 30 tunnels, some of which are over 1,000 feet long, and over 100 bridges and viaducts, providing a one-of-a-kind experience for passengers. The Kangra Valley Railway was built by the British in 1929 to connect the Kangra Valley with the main rail network. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world. Traveling on this train is an experience like no other, as it offers a glimpse into the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
In conclusion, the Kangra Valley Railway is not just a mode of transportation but a unique and unforgettable travel experience. So, if you’re looking for an adventure that will take you through some of India’s most picturesque landscapes, hop aboard this slow but spectacular train journey.
Comprehension questions
- What makes India a popular destination for travelers from all over the world?
- What is the Kangra Valley Railway, and what experience does it offer passengers?
- How long does it take to complete the Kangra Valley Railway journey, and why is the leisurely pace perfect for travelers?
- What are some of the natural wonders that travelers can see during their journey on the Kangra Valley Railway?
- Who built the Kangra Valley Railway, and why was it constructed?
Discussion questions
- Have you ever traveled on a slow train? If so, where did you go, and how was your experience? If not, would you like to experience it? Why or why not?
- Imagine you are a passenger on the Kangra Valley Railway, and you have the opportunity to speak with a local resident. What questions would you ask them about their community and the impact of the railway on their lives?
- Do you agree that traveling on a slow train like the Kangra Valley Railway provides a more immersive experience of the natural beauty of the Himalayan region?
- What aspects of the Kangra Valley Railway do you find most appealing? Why?
- In what ways do you think transportation infrastructure, like the Kangra Valley Railway, can impact a region’s development and growth?