Riding the Tapi Express toy train at Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden Surat Gujarat

When we visited the Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden in Surat, Gujarat our joy knew no bounds on seeing the toy train, especially since we had missed riding the one at the Sayaji Baug in Vadodara which we had visited prior to our trip to Surat.

The toy train, named Tapi Express, was a real treat, both to look at and its comfortable journey. I'm sure many of us had a toy train during our childhood and even likely that it was red! 

So there we were, seated in a bright red toy train at Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden in Surat, with sunglasses and hats firmly in place to ward off the sun. My sister wisely suggested that we sit on the very last bench at the back of the train because it faced outward and I, the avid photographer, would have a completely unhindered view of everything. What a superb decision that was, indeed!

Off we set out on the tracks, with a little toot of the engine -

Toy train track

In this photo I have put the front engine and the train's seating arrangement together -

Toy train at Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden

The interior of the train -

Toy train seats

As we turned a curve and saw the approaching tunnel, there was a lot of excitement -

Approaching the tunnel

Everyone cheered on entering and exiting the tunnel-

Tunnel during the toy train journey

The magnificent lake held us spellbound-

Lake inside Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden

As did the beautiful scenery in the midst of a lush landscape-

Greenery in Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden

I'm not putting all the beauty out here as I would like you to experience it yourself. One thing to note is that the picture panels on the sides of each 'compartment' of the toy train have images of well known personalities and landmarks. Don't miss those!

Toy train compartment

Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden Tapi Express Toy Train Ticket Price

For each person, the ticket price is as follows-
1. Above 12 years of age: Rs.60/-.
2. From two to 12 years of age: Rs.30/-.
3. For an education tour: Rs.25/-. For such a tour, note that you need to present a permission letter from the Principal or Manager.

Note that the toy train is in the fun zone section of the Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden, that is open from 10a.m. to 8 p.m. (except Thursdays).