Updated on Sunday, February 01, 2009, 00:00 IST

Shimla, Feb 01: Close on the heels of induction of century-old Kalka-Shimla Rail (KSR) in UNESCO's heritage list, the pre-Independence era Kangra Valley Railway (KVR) in Himachal Pradesh has been recommended for inclusion in the UN body's world heritage status for 2009.

Considering its historical and cultural importance, KVR has been nominated for inclusion in the UNESCO heritage list, Rajesh Agarwal, Executive Director (heritage) in the Railway Ministry said over phone.

If accepted, Himachal Pradesh, a favourite tourist destination, would have the unique distinction of having two of its railway lines in the prestigious list.

KSR, an engineering marvel built in 1903, found place in the UNESCO heritage list last year. This was the third railway line in the country after Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Nilgiri Mountain Railway to be accorded the heritage status.

Though not much has been written about KVR -- Pathankot- Jogindernagar Kangra Valley Railway -- as compared to KSR, the 163-km track meanders through a maze of hills and valleys offering travellers enchanting and scenic views.

Built between 1926 and 1929 for transporting raw material to the Shannan power house at Jogindernagar in Mandi district, KVR runs parallel to the mighty Dhauladhar range, literatures on KVR said.

Opened for traffic on April 1, 1929, KVR has more than 950 bridges and two tunnels.

The journey offers a sweeping view of the scenic mountains while stopping at 30 small stations.

Bureau Report