Not without a reason is it said that great train journeys make for even greater stories. Agreed that air travel is a more preferred option for most frequent travelers but the essence of a typical train journey cannot be undermined. The beautiful landscape that the Glacier Express offers in Switzerland, the sheer luxury associated with the Maharaja Express in the Indian subcontinent or the baby-footed El Transcantábrico – these are just a few names that make the very thought of undertaking a train journey exciting. That’s not all. We decided to go a step further and figure out the “Top 20 Rail Journeys of the world.” Our selection criterion accounted for the facilities, the hospitality, and the aesthetics the trains had to offer. So, here is the list of 20 most exciting rail journeys of the world.
1.Maharaja Express, India
Like the name, like the train. Connecting Mumbai and Delhi, the 2 most power hubs of the Indian subcontinent, the Maharaja Express takes you back to the Raj era on a tour through the royal state of Rajasthan, the erstwhile home to Maharajas. Relive the same splendor and brace yourself on a trip that is the epitome of luxury travel all through the world. Services, you ask? Well, enlisting all may really take a while. To sum up everything, 11 deluxe cars, 2 Presidential Suites with their own living rooms, bedrooms and toilets; a conference car, a lounge car, a spa, 24X7 internet access; a personal safe, besides scores of other amenities. Spanning 8 days and 7 nights, a trip aboard the Maharaja is one you are going to cherish forever.
2. Blue Train, South Africa
Since its maiden run in 1998, the Blue Train in South Africa has set new benchmarks in luxury and hospitality. Plying between the major cities of Capetown and Pretoria, the Blue train boasts of a strong staff of 27 catering to the every whim of 84 passengers (that is at full capacity) and is a must in all travel itineraries for tourists visiting the country of the Cape of Good Hope. Lavishly facilitated with in-suite bathrooms, bars, individual climate control and a dedicated concierge for each suite, the Blue Train is in a different league altogether in the luxury train segment. Make sure you get your reservations at least a couple of months in advance.
3.The Shinkansen, Japan
The Shinkansen, otherwise known as The Bullet Train, is a bridge between Tokyo and Kyoto , the modern and the ancient capitals respectively. The train was a technological landmark when introduced more than a decade back. Engaged in a seesawing battle with the French TGV for the title of the world’s fastest train, The Shinkansen crunches a staggering 325 miles in 130 minutes flat. That is some speed. After reaching Kyoto, the train also covers Hiroshima and the southernmost island of Kyushu. We suggest visitors buy the weekly Japan rail pass at $280 that is available at all stations.
4. Great South Pacific Express, Australia
Launched in 1999, the Great South Pacific Express zips between Sydney and Cairns. The entire journey is completed in two legs and includes an overnight stay in Brisbane. The second leg is highly popular with tourists and includes a short helicopter trip to the Great Barrier Reef where you spend the day snorkeling. The food is awesome; the staff hospitable. The best place to enjoy the entire journey is the open air deck, which provides for some breathtaking views. The journey finally comes to an end at Kuranda, where you are taken aboard the SkyRail cable car that takes you through densely forested hills. Score one for that trip Down Under.
5. Nice-Pisa Rail Link, France-Italy
The Nice-Pisa rail line runs along the inlands of the Alps, hugging the Ligurian Sea all along. If history and culture is your thing, a journey from the French city of Nice to the historic city of Pisa in Italy is exhilarating. Enjoy scenic views from the massive French orange groves to the palm lined Italian promenades. There are several intermediate stations where you can de-board. The entire rail journey is for a duration of 9 hours and 15 minutes and, given you have lots of time, is recommendable.
6. Lima – Huancayo, Latin America
You actually get oxygen in the train for this rail journey! This is because this railway line takes you over the highest rail crossing in the Andes at 15,688ft at Galera. The journey spans a total of 3 days. Once operating on a daily basis, the train now runs only twice a month, adding to the exclusivity of the journey. All carriages have been recently refurbished and a dedicated support staff ensures the interiors are spic and span.
7.Danube Express, Central Europe
A brainchild of the same enterprise that established Great Rail Journeys, the Danube Express plies between the major cities of central and eastern Europe and is seen as an all-inclusive tour for visitors and locals alike. There are several packages offered with varying itineraries. Patrons also have the option of choosing any of the four grade packages, ranging from luxury to executive, to accommodate their budget. Based on your travel package, the journey may take anywhere between 3-8 days.
8.Venice Simplon-Orient Express
If you want to undertake journey aboard the Orient Express, you got to have long pockets. Really long pockets! The Orient Express is recognized as the pioneer in luxury travel and still attracts a sizable footfall year after year. The journey comprises of two different legs- each accomplished in separate trains. Two sub-routes, the British Pullman and the Continental Wagons-Lits, take you across riveting French, Austrian and Swiss countrysides and offer picturesque, landscape views from your window. All banquets, drinks and most amenities are included in the all-inclusive package.
8.The Bergen Line, Norway
Europe’s highest railway line, the Bergen, will amaze you with the scenic beauty it has to offer. The Bergen Line runs from Oslo to Bergen and passes glaciers, snow-capped peaks and fjords, looping through spiral tunnels in mountain rocks. The train also passes through glacial wastelands of the largest mountain plateau in Europe, altogether making for a dramatic background setting. This 489km railway stretch took more than 12 years to build and is steep enough at places for the train to have five different braking systems. The journey spans 7 hours altogether but can be broken up at Myrdal if you want to enjoy a visit to the Sea of Flam.
9.The Canadian, Canada
Being the flagship train of the VIA Rail Canada, the Canadian embarks upon an epic journey spanning 3 and a half days between Toronto and Vancouver. The carriages are straight out of the retro era of 1950s, though refurbished periodically. This is a seriously long train; a fact that is evident from the fact that the cleaning staff wears roller blades. West of Edmonton is when the actual journey begins and snow-capped mountains and beautiful gorges begin to show up.
10. New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling
Starting at 400 feet and going up to 7200 feet above sea level, one can only guess how awe-inspiring the ascent would be. Built by the British army between 1879 and 1881, the “Darjeeling Toy Train” was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The Toy Train is one of the few trains that enjoy the patronage of millions every year, despite lacking even the most basic services. Some of the carriages date back to the late 19th century and add to the vintage charm that this train is known for. Snaking through the Himalayas, the Toy Train lugs at its own leisurely pace, stealing you away from the humdrum and monotony of everyday life.
11. Royal Canadian Pacific – Canada
Another Canadian entry. 5 star dining areas, salons, ensuite shower, toilet and sink, room specific concierge; all this amidst a very intimate accommodation for only 30 passengers. The Royal Canadian Pacific is every bit royal as the name it bears. A highly courteous and informed staff only adds to the experience of a memorable trip. Prior reservations are a must.
12. Shangri-La Express – Chinese Mainland
Once again, not exactly a wow – inducing train, the Shangri – La Express is admired for its engineering and ergonomics. It is, by far, the most advanced train in China and has a number of first-class, air-conditioned compartments that provision twin bunker style beds. The train covers a remarkable distance within a short time and surpasses all other trains in every aspect.
13. Qinghai, China to Lhasa, Tibet
If you are traveling from Qinghai to Lhasa by train, you will need to provide your signature on a health registration card and learn to use emergency oxygen masks enroute; because the oxygen levels can and will fall to a serious low. Beat that. Ascending up to a mind boggling 16,404 feet, the train provides for a right mix of adrenaline rush and heartfelt admiration for the breathtaking landscapes it lets you witness. Temperatures drop so quickly along the 2,703 mile trek that running water has to be actually heated to keep it from freezing. The high point of the journey is when the train passes the Tangula pass, crossing the Tibetan Plateau. International travelers must procure special visitor permit before de-boarding at Lhasa.
14. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Do not fall for the name. This train is anything but express. Taking eight long hours to cover just 180 miles, the Glacier Express commutes between Zermatt and St. Moritz. But then, its pace was never its forte. Tourists throng this train for sheer adventure this train offers, going through crest and troughs 5,000 feet apart, 291 bridges and 91 tunnels; one of which is the world’s longest narrow gauge tunnel. The staff is fluent in German, English and French and serves delectable Central European delicacies. We would again suggest enquiring about Unlimited Swiss Passes for 4, 8 and 15 days that may save you a lot of money.
15. Copper Canyon Railway, Mexico
This train runs at its own whim. And that’s the beauty of it. No pampering butlers, no gourmet food, no private bathrooms and no other luxuries whatsoever. It’s like you are charged for the train’s blandness. What it loses due to its lack of services, it more than makes up by the traveling experience it has to offer. As the train totters from Los Mochis on the east Pacific Coast to Chihuahua, enroute Sierra Madre and Sonora Desert, you cannot help but admire the stupendous sights that pass by you. Our tip: try and find a seat on the right side and enjoy the sights and sounds of ethnic Mexico. You can break up your journeys and stay overnight in Divisadero or Creel. The final leg of the journey leads to the Tarahumara Mountains to Chihuahua.
16. Cuzco to Machu Picchu, Peru
The Incan capital Cuzco, besides being one of the highest cities in the world, is also home to several “Backpacker Trains” that crawl through the Andes atop the picturesque ruins of Machu Picchu. The journey itself is a seesaw of sorts; with the train climbing to the top of forest clad mountains and then swooping back to the Sacred Valley. The same route is also followed by Hiram Bingham trains which also offer the facility of fine dining. Spoiler Alert: Some of the sights can be really intimidating. So, this journey is not for those with a weak heart.
17. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express
Trotting through 6,000 miles and seven different time-zones, the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express line is probably the longest and the highest running railway line in the world. Started in 2007 as a joint venture between a Russian company and Cheshire-based GW Travel, the Trans-Siberian Express has been given a royal makeover with the introduction of the Imperial Suite which comes equipped with its own king-sized bed, a dressing area, and shower rooms besides other standard amenities.
18. El Transcantábrico
The launch of the El Transcantábrico was one of the first success stories mentioned in The International Railway Traveler in 1983. Six sleepers, each with four double compartments with several in-room facilities, the El Transcantábrico sure comes with its own set of bells and whistles. Only recently, a new luxury service, Gran Lujo, was added to the already impressive lineup of trains. Consisting only of Preferente Suites, the introduction of Gran Lujo has added a whole new dimension to luxury afforded by FEVE, or Narrow Gauge Spanish Railways. The cabins stretch a lavish 129 square meters and come equipped with facilities such as flat screen DVDs, personal computers, long sofa, private concierge, closets etc. The Lujo is being marketed to an exclusive, upmarket clientele and, thus, can accommodate only 28 passengers at a time.
19. Palace on Wheels, India
Taking you back to days of the Raj, Palace on Wheels is apt a name as there can be, considering the services on offer. Inaugurated in 1982 as a joint venture between Indian Railways and Rajasthan Tourism, it was India’s first luxury train and has been setting benchmarks in luxury and hospitality. The Palace on Wheels boasts of quite a unique itinerary and takes you on a royal tour of the Western Indian state of Rajasthan. A lot of international travelers have rated the services and staff quite highly which has given a lot of international recognition to this train. When in India, this is one experience you must not miss out on.
20. The Royal Scotsman
Without a doubt, the most expensive rail travel in the world. The best part is, it’s all worth it! The Royal Scotsman is a one of a kind, standout train that has redefined luxury in its niche. Accommodating just 36 passengers at a time, the train sticks all through to its “Imperial” theme and reeks of quality. Sample this: five star dining, gourmet food, private butlers for each suite, wine-pairing, personal computers with Wi-Fi connectivity, private lounge; the list is exhaustive. This is where luxury reaches its very summit. Long pockets alone would not do! Fittingly, your pockets need to be bottomless if you wish to embark on this journey of a lifetime.
21.The Deccan Odyssey, India
8 days and 7 nights of unparalleled luxury. That’s how travel experts describe The Deccan Odyssey. 11 well-anointed cabins, reeking of premium elegance; each designed in a different theme. Each cabin is symbolic of the life and times during the rule of a particular dynasty that reigned over the Deccan region. Each of the salons is believed to have been inspired from the private carriages of the erstwhile Maharajas. Guests are pampered by private butlers who attend to their every whim. Though a little on the expensive side, visitors give this fort of a train a huge thumbs up.
1.Maharaja Express, India
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| Presidential suite Maharajas-express India |
2. Blue Train, South Africa
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| Blue Train - South Africa |
3.The Shinkansen, Japan
The Shinkansen, otherwise known as The Bullet Train, is a bridge between Tokyo and Kyoto , the modern and the ancient capitals respectively. The train was a technological landmark when introduced more than a decade back. Engaged in a seesawing battle with the French TGV for the title of the world’s fastest train, The Shinkansen crunches a staggering 325 miles in 130 minutes flat. That is some speed. After reaching Kyoto, the train also covers Hiroshima and the southernmost island of Kyushu. We suggest visitors buy the weekly Japan rail pass at $280 that is available at all stations.
4. Great South Pacific Express, Australia
Launched in 1999, the Great South Pacific Express zips between Sydney and Cairns. The entire journey is completed in two legs and includes an overnight stay in Brisbane. The second leg is highly popular with tourists and includes a short helicopter trip to the Great Barrier Reef where you spend the day snorkeling. The food is awesome; the staff hospitable. The best place to enjoy the entire journey is the open air deck, which provides for some breathtaking views. The journey finally comes to an end at Kuranda, where you are taken aboard the SkyRail cable car that takes you through densely forested hills. Score one for that trip Down Under.
5. Nice-Pisa Rail Link, France-Italy
The Nice-Pisa rail line runs along the inlands of the Alps, hugging the Ligurian Sea all along. If history and culture is your thing, a journey from the French city of Nice to the historic city of Pisa in Italy is exhilarating. Enjoy scenic views from the massive French orange groves to the palm lined Italian promenades. There are several intermediate stations where you can de-board. The entire rail journey is for a duration of 9 hours and 15 minutes and, given you have lots of time, is recommendable.
6. Lima – Huancayo, Latin America
You actually get oxygen in the train for this rail journey! This is because this railway line takes you over the highest rail crossing in the Andes at 15,688ft at Galera. The journey spans a total of 3 days. Once operating on a daily basis, the train now runs only twice a month, adding to the exclusivity of the journey. All carriages have been recently refurbished and a dedicated support staff ensures the interiors are spic and span.
7.Danube Express, Central Europe
A brainchild of the same enterprise that established Great Rail Journeys, the Danube Express plies between the major cities of central and eastern Europe and is seen as an all-inclusive tour for visitors and locals alike. There are several packages offered with varying itineraries. Patrons also have the option of choosing any of the four grade packages, ranging from luxury to executive, to accommodate their budget. Based on your travel package, the journey may take anywhere between 3-8 days.
8.Venice Simplon-Orient Express
If you want to undertake journey aboard the Orient Express, you got to have long pockets. Really long pockets! The Orient Express is recognized as the pioneer in luxury travel and still attracts a sizable footfall year after year. The journey comprises of two different legs- each accomplished in separate trains. Two sub-routes, the British Pullman and the Continental Wagons-Lits, take you across riveting French, Austrian and Swiss countrysides and offer picturesque, landscape views from your window. All banquets, drinks and most amenities are included in the all-inclusive package.
8.The Bergen Line, Norway
Europe’s highest railway line, the Bergen, will amaze you with the scenic beauty it has to offer. The Bergen Line runs from Oslo to Bergen and passes glaciers, snow-capped peaks and fjords, looping through spiral tunnels in mountain rocks. The train also passes through glacial wastelands of the largest mountain plateau in Europe, altogether making for a dramatic background setting. This 489km railway stretch took more than 12 years to build and is steep enough at places for the train to have five different braking systems. The journey spans 7 hours altogether but can be broken up at Myrdal if you want to enjoy a visit to the Sea of Flam.
9.The Canadian, Canada
Being the flagship train of the VIA Rail Canada, the Canadian embarks upon an epic journey spanning 3 and a half days between Toronto and Vancouver. The carriages are straight out of the retro era of 1950s, though refurbished periodically. This is a seriously long train; a fact that is evident from the fact that the cleaning staff wears roller blades. West of Edmonton is when the actual journey begins and snow-capped mountains and beautiful gorges begin to show up.
10. New Jalpaiguri – Darjeeling
Starting at 400 feet and going up to 7200 feet above sea level, one can only guess how awe-inspiring the ascent would be. Built by the British army between 1879 and 1881, the “Darjeeling Toy Train” was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The Toy Train is one of the few trains that enjoy the patronage of millions every year, despite lacking even the most basic services. Some of the carriages date back to the late 19th century and add to the vintage charm that this train is known for. Snaking through the Himalayas, the Toy Train lugs at its own leisurely pace, stealing you away from the humdrum and monotony of everyday life.
11. Royal Canadian Pacific – Canada
Another Canadian entry. 5 star dining areas, salons, ensuite shower, toilet and sink, room specific concierge; all this amidst a very intimate accommodation for only 30 passengers. The Royal Canadian Pacific is every bit royal as the name it bears. A highly courteous and informed staff only adds to the experience of a memorable trip. Prior reservations are a must.
12. Shangri-La Express – Chinese Mainland
Once again, not exactly a wow – inducing train, the Shangri – La Express is admired for its engineering and ergonomics. It is, by far, the most advanced train in China and has a number of first-class, air-conditioned compartments that provision twin bunker style beds. The train covers a remarkable distance within a short time and surpasses all other trains in every aspect.
13. Qinghai, China to Lhasa, Tibet
If you are traveling from Qinghai to Lhasa by train, you will need to provide your signature on a health registration card and learn to use emergency oxygen masks enroute; because the oxygen levels can and will fall to a serious low. Beat that. Ascending up to a mind boggling 16,404 feet, the train provides for a right mix of adrenaline rush and heartfelt admiration for the breathtaking landscapes it lets you witness. Temperatures drop so quickly along the 2,703 mile trek that running water has to be actually heated to keep it from freezing. The high point of the journey is when the train passes the Tangula pass, crossing the Tibetan Plateau. International travelers must procure special visitor permit before de-boarding at Lhasa.
14. Glacier Express, Switzerland
Do not fall for the name. This train is anything but express. Taking eight long hours to cover just 180 miles, the Glacier Express commutes between Zermatt and St. Moritz. But then, its pace was never its forte. Tourists throng this train for sheer adventure this train offers, going through crest and troughs 5,000 feet apart, 291 bridges and 91 tunnels; one of which is the world’s longest narrow gauge tunnel. The staff is fluent in German, English and French and serves delectable Central European delicacies. We would again suggest enquiring about Unlimited Swiss Passes for 4, 8 and 15 days that may save you a lot of money.
15. Copper Canyon Railway, Mexico
This train runs at its own whim. And that’s the beauty of it. No pampering butlers, no gourmet food, no private bathrooms and no other luxuries whatsoever. It’s like you are charged for the train’s blandness. What it loses due to its lack of services, it more than makes up by the traveling experience it has to offer. As the train totters from Los Mochis on the east Pacific Coast to Chihuahua, enroute Sierra Madre and Sonora Desert, you cannot help but admire the stupendous sights that pass by you. Our tip: try and find a seat on the right side and enjoy the sights and sounds of ethnic Mexico. You can break up your journeys and stay overnight in Divisadero or Creel. The final leg of the journey leads to the Tarahumara Mountains to Chihuahua.
16. Cuzco to Machu Picchu, Peru
The Incan capital Cuzco, besides being one of the highest cities in the world, is also home to several “Backpacker Trains” that crawl through the Andes atop the picturesque ruins of Machu Picchu. The journey itself is a seesaw of sorts; with the train climbing to the top of forest clad mountains and then swooping back to the Sacred Valley. The same route is also followed by Hiram Bingham trains which also offer the facility of fine dining. Spoiler Alert: Some of the sights can be really intimidating. So, this journey is not for those with a weak heart.
17. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express
Trotting through 6,000 miles and seven different time-zones, the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express line is probably the longest and the highest running railway line in the world. Started in 2007 as a joint venture between a Russian company and Cheshire-based GW Travel, the Trans-Siberian Express has been given a royal makeover with the introduction of the Imperial Suite which comes equipped with its own king-sized bed, a dressing area, and shower rooms besides other standard amenities.
18. El Transcantábrico
The launch of the El Transcantábrico was one of the first success stories mentioned in The International Railway Traveler in 1983. Six sleepers, each with four double compartments with several in-room facilities, the El Transcantábrico sure comes with its own set of bells and whistles. Only recently, a new luxury service, Gran Lujo, was added to the already impressive lineup of trains. Consisting only of Preferente Suites, the introduction of Gran Lujo has added a whole new dimension to luxury afforded by FEVE, or Narrow Gauge Spanish Railways. The cabins stretch a lavish 129 square meters and come equipped with facilities such as flat screen DVDs, personal computers, long sofa, private concierge, closets etc. The Lujo is being marketed to an exclusive, upmarket clientele and, thus, can accommodate only 28 passengers at a time.
19. Palace on Wheels, India
Taking you back to days of the Raj, Palace on Wheels is apt a name as there can be, considering the services on offer. Inaugurated in 1982 as a joint venture between Indian Railways and Rajasthan Tourism, it was India’s first luxury train and has been setting benchmarks in luxury and hospitality. The Palace on Wheels boasts of quite a unique itinerary and takes you on a royal tour of the Western Indian state of Rajasthan. A lot of international travelers have rated the services and staff quite highly which has given a lot of international recognition to this train. When in India, this is one experience you must not miss out on.
20. The Royal Scotsman
Without a doubt, the most expensive rail travel in the world. The best part is, it’s all worth it! The Royal Scotsman is a one of a kind, standout train that has redefined luxury in its niche. Accommodating just 36 passengers at a time, the train sticks all through to its “Imperial” theme and reeks of quality. Sample this: five star dining, gourmet food, private butlers for each suite, wine-pairing, personal computers with Wi-Fi connectivity, private lounge; the list is exhaustive. This is where luxury reaches its very summit. Long pockets alone would not do! Fittingly, your pockets need to be bottomless if you wish to embark on this journey of a lifetime.
21.The Deccan Odyssey, India
8 days and 7 nights of unparalleled luxury. That’s how travel experts describe The Deccan Odyssey. 11 well-anointed cabins, reeking of premium elegance; each designed in a different theme. Each cabin is symbolic of the life and times during the rule of a particular dynasty that reigned over the Deccan region. Each of the salons is believed to have been inspired from the private carriages of the erstwhile Maharajas. Guests are pampered by private butlers who attend to their every whim. Though a little on the expensive side, visitors give this fort of a train a huge thumbs up.
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