5 Special Railway Journeys in Asia
Rail travel provides an opportunity to experience the sensation of traveling on rails and to appreciate the local landscape. It allows us to engage more deeply with the landscape and facilitates interaction with people on a more personal level in remote locations where the railway remains a central component of local commerce. Keep scrolling down for further details!
Thailand
There are still numerous older-style train routes in operation across the country, which are utilised by many local residents. Embark on a historic and contemplative journey across the River Kwai on the ‘Death Railway’ from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi. You will have the unique opportunity to observe the hustle and bustle of hastily-retracted market stalls just inches away from the carriages at the Mae Klong Railway Market. Alternatively, you can elevate your experience with a journey on the classic Eastern & Oriental Express. For those wishing to access the islands, a direct train to Surat Thani is available. For those travelling north, a route that crosses the border into Laos is also offered. In conclusion, Thailand is an excellent choice for rail enthusiasts.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka may be a relatively small country, but it offers a wealth of rail travel opportunities that are worthy of attention. The island’s rail journeys have become a highly sought-after experience, especially the Kandy to Ella Tea Train is the most iconic and well-known. This route is instantly recognizable and offers a smooth journey through central Sri Lanka’s lush hills. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest train journeys. Despite the fact that it is now geared more towards tourists than locals, it still lives up to the hype. For the best views, please ensure you are seated on the side of the train overlooking the valley.
Vietnam
The Reunification Express offers a cost-effective way to travel between Vietnam’s two major cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. It provides a convenient and comfortable way to see the country, with four-berth cabins in the ‘soft-sleeper class’ available. Also allows you to alight at various destinations, including Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang and the verdant mountains of Sapa. The train traverses a historic 1,700 km track originally constructed 80 years ago. Elsewhere, Anantara’s Vietage offers passengers a luxurious experience as it glides smoothly through Central Vietnam.
Japan
The Shinkansen, Japan’s renowned ‘bullet train’, is arguably the most high-profile and well-known transport phenomenon in the entire Asian region. It has been the pinnacle of efficient, cutting-edge rail travel for decades. Please collect a traditional bento box from the station and enjoy the journey in comfort. We would also recommend the Seven Stars Cruise Train as a unique and memorable experience. The four-day journey takes passengers through five of Kyushu’s seven prefectures. The route covers Fukuoka, Oita, Miyazaki, Kagoshima and Kumamoto.
India
The Deccan Odyssey is a royal train that was previously used by maharajas during the golden years of the British Raj. This 21-coach train includes 11 luxury cabins, with the remaining coaches comprising the dining area, lounge and spa. The cabins are comparable to a five-star hotel room on wheels, complete with a personal attendant available at your convenience. A variety of packages are available, encompassing destinations such as Goa, Jaipur, Agra, Hyderabad, the Ellora Caves, and Udaipur. The majority of the journeys commence in Mumbai and conclude in New Delhi.
Do you have any other train routes to recommend? Please feel free to leave your comment below or chat with our travel consultants to create a bespoke itinerary.
