Post by : Anis Farhan

Journeys Worth Every Mile

Train travel in Asia offers a unique charm that goes far beyond simply reaching your destination. It’s a slower, more romantic way to experience landscapes that change dramatically outside your window. Unlike the hurried pace of air travel, these journeys invite passengers to settle into the rhythm of the rails, letting the scenery tell the story. Whether it’s weaving through Himalayan foothills, gliding along tropical coasts, or rolling past lush rice terraces, Asia’s scenic train rides are as much about the voyage as they are about the arrival.

For both local and international travelers, these routes aren’t just transport options — they are moving postcards that capture the continent’s extraordinary beauty. Here’s a closer look at the most unforgettable train journeys Asia has to offer.

Eastern & Oriental Express – Southeast Asia

The Eastern & Oriental Express is Asia’s answer to luxury rail travel. Running between Bangkok and Singapore, this journey offers an old-world charm with wood-paneled interiors, fine dining, and panoramic windows. The route takes you past emerald-green rice paddies, remote villages, and ancient temples. One highlight is crossing the historic Bridge on the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, where passengers can step off the train for a guided tour.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want comfort and elegance while soaking in Southeast Asia’s diverse landscapes. The service is leisurely, the cuisine is exquisite, and every moment feels like a page from a travel novel.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – India

Nicknamed the “Toy Train,” this UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway is an engineering marvel that connects New Jalpaiguri to the hill station of Darjeeling. The narrow-gauge track zigzags and loops through mist-covered tea plantations, pine forests, and Himalayan foothills.

One of the most magical moments comes as the train curves around Batasia Loop, revealing a panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. The slow pace allows ample time to savor the cool mountain air and the scent of fresh tea leaves.

Kurobe Gorge Railway – Japan

For nature lovers, Japan’s Kurobe Gorge Railway in Toyama Prefecture is a seasonal treat. Operating mainly in spring, summer, and autumn, the open-sided train winds through a dramatic river gorge flanked by towering cliffs and hot spring resorts.

During autumn, the scenery explodes in fiery reds and golds, making it one of Japan’s top spots for fall foliage viewing. The train also crosses multiple bridges and tunnels, adding a sense of adventure to the serene surroundings.

Ella to Kandy – Sri Lanka

Arguably one of the most photographed train rides in the world, the journey from Ella to Kandy (or vice versa) offers a seven-hour immersion in Sri Lanka’s hill country. The blue train snakes through rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls.

With open doors and windows, passengers can lean out to take in the cool breeze and snap iconic shots of the train curving around the tracks. It’s a sensory overload — the smell of fresh tea leaves, the sound of distant waterfalls, and the sight of smiling locals waving from the fields.

Trans-Mongolian Railway – Mongolia to China

Stretching from Ulaanbaatar to Beijing, the Trans-Mongolian Railway traverses some of Asia’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll journey through the grassy steppes of Mongolia, skirt the Gobi Desert’s endless sands, and pass remote villages untouched by modern development.

As the train approaches China, the scenery transforms into rugged mountains and fertile plains. This is not a journey you take for speed — it’s for the raw, unfiltered experience of two vastly different cultures and environments.

Banff to Vancouver – Rocky Mountaineer (Canada link for Asia travelers)

While not in Asia, the Rocky Mountaineer often features on the bucket lists of Asian travelers. Linking Banff and Vancouver, this Canadian train route passes turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and dense pine forests. Many travelers from Asia combine this with their North American trips, making it a notable inclusion for international train enthusiasts.

Qinghai–Tibet Railway – China

Known as the world’s highest railway, the Qinghai–Tibet line climbs to over 5,000 meters above sea level. The train is specially designed with oxygen supplies to help passengers adjust to the altitude.

The journey offers spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau, with its endless grasslands, snow-covered mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Wildlife sightings, including yaks and Tibetan antelope, are common along the route. It’s both a scenic and spiritual experience, as the train’s final destination is the holy city of Lhasa.

Bamboo Train – Cambodia

While not a long journey, Cambodia’s Bamboo Train in Battambang offers a quirky and memorable ride. Essentially a flat bamboo platform mounted on wheels and powered by a small motor, it glides along rural tracks through rice fields and small villages.

The ride is about the experience — feeling the wind in your hair, hearing the rhythmic clack of the wheels, and watching the countryside roll by at a gentle pace. It’s a glimpse into local ingenuity and charm.

Karakoram Express – Pakistan

This route connects Karachi to Lahore and offers a varied landscape, from arid plains to fertile fields. While the train itself is not a luxury service, the cultural richness and diversity of the scenery make it special. Travelers often speak of meeting friendly locals and sharing stories over chai in the dining car.

Tips for Planning Your Scenic Train Journey

• Book Early: Popular routes sell out months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Choose the Right Season: For example, Sri Lanka’s hill country is best from December to March, while Japan’s Kurobe Gorge is spectacular in autumn.

• Pack Light but Smart: Bring snacks, water, a good camera, and layers of clothing.

• Embrace the Pace: Scenic train rides are about the journey, not the destination. Slow down and enjoy it.

Why Train Travel in Asia Is Unique

Unlike Europe or North America, many Asian routes pass through remote, less-developed areas that are inaccessible by road. This allows travelers to see a side of the continent that feels untouched by time. The mix of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and sometimes challenging conditions makes these journeys unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Asia’s scenic train journeys offer more than just transportation; they are immersive experiences that connect travelers with landscapes, cultures, and histories in a deeply personal way. Whether you choose the elegance of the Eastern & Oriental Express or the raw beauty of the Trans-Mongolian, each ride tells a story — one that unfolds with every turn of the tracks.

Disclaimer:

The information in this article is intended for general travel inspiration and should not replace updated schedules, ticketing information, or travel advisories from official sources. Seasonal availability, pricing, and route details may vary, so readers are encouraged to verify all arrangements with the respective train service providers before making travel plans.