10 Stunning Train Journeys in Asia

10 Stunning Train Journeys in Asia

Train ride is a unique way to appreciate the landscapes and wealthy culture of Asia. From Thailand to Japan, from Indonesia to China, these 10 exceptional train journeys across Asia are just the highlighted rail experiences you should immerse into:
oriental express

Eastern & Oriental Express

It could be a travelling memoir for any passenger aboard this luxury train, that runs between Singapore's Woodlands Train Checkpoint and Hua Lamphong, Bangkok, stopping at Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth, and Kanchanaburi. One can experience the beauty of Asia's vibrant cities, rural villages and gleaming pagodas while travelling on Eastern and Oriental Express.
Other inspiration about Thailand : Top things to see in Thailand



srilanka train
                                                                                              Photo: Lexx79

Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka

This scenic train route is highly recommended to all travellers visiting Sri Lanka. Built to transport tea, this colonial train meanders its way through the lush green plantations swamped in morning mist. The stunning views of the surrounding is simply intriguing. Hawkers sell fresh mangoes and pineapples in the second class coach, while the vintage blue train cuts through the forest interiors.



bangladesh
                                                                                                       Photo: Ferdousi

Dhaka to Srimangal, Bangladesh

This is the most beautiful and picturesque train route that should be included in every traveller’s Bangladesh itinerary. It’s a lifetime experience to travel by a train that passes through numerous tea and rubber plantations, lemon orchards, pineapple groves and villages of many indigenous people to reach Srimangal, the country’s epicentre of tea-growing culture.



india luxury train

Mumbai to Goa, India

A dozen of trains operate between India’s commercial capital of Mumbai and the beach destination of Goa. And the route passes through some of the astounding natural beauties of the region that will make any tourist spellbound. The morning train named Mandovi Express can be taken for enjoying the scenic beauty that would pass through numerous tunnels, cut across hilly terrains and forest covers and zoom past quaint rivers and plunging waterfalls.
Suggested Adventures in India : Motorcycle Adventures India



vietnam train
                                                                                       Photo: Tilo Ullrich

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Connecting these two cities along Vietnam’s coast, the Reunification Express makes this 36 hrs journey a pleasant one. Witness some of the fascinating landscapes characterised by paddy fields, pagodas, deserted white beaches and lush rainforest. Pot noodles in broth, served with fresh lime and chilli are available for breakfast at the train’s dining car.
Explore our Vietnam Tour Packages with this iconic train ride



yokohama train
                                                                                         Photo: The Realer

Yokohama to Shimoda, Japan

This 3 hr trip from Yokohama to the southern tip of peninsula in Shimoda, offers awesome scenic coastal views along the Pacific Ocean. The Royal Express, run by Japanese railway companies, is an eight car luxury train that would take care of the passengers on board, while they enjoy the outside view.



xian

Jiayuguan to Xi’an, China

This 18 hr long drive to Xi’an, also known as the end of the Silk Road, offers some breath taking views of the terrain it passes through. The scenic beauty of Gobi desert, the Hexi corridor, and the snow-capped Qilian Mountain range are simply captivating. The dining car offers freshly made stews and stir-fries, and some cheap beer can be bought on board.


indonesia train
                                                                                                 Photo: Rizky Aditya S

Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Indonesia

This train route connecting Indonesia’s business district with cultural capital offers some stunning views along the 8 hr long journey. Starting from Jakarta’s Gambir station, the train bowls past rice paddies and orchards of tropical fruit, plus the active volcano of Mount Cereme, a popular hiking and spa spot, giving enough reasons to grab the window seat. Orders for chicken and rice ready meals are microwaved in batches, before being delivered at the seat.



penang

Jungle Train, Malaysia

Also known as the East Coast Line, East Line or the East South Route, this rail route runs through defunct mines, rubber estates and vast tea plantations. This is a rail trip worth taking to see more traditional Malay culture and enjoy the scenery. Built by the British, this historic route has varied terrains of rural villages, forest cover, brown river streams, waterfalls, limestone caves and few national parks.



o train korea

O-Train, South Korea

This sightseeing train operated by Korail, starts from and ends at Seoul after traversing a circular path. Travelling by O-train is the most convenient and comfortable means of discovering the beauty of the rural countryside and mountainous central regions. This four car train carries up to 205 people and includes separate seating options for families and couples.


Other Unique Train Rides 
 

Kalaw to Nyang Shwe, Myanmar

This is short but scenic train. It offers a closer look to the beautiful landscape of Shan State Myanmar. The highlight of the train also come fromt the chance to meet friendly local people on the wagon, capturing unique vendors. The train is not so comfortable but full of cultural interaction and wild scenery you should not miss during your Myanmar Tour.

Trans Mongolia Train

For those who want to soak up the authentic rural of Mongolia, this journey was built for that. Known as part of Transiberian train which links Europe with Asia, the experience allows you to behold all the best Mongolia has to offer from rugged mountains to picturesque valleys, from vibrant cities to untouched towns. 
 

Myanmar Travel Guide

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Myanmar Road Trips

Insider Travel Tips 

myanmar travel expert
" For the first timer, Best of Myanmar would be the ideal choice. This iconic journey is now colourized with our special add on for local touches "
Zaw - Myanmar Tour Expert

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