{"id":11409,"date":"2025-03-18T16:00:48","date_gmt":"2025-03-18T16:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/?p=11409"},"modified":"2025-04-24T11:46:45","modified_gmt":"2025-04-24T10:46:45","slug":"top-10-train-journeys-asia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/top-10-train-journeys-asia\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Train Journeys in Asia"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content”][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”13074″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/12″][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”10\/12″][vc_column_text css=””]Nothing compares to an atmospheric train journey. Who doesn\u2019t love gazing wistfully out of the window of a speeding locomotive, feeling the trundling wheels beneath you as you chug through beautiful, evocative landscapes?<\/p>\n

Hyperbole aside, travelling by train is a great way to get to know a country and turn journey time into an experience in itself. When it comes to train journeys in Asia, there are myriad fantastic routes to choose from. Certain trains can provide a more comfortable, \u2018upscale\u2019 experience in first-class carriages while others are much more basic but often capture the true spirit of a destination and are great fun (mostly!). If you’re looking for the best train journeys in Asia, we\u2019ve compiled our top ten scenic, culturally significant trips guaranteed to enrich your holiday.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

10 of the best train journeys in Asia<\/h2>\n
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  1. <\/b>Ella Odyssey, Sri Lanka<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  2. Private Train Journey, Cambodia<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  3. Toy trains, India<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  4. <\/b>Bamboo train, Cambodia<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  5. Eastern and Oriental Express, Singapore<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  6. Monkey train, Rajasthan<\/span><\/b><\/b><\/li>\n
  7. The Reunification Express, Vietnam<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  8. <\/b>Train through Java, Indonesia<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n
  9. High-speed train, Laos<\/strong><\/li>\n
  10. Sleeper train, Thailand
    \n<\/strong>(Plus, some honourable mentions)<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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      Ella Odyssey in Sri Lanka<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      The Ella Odyssey train takes you on an evocative journey through some of the country’s most cinematic countryside. As the train chugs along, you’ll pass through the town of Ella \u2013 known for its verdant valley views \u2013 to the picturesque Demodara Nine Arch Bridge \u2013 an engineering marvel that spans the lush green hills \u2013 before continuing through the mist-laden Tea Country. En route, you’re likely to see tea pickers in action in pretty spots like Haputale. The journey carries on to the bustling town of Nanu Oya, then reaches the city of Kandy, where you can explore the fascinating culture and history of Sri Lanka<\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

      The Ella Odyssey train is a brilliant way to experience the beauty and magic of this incredible island\u2013 here’s everything you need to know about the journey<\/a>.\u00a0 <\/span>To get a proper feel for it, have a read of travel writer Adrian Bridge’s article in the Telegraph \u2013 who travelled with us and called it \u2018<\/span>a new contender for the world\u2019s most scenic rail journey<\/a>\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

      [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”25643″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> ETG’s ‘Luxury with a touch of adventure’ holiday<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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        Private Train Journeys in Cambodia<\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        If you’re after something a little out of the ordinary, you can charter your very own private train in Cambodia. Yep, I mean it \u2014 just for you and your crew. Fully staffed, fully catered, and blissfully devoid of crowds, it’s an exclusive way to see the country at a gentler pace. Sit back, let the rhythm of the rails do its thing, and watch the landscapes shift from city sprawl to open countryside.<\/p>\n

        Most journeys begin in the capital, Phnom Penh, with routes sweeping south to the coast \u2014 taking in Kampot, Kep, or Sihanoukville. Alternatively, strike out on a less frequented line to Battambang and even as far as the Thai border \u2014 ideal if you prefer off-the-beaten-track adventures.<\/p>\n

        [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”25648″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> during an ETG-Classic Cambodia Holiday<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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          The Toy Trains of India<\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          India\u2019s legendary “toy trains” run on historic mountain railway lines that once provided access to colonial hill settlements. <\/span>Today, three of the lines\u2014Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the Kalka-Shimla Railway,\u00a0 and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway<\/a>\u2014are<\/span>\u00a0UNESCO World Heritage sites.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

          These journeys show off India\u2019s varied terrain in slow, scenic style \u2014 the latter two lines, in particular, wind through mesmerisic mountainscapes. <\/span>Read more about our <\/span>favourite train journeys in India<\/span><\/a> (there are plenty throughout this vast country that’s a whole world in itself).[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”15159″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> during ETG’s ‘Tea & Happiness in Darjeeling & Bhutan’ adventure<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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            Bamboo train, Cambodia<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Not your traditional train, this bamboo vehicle has neither motor nor engine; in fact, with the introduction of improved infrastructure across Cambodia, this railway would have become obsolete had it not been transformed into a fun travel experience. At only 20 minutes long, this is a fun brief trip (ideal for kids) that allows you to see the countryside in an unusual way.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

            T<\/span>he Bamboo train is still operating ad hoc daily as before Covid, I’m sure as rail traffic continues to increase this activity will stop. There is also a new and slightly kitsch tourist bamboo train which, in our opinion, is nowhere near as exciting and authentic as the original.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”11417″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> as part of ETG’s ‘Grand Journey through Cambodia’<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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              Eastern and Oriental Express<\/a>, Malaysia<\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              On one of the most luxurious trains in Asia, namely, Belmond’s Eastern and Oriental Express,<\/em> you’ll travel in serious style with fine dining and 24-hour steward service in your private cabin.<\/span><\/p>\n

              The current routes set off from Singapore to snake through Malaysia – either through the jungle of the East or West coast, depending on the season – more details here.<\/a><\/span>\u00a0 There are also specialist journeys, too, like ‘Tastes of Tomorrow: A Culinary Gathering’ with Michelin-starred guest chefs and acclaimed bartenders.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”25656″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> as part of a wider ‘Luxury Voyage through South East Asia’<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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                Monkey train, Rajasthan<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                So-called because of the monkeys that congregate around the stations to be fed by passengers, the Monkey Train is a lovely, lazy journey that takes you through the hilly Kamlighat region of central Rajasthan. It’s a short ride (only around an hour), which has been operating since 1930 and is still an essential line for many of the local villagers.<\/span>\u00a0 Be prepared, a monkey may hop aboard with you!<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”15162″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> as part of a personalised Rajasthan holiday<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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                  The Reunification Ex<\/span>press<\/span>, Vietnam<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                  The Reunification Express runs the length of Vietnam from north to south, connecting Hanoi and Saigon and celebrating the country’s reunification in 1976. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

                  Travel through little towns and villages at dawn, catching small glimpses into other lives. Palm trees, water buffalo, and far-off islands pass by as you sip on a rice beer from the dining car.<\/span><\/p>\n

                  Bonus: <\/span>The Vietage<\/span> Carriage<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span>is a luxury rail car for a maximum of 12 passengers that is added onto the train travelling between Nha Trang, Quy Nhon and Danang (for Hoi An) and vice versa. The best direction to travel is south, departing from Hoi An at 8 am and allowing you to take in the views of coastal Vietnam.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”21593″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> on ETG’s ‘A Different Side to Vietnam’ holiday<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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                    Train through Java, Indonesia<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                    Roll through lush paddy fields and impressive volcanic peaks on this rail route through the Java countryside.<\/span><\/p>\n

                    We usually book it for clients travelling east from Yogyakarta \u2014 which is just near the ancient temples of Borobudur \u2014 towards Malang or Surabaya. It’s a lovely, scenic stretch. If you\u2019re up for more adventure, you can keep going east by rail to Mt Bromo. The nearest station is called Probolinggo, and from there it\u2019s not far to the volcano itself (and yes, it really is as dramatic as everyone says).<\/p>\n

                    And don\u2019t worry, if the idea of basic train travel doesn’t tempt you hugely, there\u2019s a first-class carriage with comfy seats, decent air con, and \u2014 if you\u2019re travelling at the right time \u2014 a surprisingly tasty lunch.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”2689″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> during ETG’s Journey Across Java & Bali<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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                      High-speed train journeys in Laos<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                      The Laos-China Railway<\/em> is the most significant shift in travel in Laos \u2014 ever. Opened in 2021, the high-speed railway now connects the northern border town of Boten to the capital, Vientiane. This sleek new train is slashing journey times considerably: places that once took a full day or more to reach are now accessible in just a few hours.<\/p>\n

                      ETG\u2019s Jamie travelled the route from Vientiane and Luang Prabang in around 2 hours \u2014 a bit of a shock to the system in a country famed for its slow pace. It\u2019s not the most scenic of journeys, as it whizzes through tunnels in the mountains, but what it lacks in charm, it makes up for in pure convenience.<\/p>\n

                      And more good news in terms of convenience: The Bangkok Post<\/em> reports that passengers can now book and manage their tickets using a new Laos railway mobile app<\/em> \u2014 making the process much smoother than the original cash-only system.<\/p>\n

                      [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”25653″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> as part of ETG’s ‘Journey through Laos’<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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                        Sleeper train from Bangkok – Chiang Mai, Thailand<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                        Train travel in Thailand is both practical and<\/em> a proper experience in itself. From the capital, Bangkok, you can hop on an overnight sleeper train and be whisked out of the urban jungle to patchwork rice paddies and rural towns in Chiang Mai \u2014 all while you snooze the 11 to 12-hour journey away (and save on a hotel for the night).<\/p>\n

                        While The Northern Line<\/em> is no Orient Express<\/em>, it\u2019s comfortable enough with the air-con and seats that convert into sleeper beds in second-class class. And even more comfy if you manage to snag a first-class ticket (they\u2019re like gold dust).<\/p>\n

                        Also:<\/strong> If you’re after a bit of history on the tracks, venture to Kanchanaburi to take a train across the ‘Bridge over the River Kwai’ \u2014 part of the infamous ‘Death Railway’ built during WWII. It’s a poignant ride through dramatic scenery, with the option to stop off and visit Hellfire Pass, the war museum, and the POW cemetery nearby.<\/p>\n

                        [\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”25661″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]How best to do it:<\/strong> as part of ETG’s ‘Countryside, Rivers & Reef by Rail’ Thailand trip<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

                        Honourable Mentions: More Unique Train Experiences in Asia<\/h2>\n

                        British North Borneo Steam Railway<\/a><\/h2>\n

                        A rather romantic relic of Borneo\u2019s colonial history, the British North Borneo railway is Borneo\u2019s oldest running steam train. Running Wednesdays and Saturdays, the route trundles along from Tanjung Aru to the \u2018Rice Bowl of Sabah\u2019, Papar and takes approximately four hours. Brimming with nostalgia, its appearance both internally and externally mirrors a typical train of the 1900’s.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”15155″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

                        Yangon to Mandalay sleeper train, Myanmar<\/h2>\n

                        Not for the fainthearted and one of just two overnight journeys to make our Top 10 list of train journeys in Asia, this 13-hour trip offers little by way of creature comforts, but is a truly unforgettable experience. One ETG traveller who took the trip summarises the experience:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

                        \u201cWould we do it again? Probably not a 13-hour journey. Are we glad we decided to experience it? Absolutely, 100 per cent yes. We all agree it was one of the best adventures we have had and we wouldn\u2019t have missed it for anything.\u201d<\/span><\/i> Read their full blog post.<\/span><\/a>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”11419″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text css=””]Updated for 2025 travel[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

                        CURIOUS ABOUT TRAIN TRAVEL IN ASIA?<\/h3>\n

                        If you wanted to talk to an expert about planning your next adventure, do call 020 7924 7133<\/span>\r\n \t<\/strong>\u00a0or email us with your questions\u00a0here<\/a>. To see an example of the kind of trip you could have, do take a look at our\u00a0example holiday itineraries<\/a>. They\u2019re just a starting point, all our holidays are\u00a0tailor-made<\/a>\u00a0so we can tweak all elements to suit your exact interests.<\/p>\n

                        [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/12″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][\/vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”2\/3″][\/vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”50px”]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                        Discover ETG’s favourite train journeys in Asia. Unmissable scenery and slow travel soaking up the local way of life.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":13074,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1348,827,11,62,639,10,15,1317,1344,1427,12],"tags":[34],"coauthors":[923],"class_list":["post-11409","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-across-asia","category-borneo","category-cambodia","category-india","category-indonesia","category-laos","category-sri-lanka","category-sustainable-travel","category-the-etg-take-on-travel","category-travel-inspiration","category-vietnam","tag-trains"],"aioseo_notices":[],"views":17937,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11409","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11409"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11409\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13074"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11409"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11409"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11409"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=11409"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}