The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
Affectionately known as the 'Toy Train', this is a journey back in time. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been chugging along its narrow-gauge tracks since 1881. The most popular trip for tourists is the 'Joy
Ride', a two-hour round trip from Darjeeling to Ghum, India's highest railway station. The steam engine winds through bustling market towns, steep mountain curves, and lush tea gardens. A key highlight is the Batasia Loop, where the train makes a full circle, offering a stunning panoramic view of Darjeeling with the majestic Kanchenjunga in the background. It’s not a fast or luxurious journey, but its old-world charm and engineering marvels make it an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Palace on Wheels, India
For those who dream of travelling like royalty, the Palace on Wheels delivers an experience of unparalleled luxury. This train tour through Rajasthan is designed to immerse you in the splendour of a bygone era. The eight-day journey begins in Delhi and covers a circuit of historic cities including Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer, before a final stop in Agra to see the Taj Mahal. Each of the 14 coaches is named after a former Rajput state and is exquisitely decorated to reflect its heritage. The all-inclusive experience features personal butlers, two lavish restaurant cars serving a mix of Indian and international cuisine, and a well-stocked bar. Off-train excursions are seamlessly organised, from elephant rides at Amer Fort to camel safaris in the golden desert of Jaisalmer and boat rides on Udaipur's Lake Pichola.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
This is not a sleeper train; it is a daylight-only journey designed for one purpose: to showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Passengers travel in glass-domed coaches, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense forests. The 'First Passage to the West' route is particularly historic, following the tracks of the 19th-century Canadian Pacific Railway between Vancouver and Banff. Onboard hosts share stories about the region's history and point out wildlife like bears, eagles, and elk. Gourmet meals inspired by local ingredients are served at your seat or in a dedicated dining car, depending on your service level. With an overnight hotel stay in Kamloops included, you never miss a moment of the spectacular, ever-changing scenery.
The Glacier Express, Switzerland
Dubbed the 'slowest express train in the world', the Glacier Express offers an epic eight-hour journey across the Swiss Alps, connecting the glamorous resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz. The ride is a masterclass in scenic travel, crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. Through panoramic windows that stretch up to the ceiling, passengers are treated to views of pristine mountain landscapes, deep gorges like the Rhine Gorge (often called the Swiss Grand Canyon), and charming alpine villages. One of the most famous sights is the Landwasser Viaduct, a dramatic six-arched limestone bridge that curves into a tunnel. Despite its 'express' title, the leisurely pace is intentional, allowing you to savour every moment of this majestic alpine crossing.
The Ghan, Australia
Cutting a path straight through the heart of Australia, The Ghan is one of the world's great transcontinental journeys. It travels nearly 3,000 kilometres between Adelaide in the south and Darwin in the tropical north, showcasing the vast and dramatic landscapes of the Australian Outback. The name is a tribute to the 19th-century Afghan cameleers who first forged a trail through the Red Centre. This all-inclusive journey takes three to four days and includes fascinating off-train excursions, such as exploring the underground opal-mining town of Coober Pedy or cruising through Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine. Onboard, guests enjoy regionally inspired cuisine and fine wines while watching the landscape transform from the rolling green hills of South Australia to the fiery red earth of the desert.
