Trains conjure up a romantic vision of travelling from A-B and they come in all shapes and sizes. To witness the local way of life, take a pew on a local Delhi commuter train or chug around Yangon’s circular railway. But for the most sophisticated train rides, sleep onboard the Eastern & Oriental Express, the Palace on Wheels or Kyshu’s Seven Stars train.
From the toy trains on the mountain railways, to the more luxurious overnight journeys on the Maharaja Express, Deccan Odyssey or the Palace on Wheels, the British Raj is still very apparent on the 40,000 miles of rail network. Whichever train you choose we will ensure you are accompanied by a fantastic guide.
The fastest and most efficient way to navigate Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku is by train. The Shinkansen (bullet train) travels up to 320km/h and is an experience not to be missed. We can reserve seats in advance to enjoy your traditional bento box for lunch, whilst your luggage is sent ahead of you. There are also a number of luxury sleeper trains to consider.
The Eastern & Oriental Express operates between Singapore and Bangkok, with stop-offs in Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands and Penang. Enjoy breakfast-in-bed and the luxury of not having to pack and unpack whilst you watch the world roll past as a pianist accompanies your evening cocktail.
The most scenic route to travel by train in Sri Lanka is between Kandy and Ella. There is an observation carriage on certain trains which we can pre-book so you can enjoy the views of the tea plantations in all their glory.
Travel on the bridge over the River Kwai with an historian to explain the tragic past of this railway line. Alternatively hop aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express which incorporates Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
There are trains operating throughout Vietnam, but we feel the journeys are often better done by car or seaplane, with the exception of travelling to Sa Pa on the Victoria Express train. Our top tip is to book early enough to secure the only 2-berth cabin.
