Top 5 Epic Luxury Rail Journeys of the World

Apr 7
22:57

2024

Karen Cooke

Karen Cooke

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Embark on a voyage of opulence and grandeur with the world's most luxurious train journeys. From the vast landscapes of Russia to the cultural tapestry of Asia, these five rail adventures offer unparalleled experiences, combining the romance of train travel with the splendor of some of the planet's most breathtaking scenery.

The Shangri-La Express: Lhasa to Hong Kong

A Journey Through Natural Wonders and Ancient Cultures

The Shangri-La Express offers a first-class voyage from the spiritual heart of Tibet to the vibrant metropolis of Hong Kong. This rail journey is a study in contrasts,Top 5 Epic Luxury Rail Journeys of the World Articles showcasing both the ancient and the modern wonders of China. Passengers can marvel at the 6,000-strong Terracotta Army in Xi'an and encounter the enchanting Giant Pandas within the Yunnan Stone Forest, often hailed as the 'First Wonder of the World'.

The adventure commences in Lhasa, where travelers can explore the sacred Jokhang Temple, Tibet's most revered religious site. By the third day, the tour includes a visit to Norbu Lingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama. Adding to the luxury, a four-night stay on a river cruiser is included, allowing guests to experience the majestic Three Gorges.

The Trans-Siberian Express: Following the Silk Road

Retracing the Steps of Legendary Explorers

The Trans-Siberian Express invites travelers to retrace the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes that connected the East and West. This journey is a passage through time, following in the footsteps of historical figures like Alexander the Great and Marco Polo.

Starting in Moscow, the trip includes a stop in Volgograd before traversing the Kara Kum desert. The itinerary features the 2,500-year-old cities of Khiva and Bukhara, and the storied Samarkand, known as the 'Rome of the East'. Here, visitors can witness the splendor of Registan Square, a central Asian marvel. The journey continues into China, where travelers can explore the Magao Thousand Buddha cave complex and the Jiayuguan fortress, before arriving at the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors.

The Arctic Circle by Steam

A Vintage Steam-Powered Adventure to the North

The Arctic Circle by Steam is a unique 7,000km, 13-day expedition from Moscow to St. Petersburg and onward to Murmansk, within the Arctic Circle. This journey combines the nostalgia of steam travel with modern comforts, appealing to luxury rail enthusiasts.

The trip begins with a tour of Moscow's iconic landmarks, including Red Square and the Kremlin. Travelers then board a private train hauled by Europe's largest operating steam locomotive, GWT's P36.0032. The journey includes a visit to Catherine's Summer Palace in Pushkin and a guided tour of the ancient city of Pskov. A memorable part of the trip is a boat transfer to the Solovetsky Monastery on the picturesque Solovetsky Island in the White Sea.

The Royal Canadian Pacific: Through the Canadian Rockies

A Heritage Journey Amidst Mountain Splendor

The Royal Canadian Pacific offers a journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, combining five-star hospitality with the historic Canadian Pacific Railway lines. Recognized by National Geographic Traveler in 2008 as a "Tour of a Lifetime," this rail tour focuses on the heritage and culture of the Canadian Rockies.

Passengers will experience the grandeur of Banff and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the serene beauty of Lake Louise, the engineering marvel of Kicking Horse Pass, and the natural wonder of the Columbia Valley wetlands.

The Trans-Siberian Express: Beijing to Moscow

An Adventure-Packed Rail Experience

This Beijing to Moscow journey on the Trans-Siberian Express is for those seeking an active adventure. The tour starts in Beijing, with travelers boarding a train bound for Ulanbaatar. After some leisure time, the journey continues to Irkutsk, with a transfer to Listvyanka Village on the shores of Lake Baikal, where activities such as dog sledding and snowshoeing await.

The train then proceeds to Novosibirsk, and upon reaching Ekaterinburg, guests can choose from a variety of day trips, including a visit to the Romanov graves, mountain biking in the Ural Mountains, ice fishing, or Siberian husky dog sledding.

Interesting Stats and Data

  • The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world, spanning over 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles) from Moscow to Vladivostok. Source: Guinness World Records
  • The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which includes the route from Lhasa to Hong Kong, is the highest railway in the world, with the Tanggula Pass reaching 5,072 meters (16,640 feet) above sea level. Source: China Highlights
  • The Royal Canadian Pacific's vintage rail cars date back to the early 20th century and have hosted guests such as Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI. Source: Royal Canadian Pacific

These luxury rail journeys offer more than just travel; they provide a window into the soul of the landscapes and cultures they traverse, all while enveloping passengers in the utmost comfort and elegance.