In a time when the public are quickly losing faith in the railway networks due to continuous delays and increasing ticket prices (yet no apparent increase in service quality); we’re going to take a look at five of the best train journeys, and attempt to recapture the romance, adventure and luxury that railway trains used to (and still can if you know where to look), possess.
The Toy Train, New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, India
With its status as a World Heritage Site, the Toy Train - Darjeeling remains one of the most sacred vehicles in the steam engine industry. Travelling 30 miles from the steaming plains of Bengal to the edge of the Himalayas, the journey takes a staggering 9 hours, as the train never surpasses walking speed. This gives you plenty of time to take in the wonders of the Indian countryside, full of scenic landscape and sleepy villages. Built in 1881, its purpose was to escort the elite of the Raj out of an unbearably hot Calcutta to cooler climates. After gently chugging through India through the night, you are greeted towards the end of your journey by the sun, rising over Everest; a sight that a 9 hour train journey would definitely be worth sitting through.
Built in 1946, The Blue Train is the longest established luxury train that still remains today. Its history is entwined with the gold and diamond discoveries of the 1940’s and 50’s, and continues to pass through the diamond capital of Kimberley. With recently refurbished carts, it offers exquisite luxury and comfort, while being able to take in the dusty plains of South Africa, with its plethora of Sahara trees and wild beasts. The experience is like a steam ran safari, allowing you to mix luxury travel with adventure.
Oriental and Eastern Express, Bangkok to Singapore, Eastern Asia
The iconic Orient express is still in service today. Departing Bangkok, the magnificent and legendary steam engine glides through the tropical landscapes of Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. With scenery full orient mystery and adventure, on view are ancient temples, rubber plantations and rice paddies, as well as many bustling villages. One of the main attractions of the journey is the passing over the glorious river Kwai, with its rapid and glistening waters. The Orient Express is made up of 22 carriages, which includes 2 restaurants, an observation cart and 6 pullman cars. Ultimately it is a luxurious hotel on wheels. At night when the stars are on full view in the clear sky, fireflies can be seen wafting above the passing jungle’s canopy.
Article Credits: Authored by Lewis Corner on gentrystyle, For complete article read here
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