Top Ten Train Journeys to Experience the Beauty of Nature in Asia

Asia, with its diverse landscapes ranging from towering mountains and lush forests to serene beaches and rolling plains, offers some of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world. These routes not only connect destinations but also showcase the continent’s splendid natural beauty. Here’s a look at ten train journeys in Asia that promise scenic views and a memorable travel experience.

1. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Stretching over 9,000 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world. A journey on this train offers a mesmerizing overview of Siberia's vast wilderness, including dense forests, majestic mountains, and sprawling steppes. Opt for the route that detours to Mongolia and China for an even more diverse scenery.

2. The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Running from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, this train traverses the length of the Vietnamese coast. The route features spectacular views of lush landscapes, rice paddies, and the South China Sea, punctuated by stops in historic cities and quaint coastal towns.

3. The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rainforest to Gold Rush, Canada

Although not in Asia, this train journey is a noteworthy inclusion for those departing from or traveling through the Asian continent. It explores the Canadian Rockies showcasing stunning river canyons, pristine lakes, and dense rainforests. It’s a luxurious train experience that complements an Asian itinerary focused on nature.

4. Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka

Often touted as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, the train ride from Kandy to Ella winds through the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country. The route is lined with vibrant green tea plantations, rolling hills, and waterfalls, offering panoramic views that are quintessentially Sri Lankan.

5. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China

Connecting Xining in Qinghai to Lhasa in Tibet, this train journey is notable for traversing the Tibetan Plateau, one of the world's highest plateaus. Passengers are treated to views of stunning landscapes, including vast arid plains and towering peaks, all framed by the brilliant blue Tibetan sky.

6. Kolkata to Darjeeling, India

Known for the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this journey provides a dramatic vista of the Eastern Himalayas. As the narrow-gauge train chugs up to the hill station of Darjeeling, it passes through lush tea gardens and dense forests, occasionally shrouded in mist, creating a mystical aura.

7. Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

This luxury train takes passengers on a southeast Asian adventure from Singapore to Bangkok, passing through Malaysia along the way. With its elegant decor and period compartments, the train itself is stunning, and the views outside of tropical landscapes and quaint villages add to its charm.

8. Goa Express, India

Travel past the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfalls on the Goa Express, where the train skirts alongside the falls cascading down the Mandovi River in Goa. This journey offers a mesmerizing view, especially during the monsoon when the falls are at their most vibrant.

9. The Gyeongbu Line, South Korea

Connecting Seoul to Busan, this high-speed KTX train cuts through the urban expanse into the serene countryside, passing by rivers, mountains, and fields. Spring and autumn are particularly picturesque, as cherry blossoms and colorful foliage line the route.

10. Alishan Forest Railway, Taiwan

This historic mountain railway is famous for its dramatic ascents through Taiwan’s scenic areas, including lush forests and tea plantations. The journey is especially breathtaking during sunrise, as the train climbs to the Alishan mountains, offering views that span the cloud-ridden landscapes.

Whether it's the vast expanses of Siberia or the steep climbs of the Taiwanese mountains, train journeys in Asia are as diverse as they are beautiful. They not only offer a relaxing way to travel but also provide an immersive experience into the natural beauty and cultural tapestry of the continent. Each train ride promises a unique perspective of Asia’s stunning landscapes and is a must-add to any traveler’s itinerary.