There’s something magical about trains. Maybe it’s the romantic ambience of these now rare vessels, or the way the relaxing drones of the engine melts stress away. Regardless of what it is exactly for you, there’s no denying that rail travel is a special experience.
They say that it’s not the destination that matters, but the journey. What better way to journey than aboard a classic carriage? Here we’ve gathered the 7 best rail holidays that will take you on a scenic ride around Asia. First class, of course.
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Eastern and Oriental Express—Luxury carriages through rural Southeast Asia
Image: Belmond Trains
Belmond Trains offers scenic getaways across Southeast Asia. They’re best known for their Essence of Malaysia trip, a 3-night journey that departs from Woodlands station in Singapore, with stops in Johor Bahru, Gemas, Ipoh, Butterworth, Alor Setar, and Pulau Payar. Onboard, passengers can expect top-notch service, with stewards at your fingertips around the clock.
Image: Belmond Trains
From the observation car, take in the views of rice paddies and rural, Western Malaysian villages. Disembark for planned activities and wellness experiences such as massages and tai chi, or go all out with paddle boarding and snorkelling. In the evening, unwind with complimentary cocktails and a barbecue. End your night with an island walk in Langkawi’s Pulau Payar Marine Park.
Back on board, enjoy entertainment in the Piano Bar car, and refuel in the dining car, with complimentary daily four-course dinners, and a respectable selection of liquors. And true to its luxury form, all journeys include complimentary transfers to and from accommodation in Singapore.
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The Deccan Odyssey—Opulence in India
Image: @quintessentially
The Deccan Odyssey is best known for their luxury voyages in India. Train interiors are lush, lavish, and ornate, making travelling on them similar to that which Indian royalty would have experienced. Their most popular trip, the 8 day, 7 night Maharashtra Splendor journey, travels from Mumbai to Goa, India.
Image: @quintessentially
Visit Nashik, the wine capital of India, and Kolhapur, the party capital. Along the way, marvel at UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Ajanta and Ellora caves, as well as the holy city of Ratnagiri, which houses some of the country’s most culturally significant temples and museums.
Voyages start at US$8,330, and include everything you need for an opulent, immersive experience – valet services, guided excursions, and all transport, entrance, and service fees for offboard attractions. Provided English-speaking local guides will serve to deepen your understanding of these sites and experiences while tending to your every need.
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Railway Adventures—Private boat cruises along the Mekong river
Image: Railway Adventures
True to their name, Railway Adventures will take you on an expedition you’re sure to remember. Their 18-day voyage through Vietnam stops in Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay, with guided tours at every point.
Their knowledge is best served when navigating UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Ancient Town of Hoi An, a historic trading port dating back to the 15th century, and the Complex of Hue Monuments, which encompasses imperial palaces, tombs, and temples in the city of Hue.
Image: Railway Adventures
You’ll travel to each of these sites via private train and boat trips. Along the way, you’ll stay in 4 and 5-star resorts, and even embark on a luxury one-night cruise along Ha Long Bay. All while your luggage is transported for you, because luxury means having every last thing taken care of so you don’t have to lift a finger.
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Golden Chariot—Wellness journey through lesser-known parts of South India
Image: Golden Chariot
Golden Chariot’s Jewels of South voyage takes you on a 6-day, 5-night tour of South India. Starting and ending in Bengaluru, India, the carriages will take you through lesser known, but nevertheless important places of significance which have moulded South India as we know it today.
Visit the sacred Mahabalipuram Monuments, historic Mysore Palace, which housed the seat of the Kingdom of Mysore, and Chettinad mansions, made up of over 10,000 opulent homes belonging to the Nattukottai Chettiar community.
Image: Golden Chariot
The journey’s focus on wellness is evident in its many efforts to promote healthy living and relaxation. The onboard chefs freshly prepare a daily spread of traditional Indian food, as well as a plethora of international offerings. Just as important as diet is movement – Arogya, the spa and fitness center synthesises traditional Ayurvedic spa therapies with modern workout machines.
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Shiki Shima Suites—Futuristic journey through Japan
Panoramic windows onboard the train.
Image: Shiki Shama Suites
It’s no secret that Japan lives in the future. The Shiki Shima Suites further cement this idea, displaying the magic that results from a meeting of technology and nature. On their 2-4 day journeys, you can expect to be completely immersed in some of the most breathtaking views Japan has to offer.
The curved, panoramic windows seamlessly integrate the train’s interior with the external environment. Your journey begins in the luxurious Prologue Shiki-Shama lounge, located in Ueno station in Tokyo. Depending on your selected route, expect to be whisked away to the mountain villages of Nagano, the ports of Niigata prefecture, or even the pacific coasts of Kanto.
True to Japanese design, suites incorporate earthy, wooden features.
Image: Shiki Shima Suites
As opposed to running on a rolling, yearlong basis, the trips take place seasonally, to allow travellers to best experience the sights. For this reason, trips are in short supply and must be applied for ahead of time. Applicants will then enter into a draw, and selected participants will be notified via email.
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Seven Stars in Kyushu—Intimate journey through Kyushu Island
The Seven Stars in Kyushu train.
Image: Seven Stars Kyushu
Seven Stars in Kyushu offers private, scenic tours of Kyushu Island and its surroundings. The train takes 2, 4, and 6-day journeys, through Southern Kyushu, aboard carriages with artisanal interiors handcrafted by craftsmen in the traditional Okawa Kumiko style.
Trips start in Hakata and pass through Kumamoto, Yatsushiro, Ushinohama, Sendai, and Kagoshima, all sites of note in the famed pottery region. Like the Shiki Shima suites, trips must be applied for and won through a draw.
Japanese-style interiors aboard the Seven Stars in Kyushu train.
Image: Seven Stars Kyushu
With only 12 spacious suites, trips are exclusive and in high demand. The small group size makes accommodating the needs of individual travellers all that much easier. Expect fine dining aboard – fresh, healthy Japanese fare is prepared daily and served in the dining carriages with fragrant teas and dainty pastries.
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Maharajas’ Express—Views of the Taj Mahal, two fine dining restaurants
Having won the “World’s Leading Luxury Train” award at the World Travel Awards for seven consecutive years, the Maharajas’ Express offers travellers the opportunity to explore the expansive lands of India aboard elegantly furnished carriages. The four journeys span three to six nights, covering the grounds of North and Central India, in particular the Rajasthan region.
Cabin interiors onboard the Maharajas’ Express.
Image: Maharajas’ Express
Onboard, passengers can expect lavish interiors, including two themed fine-dining restaurants, both of which serve fresh Indian and international cuisine. Thirsty travellers may also indulge in a variety of complimentary wines. Between meals, passengers can enjoy spa services while glancing out the windows for views of sites such as the iconic Taj Mahal.
The Taj Mahal.
Image: Maharajas’ Express
Back on land, all-inclusive activities ensure there will never be a dull moment while the services of round-the-clock security and tour guides allow you to get the most out of your journey. 24/7 valet transfers in private, air-conditioned vehicles add to the comfort of the experience, cementing the luxurious feel of the voyage.
First-Class Rail Holidays Around Asia
And there you have it. Seven of the most exclusive rail holidays around Asia. Whether you’re looking to indulge in the natural sights of rural Vietnam, or the countryside of Japan, one thing is for sure – these journeys take place in the lap of luxury, with themed interiors, top-notch service, and classy accommodations to ensure your comfort at every turn.
If travel is your thing, check out the best luxury holiday destinations near Singapore for short, last-minute trips or go full out with these luxury experiences in Africa.
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