When it comes to train journeys, the pleasure is not about reaching your destination. Instead, the fun lies in the journey experience of passing through crowded or deserted train stations and gazing through some of the rare and most beautiful views that are difficult to access otherwise. In this article, we will discuss the ‘Most Scenic Rail Routes’ around the world.
As the train starts, you constantly peep through the window, curious about what beautiful landscape to expect next.
Passing through serene greenery, cliffs, gentle hills, golden fields, and quaint villages with unmatched charm. You will witness the enchanting sights from postcards coming to life as you pass through some of the untouched parts of the world.
Are you looking forward to going on such an epic train journeys? If so, we have listed the six best Scenic Rail Routes in the world that should definitely be on your travel list.
6 Most Scenic Rail Routes Around The World:
1. The Trans-Siberian Railway (Russia)
Let’s start the list with the Trans Siberian Railway, the world’s longest railway. It holds the record for being the world’s longest train journey from Moscow to Pyongyang. The rail passes near Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake.
It stretches over six days, passing through 8 time zones to complete its journey. The long journey will take you through some of the vast forests of Siberia, known for their cold temperatures and tremendous distances.
Before reaching your destination, you will cook one mainland and two continents, giving you stunning sights of Siberia’s vast forests, the Ural Mountains, and the Gobi desert.
2. The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the most popular train journeys in the world. It is located in Canada, the fourth largest country in the world. You can expect to see an endless panorama of incredible scenery. The train went on its first journey in 1990.
Over the years, it has developed a reputation for being a favourite of tourists visiting the country. During the ride, You can view some of Western Canada’s wildest landscapes.
The train offers you a best-in-class luxury experience you won’t forget. It takes over 1000 miles through British Columbia and Alberta in western Canada.
The journey on the Rocky Mountaineer gives you a perfect scenic ride. It passes through the snow-capped Canadian Rockies and the steep slopes of the Continental Divide. In addition, you get an excellent opportunity to see wildlife and thundering waterfalls.
3. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (India)
Are you looking to ride one of the most unique trains in the world? If so, you can’t miss the chance to ride the ‘Toy Train’ or the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
The train will take you to some of the most mesmerising views while passing through the foothills of the Himalayas in West Bengal. Interestingly, you can catch a glimpse of the stunning Mt. Kanchenjunga.
The ride seems like a fairytale, as you see green tea plantations on hill slopes and forests with exotic flora and fauna while passing through foggy trails.
Also Checkout – 7 Best Train Journeys To Not Miss Out In India
In addition, the train has been listed as a World Heritage site because it links the different cultures of diverse communities. It goes from Siliguri up to Darjeeling.
4. The Coast Starlight (USA)
The Coast Starlight in the USA offers you one of the most grand train travel adventures. It goes daily between Los Angeles and Seattle. The train passes through Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland throughout the journey.
Along the Pacific Coast, a ride on this train will allow you to glance at spectacular coastline vistas, lush wine country valleys, and more. In addition, you get to see Mount Shasta in the Cascade Range, making it a worthwhile experience.
5. The Glacier Express (Switzerland)
The Glacier Express is one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. The Epic Train Journey connects Zermatt to St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps. During the ride, the train passes through reversing bridges and tunnels, offering stunning views of glaciers.
Also, you can see mountain meadows and quaint Swiss villages that seem like heaven. It’s an eight-hour-long journey covering a distance of 180 miles.
6. The Maharajas’ Express (India)
How about experiencing the best of luxury on a train? If the idea entices you, you cannot miss the luxurious Maharajas Express in India.
It gives you a royal-style journey, travelling through northwest and central India. It stops at some of the most iconic destinations, like the Taj Mahal, the palaces of Rajasthan, Varanasi, and the tiger reserves of Ranthambore.
As its name suggests, you can experience the best of royalty with luxurious amenities, fine dining experiences, scenic itineraries, and personalised service.
Final Words
Glancing at majestic mountains, lush greenery, enchanting meadows, and natural surroundings defines an ideal train journey experience. In contrast to travelling by air or road, the wide and defining train windows allow for immersive visual indulgence.
The calm environment at every mile gives meaning to the very act of motion. Passing through the best of scenic wonders, a train ride gives you an unmatched and memorable experience you can cherish for life.
Also Checkout – Quick Nature Escapes: Short Trips for Nature Lovers
