More Spectacular Train Rides of the World

To complete this mini-series of spectacular train rides of the world, I have chosen five more outstanding train adventures. If you missed it, click here for Part I.  Hope you enjoy!   

“Trains are wonderful… to travel by train is to see nature and human beings, towns… and rivers, in fact, to see life.” – Agatha Christie    

1)      The Ghan  – Beginning service in 1929, this train traverses a true transcontinental path from Adelaide to Darwin, Australia, cutting through the Red Center on a two night journey. Red, gold, and platinum cabin levels are available. While all cabins have a wash basin, only the platinum and twin gold cabins have en suite toilet and shower. Light meals are available for purchase, but red and platinum guests have meals in the dining car and 24-hour complimentary tea and coffee included. In addition, platinum cabins have a safe and extended cabin service.  Whistle Stop tours that fit the train schedule are available at stops like Alice Springs and Katherine.   

the Grand Canyon Railway

 

2)      Grand Canyon Railway  – Operated since 1901, this train travels from Williams Junction, AZ to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. It takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to travel through pine forests, high desert, and drops 1,500 vertical feet. The railway uses a variety of historical rail cars, including Pullmans, parlor cars, and domed coaches. All cars have restroom facilities, but food service varies from pastries and drinks in coach class to snacks and bar access in luxury parlor class. Strolling musicians and a recreation of a shoot out and train robbery keep passengers entertained during the ride.   

3)      Rocky Mountineer  – The original route runs from Vancouver to Calgary, Canada, along the steps of 19^th century explorers. The trip takes two days, but the train stops overnight in Kamloops, so passengers enjoy the stunning scenery of British Columbia in daylight. Overnight accommodations are at a hotel and aboard the train, choose from GoldLeaf or RedLeaf service. GoldLeaf service includes transfers and luggage delivery to the hotel, and drinks and snacks on board. Gourmet hot breakfast and lunch are available à la carte in the dining car. The custom-designed bi-level GoldLeaf dome car offers incredible views. On the RedLeaf service, reclining seats have a picture window and swivel to accommodate groups of four. Cold meals and snacks are available at your seat. Additional routes connect Jasper and Whistler.   

the Deccan Odyssey dining room

 

4)      Deccan Odyssey  – Traveling round trip from Mumbai, India south to the beaches of Goa, then through the heart of India, this train exudes royal grandeur and luxury. The cabins are huge by train standards and the Presidential suites even have a sitting room, two bathrooms, flat screen TV, and a stocked pantry. The train also carries a gymnasium, beauty parlor, massage center, business center, and library. Two restaurant cars serve seasonal Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisine. This 7-night trip is a luxurious way to visit many of the highlights of India.   

the Hiram Bingman in Peru

 

5)       Hiram Bingham Oriental Express – This train is operated by Peru Rail in conjunction with Orient Express from Cusco to Machu Picchu, Peru and is named after the explorer who found the Inca ruins in 1911. It is a luxurious and all-inclusive experience for 84 passengers on a three and a half hour trip each way, with small group touring at the ruins. On the morning ride to Machu Picchu, brunch is served in the two dining cars. On the return in the evening, cocktails and live music are served in the observation bar car and then a four course gourmet dinner in the dining cars. Machu Picchu has just reopened after flooding damaged access routes and effective March 31, 2010, tickets to the site must be purchased in Cusco, before ascending the mountain.     

I hope you have enjoyed my top 10 favorite rail trips. I’d be happy for you to comment or Stumble my list. For more amazing trains throughout the world, you may also enjoy The Society of International Railway Travelers top 25 list.