A mountain train trip is an unforgettable experience with stunning views, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a nostalgic connection to the golden age of rail travel. We have selected the five best mountain rail rides worldwide that guarantee scenic majesty.
1. Swiss Alps – Glacier Express, Switzerland
Cross the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz. This scenic route passes through picturesque alpine villages, 291 bridges, and 91 tunnels with stunning views of mountains and glaciers.
2. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer offers elegant rail travel through the Canadian Rockies. Experience snow-capped peaks, gorgeous lakes, and deep pine woods on the Banff to Vancouver route or another.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India
As the “Toy Train,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site in India passes across the Himalayas’ beautiful scenery. From Darjeeling to Ghum, tea fields, misty slopes, and picturesque Himalayan villages are breathtaking.
4. TranzAlpine, New Zealand
Experience the South Island’s magnificent Southern Alps with Tranz Alpine. From Christchurch to Greymouth, this magnificent train excursion passes through abundant beech trees, vast river valleys, and the Southern Alps.
5. Qinghai–Tibet Railway, Tibet
Xining in Qinghai province to Lhasa in Tibet is the world’s highest rail route, taking 22 hours. As the train ascends past Qinghai Lake, passengers awaken to the hiss of oxygen being pumped into compartments and the sight of electric blue skies and a burning yellow plateau. Before the Kunlun Mountains’ icy sides close in around the carriages, lakes sparkle like molten metal and dreadlocked yaks graze up the slopes.
6. The Skeena, Canada
The Skeena train, which is locally known as the “Rupert Rocket,” leaves Jasper National Park three times a week and goes deep into British Columbia’s mountains. The Canadian Rockies’ ice-covered peaks sparkle all around the train as it winds its way out of Alberta and past the range’s highest point, the majestic Mount Robson. Next come the Cariboo Mountains, where turquoise lakes as still as glass lie at their base. People sitting in a wide dome can watch black and grizzly bears, white-tailed deer, elk, moose, and bald eagles soar through the air.
7. Bernina Express, Italy
From the Swiss Alpine city of Chur to the Italian city of Tirano, the Bernina Express takes just four hours. The trip is short but very sweet. The narrow-gauge track has 55 tunnels and 196 bridges. The track winds around pine-filled valleys and steep rock walls, with sage-green rapids rushing below.
With its large windows and plush leather seats, the train gives its passengers the best views of snow-covered peaks, rough glaciers, and towns spread out along the slopes. Don’t miss the train going over the tall, six-arch bridge that spans the beautiful Landwasser River valley.
8. Andean Explorer, Peru
The Andean Explorer starts its two-night luxury trip in Cusco, which used to be the capital of the Inca Empire. It goes high into the valleys and grassy plateaus of the La Raya mountain range. From the comfort of their bunk-bed cabins or double-bed suites, guests can wake up to a blood-red sunrise over Lake Titicaca. They can then get off the boat and enjoy a cup of coffee in the cool mountain air. Long, fancy meals of seared sea bass and crisp duck breast are served, along with lots of pisco sours. Before arriving in Arequipa on the third day, there are trips to the Uros islands, the Sumbay Caves, and green lakes for a walk.
9. California Zephyr, US
The California Zephyr is the second-longest train ride in the US. It takes just over 52 hours to go 2,438 miles through seven states. Before crossing the Mississippi River into Iowa, the superliner goes through Illinois at high speeds. During the night, the golden plains and flatlands of Nebraska pass by. As soon as the train pulls into Denver, Colorado, most of the people on board will wake up. The journey into the Rocky Mountains will begin, with evergreen woods giving way to flaming rock faces. There is a good view of Colorado’s huge canyons from the sightseer lounge. To the west, the Sierra Nevadas stand tall.
10. The Blue Train, South Africa
If you want to travel in style on the rails, take The Blue Train through the hilly areas of South Africa. Along the way from Pretoria to Cape Town, you can see the Western Cape and the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains.
FAQ’s
Q1. What makes mountain-rail trips special compared to other forms of travel?
Mountain rail trips are a special way to see beautiful scenery, feel romantic, and have an in-depth experience. People who ride them can see beautiful views of mountains, valleys, and other scenery that are usually out of reach by other means of transportation.
Q2. How do I choose the right mountain-rail trip for me?
Consider factors such as the destination, type of scenery you prefer (alpine, fjords, deserts, etc.), the level of luxury or adventure you seek, and the overall experience offered by each route. Researching reviews and travel forums can help you make an informed decision.
Q3. Are mountain-rail trips suitable for families and children?
Yes, a lot of mountain train trips are good for families. But it's a good idea to check out the services, length, and level of comfort for kids on that particular trip. Some paths may have age limits, while others are designed to be more family-friendly.
