A train ride from Lagos, Portugal to Singapore covers a mind-blowing distance of 18,755 kilometers. This amazing trip takes about three weeks and passes through 13 countries. Passengers need at least seven different visas to complete this journey.
Rail lovers looking for epic long-distance trips have some incredible options. The Trans-Siberian Railway leads the pack as the world’s longest railway line. It runs 9,289 kilometers from Moscow to Vladivostok and takes about 7 days. The Beijing-Moscow route stretches 7,605 kilometers over 6 days, while Canada’s Toronto-Vancouver line runs 4,400 kilometers in 4 days.
These rail adventures bring more benefits than just covering huge distances. A flight from Portugal to Singapore pumps out 1.67 tons of CO2, while the train route produces just 0.08 tons. The Laos-China Railway shows off amazing engineering with its 75 tunnels and 167 bridges that make up 62% of the route.
Australia’s Indian Pacific runs 4,345 kilometers in 4 days, and America’s California Zephyr covers 3,922 kilometers in 3 days. These routes showcase the best of rail travel worldwide. Rail enthusiasts can look forward to 11 epic longest train journeys to try in 2025.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

Image Source: Trans-Siberian Railway
The Trans-Siberian Railway, known as the “Great Siberian Route,” represents a remarkable feat of engineering ambition. This historic railway has connected European Russia to the Russian Far East through some of the world’s most remote landscapes since its completion in 1916.
Trans-Siberian Railway Route Overview
The primary Trans-Siberian line stretches from Moscow’s Yaroslavsky station to Vladivostok on Russia’s Pacific coast. This incredible network includes two major branches: the Trans-Mongolian running through Mongolia to Beijing, and the Trans-Manchurian passing through China’s Northeastern provinces to Beijing.
Passengers head over to major Russian cities like Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude before reaching their final destination in Vladivostok. The Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM), completed in 1991, offers another northern route that avoids Lake Baikal’s southern shore.
Trans-Siberian Railway Duration and Distance
The world’s longest railway line spans 9,289 kilometers (5,772 miles). A complete trip from Moscow to Vladivostok crosses eight time zones. Passengers spend 6-7 days on board without stops.
Train #001/002 “Rossiya” stands out as the most popular service, though other trains run on different sections of the railway. Most travelers prefer to explore cities along the way instead of completing the entire route at once.
Trans-Siberian Railway Highlights
The railway winds through stunning landscapes from the Ural Mountains to the vast Siberian taiga. Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest freshwater lake, stands as the journey’s most spectacular sight. The train hugs Lake Baikal’s southern shore between Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude, treating passengers to breathtaking views.
Moscow’s historic Red Square marks the start of culturally rich stops along the way. The route includes Yekaterinburg, where the last Tsar and his family met their fate, Novosibirsk, Siberia’s biggest city and Irkutsk, nicknamed the “Paris of Siberia”. Irkutsk and Lake Baikal draw many visitors with opportunities to swim, hike, and experience authentic Siberian life.
Trans-Siberian Railway Pricing
Ticket costs vary substantially based on class, season and booking time. The complete Moscow-Vladivostok journey costs approximately:
- First class (SV/Spalny Vagon): From USD 337 for private two-person compartments
- Second class (Kupe): From USD 290-310 for four-person compartments
- Third class (Platskartny): From USD 260-270 for open-plan carriages
Summer months (June-August) see price increases of 20-30%. The best deals come from booking through rzd.ru, the official Russian Railways website, up to 60 days ahead. Other companies add booking fees ranging from 5% to 50%.
Luxury seekers can choose the Golden Eagle private train, which provides gourmet meals and guided excursions starting at €14,000 per person.
Multiple stops increase the overall cost. A second-class journey with stops in Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk en route to Vladivostok costs around USD 1,130.
Beijing to Moscow via Trans-Mongolian

Image Source: Trans Siberian Railway Tours
The Trans-Mongolian Railway stands as one of the world’s most amazing train rides. This incredible route links Beijing and Moscow through three countries with stunning landscapes. The railway branches off from the famous Trans-Siberian line and lets travelers see Asia’s heartland in a way that’s truly special.
Beijing to Moscow Route Overview
Near Ulan-Ude, the Trans-Mongolian Railway splits from the main Trans-Siberian line and heads south into Mongolia before reaching China. Two trains run this route: K3/4 (called 003/004 in Russia and Mongolia) and K19/20 (called 019/020 in Russia). The K3/4 takes a shorter path through Ulaanbaatar. The K19/20 goes through Harbin instead and skips Mongolia entirely.
Train K3 leaves Beijing Railway Station at 07:27 every Wednesday. Passengers arrive at Moscow’s Yaroslavskiy Railway Station the next Monday at 13:58. Going the other way, train K4 departs Moscow on Tuesdays at 23:45 and gets to Beijing the following Monday at 14:35. You’ll need a Mongolian transit visa for this trip.
The train comes with first and second class cars plus a restaurant car. Air conditioning works only in deluxe soft sleeper cars. Other cars use coal heating and fans to stay cool. The security setup is strong—you can lock compartments at night, which makes it safe for families and solo female travelers.
Beijing to Moscow Duration and Distance
This massive journey covers 7,622 kilometers (4,785 miles), crosses three countries and spans five time zones. The full trip takes about 127 hours and 36 minutes (5-6 days) from Beijing to Moscow.
Something really cool happens at the China-Mongolia border. The train’s wheels need changing because of different track sizes. Each car gets lifted into the air one by one to swap out the bogeys (wheel assemblies). This takes about six hours.
Tickets start around 650 EUR, though some places list them at about 7000 RMB. Even with these high prices, tickets can be hard to get because so many people want to take this trip.
Beijing to Moscow Scenic Highlights
The scenery keeps changing throughout this multi-day adventure:
- Day 1-2: You leave Beijing and pass parts of the Great Wall of China, traveling through northern China’s countryside
- Day 3: The train crosses the Gobi Desert and passes through Choir (an old Soviet airbase) in central Mongolia
- Day 4: You’ll see Ulaanbaatar and Mongolia’s steppes, with huge grasslands and scattered nomadic camps
- Day 5-6: Russian countryside rolls by, followed by Siberian forests and Lake Baikal
The best views come between May and September, especially in summer when everything looks most alive. Passengers get to see both busy cities and wild places that most people never visit.
This historic line, nicknamed the “No. 1 Train of China,” started running in 1959. Since then, it has covered over 26.1 million miles—like going around Earth 1,000 times. The trip gives you a unique mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty across Eurasia.
More on my train journey from Moscow to Beijing.
Shanghai to Lhasa, China

Image Source: Tibet Vista
The Shanghai to Lhasa railway trip stretches through eight provinces from China’s busy east coast to Tibet’s mystical heights. This epic route takes you from city landscapes to stunning mountain views along the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
Shanghai to Lhasa Route Overview
Train Z164 leaves Shanghai Railway Station at 18:33 each day. You’ll reach Lhasa Railway Station at 15:05 two days later—a trip that takes 44 hours and 32 minutes. The train covers 4,373 kilometers as it moves from eastern China’s coastal plains toward the world’s roof. Your journey takes you through 17 stations that include Suzhou, Nanjing, Zhengzhou, Xi’an, Lanzhou, Xining and Golmud.
The route splits into two main parts. The first part runs on flat land from Shanghai to Xining. The second part climbs up from Xining to Lhasa on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. You can save time by flying to Xining and taking the train from there. This way, you’ll still see the most beautiful part of the journey.
Shanghai to Lhasa Altitude and Engineering Marvels
This rail trip shows off some amazing engineering work. The train starts near sea level in Shanghai (16 meters) and climbs to 2,275 meters at Xining, then up to 2,780 meters at Golmud. Past Golmud, the climb gets steeper. More than 80% of the Golmud-Lhasa section sits above 4,000 meters. The highest point reaches an amazing 5,072 meters at Tanggula Pass.
Engineers came up with innovative solutions to build this high-altitude railway. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway has 675 bridges that add up to 160 kilometers. About 550 kilometers of track runs on permafrost. The Fenghuoshan tunnel stands out as the world’s highest rail tunnel at 4,905 meters above sea level and stretches 1,338 meters.
Shanghai to Lhasa Travel Tips
The train’s special oxygen systems help passengers deal with altitude changes. After Xining, two systems kick in. One pumps oxygen throughout the train while the other provides individual outlets near each seat for anyone feeling sick from the altitude. Medical teams stay on board to help passengers.
May through September offers the best time to take this trip. Tickets sell out fast, especially during summer breaks and early October. First-class soft sleeper cars give you more comfort with western-style toilets. Hard sleeper cars only have squat-style facilities.
The best views you’ll see:
- Qinghai Lake at sunset, usually around 8:00 PM (July-August)
- Kekexili Nature Reserve early morning (4-5 AM) with amazing stars
- Tuotuo River when the sun comes up
- Cona Lake’s shore with its blue waters and green grasslands
- Northern Tibetan Grasslands showing off the Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain Range
This train trip beats flying hands down. You get used to the high altitude slowly and see some of China’s most amazing landscapes along the way.
The Canadian: Toronto to Vancouver, Canada
VIA Rail’s flagship train “The Canadian” stands as one of North America’s most legendary rail experiences. This iconic route takes passengers from Toronto’s bustling urban center to coastal Vancouver through four provinces. Passengers can see Canada’s diverse geography unfold during this epic adventure.
The Canadian Route Overview
“The Canadian” connects Toronto and Vancouver with stops at several major Canadian cities and scenic spots. The train stops at Sudbury Junction, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper and Kamloops. The landscapes change dramatically throughout the trip. Passengers see Ontario’s beautiful lake country and the Canadian Shield’s ancient rock formations. The views continue through the rolling plains of the Prairie provinces and end with the magnificent Rocky Mountains.
The Canadian Duration and Distance
“The Canadian” is one of North America’s longest train routes at 4,466 kilometers (2,775 miles). The complete trip usually takes 93-97 hours, which means about four days and four nights. The train runs twice weekly each way. It leaves Toronto on Wednesdays and Sundays and Vancouver on Mondays and Fridays. The westbound trip from Toronto to Vancouver takes about 97 hours. The train first passes through Ontario’s rugged landscape, then crosses Saskatchewan and Alberta’s prairies before reaching British Columbia’s mountain ranges.
The Canadian Onboard Experience
“The Canadian” has three class options:
| Class | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Reclining seats, access to Skyline car | Most affordable |
| Sleeper Plus | Private sleeping compartments, all meals included | Mid-range (up to $6,000) |
| Prestige | 50% larger cabins, private bathrooms, unlimited beverages | Premium |
Sleeper Plus and Prestige passengers enjoy full meal service in an elegant dining car. The car serves multi-course meals inspired by Canadian cuisine and its large windows ensure no scenery goes unseen. The train’s iconic stainless-steel coaches date back to 1955, and specialized dome cars provide panoramic views of the passing scenery.
The train’s Skyline dome cars and Panorama car (added west of Edmonton) give passengers the best viewing spots. Prestige class passengers also get exclusive access to the Park Car. This car features the “Bullet Lounge” at the train’s rear, which offers spectacular backward-facing views along the tracks.
California Zephyr, USA

Image Source: Amtrak Routes
The California Zephyr stands out as one of America’s most scenic train rides. Passengers get to see breathtaking views as they travel across the United States through some of the country’s most impressive mountain ranges. This historic route gives travelers an exceptional American rail experience that combines natural beauty with amazing feats of engineering.
California Zephyr Route Overview
The train runs daily between Chicago’s Union Station and Emeryville near San Francisco Bay. It covers 2,438 miles (3,924 km) of track. The route takes you through seven states – Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and California. You’ll find more than 30 stops along the way, including major cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno.
The original California Zephyr hit the tracks in 1949. It showed off stainless steel carriages with four vista domes perfect for sightseeing. Today’s Amtrak version keeps most of the historic path. The only change comes after Salt Lake City, where it now uses former Southern Pacific tracks instead of the Western Pacific route through Feather River Canyon.
Your trip starts in Chicago’s busy streets and takes you across the Mississippi River near Burlington, Iowa. The train then rolls through the Great Plains before reaching Denver. After Denver, you’ll climb into the Rocky Mountains, pass through Utah’s dry landscapes and Nevada’s deserts and finally cross the Sierra Nevada mountains into California.
California Zephyr Scenic Highlights
The journey features five spectacular segments that will take your breath away:
The Moffat Tunnel shows off incredible engineering skills. This 6.21-mile tunnel cuts through the Continental Divide at 9,239 feet elevation. The tunnel passage takes about 15 minutes. The Sightseer Lounge car gives you the best views.
The most amazing part runs between Granby, Colorado and the Utah state line. Here, the train follows the Colorado River for 238 miles through stunning canyons. The 18-mile Glenwood Canyon stretch never stops amazing passengers with its evergreens and rocky walls.
You’ll also see Ruby Canyon at the Colorado-Utah border with its distinctive red rocks. The Donner Pass in California between Truckee and Colfax lets you look down at Donner Lake from 7,000 feet up.
California Zephyr Travel Duration
The full trip takes about 52 hours. The schedule makes sure you see both mountain ranges during daylight. Trains leave Emeryville at 9:10 AM heading east, while Chicago departures head west at 2:00 PM.
Many travelers pick just the most scenic parts instead of riding the whole route. A popular choice starts in Denver and heads west. This saves time and money but still gives you amazing mountain views.
You can eat in the dining car with full service or grab something quick from the café car. Regular riders usually bring extra snacks for the trip.
Indian Pacific, Australia

Image Source: Journey Beyond Rail
The Indian Pacific railway connects two great oceans and takes passengers on a remarkable trip across Australia. Travelers get an unmatched viewpoint of the continent’s varied landscapes from one coast to the other.
Indian Pacific Route Overview
The train runs weekly between Sydney on the Pacific Ocean and Perth on the Indian Ocean. This tourism-focused service travels through the Western and Broken Hill lines to Broken Hill before crossing into South Australia and heading to Adelaide. The journey continues north to Port Augusta and follows the Trans-Australian Railway to Kalgoorlie.
The route features several stunning sights. Passengers can see the majestic Blue Mountains near Sydney, the desert landscape of mining town Broken Hill, and the Barossa Valley’s wine region close to Adelaide. The trip includes crossing the big Nullarbor Plain where the world’s longest straight railway track stretches an impressive 478 kilometers (297 miles).
The trip becomes more exciting with stops along the way. Travelers can explore Broken Hill’s mining history and art culture, take Adelaide’s city tours or visit wine regions and enjoy dinner under desert stars at remote Rawlinna (seasonal March-October).
Indian Pacific Duration and Distance
This transcontinental journey covers 4,352 kilometers (2,704 miles). It stands as one of the few true transcontinental train trips worldwide. The one-way journey takes 70.5 to 75 hours based on schedules and daylight saving periods. The trip took 75 hours in 1970, but better infrastructure cut it to 65 hours by 2010 despite covering more distance.
Sydney to Perth takes four days and three nights. The return trip from Perth to Sydney needs five days and four nights. Trains leave weekly throughout the year from both cities. Sunrise at the Nullarbor Plain and sunset at Rawlinna create magical moments for passengers.
Indian Pacific Pricing and Classes
The Indian Pacific offered two service levels as of 2022:
Platinum Service – This premium class started in 2008. It comes with larger cabins with private en-suites, special access to the Platinum Club for dining, and 90kg luggage allowance. Prices range from USD 5,490-8,290 depending on season.
Gold Service – Options include Gold Twin, Gold Single and Gold Premium. All Gold Service passengers get all-inclusive dining with Australian wines and drinks, plus 60kg luggage allowance. Gold Twin fares cost between USD 2,790-5,690 based on season.
The Red Service (economy class) ended in July 2016 after the Federal Government stopped its subsidy.
The Ghan, Australia
Image Source: Journey Beyond Rail
The Ghan stands as one of Australia’s most iconic rail experiences, marking 95 years of service in 2024. This legendary train takes passengers on a unique trip through the continent’s varied interior. The experience goes beyond simple transportation and provides access to remote Australian regions that few other travel options can reach.
The Ghan Route Overview
Journey Beyond operates The Ghan between Adelaide in South Australia and Darwin in the Northern Territory. This remarkable cross-continental trip covers 2,979 kilometers (1,851 miles) right through Australia’s Red Center. The train stops at Alice Springs and Katherine where guests can join exciting off-train excursions. The train stretches 774 meters (2,539 ft) and typically runs with 28 stainless steel carriages pulled by two Pacific National NR class locomotives.
The Ghan Onboard Experience
The trip comes with different service levels to match your priorities:
Platinum Service cabins are almost twice the size of Gold, with twin or double bed options, a full-sized ensuite and exclusive access to the Platinum Club dining car.
Gold Service features private sleeping compartments with ensuite bathrooms. You’ll get all-inclusive meals and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge and Queen Adelaide Restaurant.
The meals showcase regional flavors and seasonal ingredients. Gold guests enjoy three-course dinners paired with Australian wines. Platinum travelers savor five-course meals with premium wine selections.
The Ghan Travel Tips
The complete trip takes about 53 hours with extended stops for off-train activities. You’ll see the best scenery between April and October when the “Ghan Expedition” adds an extra day and night.
Pack light since cabin space is limited. A small overnight bag works best for essentials. Keep a day bag ready for excursions with water, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes.
The dress code stays smart casual throughout the trip, even in dining carriages. No need for formal evening wear.
Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore to Thailand

Image Source: CNN
The Eastern & Oriental Express stands as a legendary symbol of railway luxury in Southeast Asia. This opulent train provides a unique experience that brings back the glamor of slow travel through Asia’s most captivating landscapes since 1993.
Eastern & Oriental Express Route Overview
The Eastern & Oriental Express has shifted its focus to Malaysian journeys from its traditional Singapore–Bangkok route. Two seasonal return trips now operate from Singapore’s Woodlands station. “Essence of Malaysia” runs during February, November, and December, while “Wild Malaysia” operates from March through October. These three-night, four-day journeys showcase Malaysia’s rich landscapes and culture. Passengers can explore UNESCO-listed George Town in Penang, the island paradise of Langkawi, and the magnificent Perlis Geopark. The train takes guests from Singapore’s urban setting into Malaysia’s lush jungles, balancing onboard luxury with off-train adventures perfectly.
Eastern & Oriental Express Luxury Features
The train has eight sleeper cars with three cabin categories:
| Cabin Type | Features | Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Pullman | En-suite bathroom with shower | Upper and lower berths |
| State | Double the floor space of Pullman | Two lower beds |
| Presidential | Most spacious accommodation | Two lower beds |
Each cabin showcases exquisite cherry wood and elm burr paneling with intricate marquetry. The train has two dining cars that serve contemporary Peranakan cuisine, a piano bar and an observation car with panoramic views at the rear. Thai and Malaysian dancers perform alongside a resident pianist. Guests can enjoy foot massages while watching the scenery pass by.
Eastern & Oriental Express Pricing
A three-night journey in a Pullman cabin starts at USD 3,410 per person, while Presidential suites cost approximately USD 7,375. These all-inclusive rates cover private accommodation, 24-hour steward service, multi-course meals, beverages and guided excursions at each stop. The Eastern & Oriental Express offers better value than other luxury trains with “Orient Express” branding. Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express starts at USD 4,430 for just one night.
Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari Vivek Express, India

Image Source: India.Com
The Vivek Express runs from India’s northeast to its southern tip and stands as the country’s longest train trip. This remarkable railway adventure connects some of India’s most diverse regions and gives passengers an unmatched view of the nation’s landscapes and cultures.
Vivek Express Route Overview
The Vivek Express (train number 22504) starts its marathon trip at Dibrugarh station in Assam and travels across the subcontinent to reach Kanyakumari, the southernmost point of mainland India. The epic cross-country trip covers eight states—Assam, Nagaland, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Passengers stop at 57-59 stations along the way, including major cities like Guwahati, Siliguri, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Salem, Coimbatore and Thiruvananthapuram.
The train’s history dates back to November 19, 2011, when it was created to celebrate Swami Vivekananda’s 150th birth anniversary. The train leaves Dibrugarh every Saturday at 7:55 PM and reaches Kanyakumari at 9:55 PM on the fourth day. The return journey (train number 22503) starts from Kanyakumari at 5:25 PM and arrives in Dibrugarh at 8:50 PM on the fourth day.
Vivek Express Duration and Distance
This longest train route in India stretches 4,189 kilometers, though some sources mention up to 4,273 kilometers. The trip takes 74 hours and 35 minutes to complete, with the train cruising at an average speed of 56.35 km/h.
Vivek Express Cultural Highlights
Passengers experience India’s cultural diversity throughout their journey. One traveler describes it as “a rolling street market” where you can buy everything from soft drinks to mobile phones and traditional chai. The train has 21 coaches with different accommodation options including AC 1st Class, AC 2 Tier, AC 3 Tier, Sleeper Class and General Second Class.
Travelers can experience the world’s eighth-longest train journey for about $50 (2,500 rupees). This epic route connects the northeastern states with mainland India and offers a complete view of eastern Indian landscapes and cultures that appeals to both domestic and international travelers.
Moscow to Pyongyang, North Korea

Image Source: Korea Konsult
The Moscow to Pyongyang rail connection stands out from other famous train trips. While most focus on scenery and tourism, this route blends geopolitics, isolation and adventure into one of the world’s most unusual train experiences.
Moscow to Pyongyang Route Overview
The trip between Russia and North Korea runs as a segmented route that needs multiple train tickets. North Korean State Railway runs this service twice a month. A single train car travels to Vladivostok before it connects to the Trans-Siberian Railway. Trains from Moscow can only reach Tumangan, North Korea’s first border station. Passengers must then take another train to the capital.
Sleeping cars connect to train #2 (the Rossiya) from Moscow to Ussuriysk near Vladivostok. These cars then split off and continue on the branch line to Tumangan. The passenger rail service started again in June 2024 after a four-year break due to the pandemic. A group of 41 Russian tourists made the trip.
Moscow to Pyongyang Duration and Distance
This route covers an impressive 6,463 kilometers between both capitals. Some sources say it stretches even further to 10,267 kilometers. The complete trip takes about 206 hours and 35 minutes (roughly 8 days). This makes it possibly the world’s longest non-stop train journey.
Moscow to Pyongyang Geopolitical Uniqueness
The railway connection’s importance goes beyond its length. Russia wants to reduce China’s influence over North Korea through expanded cooperation. This rail link helps Moscow extend its reach to the Far East and access North Korean workers.
Both countries have strengthened their ties. Regular flights have resumed along with the restored train service. This connection serves both as a transport route and a tool for broader political goals. It ranks among the world’s most politically important train journeys.
This route gives adventurous travelers a true pioneer experience. They can see remote landscapes and towns across Russian provinces and North Korea that few Westerners have ever visited.
Comparison Table
| Train Journey | Distance (km) | Duration | Route Endpoints | Notable Features | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans-Siberian Railway | 9,289 | 6-7 days | Moscow – Vladivostok | Lake Baikal, Ural Mountains, Siberian taiga | 260-337 |
| Beijing to Moscow (Trans-Mongolian) | 7,622 | 5-6 days | Beijing – Moscow | Great Wall of China, Gobi Desert, Lake Baikal | ~650 EUR |
| Shanghai to Lhasa | 4,373 | 44.5 hours | Shanghai – Lhasa | Qinghai Lake, Tanggula Pass (5,072m altitude) | – |
| The Canadian | 4,466 | 93-97 hours | Toronto – Vancouver | Rocky Mountains, Prairie provinces, Canadian Shield | Up to 6,000 |
| California Zephyr | 3,924 | 52 hours | Chicago – Emeryville | Rocky Mountains, Colorado River, Donner Pass | – |
| Indian Pacific | 4,352 | 70.5-75 hours | Sydney – Perth | Blue Mountains, Nullarbor Plain, Barossa Valley | 2,790-8,290 |
| The Ghan | 2,979 | 53 hours | Adelaide – Darwin | Red Center, Katherine, Alice Springs | – |
| Eastern & Oriental Express | – | 3 nights, 4 days | Singapore – Malaysia | George Town, Langkawi, Perlis Geopark | 3,410-7,375 |
| Vivek Express | 4,189 | 74.5 hours | Dibrugarh – Kanyakumari | Crosses 8 Indian states | ~50 |
| Moscow to Pyongyang | 6,463 | 206.5 hours | Moscow – Pyongyang | Trans-Siberian route section | – |
Enjoy the Longest Train Journeys in the World
Epic train journeys stand as the ultimate rail travel experiences worldwide. These railway adventures connect cultures and cross breathtaking landscapes. Modern travelers can find something rare in our ever-changing world—precious moments to enjoy spectacular views while experiencing subtle shifts between regions and environments.
People looking beyond air travel will appreciate the eco-friendly benefits and deep connection these routes provide. The Trans-Siberian Railway remains the world’s longest continuous rail line. The Canadian and Indian Pacific routes showcase their continental heartlands beautifully. The Shanghai-Lhasa train proves to be an engineering marvel that conquers extreme heights with state-of-the-art technology.
Seasoned travelers see these routes as more than just transportation—they’re destinations that tell unique stories. The Eastern & Oriental Express’s luxurious cabins and Vivek Express’s simple sleeper compartments crossing India each offer their own charm.
These epic train routes combine practical advantages with a touch of romance. Railway tracks often wind through pristine wilderness areas that planes and roads can’t reach. Night journeys help save on hotel costs and let passengers enjoy scenery during daylight hours.
Whatever your budget or comfort preferences, these remarkable rail adventures create lasting memories. They connect you with landscapes, history and cultures in unique ways that other travel modes can’t match. Though these journeys take longer than flights, they leave impressions that stay with passengers way beyond their final stop.
FAQs
Q1. What is the longest continuous train journey currently available?
The Trans-Siberian Railway from Moscow to Vladivostok is the longest continuous train journey, covering 9,289 kilometers in about 6-7 days.
Q2. Which train route offers the most dramatic altitude changes?
The Shanghai to Lhasa train journey features the most dramatic altitude changes, climbing from near sea level to over 5,000 meters at its highest point on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
Q3. What is the most luxurious train journey in Southeast Asia?
The Eastern & Oriental Express, operating between Singapore and various destinations in Malaysia, offers the most luxurious train experience in Southeast Asia with gourmet dining and lavish accommodations.
Q4. Which train journey provides the best value for experiencing diverse landscapes across a country?
The Vivek Express in India, traveling 4,189 kilometers from Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari, offers incredible value at around $50 for a journey spanning eight states and diverse landscapes.
Q5. What is unique about the Moscow to Pyongyang train connection?
The Moscow to Pyongyang route is unique for its geopolitical significance, connecting Russia and North Korea over 6,463 kilometers in about 8 days, making it one of the longest and most unusual train journeys in the world.















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