Train travel is one of the most immersive and scenic ways to experience a region, and Asia offers some of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world. From winding mountain routes to picturesque coastal views, Asia’s trains provide a stunning window into the diverse landscapes and cultures of this vast continent. Whether you’re an avid train enthusiast or a first-time traveler, embarking on one of these journeys will undoubtedly leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
In this post, we’ll explore the most scenic train journeys in Asia in 2025, each offering a unique perspective of the land, its people, and its natural beauty.
1. The Glacier Express, Switzerland to Italy – A European Adventure
Why visit?
Though technically a part of Europe, the Glacier Express takes you on one of the most picturesque journeys through the Swiss Alps and northern Italy, making it one of the most scenic routes to take in 2025. The journey takes travelers through snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and lush meadows, offering a panoramic view that will leave anyone in awe.
Route Highlights:
- Swiss Alps: Passing through the stunning Swiss Alps, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of glaciers and alpine villages.
- The Matterhorn: A view of one of the most iconic peaks in Europe is an experience you won’t forget.
- The Scenic Route to Italy: After crossing into Italy, you’ll travel through the tranquil Dolomite Mountains, known for their dramatic rock formations.
Why it’s special:
- The Glacier Express is known for its luxurious service and panoramic windows, making it perfect for those who want a mix of comfort and scenic beauty.
2. The Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia – The World’s Longest Train Journey
Why visit?
The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the most famous and scenic train journeys in the world. This iconic route stretches across Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok, offering an incredible way to experience the vastness and beauty of the Russian wilderness. As you travel through the heart of Asia, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, vast steppes, and frozen lakes.
Route Highlights:
- Lake Baikal: The train passes by the world’s deepest freshwater lake, offering breathtaking views of icy waters and snow-covered landscapes.
- The Ural Mountains: The train travels through the Ural Mountains, marking the geographical divide between Europe and Asia.
- Siberian Wilderness: Experience Russia’s untouched wilderness, including forests, rivers, and remote towns.
Why it’s special:
- It’s one of the longest rail journeys in the world, taking travelers through diverse landscapes and offering a window into the rich cultural heritage of Russia and Siberia.
3. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, India – The Toy Train Ride
Why visit?
Known as the Toy Train, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of India’s most beloved and scenic train journeys. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed railway climbs through the misty foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, offering views of tea plantations, dense forests, and the towering peaks of the Himalayas.
Route Highlights:
- Kurseong and Darjeeling: The journey offers panoramic views of the lush tea gardens and the vibrant hill stations of Darjeeling and Kurseong.
- Mount Kanchenjunga: On clear days, you can catch glimpses of the mighty Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
- Charming Stations: The route passes through picturesque colonial-era stations with British-influenced architecture.
Why it’s special:
- The narrow-gauge train winds through some of the most beautiful parts of India, offering a slower-paced journey that allows you to fully soak in the scenery.
4. The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia – Luxury and Scenic Views Combined
Why visit?
For a luxurious and scenic ride through Southeast Asia, the Eastern & Oriental Express is a must-try in 2025. This plush train journey takes you through Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, offering unrivaled views of the lush, tropical landscapes and culturally rich cities along the way.
Route Highlights:
- The River Kwai: Travel along the famous Death Railway, passing through beautiful riverside landscapes and the lush jungles of Thailand.
- Malaysian Highlands: Experience the highlands with its misty tea plantations and winding hills.
- Singapore: End your journey in the vibrant, modern city of Singapore with its lush greenery and sparkling skyline.
Why it’s special:
- The Eastern & Oriental Express combines the beauty of Southeast Asia with luxurious onboard services, making it perfect for travelers looking for comfort alongside scenic exploration.
5. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, China – The World’s Highest Train Ride
Why visit?
For a truly unique experience, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway offers a scenic train journey through one of the highest places on Earth. This route travels through China’s stunning Tibetan Plateau, offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and high-altitude lakes.
Route Highlights:
- Tibetan Plateau: The train reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters, making it the highest railway journey in the world.
- Lake Qinghai: This stunning saltwater lake, surrounded by mountains, is one of the highlights of the journey.
- Tibet’s Spiritual Landscape: As you approach Lhasa, you’ll pass through some of the most spiritually significant sites in Tibetan Buddhism.
Why it’s special:
- The train is designed to handle the extreme altitude, with oxygen supplied onboard to ensure passengers’ comfort. The views of the Tibetan Plateau are unparalleled, offering a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most remote regions.
6. The Nara Line, Japan – A Scenic Journey from Kyoto to Nara
Why visit?
Japan is known for its efficient and scenic train routes, and the Nara Line is one of the best options for experiencing the country’s countryside. Running between Kyoto and Nara, this line offers views of cherry blossoms in the spring, ancient temples, and tranquil landscapes.
Route Highlights:
- Kyoto’s Temples: Starting in Kyoto, the journey passes through lush parks, ancient temples, and the scenic countryside of Japan’s cultural heartland.
- Nara’s Deer Park: The route ends in Nara, home to the famous Nara Deer Park, where wild deer roam freely among the historic temples.
- Rural Japan: Enjoy views of rice paddies, traditional houses, and rural villages as you travel through the Japanese countryside.
Why it’s special:
- The Nara Line offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty, with the added charm of cherry blossoms and traditional Japanese architecture.
7. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, India – A Himalayan Delight
Why visit?
Another of India’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed railways, the Kalka-Shimla Railway offers a spectacular journey through the Himalayan foothills. The narrow-gauge train climbs from Kalka to Shimla, passing through scenic valleys, dense forests, and colonial-era stations.
Route Highlights:
- Shimla’s Hill Stations: The journey takes you through the charming hill station of Shimla, which was once the summer capital of British India.
- Himalayan Views: You’ll pass through misty hills, terraced fields, and deep valleys, all with views of the mighty Himalayas in the distance.
- Colonial Architecture: The train stops at several beautifully preserved British-era stations.
Why it’s special:
- This historic train ride offers a nostalgic and picturesque glimpse into colonial-era India, while also providing travelers with stunning views of the Himalayan landscape.
Conclusion
Asia offers some of the most scenic and unforgettable train journeys in the world. Whether you’re crossing Siberia’s vast wilderness, winding through the Himalayan foothills, or experiencing the lush landscapes of Southeast Asia, these journeys allow you to connect with the land in a way that few other forms of travel can offer.
Ready to hop on one of these iconic routes in 2025? Each of these scenic train rides promises a journey that will enrich your travels and offer memories that last long after the train has arrived at its final destination.
Which of these stunning train journeys would you most like to experience? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
