About our series on Luxury Train Rides
Embark on a journey away from the usual tourist crowds and into the world of luxury train travel. This isn’t just transport, but a lavish and immersive experience that takes you through spectacular landscapes in utmost comfort and serenity.
Think of five-star hotels on wheels, complete with gourmet dining and personal butler service, offering multi-day adventures with fascinating off-board excursions.
Luxury train travel spans across continents, whether you’re exploring North America’s vast landscapes, the awe-inspiring Andes, or Europe’s rich history. Leading the way are operators like Belmond, Golden Eagle, and Rovos Rail.
Join us as we spotlight the world’s best luxury train travels. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey of a lifetime.
Luxury Trains in other countries:
China, a country steeped in ancient history and bursting with diverse natural beauty, offers a unique way to uncover its treasures – through the window of a luxury train. These journeys provide a blend of comfort, grandeur, and breathtaking scenery, making them a bucket list item for every avid traveler. Let’s delve into some of the most luxurious train journeys you can take to explore the vast expanse of China.
1. Silk Road Express
Route: The Silk Road Express offers a journey through history, tracing the ancient Silk Road trade route. Starting in Beijing and ending in Dunhuang, the train offers awe-inspiring views of landscapes, including the Gobi Desert and the Tianshan Mountains.
Schedule & Duration: The train operates once a week from April to October, with each trip lasting 12 days and 11 nights.
Accommodation: Choose from four types of luxurious suites, each equipped with modern amenities, including a private bathroom, shower, and air conditioning.
Excursions: Immerse yourself in various cultural experiences and visit historical sites such as the Terracotta Army Museum in Xi’an, the Jiayuguan Fort, and the Mingsha Sand Dunes in Dunhuang.
Booking: Reserve your journey on the Silk Road Express through various luxury train travel websites. Book well in advance to secure your place on this popular journey.
2. Tibet Express
Route: The Tibet Express offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey from Beijing to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The train journey passes through breathtaking landscapes, including the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains.
Schedule & Duration: Departing every other day from Beijing, the journey to Lhasa takes approximately 40 hours.
Accommodation: Three types of suites are available on board the train, providing comfort and convenience for every passenger.
Excursions: Organized tours to the Potala Palace, Norbulingka Park, Jokhang Temple, and Yamdrok Lake offer a deep dive into Tibetan culture and history.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased through various travel agencies in China or online. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Yunnan Explorer
Route: The Yunnan Explorer takes passengers from Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province, to Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, three of Yunnan’s most popular tourist destinations.
Schedule & Duration: The train runs twice a week from Kunming, with the journey lasting approximately 2-3 days, depending on the package chosen.
Accommodation: Choose between the Deluxe Soft Sleeper and the Superior Soft Sleeper, both offering comfort and luxury for the discerning traveler.
Excursions: Enjoy organized tours to the Dali Old Town, Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the Tiger Leaping Gorge, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery of Yunnan.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased through various travel agencies in China or online. As with the other train journeys, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
In conclusion, China’s luxury train journeys offer an unparalleled experience of comfort and opulence while traversing through the country’s diverse and picturesque landscapes. With gourmet dining, luxurious accommodations, and meticulously planned excursions, these train journeys are more than just a means of transport; they’re a gateway to experiencing China’s rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler seeking new experiences or a history enthusiast eager to explore ancient sites, these train journeys offer something for everyone. Don’t wait, start planning your luxury train journey through China today!