Speed is one thing, distance another – some of the world’s longest train routes are dotted across Asia, bringing passengers on epic journeys across the region’s vast expanses via railway lines once thought impossible to build.
Trans-Siberian Railway
MOSCOW TO SIBERIA AND CHINA
The world’s longest railway was built using simple tools like axes, saws, shovels and wheelbarrows by over 90,000 workers, and is now electric
Launched
1904
Distance
9,289km
Duration
6 days
Qinghai-Tibet Railway
SHANGHAI TO LHASA
Started by Chinese leader Mao Zedong in 1955, this railway is considered a major feat of engineering due to Tibet’s permafrost and oxygen-poor air.
Launched
2006
Distance
4,373km
Duration
2 days
Indian Railways Vivek Express
DIBRUGARH TO KANYAKUMARI
This express train operates on the longest train route in India and is named after Swami Vivekananda, an Indian Hindu monk. It is part diesel, part electric.
Launched
2012
Distance
4,233km
Duration
4 days
Eastern and Oriental Express
BANGKOK TO SINGAPORE
The route for this train was inspired by the 1932 drama Shanghai Express. It is considered Asia’s most luxurious train, with bars, lounges and a library.
Launched
1993
Distance
2,019km
Duration
4 days