LUXURY ASIAN RAIL JOURNEYS - Travel Masters & The Travel Studio - THE CAUCASUS CENTRAL ASIA RUSSIA INDIA
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LUXURY ASIAN RAIL JOURNEYS
Tr a v e l M a s t e r s & T h e Tr a v e l S t u d i o
THE CAUCASUS
CENTRAL ASIA
RUSSIA • INDIA
CHINA
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
T H E T R AV E L S T U D I O & T R AV E L M A S T E R S
Rail Holiday Specialists
EUROPE - AFRICA - ASIA - AUSTRALIA & NZ - NORTH & SOUTH AMERICA
PROUD AGENTS FOR THE WORLD'S LEADING RAIL OPERATORS:
Golden Eagle, Belmond, Rovos Rail, Japan Rail, VIA Rail, Amtrak, Journey Beyond, Sundowners
SOME OF OUR FAVOURITES
Luxury Asian Rail Journeys
High-quality rail journeys provide the ultimate scenic and cultural experience, providing a unique
first-person sense of the country you’re passing through. There’s probably no better perspective
on the world. It’s a sublime experience to be comfortably seated beside a panoramic picture-
window, with perfect vision over a culturally different world rolling by outside - glass of wine in
hand, perhaps.
Luxury rail journeys have a certain magic about them - both on-board with all the comforts of home
around you, and outside. It’s a particularly safe way to experience the adventure and excitement of
discovering different cultures, and understanding important history. Nothing quite beats the range
of sightseeing and discovery opportunities of a carefully chosen rail journey - the most comfortable
and relaxing form of long-distance travel.
These rail journeys are stylish and graceful, evoking a sense of history and heritage. They often
strive to preserve the charm of a long-gone era, reminiscent of when this was the most sought-after
means of travel. Carriages today offer handsomely crafted sleeping compartments and lounges,
atmospheric bars, elegant dining cars, gourmet meals and white tablecloths - all serviced by highly
personable attendants.
This booklet identifies some of our favourite luxury rail journeys in Asia. For over two decades,
we have been a major rail agency, providing holidays on the world’s best rail journeys across five
continents. Luxury rail journeys are very inclusive, particularly time-efficient, personally safe, and
provide a wide range of discovery opportunities, cultural experiences, and social activity. It’s a
long-held passion of ours, and we want to share it with you. Please call us if we can assist in
planning your next holiday around a rail journey of your choice.
Julie Marshall & Neil Kirby - Managing Directors
The Travel Studio & Travel Masters
Ph: 1800 672 988
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
THE CAUCASUS
SOUTH CAUCASUS & CENTRAL ASIA
C A S P I A N O D Y S S E Y, A L O N G T H E
ANCIENT SILK ROAD
Yerevan (Armenia) to Almaty (Kazakhstan)
- 16 days - Sep 22 (2021), Sep 21 (2022)
This Caspian Odyssey takes you to places few
Westerners have ever been, on one of the most
luxurious rail journeys in the world, aboard the
stunning all-ensuite Golden Eagle. This unique rail
journey begins in Yerevan (Armenia) and travels
through Georgia and Azerbaijan, before crossing the
Caspian Sea by 12-hour ferry from Baku with the train
(or by flight, if you choose). The journey then aboard
the luxury train through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
and Kazakhstan. Visit the fabulous Georgian cities
of Tbilisi, Telavi and Gori (birthplace of Stalin), all
steeped in history both modern and ancient. The
gleaming capital of Turkmenistan (Ashgabat) and
Darvaza’s famous burning gas crater in the desert, will
‘blow you away’ - then in colourful Uzbekistan there
are comprehensive tours the iconic and legendary
Silk Road centres at Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand and
Tashkent, showcasing history associated with Timur
(last of the great Nomadic conquerers - descendent
of Ghengis Khan) and his famous Timurid Empire.
There’s certainly no better way to see these historic
and otherworldly destinations.
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
CENTRAL ASIA
CENTRAL ASIA
A TA S T E O F T H E S I L K R O A D
Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Moscow (Russia) -
13 days - Oct 7 (2021), Apr 12 (2022)
Follow in the steps of Marco Polo along one of the
world’s most historic trade/caravan routes that once
linked Europe with Asia. This abbreviated Great Silk
Road rail journey on the luxurious Golden Eagle, is
particularly exotic and well-loved. You get to visit
magnificent historic sites in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan,
Turkmenistan and Russia. Highlights include the
snow-capped mountains and apple orchards around
Almaty, Timur’s fabled capital of the Mongol Empire
and its evocative Silk Road architecture at Samarkand,
and see the world’s oldest Koran.
Visit inside the fortified residence of the Emirs at
Bukhara. The ancient ruins of Merv that were once
the world’s largest city, in the 12th century. Darvaza’s
famous burning gas crater (the ‘Door to Hell’) in the
Karakum Desert, and absolutely amazing Ashgabat
(Las Vegas of the Karakum), are unforgettable sights.
Historic Volgograd (ex Stalingrad) was where one of
the most important WW2 battles played out, and in
Moscow, the mighty Kremlin, Red Square & St Basil’s
Cathedral are always show-stoppers. An outstanding
highlight of this journey is an evening platform BBQ at
Bukhara.
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
RUSSIA
TRANS-MONGOLIAN EXPRESS
M O N G O L I A’ S NAADAM
F E S T I VA L & T R A N S -S I B E R I A N
Ulaan Baator (Mongolia) to Moscow
(Russia) - 13 days - Jul 10 (2021), Jul 10
(2022)
The Naadam Festival is ‘the big event’ in Mongolia -
a lively national celebration, held annually. Naadam
means ‘three manly games’. Recognised as the
world’s 2nd oldest Olympics, it celebrates what
defined civilisation on the Steppes, 8 centuries ago -
archery, wrestling and horse riding. The competitors
in the riding events are all children aged between 5
and 12, many of whom have been in the saddle since
the age of one. It is claimed that such equestrian
skills won Genghis Khan his vast empire. You get the
chance to enjoy a performance of traditional throat-
singing & contortionists. Once a religious ceremony,
the festival now commemorates the anniversary of
the 1921 Mongolian freedom revolution. This is a
unique opportunity to soak up the unique and exciting
atmosphere of the festival, and combine it with an
amazing overland rail journey aboard the Golden Eagle
private luxury train, that includes all the highlights of the
longer Trans-Siberian journey, including Lake Baikal &
Irkutsk, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg and Kazan. There’s
no better way to experience the vastness of Siberia.
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
INDIA
B E S T O F N O RT H E R N I N D I A
MUMBAI TO K O L K ATA , IN
COMFORT & STYLE
Mumbai to Kolkata (Bombay to Calcutta
15 days - Feb 3 & Dec 1 (2022)
Travel in luxurious safety on the Deccan Odyssey
across northern India from coast to coast - Arabian
Sea to the Bay of Bengal. Experience breathtaking
views of the Himalayas from the hill plantations,
explore vibrant bazaars, watch the sun rise over the
sacred Ganges at Varanasi, visit the amazing sights of
Agra, including of course the incomparable Taj Mahal.
This stunning journey exposes the warm-heartedness
of the people, the colour and uniqueness of a dynamic
country.
You’ll visit Udaipur and Jaipur in the heart of Rajasthan,
dine in the fabulous Rambagh Palace, witness aarti
ceremonies and fireworks displays. See the famous
UNESCO attractions of Delhi, Varanasi and Fatehpur
Sikri. Visit the world’s oldest continuously inhabited
city, and ride the UNESCO narrow-gauge Himalayan
Toy Train to India’s most famous Hill Station. A trip to
India will change the way you view the world forever!
I N D I A N PA N O R A M A
ROUND TRIP FROM DELHI,
MAHARAJA STYLE
Delhi round-trip
8 days - Feb 28 & Mar 28 (2021)
Embark on this Maharajas’ Express rail journey,
India’s most luxurious, for an unforgettable adventure,
exploring hidden treasures. Visit sacred Varanasi
and cruise on the mighty Ganges to observe ancient
spiritual rites. Witness the immortal beauty of the Taj
Mahal in Agra (followed by a champagne breakfast),
the sensuous moods of the temples of Khajuraho
(world’s largest group of medieval Hindu & Jain
temples), the elegance and imperial splendour of
Lucknow, and the wildlife wilderness of Ranthambore
National Park (famous for its large population of
Bengal tigers).
Witness an elephant polo match in Jaipur, feed and
paint your own live elephant, enjoy a sound-and-light
show at the Khajuraho UNESCO temples, a Kathak
dance performance and festive Indian evening, visit
the silk-weaving centre at Varanasi, and the famous
fort and Jain cave sculptures at Gwalior.
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au
1800 672 988
THE TAJ MAHAL
UNIVERSALLY ADMIRED
MASTERPIECE OF WORLD HERITAGE
JEWEL OF MUSLIM ART IN INDIA
A feature of Luxury Rail Journeys
in Northern India
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
INDIAN SPLENDOUR
D E L H I TO M U M BA I, H I D D E N
GEMS & UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Delhi to Mumbai - 8 days - Mar 7 & Apr 4
(2021)
This royal journey takes you to Agra, Ranthambore,
medieval Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Balasinor on
the way to Mumbai. Discover India’s heritage and
exquisite architecture, soak up the spectacular regal
heritage (hilltop forts & palaces) of Rajasthan, stalk
the elusive tiger in Ranthambore National Park, feel like
royalty as you enjoy an elephant polo match, indulge
in a traditional sand-dune barbeque, visit the royal
family vintage car collection, examine a dinosaur fossil
park, and savour a champagne breakfast overlooking
the world-famous Taj Mahal.
Your early morning safari at Ranthambore will be
looking for leopard, hyena, sloths, jackal, sambar &
chital, as well as tiger. In rural Rajasthan be escorted
by camel cart through the village for cocktails in the
sand dunes. Experience also royal pageantry as the
decorated & canopied camel carts accompanied by
musicians, escort you to dinner & entertainment (a
true highlight you’ll never forget!). This extraordinary
journey is full of special touches - not the least of which
is the train itself, the luxurious - Maharajas’ Express
the best of India!
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988 BEST OF SOUTHERN INDIA M A D R A S M A I L , I N C O M F O R TA B L E STYLE & SAFETY Mumbai to Chennai - 15 days - Oct 21 (2021), Oct 20 (2022) Covering dozens of unique highlights, historically important cities, World Heritage sites and stunning coastlines, this spectacular journey aboard the Deccan Odyssey through India’s tropical south ventures between the gateway cities of Mumbai (Bombay) and Chennai (Madras). Along the way, you’ll experience one of India’s famous Toy Trains (Nilgiri Mountain Railway). Visit fascinating UNESCO-listed Elephanta Island, the famous Dhobi Ghats & Gandhi House in Mumbai, and ex Portuguese-Indian capital of Goa & its famous Basilica De Bom Jesus. See the giant Chinese fishing nets and scenic backwaters of Cochin, and observe a Kathakali Dance performance. Visit India’s southernmost point where the three seas meet, admire the amazing rock-cut UNESCO shore temples of Mahabalipuram, and explore Chennai’s cultural heritage.
CHINA
WESTERN CHINA & TIBET
ACROSS THE ‘ROOF OF THE
WORLD’
Urumqi to Lhasa - 13 days - Apr 1 (2021),
Mar 29 & Sep 22 (2022)
This intriguing rail journey traverses the Gobi Desert
visiting the Silk Road oasis communities of western
China, then crosses the ‘Roof of the World’ on the
highest railway in the world, to the mystical Tibet and
its capital, Lhasa - a true pioneering adventure! The
Shangri-La Express is first class - the best passenger
rail experience in China.
Memorable highlights in western China include
Kashgar Old City and its famous (and huge) open-air
Sunday Bazaar, over 2,000 years old, and so far west
it’s closer to the Mediterranean than the Pacific. In
Turpan, see the world-famous underground irrigation
system (the Karez) successfully watering desert
orchards and vineyards for centuries. At Dunhuang,
ride camels in the desert, enjoy traditional Uyghur
ethnic dancing, and explore the Buddhist sculptures
& murals of the fabulous UNESCO-listed Mogao
Grottoes. Climb the western end of the Great Wall at
Jaiyuguan, and appreciate Xining’s historic Kumbum
Monastery.
Tibet has historically been almost inaccessible, but
Lhasa is home to an astounding collection of UNESCO
palaces & temples, including of course the famous
Potala.
Call for complete details
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions.travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988
SOUTH-EAST ASIA
SINGAPORE, M A L AY S I A &
THAILAND
S O U T H E A S T A S I A’ S PREMIUM
RAIL JOURNEY
Bangkok to Singapore - 4 days - Regular
departures from Sep to Dec (2021)
A superb way to be introduced to the architecture and
cuisine of four great cultures. Experience absolute
comfort and luxury aboard the Eastern & Oriental
Express, while travelling through scenic Asian
countryside, rice-fields, villages and working water
buffaloes. Discover everyday rural life, including warm
welcoming ceremonies from the villagers, visiting
colourful markets, and sampling magnificent local
produce.
This legendary south-eastern Asia rail journey travels
from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth &
Penang, Hua Hin and Bangkok. Among the highlights
is an appreciation of the history around the Thailand-
Burma Railway and the infamous WW2-built Bridge
over the River Kwai - even the opportunity to walk over
(and cruise by local raft under) the bridge.
There’s an opportunity also to participate in a cooking
class, visit a rice noodle house, and other quite unique
Call for complete details cultural experiences. It’s always a memorable occasion
- availability, costs, our advice and opinions. to cross the Straits of Johor separating Singapore from
Malaysia.
travelmasters.com.au | thetravelstudio.com.au | 1800 672 988T H E T R AV E L S T U D I O & T R AV E L M A S T E R S
Rail Holiday Specialists
EUROPE - AFRICA - ASIA - AUSTRALIA & NZ - NORTH & SOUTH AMERICA
PROUD AGENTS FOR THE WORLD'S LEADING RAIL OPERATORS:
Golden Eagle, Belmond, Rovos Rail, Lernidee, Japan Rail, VIA Rail, Amtrak, Journey Beyond, Sundowners
CALL US ABOUT THE WORLDS BEST TRAINS & RAIL JOURNEYS
With more than two decades of experience at researching, planning and organising high-quality internation-
al rail journeys for discerning travellers, our expert Senior Travel Advisers have all the necessary connections,
information and expertise to professionally assist with making your next holiday experience most memorable.
Including a quality rail journey in your planning, will allow you to travel relaxed and absorb more of the des-
tination you're in. The journey itself, as well as the destination, will feature prominently in your best holiday
memories. A rail journey can also, of course, add an undeniably romantic element as you experience the
world. Drop in to one of our Agencies for suggestions and ideas - we'd love to chat with you.
Julie & Neil - Managing Directors
EUROPE ASIA N ORTH A M ERI C A
Golden Eagle Tsars Gold Trans-Siberian The Canadian
Venice-Simplon Orient Express Eastern & Oriental Express Royal Canadian Pacific
Danube Express Maharajas' Express Rocky Mountaineer
Royal Scotsman Deccan Odyssey The Chepe
Grand Hibernian Palace on Wheels
Transcantabrico Gran Lujo Kyushu Seven Stars SOUTH AMERICA
Al-Andalus Shangri-La Express Andean Explorer
Costa Verde Express Golden Chariot Tren Crucero
British Pullman The Vietage Hiram Bingham
Majestic Train de Luxe The Sweet Train
Northern Belle
OCEANIA
Imperial Russia AFRICA The Ghan
Prestige Continental Express Rovos Rail Indian Pacific
El Expresso de la Robla The Blue Train Great Southern
Glacier Express Shongololo Express Spirit of the Outback
Bergen Railway
Bernina Express
Golden Pass Panoramic Express CAL L U S ON 1 80 0 672 9 8 8
PLEASE NOTE:
Much happens every year in Rail Travel, which is uniquely effected by Governments, private contracts, domestic rail schedules,
civil unrest, etc. Availability status, itinerary details and costs are often subject to change. The information in this document was
the best available at the time of writing, but may not be up-to-date, accurate or complete at the time of enquiry.
Please call and chat with our Advisers about any journey that might be of interest to you. Ask for the latest timetables, conditions
and costs on your journey of choice. We’ll check out the latest developments, and work with you to organise the best possible
holiday that meets your requests. We’ll secure the latest details and get back to you if necessary - should the information not be
readily available at the time.You can also read
