If you are keen on seeing a beautiful slice of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Rainforest in the Far North of Queensland, Australia, then I can think of no better way of doing this than to experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
It certainly isn’t one of the longest train journeys you will ever take, but this trip is renowned for traveling through stunning natural beauty in this part of Australia. Notably, this journey is also featured in Lonely Planet’s book ‘Amazing Train Journeys’, detailing what they regard as the world’s top 60 unforgettable rail trips.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway really is a spectacular gateway and ideal introduction to the fabulous Daintree Rainforest region. The Daintree region starts just north of Cairns and continues all the way to Cape Tribulation. You can read more detail of the Daintree Rainforest and our experience there in a separate post.
The route taken by the Kuranda Scenic Railway is from the tropical northern port city of Cairns to the village of Kuranda up 328 m (1076 ft) traveling through Barron Gorge National Park. Without a doubt, it is certainly one of the great scenic railway journeys.
Contents
Planning your trip
There are a few things to consider when booking your Kuranda Scenic Railway trip. Below are a couple of key things I would bear in mind along with recommendations based on our research and experience traveling there.
One way and return options
You do have the option to book a return trip by rail from Cairns to Kuranda.
So, if you book one way, how do you return?
There are actually three main ways to reach Kuranda Rainforest Village. You can drive there from Cairns, you can take the Skyrail (the rainforest cable car from Smithfield, just north of Cairns) or of course, you can take the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
So, if you are not going by car, what order would be best? Train to Kuranda and Skyrail to Cairns? Or Skyrail to Kuranda and Train to Cairns?
We opted to ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway to Kuranda and then take the Skyrail across the ancient rainforest to Smithfield. We recommend this as the best option as you start by leaving the suburbs of Cairns behind, climbing the rugged mountains through Barron Gorge National Park with the views getting progressively better all the time.
Then, when leaving Kuranda, you can enjoy spectacular views above the rainforest (stopping at two places along the way) before making your final descent to Smithfield and Cairns, while looking out to the coast and the Coral Sea.
The above combination of Kuranda Railway and Skyrail in my view is absolutely the best way to progressively enjoy the beautiful natural environment here. We also did travel to Kuranda by rental car as part of a few road trips we enjoyed from Cairns but I will share these travel options in a future post.
Freshwater Station
You can enjoy the convenience of taking the train from its point of origin at the main station in Cairns city. This station is centrally located and literally walkable from the majority of main hotels and all types of accommodation in their CBD. The Cairns train station is perfectly fine as stations go and is even located right alongside a major shopping center.
However, if you would like to experience a much nicer, more interesting station full of historical character and charm, I would strongly recommend catching the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Freshwater Station. It is only one stop away on the line or about 15 or so minutes by car from the city.
Freshwater station is not your average train station and is very much tied into the Kuranda Scenic Railway experience. Here you can enjoy breakfast in an antique railway carriage while waiting for your train. There is also a museum showing all the aspects of the construction of the line and the carriages that are still in use today.
Finally, there is an interesting miniature replica of the railway route not to mention a lovely souvenir/gift shop where you can purchase a number of keepsake mementos of this special rail journey. The train is operated by the state-run Queensland Rail and they have done a great deal to preserve the heritage and story of this amazing route.
Class of ticket and travel times
There are two classes of rail tickets you can purchase: ‘Heritage Class’ or ‘Gold Class’.
Heritage Class is the traditional class offered with long seats within the original carriages.
Gold is the premium option which is advertised as:
- Dedicated attendant service
- Individual seating, lounge-style chairs
- Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen, and postcard
- Souvenir trip guide
- Optional exclusive tour of the Heritage-Listed Signal Cabin at Kuranda station (for morning Gold Class service only).
- Morning or Afternoon Tea featuring a selection of Queensland and local Tablelands produce such as Gallo Dairyland Cheese, Skybury Coffee, Wondaree Macadamias, Mango to Go (100% pure mango treat), freshly-baked muffins, Sirromet wines, and Great Northern Brewing Company Super Crisp Lager
- Welcome tropical mocktails served in the pavilion area, 20 minutes prior to the arrival of the train when boarding at Freshwater Station in the morning
- Welcome drinks served onboard the train, 20 minutes prior to departure, when boarding at Kuranda Station in the afternoon
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The above is considered great value, especially as the Gold Class tickets only cost an additional AUD$49.00.
However, if you choose to book Gold Class there is a catch. The Kuranda Scenic Railway timetable shows there are only two services daily and the Kuranda Gold Class is only offered on the latter one. This means if you prefer to take the train going up to Kuranda, you must leave an hour later, missing this time at Kuranda. Alternatively, if you choose to take the train back from Kuranda the Gold Class service is offered on the later train but again, I think the journey heading to Kuranda is better than the return Kuranda Cairns option.
For this reason, we took the option of doing the traditional Heritage Class going up to Kuranda and returning by Skyrail. The package cost to anyone booking this option would be AUD$117.00, which includes coach transfer from the Skyrail station at Smithfield back to Cairns or Freshwater Station.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway Experience
We arrived at Freshwater Station well ahead of the earlier departure time of 8:55 am to check out all the features, history and enjoy a bit of breakfast before the journey.
We were quite excited as the announcement was made that the Kuranda Scenic Railway train was approaching the station, allowing time to take photos as the train pulled in.
The train
The carriages of the train were all original and included some that were over 100 years old, having been beautifully maintained. All carriages had a wonderful old-world charm with authentic red-wooded timber used at the time they were created and everything had been preserved so well.
Luckily for us, the day we chose for our trip appeared to be a quiet day as tourism is still building back from the pandemic. Queensland Rail staff that issued seating tickets took this into account and therefore all passengers were comfortably spaced out with their seat allocations.
This train was not airconditioned so I imagine it would be incredibly humid and uncomfortable during the middle of summer. This should be something to consider for the time you book your visit to North Queensland anyway. However, the carriages all had wide-open windows allowing plenty of scope for taking photos without having beams in the way.
The train was also very clean and there was no problem at all with moving about to get better viewpoints on different sides of the train during the journey – although you should bear in mind that most of the views are on the right-hand side when traveling up to Kuranda.
The history
Constructed between 1886 and 1891, this heritage-listed railway line originally opened in 1891 and is impressive from an engineering perspective. Up to 1500 men at a time only using hand picks, shovels and dynamite toiled away to carve tunnels through mountains and inhospitable terrain to construct 33 Kms of the track.
Due to the conditions and dangers inherent in their work, 32 rail workers lost their lives and the finished railway really stands as a monument to them. As you traverse through 15 hand-made tunnels and some 37 bridges, you gain an appreciation for what they had to go through back then.
The journey
When you take the Kuranda railway journey, you really do understand why it was included by Lonely Planet among its top 60 train trips in the world.
As if the breathtaking scenery of the Barron Gorge National Park was not enough, towering waterfalls, deep ravines, amazing tropical flora, and fauna surround you on this stunning journey.
While this authentic historical train does not have air conditioning, it does have a very interesting audio commentary that takes you through the history of the Kuranda Scenic Railway as well as the flora and fauna found here and points of interest as the train passes them. You are given adequate warning time as well for particularly good vantage points for photos.
A highlight of the Kuranda train trip is passing very close to Stoney Creek Falls as you cross the most outstanding bridge of the journey. We loved photographing Stoney Creek Falls and our trip along that section of track and bridge. It really is a spectacular spot that is used a lot in their tourism marketing to promote the region.
It is a fascinating experience to travel on this heritage, rickety locomotive through such picturesque nature, climbing the mountainous area toward the quaint village of Kuranda. All fellow passengers had smiles permanently on their faces for the duration as we all enjoyed this unique journey.
Thankfully the trip is done at a slow pace, allowing you to really take in the scenery, observe and absorb all that is the Barron Gorge National Park and views below as you travel higher. It is also a joy to stick your head out of the window and see views of the entire train as it snakes up the track.
Barron Falls Station
Not so much a station but more of a stop, the Barron Falls Station is a long platform that the Kuranda Scenic Railway stops at for around 10 minutes so passengers can stretch their legs before the final leg to Kuranda.
Why stop here? This platform offers a wonderful outlook to Barron Falls, one of the major attractions within Barron Gorge National Park. Depending on the time of year and the amount of recent rainfall, the falls can be a gushing magnificent body of water or a much gentler cascade. Either way, it is a worthy stop to enjoy the impressive view.
Kuranda Railway Station
Arriving at Kuranda station is quite a treat and worth checking out. Built back in 1915, it is also over 100 years old and according to Lonely Planet, is one of the most photographed railway stations in the world.
While everyone else runs off to explore Kuranda you would enjoy having a leisurely look around this heritage-listed station renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. In 1915, the Kuranda Station was nicknamed “The Honeymoon Station” and the village became known as the health resort of North Queensland due to its cool climate providing a reprieve from the coastal humidity.
The Kuranda Railway Station Tea Room offers traditional Devonshire Tea and/or delicious mango smoothies. There is also a separate café and gift shop to peruse before heading off to wander Kuranda village on foot.
What to see at either destination
Kuranda
Kuranda Village
Known as the “village in the rainforest”, Kuranda is a lovely, quiet settlement full of character. It is very clean and well maintained. Everything is within walking distance provided you are fairly fit and can handle reasonable distance and inclines. Otherwise, there are buses that will take you from one part of Kuranda to another.
There is also a visitor information center staffed with volunteers who provide friendly advice on what you can do or where you can stay, depending on your interests.
Attractions here are many for such a small place and include the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda Birdworld, Emu Ridge Gallery/Fossil and Gemstone Museum, Koala Gardens and Rainforestation Nature Park.
Another big attraction is the Kuranda Markets which began in 1978. The village is home to many artists and the markets sell hand-made arts, crafts, and local produce. The markets are open 7 days a week with many customers being visitors who have traveled on the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Kuranda village also sells much in the way of jewelry and Australian black opal, boulder opal, crystal opal, pearl, and gemstones as well as aboriginal artwork, wood, and leatherwork. Food produce includes North Queensland’s best range of honey, local coffee, tropical fruit ice cream, coconuts, and macadamia nuts.
Kuranda River Cruise
Riverboat tours are available 5 times a day along the Kuranda River, departing from a jetty fairly close to the Kuranda Scenic Railway station. The walkways are pretty well signed and locals are also happy to help so it is very easy to find your way around.
James and I took a river tour which we booked online beforehand and found the ride very relaxing and enjoyable. The guide provided a lot of interesting information in the commentary on board.
Highlights of the cruise included getting up close to a bale (or dole) of turtles and spotting crocodiles on the banks of the river (something quite common in this region).
Kuranda Skyrail
The Skyrail Cableway is a very popular way to see the rainforest from above. We really enjoyed the Kuranda Skyrail experience which is covered in more detail as part of the Daintree Rainforest post mentioned earlier. It is really a wonderful way to see the rainforest from an aerial perspective.
Rainforest Walks
Kuranda has a network of interlinked walks linking the village and its surrounding environment of the Barron Gorge National Park.
These walks include the Village Walk (500m), Jumrum Creek Conservation Park (1.4km), The Jungle Walk (900m), and the River and Esplanade Walk (1.5km). These are very manageable and enjoyable for people of most ages and fitness levels.
Cairns
Cairns City
Aside from being the regional capital of Far or Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is the gateway to the World Heritage Rainforests in this region as well as the world-famous Great Barrier Reef with surrounding islands.
The city is not that big, but extremely clean and with a very laid-back, chilled vibe to it. The locals are extremely friendly and helpful and everything is easy to find.
Cairns CBD is situated right on the waterfront with fabulous views out to the Coral Sea. One of the key attractions is the Esplanade Lagoon. This is a 4,800 square meter saltwater pool that is open year-round for people to use.
The lagoon is between the CBD and the Esplanade fronting the sea, with surrounding tropical gardens where you can stroll, have a barbeque or enjoy a picnic. James and I loved using the lagoon as we holidayed here in between exploring the rainforest, reef, and other attractions reachable from Cairns.
Cairns Aquarium
Located right in the CBD the Cairns Aquarium is a must-see for anyone interested in marine biology or anyone not able to get out onto the water to visit the Great Barrier Reef.
This aquarium has been so well designed to exhibit over 15,000 fish and aquatic animals, within 9 Tropical North Queensland ecosystems, including the world’s most ancient rainforest (Daintree) to the marine life living within the world’s largest coral reef, just miles offshore.
What made this aquarium so special is that it focussed predominately on marine life found in this part of the world. The displays of life as well as the information on each area or type of species gave you a real appreciation of the uniqueness of this beautiful region.
Closing thoughts
We found so much to experience and enjoy, not only during our time on the Kuranda Scenic Railway but at either end of this fun journey. Kuranda and Cairns both have so much to offer anyone that loves nature and exploring.
I really do hope you liked all that we experienced here as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you.
Your thoughts on Kuranda Scenic Railway
Is the Kuranda Scenic Railway an experience that appeals to you? Do you agree this should be classified as one of the top 60 train journeys in the world? Have you perhaps also taken this journey and explored this region? Please do share your thoughts in the comments below.
Outdoor adventure enthusiast that loves nature having travelled locations across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia.
Passionate Travel Writer, Blogger and Influencer.
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
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Nicole Andersonhttps://www.campingforwomen.com/author/nicsmarketingyahoo-com-au/
This looks really remote and an amazing opportunity for a rail journey. We all too often think of South America when it comes to rainforests – I for one forget that Australia has them too!
I know what you mean Paul. The Amazon, being the biggest rainforest of all, is usually the first one that comes to mind. Thanks for reading and sharing your impressions.
To be honest, this is the first time I have read about the Kuranda Scenic Railway. But as I have never been to Australia that does not mean a lot. Anyway it looks fantastic. I love taking old trains (who doesn`t?) and taking a train through such a green wilderness seems a wonderful idea.
That’s for sure Natascha. Hopefully, you will consider this train if/when you make it to Australia. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.
I love travel by rail! It’s so underrated, but offers so much – as shown in your article. The Kuranda Scenic Railway looks exceptional, given the opportunity to see the beautiful landscape, rainforest, and stops along the way. I especially loved the vintage look of the Freshwater station, and the historic feel of the interior of the train. What a wonderful way to explore this beautiful part of Australia! Also appreciate the helpful tips that will make it easier to navigate.
Thank you so much Jackie. I think the number of people that love to see beautiful landscapes by train is on the increase every year. It is such a lovely way to take a beautiful region like this.
Oh, I am definitely into all kinds of scenic railway rides. We have done couple but this seems like a fun with so many activities around too. I think aquarium might be something we would love to do with kids. A rainforest walk also sounds fun as we always love to see the nature. I bet that that part of the world would have a some cool things to see.
There is so much to see there Paula and I would suggest doing your research carefully before making the trip to ensure you spend your time most with experiencing things that really interest you. Having said that, I didn’t see anyone at all that was on the train with us that didn’t love this trip.
I enjoy going on rail trips, and Kuranda scenic railway is surely going to make it up to my list. The route reminded me of Bangkok-Kanchanaburi Death Railway route, also the pretty Mumbai-Goa railroute. The beautiful garden in the station is pretty intriguing. Also, the watercruise seems to be interesting. You got me at the history of the railroute though, hats off, it wasn’t an easy task for them.
Those rail routes you have compared to the Kuranda Scenic Rail sound like they could be wonderful experiences also, Shreya. The Death Railway in particular is also included in Lonely Planet’s ‘Amazing Train Journeys’ book in which they start out by saying it is a beautiful line with a dark history. I hope to be able to try these journeys you suggest on a future trip to Asia. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts here.
Kuranda Scenic Railway looks absolutely amazing. I was talking with my husband recently about taking a trip via train, because it’s something neither of us have ever done, and we’re wanting to cross it off our bucket list in the near future. I can easily see how this would be a perfect trip!
That sounds exciting Erica and I’m sure you wouldn’t be disappointed opting to see certain beautiful regions by train. Globally there are numerous scenic trips to choose from. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and I hope you and your husband have a wonderful time riding the train routes that appeal to you.
I love love love scenic railway routes, one of my favourite ways to see a beautiful region. The Kuranda Scenic Railway looks very much up my street. And the interior is fabulous, love the historical carriages and all the leather and wood!
The carriages really did add to the atmosphere and experience, Kavita. It gave the rail journey through this beautiful part of the world, another added dimension. Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts.
The aquarium looks so cool- it all looks so cool! I would love to travel by train. You make it sound so adventurous.
We think of it as an adventure that takes us through some fabulous natural wonders, Katie. So happy you enjoyed this post.
Wow this train trip looks so beautiful! I look forward to reading your Daintree Rainforest post as well. Train rides, a trip to an aquarium AND a rainforest – this trip would be so fun to do with my little guy.
It’s always great to share these experiences with kids, Catherine, as they learn so much as well as receive all the benefits of being in nature. I hope you enjoy the Daintree Rainforest post as well as there is so much more shared there. Thank you for reading and sharing your comment.
Oh, wow, what an experience! I’m just itching to go based on your experience and your gorgeous photos!
Thank you very much Sage. It really is a special and enjoyable experience.
What a detailed and informative article. I also love your candid photos!
Thanks so much Doris. So pleased you liked this.
This is incredible! There’s nothing quite as magical as a train journey 💖
Couldn’t agree more, Laura! Much nicer than a plane trip for sure.
I love train travel and you made me feel like I’m on a trip with all the detailed information.
That’s lovely to hear, thank you, Joyce.
Freshwater station! What a great idea. Thanks for including the map, that’s always so helpful when researching what to do on the trip.
My pleasure Olive. So pleased you enjoyed this post.
WOW, this looks so spectacular! I would like to experience this railway trip. I think the scenic views will cancel out not having air conditioning on board lol. Your pictures are beautiful, will have to add this to my never-ending bucket list!
We were too distracted by the views and the experience on this train to worry too much about the lack of air conditioning, Stephanie. It was such a lovely experience and I hope you will be able to cross this off your bucket list soon.
I’d love to go here just for the train ride alone, it looks so vintage and cute. Very scenic and I love all the greenery and waterfalls.
So pleased you liked this, Jacqueline. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.
I love going on railtrips. Actually, as soon as I can quit my day job and travel as much as I want, I will travel Europe – and beyond, if possible – only by train. It’s not only more scenic, it’s also far better for our environment.
Couldn’t agree more with that, Renata. A much nicer and more environmentally friendly way to go.
We really wanted to take the Kuranda Scenic Railway when we visited Cairns. But I got sick on that trip and we cut many things off our plans. It looks like a great way to enjoy the Daintree Forest region. I think it would be fun to go by Skyrail one way and use the Kuranda Scenic Railway the other way. I think I would like to book Gold service and have Morning or Afternoon Tea. I love that you got such great views from the train windows. Definitely something to not miss on a return visit.
Thanks for adding another must-do in Queensland! Very handy for our planned 2024 Australian road trip!
Sounds great Carol. So pleased I was able to help make your upcoming trip planning a success. All the best for 2024!
That’s great to hear you are already starting with the planning of your return trip, Linda. I hope you will be fine the next time around and wish you all the best for a wonderful experience there.
There is something really romantic and old-style about taking a train! I always love taking the train and slowing down a bit to fully take in and appreciate the area that I am visiting, so I absolutely love that article. Australia has been on my list for a long time, but now Kuranda Scenic Railway is one more reason why I should visit!
Thank you so much Polly. I love rail travel also for the same reason. Hope you will also make it to Australia soon and enjoy your time as much as we did.
Wow what a lovely read and so many memories with beautiful images. Myself and my husband love railways and think that Kuranda Station looks fab x
Thanks Melanie. It was a wonderful trip and Kuranda (as well as Freshwater) station was really quite special.
What an experience the Karanda Railway would be! The views are beautiful and I would love the Freshwater Station. It is so historical and I imagine it would make you feel as if you’re being taken back in time.
It did a bit, Kelly, and really added to the whole experience. You could say that Freshwater Station could be considered an attraction on its own. Thank you so much for reading and your comment.
Love the photos! I have always wanted to do a train trip and this looks like the perfect one. Thanks for sharing I really enjoyed reading and looking at the photos!
My pleasure, Mary. So pleased you enjoyed this post.
Looks amazing! the views are fab and the railway is charming. I also like the train. It looks like an ideal way to travel to me because I have a thing for trains. The experience is so wholesome I don’t even care where it went (I could literally just make a round trip like that and be happy)
With views that we had and the whole vintage rail experience as well, I can definitely relate to what you are saying Lyosha. A round trip would still be a really lovely time.
This sounds like it would have been an amazing experience. The train ride must have been interesting and fun.
It sure was, Melanie. Thank you for reading.
The photos are stunning. I miss travelling loads, and aim to see more of Europe this year, but I am aiming to visit Australia next year. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thanks very much Yala. Best of luck with your travels in Europe and for your plans to venture to Australia next year.
Kuranda Scenic Railway seems to be a perfect idea for a trip, as I love traveling by train. It is impressive that operated since 1891. The views are breathtaking. Also, the train looks fantastic. It must be a kind of fabulous adventure. Great that you provide so many valuable hints on how to book the trip and tickets options, and map with the train route as well. It’s impressive that there are 15 hand-made tunnels on the way!
Thank you so much, Agnes. I can tell from such a considered comment that you are definitely a fan of traveling by train as a great way to see so much more. I really couldn’t recommend this trip enough and I hope the information and tips provided will be of help if you wish to experience it also.
Thank you! I was also interested in the book you recommended. I will purchase Lonely Planet’s book ‘Amazing Train Journeys’ as it describes the world’s top 60 unforgettable rail trips.
It is one of my favorite books and is always on hand as a reference for when I plan trips.
Wow, thanks for sharing this, I have immediately forwarded that to my bf. Going to Australia is on the top of our list and this is exactly a trip we would love.
My pleasure, Martina. Now that the borders are open, I hope you will both have so much enjoyment planning and making your trip.
The train the views from it just look incredible! Would love to go for a ride 🙂
It is a fabulous experience for sure, Amalia. Thanks for reading and leaving a comment.
What a lovely post , it was like taking a trip virtually .The scenic views and train travel is very inviting and can’t wait to make a trip soon.
Thank you very much Nisha. That is such a nice thing to say and I’m so happy you liked how this was put together.
I love railway rides and experiences! Kuranda seems like definitely a must-see attraction on top of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. Traveling through rainforests over bridges past waterfalls — a delightful adventure indeed!
We loved it Trish! I’m so pleased this grabbed you also. Really worthwhile visiting this part of Australia.
Love your recommendation to depart from the Freshwater Station — those iron trellises are beautiful, and what ambiance! I can only imagine how incredible the views are from the railway — your waterfall shots are among my favorite. Sounds like a must-do!
I couldn’t agree with you more, Tami. It really is a wonderful experience from start to end. Thank you for your lovely comment.
Always happy to read your informative posts!
Thanks Tami. I just love to hear from people who enjoy these posts as they are published.
I like the combination of train and skyrail to enjoy Kuranda and the surrounding areas like you suggested. The train journey looks epic. I can’t believe this rainforest is in Australia, not in Brazil. Too bad there wasn’t enough rain when you stopped at Barron Falls. I think I agree with Lonely Planet by saying Kuranda Scenic Railway as one of the top 60 train journeys in the world.
Many people are quite surprised to find a rainforest in Australia and the Daintree is in fact the oldest rainforest in the world, Umiko! If you are interested, do check out a separate dedicated post I published the previous month on the Daintree Rainforest which provides much more detail and images. Thanks so much for reading and leaving your comment.
The oldest rainforest in the world? Now I remember that millions of years ago that Australia continent was part of Indonesia and Asia. Maybe that’s why. Ok. I’m going to check your post about Daintree Forest.
Thanks, Umiko, you may have a point there. I hope you enjoy that post with more detail on the Daintree Rainforest.
Wow, what an amazing journey! Of all the three options to get to the Kuranda Rainforest Village, the scenic train seems to be the best. It takes you through such varied and beautiful scenery. The skyrail also looks very interesting, because you get to see the rain forest from above. Hope to make it to Australia if they decide to finally open their borders, lol!
The great news is the borders are open and freedom to travel within the country as well, Anda, which is of course how we could get there! The only exception where borders are closed are in the west of the country, otherwise, if you are from a country that has visa clearance, then you are good to go. The train journey was also my favorite to travel to Kuranda.
I love old train stations and these ones are particularly charming. I would definitely enjoy breakfast in the antique railway car.
It’s certainly a wonderful way to start the day before hopping on this beautiful journey, Lori.
What a great and memorable experience. I think the history alone would draw me in. There is something about traveling by train, and one that is 100+ years old is alluring. Not to mention the scenery and destination of the rainforest. Sounds delightful
It really is delightful, Renee, and I’m so happy this appeals to you also. Thank you for such a lovely comment.
you are most welcome, and hope to experience this myself one day.
Me too, Renee. Do let me know if you visit in the future – it would be lovely to compare notes.
Ha! As I read this I’m on the train. Although, it’s Amtrak going through the cities (Washington DC, NYC, Baltimore, Philly), so it’s a different type of scenery. I’d totally swap for being on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, although it wouldn’t get me where I need to go ATM. Ha! 🙂
That’s funny Jennifer! As someone who loves to be in nature and away from the cities, I can totally relate. So pleased you liked the post.
Wow looks like there are so many fun stops along the railway! Some of the stations remind me of the old London stations (before the remodels).
Technically there is just one stop at Barron Falls, Di. But the two stations at either end of this journey are just gorgeous and have lots of old-world charm.
We’ve been to Cairns in December 2020 and some of these attractions weren’t available due to restrictions. Thanks for reminding me that I need to go back to Queensland. Just perfect timing this summer!
The Kuranda scenic railway route is truly fascinating and the Cairns aquarium is a wonderful spot to enjoy marine life. Enjoying the rainforest atop from skyrail is such a great way to explore. I would love to enjoy such magnificent trips and Australia is amazing country.
Due to its size and occupying an entire continent, Australia definitely offers a huge variety of things to see and experience, Puloma. This region around Cairns has in itself so much to explore and there are a few posts I am publishing in the hope this may help others plan their trips.
Now that borders have opened up (with the exception of the western part of the country), it is just great to be able to experience everything there, Blair. Thank you for reading and sharing your experience and I hope you will return to this area at some stage.
The Kuranda railway station is very scenic railway station amid the lush tropical greens. No wonder it’s way into Lonely Planet’s list of amazing train journeys and also UNESCO world heritage sites.The Kuranda railway station in itself is such a cool place to hangout with spunky souvenirs and to enjoy Devonshire tea and smoothies.
Couldn’t agree more with your observations about the Kuranda Railway Station, Puloma. The two stations featured in this post just add to enrich the overall experience of this journey.
Wow! The Kuranda Scenic Railway looks amazing! I wish I can ride it soon. So nice! Wow!
Thanks very much, Emman. Hopefully, you will be able to visit as well soon.
The aquarium sounds great. I like that they focused on what would be found locally.
That is something I found to be really good as well Melanie. This allows you to learn a lot about the natural world in this region.
The markets in Kuranda look similar to the markets here in Dijon, that’s so cool! and wow, that wrap around aquarium looks incredible. My boyfriend loves seeing aquatic animals so this is going on my list for sure.
There is definitely lots to see in this region, Alice. If you are into aquatic animals, the Great Barrier Reef is also relatively easy to get to from Cairns.
Thanks for sharing. Really interesting railway. Takes you back to the past, in some warmer times. Today trains are so cold and futuristic.
This train certainly had both history and character, Predrag. A wonderful way to experience the natural beauty in that part of the world.
I always wondered what it’s like aboard Kuranda Scenic Railway. It is indeed beautiful and its a tropical paradise
It is little wonder that it has been recognized as being a special experience, Elizabeth. Thanks so much for reading and sharing your thoughts.
I love to explore the beauty of the natural surroundings of the place. So many activities to try
That’s for sure, Brianne. Thanks for reading and leaving a comment.
Oh this place is just amazing. I enjoyed viewing your pictures since I can’t really go out much. The Kuranda Scenic Railway definitely appeals to me
If you are after a scenic rail trip Beth and happen to be visiting Australia, then this would be good to experience.
These are some amazing photos! I bet it would be amazing camping here and beautiful 🙂
There are places you can camp in the area, Crystal, and these are found via info brochures and online.