Eastern & Oriental Express Train Tour | Malaysia

Eastern and Oriental Express: Unravel Malaysia’s Mystique

Discover the pleasures of luxury rail travel with the Eastern and Oriental Express. This iconic train offers a unique gateway to exploring Malaysia, combining the romance of historic railroads with modern luxury. Our Eastern and Oriental Express packages promise an unparalleled journey through Malaysia's stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Eastern and Oriental Express: Malaysia Like Never Before

The Eastern and Oriental Express redefines luxury train travel in Malaysia. For over three decades, the train has been crafting stories on rails, beginning its storied journey from Bangkok to Singapore in 1993. American businessman James B. Sherwood's vision transformed Japanese carriages into a moving canvas of elegance and luxury, reminiscent of ancient Indochina's spirit. Today, this train continues to offer grand voyages through Southeast Asia, capturing the essence of Malaysia in unparalleled luxury.

Routes Covered

Our Eastern and Oriental Express packages cover various routes, each promising an adventure:

The Eastern & Oriental Express journey is a four-day luxury rail experience from Singapore to Malaysia and back. It begins in Singapore, where passengers board the elegantly designed train, complete with air-conditioned cabins rich in Asian décor. The first day includes passing through lush landscapes with afternoon tea and dinner on board.

Day two takes passengers from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi, featuring a scenic breakfast, a boat trip to Pulau Payar Marine Park and a range of activities like snorkelling and wellness experiences, followed by an evening of entertainment and dinner.

The third day is spent exploring Penang Island’s cultural richness, with options to learn Peranakan cooking, tour Georgetown or independent exploration. The day ends with a celebratory evening on the train as it passes through Kuala Lumpur.

On the final day, guests enjoy breakfast while travelling through Johor, known for its beaches and rainforests, before concluding the journey back in Singapore.

Unique Features & Experiences Offered

The Eastern and Oriental Express is renowned for its luxury amenities, including:

• Cosy Cabins: Air-conditioned cabins are comfortably furnished, reflecting Asian aesthetics.
• Dining Car: Enjoy a variety of meals, blending local and international flavours.
• Bar and Piano Car: Relax with drinks and music in a casual, inviting atmosphere.
• Observation Car: Take in the scenic views from this special vantage point.
• Cultural Excursions: Participate in excursions that explore local heritage and scenery.
• Attentive Service: Experience personalised service throughout your journey for a hassle-free experience.

Highlights of Eastern & Oriental Express

Scenic landscapes

Key highlights of our Eastern and Oriental Express packages include:

• Lush Countrysides: Witness rural Malaysia at its finest, featuring picturesque rice paddies, traditional villages and tropical forests.
• Coastal Vistas: Enjoy views of the stunning coastline as the train skirts along beautiful beaches and the azure sea.
• Urban Skylines: Experience the contrast of serene natural settings with the bustling cityscapes of destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
• Mountainous Terrains: The journey also encompasses regions with rolling hills and mountain views.

Cultural Wonders

The Eastern and Oriental Express journey offers a unique exploration of Southeast Asia's cultural richness, featuring key highlights such as:

• Diverse Heritage Sites: The train route takes passengers through areas steeped in history and tradition, from ancient temples and colonial architecture in Malaysia to vibrant markets and historic districts in Singapore.
• Local Cuisine Exploration: Culinary experiences on board reflect the diverse flavours of the region. Passengers can enjoy a range of local dishes to get a taste of the unique culinary traditions of each destination.
• Artistic and Musical Performances: Enjoy cultural performances and music that showcase the artistic heritage of the regions travelled.
• Interactive Excursions: Engage in guided tours that provide insights into the local way of life, from visiting traditional artisans to exploring bustling street markets.

Planning and Booking an Eastern & Oriental Express Rail Journey

How to Book

Booking your journey through one of our Eastern and Oriental Express packages is a simple and streamlined process. Start by exploring your options either on our website or by contacting us directly to learn about the various packages available. Once you’ve reviewed the options, select a package that aligns with your travel preferences, including the route, duration and activities included. After making your selection, finalise your booking with our travel experts, ensuring your spot on this luxurious train journey.

Preparation Tips

For a seamless and delightful trip on the Eastern and Oriental Express, consider these practical tips:

1. Light and Compact Luggage: Choose luggage that is easy to carry and store in the train's stylish yet space-conscious cabins.
2. Versatile Wardrobe: Pack clothes that are comfortable for daytime adventures and suitable for elegant evening events. We recommend packing a light sweater or shawl to keep warm in the air-conditioned interiors.
3. Know Your Itinerary: Get familiar with the train's facilities and your travel itinerary to make the most of every moment.
4. Respect Local Cultures: When disembarking for excursions, dress modestly and be mindful of local customs to enhance your cultural experiences.
5. Health and Safety Essentials: Bring along any necessary medications, sunscreen and basic first aid supplies to handle minor health needs during your journey.

Off the train, you’ll be invited on incredible excursions, delving deep into the history, art or culinary character of each destination. Onboard you can expect exceptional encounters with local experts and artisans during the day, plus some of Asia’s most exciting contemporary artists and entertainers each evening. 

Soak up the best of Southeast Asia on one of two three-night itineraries from Singapore. The ‘Essence of Malaysia’ itinerary travels through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang; the second itinerary ‘Wild Malaysia’ courses through the lush jungles of Malaysia and then onwards to Penang. Both voyages allow discovery of Malaysia’s greatest destinations. 

Culture, nature, adventure, food and art can all be discovered a step away from the train, from snorkelling in a marine park, relaxing on a private beach, wellness activities, to meeting local cooks and famous artists of Penang.

Life on board

Cabins 

Onboard the train there are 15 beautifully restyled carriages – including Pullman, State and Presidential Suites. Pullman cabins have upper and lower berths while the State cabins - Presidential Suites offer two single beds at floor level. Throughout each, a warm ambience flows thanks to the cherrywood and elm burr panelling, decorative marquetry and fine fabrics. All cabins are air-conditioned and fitted with an ensuite shower and WC. 

During the day, berths and single beds are converted into seating from which guests can admire the stunning, ever-changing vistas outside. 

The Presidential Suites benefit from a complimentary minibar with guests enjoying private transfers at the beginning and end of their journey. 

Dining: 

The Eastern & Oriental Express provides an exceptional dining venture to its guests, showcasing a menu encompassing an array of authentic Peranakan delicacies. These dishes receive a contemporary reinterpretation from the chef, who employs locally sourced, sustainable, and fresh ingredients. The train's journey spans the Malay Peninsula, venturing through regions deeply imbued with Peranakan culture and culinary traditions. In a celebration of the area's rich cultural tapestry, the experience acquaints travelers with the distinct flavors and components that define this cuisine.