Kuranda Scenic Railway, railway line in Queensland, Australia
Description
The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a heritage train service in Far North Queensland that carries passengers through the rainforest. The route winds through over 50 bridges, passes through numerous tunnels, and climbs more than 320 meters from Cairns up to the mountain village.
History
The railway was built in 1891 to connect Cairns with the mountain village of Kuranda, representing a major engineering feat that cut through difficult terrain. Originally, the line transported goods like coffee, sugar, and fruit from the highlands to the coast.
Culture
The name "Kuranda" comes from the Djabugay people who have lived in this region for thousands of years. The station itself is surrounded by tropical gardens that make it feel like a hidden refuge within the jungle, drawing visitors who want to experience the connection between history and nature.
Practical
The train runs daily except during scheduled maintenance and Christmas, and advance booking is recommended as the service is very popular. The journey is suitable for visitors of all ages and features large windows for viewing the landscape, with the option to move between cars.
Did you know?
Kuranda station is one of the most photographed railway stations in the world and serves as a natural gateway for exploring the surrounding jungle. At the station there is a charming tea room where visitors can relax and enjoy local refreshments before exploring the village with its markets and crafts.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Queensland).
Queensland offers a range of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural attractions spread throughout the region. Visitors can explore shipwrecks, volcanic zones, and cave systems that tell the story of the area's past and geology. A Chinese temple, extensive rainforests, and protected...
Queensland in Australia: natural sites, beaches and coral reefs
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
4.2 km
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum
3.9 km
Explosives Magazine and Detonator Store, Stratford
3.9 km
Oribin Studio
3.6 km
Xavier and Sadie Herbert's Cottage
596 mWilliam Walter Mason Bridge
4 kmBill Fulton Bridge
1.1 kmMount Whitfield Conservation Park
3.8 kmScenic viewpoint
4.3 kmScenic viewpoint
1.7 kmCairns Kart Hire, Laser tag and Escape Rooms
4.2 kmToby's lookout
4.8 kmScenic viewpoint
4.1 kmScenic viewpoint
4.5 kmBlazing Saddles Adventures
4.8 kmScenic viewpoint
4.2 kmScenic viewpoint
4.3 kmSkyrail Smithfield Terminal
4.2 kmScenic viewpoint
3.6 kmScenic viewpoint
2.7 kmScenic viewpoint
3.9 kmScenic viewpoint
3.2 kmScenic viewpoint
4.8 kmScenic viewpoint
4.8 kmMorris Memorial Gates
2.8 kmSmall waterfall
4.9 kmWaterfall
2.9 kmOld Weir Falls
4.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes