Kuranda Scenic Railway, railway line in Queensland, Australia
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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