There is a certain magic in watching a country reveal itself through a train window. On the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express, rolling hills give way to lush rainforests, inviting you to pause, settle in, and savour every mile. Within its lavish carriages, private cabins and candlelit dining cars create a sense of discovery that lingers as the train pulls into every station, transforming a simple itinerary into something truly unforgettable.
As the only sleeper train that remains operational in Malaysia, this luxury experience offers two signature 4-day, 3-night itineraries: Wild Malaysia and Essence of Malaysia. Both itineraries will depart from Singapore and return there, with excursions differing depending on your journey of choice as you make your way up north.
The adventure takes on a distinctive rhythm with each itinerary, with the Wild Malaysia excursion venturing deep into the ancient rainforest of Taman Negara National Park. A rare glimpse of the endangered Malayan tiger also adds to the excitement of this itinerary, making it the ideal journey for the adventurous. Meanwhile, Essence of Malaysia takes on a route that drifts towards the sun-kissed shores of Pulau Langkawi, trading the jungle trails for a memorable escape among sun, sand, and sea.
On the Eastern & Oriental Express, your journey becomes the destination
The Eastern & Oriental Express experience begins at the Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore, where smartly dressed Belmond porters take over your luggage and guide you through a specially cordoned area of customs and immigration. It’s a glimpse of the immaculate service that is about to unfold as you step aboard, where private cabins offer a retreat framed by the passing landscapes.
As the doors slide open, the cabins reveal a cosy retreat where vintage touches meet understated luxury. Soft seating invites quiet moments to unwind and settle, while subtle lighting and carefully considered details create an atmosphere both intimate and indulgent. Each cabin also features an en-suite bathroom, offering you space to refresh in private. At sundown, the Eastern & Oriental Express butlers skilfully transform each room into a restful sanctuary, making the beds and attending to every detail with discreet care, so you can fall into a comforting slumber every night.
Stepping into the rear of the train, you’ll find the open-air Observation Car, a favourite spot to linger and mingle with like-minded passengers. Teak flooring and panelled walls give the carriage a sense of grandeur, while the cocktail bar serves freshly brewed coffees and handcrafted cocktails to enjoy alongside unobstructed panoramic views of Malaysia’s ever-changing landscapes.
Come mealtime, the train’s two dining cars – Malaya and Adisorn – offer a welcoming pause to your journey. The menus change with the season to highlight the freshest ingredients of the moment, while the bold and creative flavours created under the care of Chef André Chiang invite you to savour each course as the scenery drifts by. Whether it’s a light lunch or a multi-course dinner paired with wine and delectable desserts afterwards, the dining experience aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express is a true delight that’s not to be missed.
Before returning to your cabin for the evening, be sure to stop by the Piano Bar, where the gentle strains of live music create an intimate, jazz-club atmosphere. No two drinks of the day are ever the same, as the mixologists handcraft them to complement the mood of the moment, though you’re always welcome to request a repeat of your favourite cocktail. The soft hum of the rails beneath your feet is a comforting addition to the experience, keeping the journey moving at a graceful rhythm as the night closes in.
For a moment of pure calm, you’ll want to step into the Dior Spa, an ideal sanctuary of relaxation before your journey on the Eastern & Oriental Express comes to an end. Uniquely designed in collaboration with Dior’s expert therapists, this dedicated moving spa cabin is the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. From revitalising facials to tension‑easing massages or restorative rituals tailored to your needs, this final indulgence is a refined reminder that travelling is as much about caring for yourself as it is about discovering the world.