Kuranda Scenic Railways in Cairns
The Kuranda Scenic Railways is one of the world’s most spectacular journeys passing by the beautiful tropical paradise wrapped by rugged mountains, steep ravines and breathtaking picturesque waterfalls.
This beautiful tropical paradise is the home to more than 800 different types of rainforest trees, 1,200 variety of flowering plants, colorful and attractive orchids, exotic palms, strangler figs and hundreds of species of unique animals that dwell in this dense rainforest. The Kuranda Scenic Railways original and renowned railway winds its way almost 2 hours from Cairns to Kuranda, the oldest village located in the rainforest.
The journey will have an English commentary, highlighting the important details along the way. All passengers will receive souvenir card with information in the history of the railway construction. And also, a route map of the railway and the map of Kuranda.
If you want to have a stop over whilst of your way, Freshwater connection is a station situated in the middle area of Cairns and Kuranda. It offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, a railway museum, pioneer cottages, restaurants and theatrette.
This will be an unforgettable journey going around the natural wonders of this million years old protected rainforest. It is one of the best reasons why you should visit Cairns.
There will be a famous food festival in Palm Cove located just the upper North part of Kurinda that your family or friends will sure enjoy taking part of.
If you need a group transportation heading to Cairns, Coach Hire Bus Hire will be your ideal partner for your group transport needs. Coach Hire can provide you and your group a low cost bus hire that you will be sure to enjoy the benefits of having comfortable and private travel getting to and back to Cairns.
History of Kuranda Railways
The historical facts of Kuranda Scenic Railways construction:
In March 1882
- The minister of Works and Mines announces to search for a suitable route from Atherton Tablelands to the coast.
In March 1884
- The Barron Gorge route was finally chosen.
In September 1885
- The cabinet members approved the working plans.
In May 1886
- The premier of Queensland begun constructing the railway.
In November 1886
- The P. C. Smith withdraw from the contract of section one due to sickness and working conditions of the navvies.
In January 1887
- The McBride and Co. assumed the contract of section one but withdrawn later on. The Queensland government took over and completed the section one.
In January 1887
- The building of section two was approved and John Robb got the contract.
In April 1888
- The Victorian Labour League was formed between contractors and navvies.
In 1888 to 1889
- The first large scale of swamps in Cairns was reclaimed for navvies camps.
In April 1890
- The governor of Queensland, Sir Henry Wiley Norman, conducted the inspection of the project.
In August 1890
- The navvies started the great strike thus they formed “United Sons of Toil”.
In May 1891
- The last rail was laid out to the end of the section two.
In June 1891
- The Cairns to Kuranda Railway line was opened to transport goods.
In 1915
- The Kuranda station opened for everyone until today.
Whilst you're near to the city of Cairns, why not taste some of the the famous wines they offer.
Kuranda Tours Packages
To those who are interested in Kuranda tour packages. They have great range of alternative for you to choose from:
Kuranda Classic Package – Go aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, explore and discover the village of Kuranda, and watch the rainforest with a bird's eye view by riding the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Kuranda Rainforest Package – Discover the rainforest aboard the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway, get down and explore the middle area of the rainforest and then soar above the canopy by taking the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Kuranda Dreamtime Package – Take a journey aboard Kuranda Scenic Railway, then visit to learn some of the history and local traditions of the Aboriginal Tjapukai, and see the top view of rainforest riding the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
Kuranda Wildlife Package – A journey aboard Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, then discover the wildlife by taking a tour at Birdworld, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary and Koala Gardens for more variety of animals.
Kuranda Express Package – Discover the tropical rainforest aboard the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
You can also treat your family and friends for fine dining in Cairns and have a combined experience throughout the trip.
Kuranda Fares and Class Options
For fares and class options of Kuranda Scenic Railway.
The Heritage Class – The original carriage sections still use the authentic timber which are more than a century years old. These carriages offers an old world charm while travelling.
The Gold Class – This offers customers a premium experience, a little bit of luxury service and extra comfort to have the most memorable experience.
The Royale Class – Is the ideal class for large groups with the minimum of 15 customers. You will be in the refurbished carriages with an available refreshment service served by an exclusive hostess while enroute to the destinations.
You may also want to watch your favourite teams playing live in the stadiums of Cairns, for an extra unique experience on your trip.
Coach Hire Bus Hire can bring you in all of these destinations safely and comfortably. If you would require a coach hire instead, our low–cost coach charter for hire is available to provide a service as well. Contact CoachHire to book transportation needs or get a FREE quotation today.
