Exploring the Rise of Night Trains: Insights from Monisha Rajesh on Midnight Travel

The Golden Age of Night Trains Returns

Published september 24, 2025

A Resurgence of Rail Travel

A renewed fascination with overnight rail journeys is sweeping the globe, coinciding with the bicentennial festivity of the first passenger train.Award-Winning Travel Writer Shares Immersive Experiences.

This rekindled appeal for train travel mirrors a broader trend towards slower, more immersive tourism, as documented by recent reports from the World Tourism Organization, showing a 15% increase in slow travel bookings in the last year. it’s a move away from the frantic pace of air travel and towards a more scenic, deliberate way to explore the world.

Around the world by Night Train

Renowned travel journalist Monisha Rajesh recently unveiled her latest literary work, “Moonlight Express: Around the World by Night Train,” which chronicles 18 exceptional adventures across continents.

Rajesh’s expeditions include savoring pisco sours while traveling on Peru’s Andean Explorer and witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the Istanbul skyline. these personal accounts are sparking interest in a mode of transport frequently enough overlooked in the age of budget airlines.

Did You Know? The first regularly scheduled passenger train service began in England in 1825,carrying coal and passengers between Stockton and Darlington.

The Allure of the Sleeper Train

The appeal of night trains lies in their unique blend of comfort, convenience, and the chance to wake up in a brand-new destination. Unlike air travel, rail journeys allow passengers to witness the changing landscapes, fostering a deeper connection with the places they visit.

According to a 2024 study by the European Railway Association,passenger numbers on overnight trains across Europe have increased by 20% since 2019,with new routes and upgraded services being introduced to meet demand. The growing concern over the carbon footprint of aviation is also driving passengers towards more enduring travel options like rail.

Mode of Transport	Carbon Emissions (per passenger km)	Travel Time (London to Paris)	Cost (approx.)
Air Travel	240g CO2	1h 15m	$100 – $300
High-Speed Rail	40g CO2	2h 15m	$150 – $400
Night Train	35g CO2	7h 30m	$75 – $200 (sleeper cabin)

Pro Tip: Book sleeper cabins in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and preferred accommodations.

the Future of Rail: Sustainability and Innovation

The resurgence of night trains isn’t just a nostalgic trend; it’s part of a larger movement towards sustainable and responsible tourism. Railway companies are investing in modernizing their fleets, improving onboard amenities, and expanding routes to cater to the growing demand.

Innovations in rail technology, such as high-speed rail lines and electric trains, are further enhancing the appeal of rail travel, making it a viable and attractive alternative to air travel for many journeys. The European Union,for example,has set aspiring targets for shifting a notable portion of freight and passenger transport from road and air to rail by 2030.

Frequently Asked Questions About Night Trains

• What is driving the renewed interest in night trains? The growing desire for slower, more immersive travel experiences, combined with concerns about the environmental impact of air travel, is fueling the resurgence.
• Are night trains more expensive than flying? It varies, but sleeper cabins can frequently enough be competitively priced, especially when considering the added convenience and comfort.
• What are the benefits of traveling by night train? Passengers can save on accommodation costs, wake up in a new city, and enjoy scenic views without the stress of airport travel.
• Are night trains environmentally amiable? Generally, yes. rail travel has a considerably lower carbon footprint per passenger kilometer compared to air travel.
• where can I find information on night train routes? Several websites specialize in rail travel, such as Seat61 and Rail Europe, providing detailed route information and booking options.

What destinations are you hoping to reach by night train? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How does Monisha Rajesh characterize the psychological benefits of night train travel compared to air travel?

The Allure of Sleeper Trains: A Resurgence in Popularity

The rhythmic clatter of train wheels on the tracks, the gentle rocking motion… night trains are experiencing a remarkable comeback. For decades, air travel dominated long-distance journeys, but a growing desire for slower, more enduring, and frequently enough more cozy travel is fueling a renaissance in overnight rail journeys. monisha Rajesh,author of Like a River: On Stories and Travel,has eloquently captured the unique appeal of this mode of transport,highlighting its meditative qualities and the chance for genuine connection wiht the landscapes traversed. This article delves into the factors driving this resurgence, drawing on Rajesh’s observations and exploring the practicalities of modern night train travel.

Why Night Trains Are Gaining Traction

Several key factors are contributing to the renewed interest in sleeper trains:

* Sustainability Concerns: Air travel’s carbon footprint is considerably higher than rail travel. Choosing a night train is a tangible way to reduce your environmental impact. Eco-tourism and sustainable travel are increasingly vital considerations for travelers.

* Cost-Effectiveness: While not always cheaper than budget airlines, night trains can often save on accommodation costs, effectively combining transport and lodging.

* Convenience & Time Savings: Arriving in a new city rested and ready to explore, rather than jet-lagged, is a major draw. You reclaim travel time that would otherwise be lost to airports and security checks.

* The Experience: Rajesh emphasizes the unique, almost meditative quality of night train travel. It’s a chance to disconnect from the constant connectivity of modern life and reconnect with the journey itself. This aligns with the growing trend of slow travel.

* Post-Pandemic Travel Shifts: The pandemic prompted many to reconsider mass tourism and seek out less crowded, more independent travel options.

Monisha Rajesh’s Perspective on Midnight Travel

Rajesh’s work beautifully articulates the psychological benefits of night train travel. She describes it as a space for introspection,observation,and a different kind of connection with the places you’re passing through. Unlike the detached experience of flying, night trains offer a sense of immersion in the landscape. She highlights the social aspect too – the potential for conversations with fellow passengers, a shared experience of the journey. Her writing encourages a shift in perspective, viewing the journey as the destination, rather than simply a means to an end.

Key Night Train Routes in Europe & Beyond

Europe has been at the forefront of the night train revival. Here are some notable routes:

1. ÖBB Nightjet (Austria): Arguably the most extensive network, connecting cities across Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, France, Poland, Hungary, and more. Offers various levels of accommodation, from seated carriages to private sleeper compartments.
2. thello (Italy & France): Operates between paris and Venice,and Rome and Milan,providing a comfortable overnight option.
3. SJ EuroNight (sweden): connects stockholm with various European destinations, including Berlin and Copenhagen.
4. Renfe-SNCF en Cooperación (Spain & France): Revived routes between Madrid and Paris, offering a direct overnight connection.
5. Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland): A classic British experience, offering comfortable cabins and a unique way to travel between London and the Scottish Highlands.

Beyond europe, there’s growing interest in reviving night train routes in other parts of the world, tho progress is slower.

Accommodation Options & What to Expect

Night trains offer a range of accommodation choices to suit different budgets and preferences:

* Seated Carriages: The most affordable option, but not ideal for a full night’s sleep.

* Couchette Carriages: Shared compartments with bunk beds. A good balance between cost and comfort.

* Sleeper Carriages: Private compartments with beds,often including a washbasin and sometimes an en-suite toilet. These are the most comfortable, and thus the most expensive, option.

* Luxury Sleeper Options: Some routes, like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (though not strictly a regular night train service), offer opulent, luxurious accommodations.

Expect to pay a supplement for overnight travel, covering the cost of bedding and the use of the sleeping compartment. Most night trains provide basic amenities like blankets,pillows,and a small bottle of water. Earplugs and an eye mask are highly recommended for a peaceful sleep.

Practical Tips for Night Train Travel

* Book in Advance: Popular routes,especially during peak season,sell out quickly.

* Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On: Toiletries, medication, a change of clothes, and valuables should be kept with you.

* Consider Noise-Cancelling Headphones: To block out the sounds of the train and fellow passengers.

* Download Entertainment: Books, podcasts, or movies to keep you occupied.

* Be Aware of Security: keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.

* Check Luggage Allowance: Different operators have different rules regarding luggage size and weight.

* Familiarize Yourself with Station Layouts: Especially if you have connections to make.