World Famous Kuranda Scenic Railway
The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is a spectacular journey comprising unsurpassed views of dense rainforest, steep ravines and picturesque waterfalls.
This famous railway winds its way on a journey of approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Cairns to Kuranda, the village in the rainforest.
Rising from sea level to 328m, the journey to Kuranda passes through World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, past beautiful and spectacular waterfalls and into the awesome Barron Gorge.
Upon reaching the village of Kuranda a rich assortment of interesting attractions and unique shopping experiences awaits you.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway can be joined at Cairns Railway Station or Freshwater Connection for morning departures to Kuranda. Journeys from Kuranda Station to Cairns run in the afternoon.
The journey includes an English commentary and all passengers receive a commentary companion which includes information on the history of the railways construction, a trip map and a map of Kuranda.
Cairns Station, with its dedicated themed platform, is centrally located and within easy walking distance of most city accommodations.
A popular departure point is Freshwater Connection, situated in a quiet, leafy suburb of Cairns visitors can enjoy a hearty breakfast in authentic antique railway carriages. This is an ideal way to begin a Kuranda railway journey. Freshwater Connection station also includes a museum, pioneer cottage, gift shop, and function rooms.
Kuranda Station is world renowned for its tropical gardens and historic significance. It is possibly one of the most photographed railway stations in the world.
The heritage-listed buildings blend with the tropical surrounds providing a relaxed environment to enjoy.
The Kuranda Railway Tea Rooms at the station offer a great range of souvenirs and refreshments.
Scenic Rail passengers can also enjoy the special -Royale Service-, which includes a personal hostess to provide live commentary on historic events and places of interest en route to Kuranda.
Most passengers complement their rail journey with a trip on Skyrail Rainforest Cableway.
This experience presents a very different view of the rainforest and the Barron Gorge. Package tours are also available incorporating Hot Air ballooning, go-kart racing, and Great Barrier Reef cruises.
Kuranda Village
The picturesque mountain retreat of Kuranda Village is just 25km northwest of Cairns. This breathtaking area is surrounded by World Heritage Rainforest and Waterfalls.
Visitors can travel to Kuranda various ways, the most popular being either by the Historic Kuranda Scenic Railway or the World Famous Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Naturally travel by car or bus is easily achieved within a 30 minute drive of Cairns all year round regardless of the weather conditions.
Kuranda has come a long way from its initial origins as a centre for those choosing an alternative lifestyle in the late 60’s. Historic Buildings from the villages past now house a variety of up market and trendy restaurants, cafes and bars with a myriad of affordable gift and souvenir shops.
Kuranda fosters a true casual and laid back feel, but also with a style and sophistication that sets it apart from other Cairns Highlands Venues and Attractions.
Kurandas shops and markets with their exotically handcrafted goods, Aboriginal artifacts, restaurants and coffee shops make Kuranda a well known day destination.
Why not take some time to visit some of Kuranda’s many first class nature based attractions, which include koalas, butterflies, native and exotic birds, kangaroos and reptiles.
Do not miss out on the famous Barron Falls, which are breathtaking at any time but even more so in the wetter months of the year.
If you are fortunate enough you can also see traditional Aboriginal dancers perform or travel on a riverboat on the mighty Barron River or join an Army Duck ride through the rainforest.
