Indian Pacific

  • Indian Pacific

Indian Pacific

Train Reviews

Indian Pacific

Indian Pacific Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Train for You

The Indian Pacific is a true transcontinental titan. Taking its name from the two oceans it connects, this legendary train travels from the sparkling waters of the Pacific Ocean in Sydney to the Indian Ocean in Perth (via Adelaide).

Covering 4,352 kilometers in just under four days, it holds the record for the longest straight stretch of railway track in the world across the desolate and hauntingly beautiful Nullarbor Plain. Like The Ghan, this is a luxury cruise on rails, offering premium dining and spectacular off-train excursions in 2026.

Indian Pacific at a Glance

  • Operator: Journey Beyond Rail
  • Route: Sydney – Adelaide – Perth (and vice versa)
  • Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
  • Best For: Crossing Australia from coast to coast, witnessing the Blue Mountains and the Nullarbor Plain, and luxury slow travel.
Indian Pacific

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

The Indian Pacific shares the same premium service standards, menus, and carriage designs as The Ghan.

Gold & Platinum Service

Passengers choose between Gold Service (Single, Twin, or Premium) and Platinum Service. Platinum offers double the space of Gold Twin, a larger en suite, and access to the Platinum Club lounge. Regardless of your class, the rhythm of the train sets the pace for socializing in the Outback Explorer Lounge and enjoying incredible, regionally sourced meals in the dining cars.

The Nullarbor Experience

One of the major highlights of the Indian Pacific is the off-train experience in Rawlinna (a remote sheep station on the Nullarbor Plain). Depending on the direction of travel, passengers disembark for an unforgettable dinner under a canopy of bright Outback stars, featuring roast lamb and live acoustic music beside a bonfire.

Luggage Allowance & Policies

The Indian Pacific’s luggage rules are identical to the rest of the Journey Beyond luxury fleet. You should only pack what you need for four days in a soft carry-on bag, and check everything else.

Service Level Cabin Luggage (Per Person) Checked Luggage (Per Person)
Gold Service 1 small piece + 1 garment bag 2 pieces (Up to 30kg each)
Gold Premium  1 small piece + 1 garment bag 3 pieces (Up to 25kg each)
Platinum Service 1 small piece + 1 garment bag 3 pieces (Up to 30kg each)

Important Check-In Note: Your checked luggage is stored in a separate luggage van that cannot be accessed during the four-day journey. Ensure all medications, electronics, and valuables are in your small cabin bag.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: The sheer scale of the journey is mind-boggling. The staff do an incredible job of keeping guests entertained, well-fed, and comfortable across a massive geographical distance.
  • The Lows: The journey takes nearly four days. If you are someone who struggles with motion or gets restless easily, being confined to a train (albeit a luxurious one) for that length of time might prove challenging.

Pros & Cons of Traveling on the Indian Pacific

Pros:

  • An effortless way to cross the entire width of Australia.
  • All-inclusive dining, premium wines, and unique off-train excursions.
  • The outdoor dinner under the stars at Rawlinna is legendary.

Cons:

  • Premium price tag.
  • Bunk beds in the standard Gold Twin cabins can be difficult for mobility-impaired guests.
  • The train travels through vast areas with absolutely zero mobile phone reception or Wi-Fi.

Have You Journeyed on The Ghan?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the Indian Pacific train take?

The full journey from Sydney to Perth (or Perth to Sydney) takes four days and three nights, covering a total distance of 4,352 kilometers. You also have the option to book a shorter segment, such as Sydney to Adelaide or Adelaide to Perth.

What is the difference between Gold and Platinum on the Indian Pacific?

Platinum cabins are significantly larger, offering a double or twin bed arrangement that doesn’t require climbing a ladder, plus a full-sized shower. Platinum guests also enjoy private transfers to/from the station and access to the exclusive Platinum Club carriage for dining.

Does the Indian Pacific stop along the way?

Yes. Included off-train excursions occur in Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook, and Rawlinna, allowing you to stretch your legs and explore local history and landscapes.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.