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The Ghan

The Ghan is one of Australia's oldest train services, starting in the late 19th century travelling from the Northern Territory through the harsh interior of Australia to South Australia.

The Ghan, named after the Afghan tribesmen who helped build the rail way has become a legend in Australia's history.

The Ghan has changed a lot since that time, becoming one of Australia's most luxurious train rides. The 3000 Km's it travels from South Australia, through the red centre of Australia, all the way up to the tropic top end was one of the best trips in my life time. It's something I won't forget in a life time.

Before I get into travelling on The Ghan, I want to give you a brief history of the train and the train service as it will serve to show you just how special this train is to Australians.

The Ghan railway service has been in operation since 1878. It was designed to allow more migration to the centre of Australia to develop pastoral and mining opportunities.

Until 1929 most goods and services delivered to central Australia were delivered by camel by Afghan tribesman.

The Ghan hasn't always been the service it is now. The Ghan was notorious for its hazardous service and the many mishaps along the way. This of course has changed now.

In 1980 they upgraded the rail way line and relocated parts of it so it would not flood at certain periods of the year.

The modern Ghan service has changed a lot over the years and the track has doubled in length. The train was then extended again in 2003 to go straight through to Darwin in the top end of Australia.

The trip now from Adelaide in South Australia to Darwin (Via Alice Springs) in the Northern Territory takes two full days.