This Melbourne Forest Ride Lets Travellers Sit On The Edge For The Best Views

Travel often surprises us with experiences that feel straight out of a postcard. Something similar happened to travel vlogger Saniya Zaveri when she rode Australia's famous Puffing Billy train. Located in the Dandenong Ranges, it is one of the few trains in the world where passengers can legally sit on the carriage window sills with their legs hanging out. She shared her experience in a video on Instagram, showing her enjoying the scenic steam-train ride through lush forests while passengers sat on the window sills.

The unique ride, which runs along its original mountain track near Melbourne, once served local communities living along the hillside in the 1900s. The cabins carried passengers as well as livestock, timber and plants. Today, Puffing Billy has become a favourite among tourists who want to soak in nature while reliving the charm of a historic steam railway.

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Her caption read, "Bucket list unlocked. Riding the iconic Puffing Billy Railway - Australia's oldest steam train - and yes, you can actually sit on the window sill and dangle your legs through the rainforest. Unreal. Pro tips: Book at least a month in advance (it sells out fast). Choose the Belgrave - Lakeside route. For the best views and the iconic bridge crossings from Belgrave to Lakeside, sit on the right side."

Check out the full video below:

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A post shared by Saniya Zaveri | Travel + Lifestyle ???? (@saniyaz__)

All You Need To Know About Puffing Billy Railway

The Puffing Billy Railway is a century-old steam train that operates in Melbourne's scenic Dandenong Ranges. It is best known for its open-sided carriages, where passengers can sit on the window sills and let their legs dangle as the train chugs through lush forests. Running daily, this heritage railway covers a 24 km stretch between Belgrave and Gembrook, passing towering mountain ash trees and charming timber trestle bridges along the way.

What Makes Puffing Billy Unique

Puffing Billy is one of the few railways in the world where sitting on the window sill is not just allowed but considered part of the experience. The railway dates back more than 100 years and originally served the hill communities of the Dandenong Ranges, transporting everything from passengers to livestock and timber. Today, it offers visitors a nostalgic, open-air journey through rainforest landscapes while preserving the charm of an early steam-era railway.

Best Time To Visit Puffing Billy

The ideal time to take the Puffing Billy ride is during spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer mild weather, vibrant foliage and clear views of the surrounding forests, making the journey even more picturesque.

Ticket Prices And Booking Tips

Ticket prices vary depending on the route and passenger type. Adult fares usually range between $82 and $88. Since tickets tend to sell out well ahead of time, especially during weekends and school holidays, it is strongly recommended to pre-book online.

Popular Routes And Journey Duration

The railway operates two main routes:

• Belgrave to Lakeside (return): Approximately 3 hours
• Belgrave to Gembrook (return): Approximately 5.5 hours

Both routes offer sweeping forest views, iconic trestle bridge crossings and ample opportunities for photography. The Belgrave to Lakeside route is particularly popular among first-time visitors.

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Food And Facilities At Lakeside Visitor Centre

Travellers can enjoy a range of dishes at the family-friendly Railway Cafe located inside the Lakeside Visitor Centre. The centre also houses interactive exhibits, souvenir shops and spaces where families can relax before continuing the journey or heading back to Belgrave.

Whether you are chasing nostalgia or simply looking for a scenic escape, Puffing Billy promises a journey you will not forget.