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Jungfrau Railway - Europe’s Highest Railway

Jungfrau railway train to Junfraujoch running in front of the swiss alpine peaks
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The Jungfrau Railway doesn't provide a just a normal train journey, but a premier travel experience in the Bernese region of Switzerland. This iconic railway winds through the heart of the Swiss Alps to the highest railway station in Europe (Jungfraujoch Station) and offers a window into the alpine wonderland that has captivated travellers for over a century with its stunning scenic treat. Whether you take the historic cogwheel train or the state-of-the-art Eiger Express, the journey promises breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, the magnificent Aletsch Glacier and alpine scenery. This iconic railway to "Top of Europe" presents one of the most spectacular mountain railway experiences in the world and should be a part of every Swiss itinerary!

Key Takeaways

  • Early Booking: Book tickets online in advance for better rates and guaranteed seats.
  • Mandatory Reservations: For 2026, seat reservations are compulsory from May 1 to October 31. The fee is CHF 10 (approx. ₹1180) per person for the Eigergletscher–Jungfraujoch segment.
  • The Eiger Express Edge: This tri-cable gondola cuts the travel time from Grindelwald to the top by 47 minutes compared to the traditional train.
  • 2026 Maintenance Window: The Eiger Express will be closed for maintenance from November 9 to November 20, 2026. During this time, all travelers must use the classic route via Kleine Scheidegg.

Jungfrau Railway 2026 Pricing & Timings

Ticket Type (from Interlaken)Price (Approx. INR)Price (CHF)
Standard Round Trip₹21,500 – ₹24,500CHF 218 – 250
With Swiss Travel Pass (25% Disc)₹14,200 – ₹16,500CHF 145 – 168
With Jungfrau Travel Pass₹7,350 (Fixed)CHF 75 (Top-up)
Good Morning Ticket₹17,150CHF 175
  • First Train: Departs Interlaken Ost at 06:34 AM (May–Oct). Exact timings vary by season.
  • Last Descent: Departs Jungfraujoch at 6:17 PM (High Summer). Exact timings vary by season.

Note: Swiss rail prices are seasonal. Prices are higher in June–August (Peak) and lower in May/September (Shoulder) and children under 6 can travel without a ticket fee.

Highlights of Jungfrau Railway

train down to Kleine Scheidegg in front of swiss alpine ranges
  • It is a journey to the highest railway station in Europe at 3,454 meters, which offers unparalleled scenic mountain views. 
  • Breathtaking 360-degree views of the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. 
  • A chance to experience the ice palace carved inside the glacier.
  • An opportunity to visit one of the highest observatories in Europe, the Sphinx Observatory, for panoramic views of the Alpine region.

Why the Jungfrau Railway is a Must-Experience?

The Jungfraubahn isn't just a mode of transport; it is a mechanical marvel that defies the laws of nature. Here is why it remains the crown jewel of Swiss tourism.

The Engineering Marvel of the Top of Europe

  • A 100-Year Legacy: Traverse the 7-kilometer tunnel blasted through the solid rock of the Eiger and Mönch mountains, a project completed in 1912 that remains to be an engineering wonder till date.
  • Europe’s Highest Station: Arrive at 3,454 meters above sea level, landing you at the highest railway station on the continent.
  • The Eiger Wall Windows: Experience the "Eigerwand" and "Eismeer" intermediate stops, where massive windows cut into the rock face allow you to look out from the middle of a vertical cliff.

Access to UNESCO World Heritage Landscapes

  • Aletsch Glacier Views: The railway provides the easiest and most majestic access to the Aletsch Glacier, a 23km river of ice and a protected UNESCO site.
  • 360-Degree Alpine Panoramas: On clear days, you can witness every peak stretching from the Swiss Mittelland to the Vosges Mountains in France.
  • The Iconic Three Peaks: Get closer than ever to the famous triumvirate of peaks, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.

A Seamless Modern Travel Experience

  • The Eiger Express Integration: The railway perfectly integrates with the Eiger Express tri-cable gondola, allowing you to choose between nostalgic cogwheel charm or 15-minute high-speed aerial views.
  • All-Weather Accessibility: Unlike many mountain excursions, the Jungfrau Railway is a 365-day operation, offering a cozy, heated "eternal winter" experience even in the depths of December.
  • Digital Convenience: With the 2026 mandatory seat reservation system, the visit now includes a guaranteed boarding time, ending the era of long, unpredictable queues at the station.

Bucket-List Attractions at the Terminus

  • Sphinx Observatory: Access one of the highest astronomical research stations in the world via an ultra-fast elevator.
  • Ice Palace Wonders: Walk through a literal glacier where the hallways, walls, and sculptures are carved from 1,000-year-old ice.
  • Chocolate & Culinary Heights: Visit the world's highest Lindt Chocolate Heaven or dine at the Bollywood Restaurant that is open from 01.04.2026 to 31.10.2026, a favorite spot for Indian travelers seeking home-cooked flavors at 11,000 feet.

How to Experience a Complete Jungfrau Railway Journey?

To see the most scenery without repeating your tracks, we recommend the “Loop Route.”

Ascent: The Modern Route (Fastest)

Take the train from Interlaken Ost to Grindelwald Terminal, then board the Eiger Express gondola. You’ll fly past the Eiger North Face to Eigergletscher station, where you switch to the final Jungfrau Railway cogwheel train.

Travel Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes.

Descent: The Classic Route (Most Scenic)

From the summit, take the train down to Kleine Scheidegg, then switch to the Wengernalp Railway toward Wengen and Lauterbrunnen. This route offers views of the famous 72 waterfalls and traditional car-free villages.

Travel Time: ~2 hours.

How to Reach the Jungfrau Railway?

  • From Zurich: Take a direct train from Zurich HB to Interlaken Ost, and then connect to the Jungfrau Railway. The journey takes about 4.5 to 5 hours each way.
  • From Lucerne: Take the scenic GoldenPass train from Lucerne to Interlaken Ost, and then connect to the Jungfrau Railway. The total journey time is 4.5 hours each way.
  • From Geneva: Take a train from Geneva to Interlaken Ost, then follow the mountain railway routes by connecting to the Jungfrau Railway. The total journey time is 5.5 hours each way.

Essential Tips for Your Jungfrau Railway Journey

  • Dress in layers: Temperatures are cold year-round and often below freezing, even in summer. So, pack layers, a warm jacket, gloves and a hat.
  • Book tickets online: Purchase your tickets in advance through the official jungfrau portal to secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak season. 
  • Check weather forecasts: Clear days offer the best views.
  • Altitude sickness: Some visitors experience headaches, nausea or dizziness due to the high altitude. So, it is advised to drink plenty of water.

Is the Jungfrau Railway Journey Worth It?

view of swiss alpine ranges from jungfrau railways train

The Jungfrau Railway is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular mountain journeys in the world and a highlight of any Swiss Alps adventure. The journey offers visitors a unique combination of engineering brilliance, natural beauty and alpine adventure. This is not just a train ride but a journey through Switzerland’s most breathtakingly beautiful landscapes to reach the highest accessible point in Europe. Plan your journey in advance and book your tickets with our Switzerland Tour Packages for the best rates.

Explore Beyond the Jungfrau Railway: Plan Your Jungfraujoch Trip

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is seat reservation mandatory for Jungfraujoch in 2026?

Yes, between May 1 and October 31, 2026, seat reservations are compulsory for the mountain railway section (Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch) via the Official Jungfraujoch Reservation Portal. The fee is CHF 10 (approx. ₹980) per person This ensures you have a guaranteed seat and prevents the 2-hour wait times seen in previous years.

2. Where does the Jungfrau Railway start and end?

The Jungfrau Railway specifically runs from Kleine Scheidegg or Eigergletscher to Jungfraujoch. However, most travellers begin their journey from Interlaken and connect via Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen.

3. How long does the Jungfrau Railway journey take?

From Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch takes approximately 35 minutes. From Interlaken, the fastest route via the Eiger Express takes 1 hour 37 minutes, while the classic route via Lauterbrunnen-Wengen takes around 2 hours.

4. Is photography allowed inside the train and at Jungfraujoch?

Yes! Photography is allowed and highly encouraged. The views are spectacular both during the journey and at Jungfraujoch.

5. Is Jungfrau Railway open in winter?

Absolutely! The Jungfrau Railway operates year-round. Winter offers a magical snow-covered landscape, fewer crowds and lower prices.

6. Are there toilets on the Jungfrau Railway?

No, there are no toilets on the Jungfrau Railway trains. However, toilet facilities are available at all stations, including Kleine Scheidegg, Eigergletscher and Jungfraujoch.

7. What is the best route to Jungfraujoch?

The best strategy is to combine routes: go up via the Eiger Express (fastest and most modern) and descend via Lauterbrunnen-Wengen (classic and scenic with valley views). This way, you experience different landscapes and see more of the Jungfrau Region.

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