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High-speed trains, extensive railway networks and large stations are symbols of modern nations, but some countries still lack national railway lines.
There are seven countries where no railway line exists. (Image: AyraNews24x7)
When discussing a country’s transportation system, trains are usually the first thing that comes to mind. High-speed trains, wide railway tracks and large stations are seen as hallmarks of modern countries. However, there are some countries where no national railway line has been laid till date. The reasons for this vary from geography and economics to environmental priorities.
Surprisingly, many of these countries are famous throughout the world for tourism, natural beauty and modern lifestyle. Today we will know about seven countries where there is no railway line.
Andorra
Andorra, a small European country located between France and Spain, lacks national or public railway lines. Although a railway line from Toulouse, France, reaches about 1.2 kilometers from the border, Andorra has no rail infrastructure. Its transport system is entirely road-based, with a strong bus network for connectivity within the country and to France and Spain.
bhutan
Located in the Himalayas, Bhutan is known for its peace, culture and commitment to environmental conservation. It is one of the few Asian countries that does not have a railway line. The country’s rugged mountainous terrain, low population and environment-friendly policies make railway construction technically and ecologically challenging. Currently, travel within Bhutan is by road, and international travel is by air. While there are plans to connect southern Bhutan with India’s West Bengal, no railway track has been laid yet.
iceland
Iceland has never had a permanent railway network. Temporary industrial railway lines were built during hydroelectric projects but were later removed. Volcanic terrain, low population and scattered settlements make railways impractical. People travel mainly by car, bus, domestic flights and ferry services.
maldives
The Maldives, a group of 26 atolls and more than 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean, is a country where railways are almost impossible. Travel between the islands is by ferries, speedboats and seaplanes. On individual islands, people use bicycles, scooters or golf carts. Trains are unimaginable in Maldives.
Kuwait
Despite its oil wealth, Kuwait has no operational railway or metro system. The proposed Kuwait Metropolitan Rapid Transit System was canceled in 2023 due to financial and administrative reasons, leaving the country dependent on road transport. However, as part of the GCC railway project connecting the Gulf countries, a rail line from Kuwait to Oman is planned, which is expected to be operational by 2030.
oman
Oman, located in the Middle East, does not have a national railway network. Only one tourist train runs to Al Hoota Caves, giving visitors access to the beautiful location. The country has prioritized highway and road networks but plans are underway to build a national railway network spanning approximately 1,300 miles in the future.
cyprus
Cyprus, located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, once had a railway network. The trains ran from 1905 to 1951 but were discontinued due to financial losses. A mining railway was later built but closed around 1974. Currently, there are no railway lines in Cyprus, and transportation is entirely dependent on roads.
January 01, 2026, 4:12 PM IST
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