The 2,215-kilometer Trans-Mongolian Railway, completed in 1956 after nearly two decades of construction, now offers an unforgettable journey of discovery for travelers.
Horses have long been the main means of transportation for Mongolians, but today, trains have become a popular choice for those looking to experience the beauty of this Central Asian country, according to CNN. The railway connects impressive destinations, including majestic taiga forests, vast steppes and the vast Gobi Desert.
The train not only offers panoramic views of Mongolia’s unspoiled nature, but also allows travelers to admire remote towns and settlements along the tracks. In winter, the scenery becomes even more magical when Mongolia is covered in a blanket of snow. “The Trans-Mongolian Railway is a great addition to the Moscow to Beijing journey, offering the chance to explore the vast grasslands, camel and yurt camps in nomadic settlements,” says Mark Smith, British rail travel expert and founder of The Man in Seat 61.
The capital, Ulaanbaatar, with over 1.6 million residents, is the country’s thriving hub and is now home to more than half of Mongolia’s population. The Trans-Mongolian Railway is more than just a means of transport, it is also a window into the rich and diverse world of a country full of mystery and charm.
The Trans-Mongolian Railway: A Worthwhile Journey Through Majestic Landscapes
The Trans-Mongolian Railway has become one of the must-do journeys for international travellers, says Christian Stanley, director of Trans-Siberian Travel in London. “There are still a lot of people waiting to experience this train,” he said. The journey from Ulaanbaatar to Erenhot, a town on the Mongolian-Chinese border, is a great opportunity to explore the vast steppe and Gobi desert in a day or night.
The Trans-Mongolian Railway has undergone many improvements over the years. Soviet diesel locomotives have been replaced with new American models, while modern carriages are equipped with four- and two-person compartments with amenities such as lockable doors, small tables, power outlets and air conditioning/heating. Passengers are provided with sheets, pillows and blankets, with Western-style toilets or private bathrooms depending on the type of compartment.
Laura Jopson, a travel blogger from New Zealand, shared her experience on her blog Laura the Explorer: “The train compartments are comfortable, warm and quiet. Every evening, the staff convert the seats into bunk beds. While luggage can be difficult to access during the journey, a small backpack is ideal.”
The train’s dining car offers local specialties such as lamb and rice, along with other international menus. According to Mark Smith, the train offers a rich dining experience, with the option to top up at convenience stores in Ulaanbaatar or at rest stops along the way. Laura Jopson notes that the train car is beautifully decorated with carved wood and the food is delicious and reasonably priced.
Passengers should note that the toilets on the train are basic but clean, and that they should prepare Mongolian cash (Tugrik) for on-board transactions. For those interested in booking a tour, Intrepid Travel Group has announced an 11-day “Trans-Mongolian Railway Experience” package scheduled to depart in June 2025, combining road and rail travel between Beijing and Ulaanbaatar. This journey is not only an opportunity to experience the wild beauty of Mongolia but also to enjoy an impressive and memorable trip.
