
Best Train Journeys Around the World in Öskemen, East Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan
1. Trans-Siberian Railway
Longest railway in the world connecting Moscow to Vladivostok, offering a scenic journey through Siberia and Ural Mountains.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience different cultures along the way as it passes through various regions of Russia.
- Natural Wonders: Marvel at the stunning landscapes and remote villages, including Lake Baikal - the deepest freshwater lake in the world.
- Historical Significance: Travel a route filled with historical importance that revolutionized global trade and communication.
2. Trans-Mongolian Railway
Journey from Moscow to Beijing through Mongolia, passing the Gobi Desert, Ulaanbaatar, and Terelj National Park.
- Cultural Diversity: Experience the rich cultures of Russia, Mongolia, and China with opportunities for authentic local interactions.
- Nomadic Landscapes: Discover vast grasslands and nomadic life as you travel through remote parts of Mongolia.
- Historical Monuments: Visit landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, Terelj National Park, and the Gobi Desert's dinosaur fossils.
3. Iron Ore Railway
Ride through Kazakhstan's vast iron ore fields from Aktogay to Balkhash on this unique train journey.
- Industrial Wonder: Observe the immense scale of Kazakhstan's mining industry with a front-row seat.
- Natural Landscapes: Admire the vast steppes, lakes, and mountains of Eastern Kazakhstan along the way.
- Local Insights: Gain an understanding of Kazakhstan's mining history and its role in shaping the region.
4. Almaty-Astana High Speed Train
Travel between Kazakhstan's two largest cities quickly and comfortably.
- Modern Infrastructure: Experience the efficiency of one of Central Asia's fastest trains.
- Urban Exploration: Visit two major cities, Almaty and Astana, rich in culture, history, and modern architecture.
- Time Efficiency: Save travel time while enjoying the comfort of high-speed train travel.
5. Almaty-Bishkek Train
Journey from Almaty to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, discovering scenic landscapes and rich cultures.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience the unique blend of Central Asian and Russian influences in both countries.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking mountain ranges and vast steppe landscapes along the way.
- Historical Sites: Discover ancient Silk Road cities, traditional villages, and modern Bishkek.
6. Turksib Train
Travel from Astana to Turkmenbashi through the Kazakhstan desert, with stops at unique attractions.
- Desert Adventure: Explore the expansive Karakum Desert and its fascinating geology.
- Cultural Discovery: Learn about Turkmenistan's rich history and unique customs along the way.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the stunning landscapes, including the Darvaza Gas Crater and ancient Merv.
7. Ulaan-Ude Express
Journey from Ulan-Ude to Irkutsk, witnessing the stunning Lake Baikal and Siberian landscapes.
- Natural Marvels: Experience one of the world's deepest freshwater lakes – Lake Baikal.
- Cultural Immersion: Discover Buryat culture and learn about their unique beliefs and traditions.
- Historical Significance: Travel through regions significant in Russian history, including the gold rush era of Yakutia.
8. Krasnoyarsk-Irkutsk Train
Journey through Siberia from Krasnoyarsk to Irkutsk, taking in stunning landscapes and historical sites.
- Natural Wonders: Marvel at the endless forests, rivers, and mountains of Siberia.
- Cultural Experience: Meet locals from various ethnic groups living in this remote region.
- Historical Insights: Learn about the Yenisey Gold Rush and other significant moments in Siberian history.
9. Trans-Manchurian Railway
Travel from Moscow to Beijing through Manchuria, passing beautiful landscapes and major cities.
- Cultural Exchange: Experience the diverse cultures of Russia, China, and Mongolia along the way.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the rolling hills, forests, and rivers in the Manchurian region.
- Historical Significance: Travel a route filled with historical importance that revolutionized global trade and communication.
10. Trans-Siberian Arctic Route
Journey from Moscow to Vladivostok through the Siberian Arctic, experiencing remote landscapes and unique attractions.
- Natural Wonders: Discover the untouched beauty of the Arctic tundra and its diverse wildlife.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience the lives of people living in one of the world's most remote regions.
- Historical Significance: Travel a route that was once critical for trade and communication between East and West.
11. Trans-Iranian Railway
Journey from Tehran to Mashhad through the heart of Iran, passing ancient cities and beautiful landscapes.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Persian culture, history, and hospitality.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the rugged mountains, vast deserts, and lush oasis landscapes.
- Historical Significance: Discover ancient Persian cities like Persepolis, Esfahan, and Shiraz along the way.
12. Andean Explorer
Travel through the stunning Andes Mountains of Peru and Bolivia, visiting ancient ruins and picturesque towns.
- Cultural Experience: Experience the rich traditions and customs of indigenous Peruvian and Bolivian cultures.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, including Lake Titicaca and the Colca Canyon.
- Historical Significance: Visit ancient Incan ruins like Machu Picchu and Sacsaywaman along the way.
13. Rocky Mountaineer
Journey through the Canadian Rockies, taking in stunning landscapes and historic sights.
- Natural Wonders: Marvel at the majestic peaks, glaciers, forests, and lakes of the Canadian Rockies.
- Cultural Experience: Experience the rich history and culture of Western Canada's First Nations peoples.
- Historical Significance: Visit historic towns like Banff, Jasper, and Kamloops along the route.
14. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Travel in luxury through Europe on this iconic train journey, visiting famous cities and scenic landscapes.
- Luxury Travel: Experience elegance and comfort in vintage-style carriages.
- Cultural Immersion: Visit iconic European cities like Venice, Paris, and Vienna.
- Historical Significance: Travel a route that has been synonymous with opulence and adventure since the late 1800s.
15. Glacier Express
Journey through Switzerland's stunning Alps on this scenic train journey, taking in glaciers, valleys, and picturesque villages.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland's Alps, including glaciers, forests, and rivers.
- Cultural Experience: Experience Swiss culture in picturesque villages like Zermatt and St. Moritz.
- Historical Significance: Travel a route that showcases Switzerland's rich history and engineering feats.