The Trans-Mongolian Railway: Moscow-Beijing
I have already talked about the Trans-Siberian Railway generally, and about what might be called the Trans-Siberian proper, which is the Moscow-Vladivostok route. However, a route which tends to be more popular with the tourists is the Trans-Mongolian. This route is the same as the Trans-Siberian as far as Ulan Ude, where it departs from the main Trans-Siberian line, going on to Ulan Bator, before crossing the Gobi Desert, and then going on to Beijing.
This route goes past the shores of Lake Baikal, affording stunning views to the passengers. A number of tourists doing the journey choose to stop over in Ulan Bator for sightseeing, before finally travelling on to Beijing. Ulan Bator is a relatively plain city, but there are some good examples of interesting Mongolian architecture, such as the Gandan Khiid Monastery.
Throughout the journey the restaurant car changes from Russian to Mongolian, and then to Chinese, providing a wonderful variety of food over the six days of the journey.
There are four-berth compartments available at either first class, or second class, as well as deluxe two-berth compartments with shared shower.
With prices ranging from £180 to £260, this is a really cheap way to get to China, and to have an adventure while doing it.
Beijing is a wonderful destination, with lots to see, and you are a mere overnight trainride away from the wonderfully fashionable Shanghai. From Shanghai there are passenger ships to Japan.
The Trans-Mongolian is one of the most enjoyable ways to cross Eurasia by land.
