EASTERN EXPRESS

An Unforgettable Journey with the Eastern Express

The Eastern Express is a unique train experience that offers Anatolia's most pristine nature and culture along approximately 1,310 kilometers from Ankara to Kars. This nostalgic journey takes about 26 hours and attracts interest in all seasons, especially in winter. The Eastern Express, one of Turkey's most important railway lines, has gained great popularity in recent years, also due to the influence of social media. Watching open terrain, river valleys and snow-capped mountain views from the window while traveling in compartments and sleeping cars is a unique experience for travelers and photographers.

Route and Stops

The Eastern Express departs from Ankara Station and passes through the cities of Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum to reach Kars. During the journey, you discover Anatolia's diverse geography by passing through the valleys of the Euphrates and Kızılırmak rivers. Short breaks are given in large cities such as Sivas and Erzincan, while there are a few minutes of stops at small stations. It is also quite popular to take a break for the famous cağ kebabı in Erzurum.

The Anatolian landscape flowing from the train window offers a different beauty in each season. Views stretching from steppes to forests, from valleys to mountains are among the most unforgettable parts of the journey.

The Eastern Express operates daily and tickets sell out as soon as they go on sale. Therefore, it is important to buy tickets a few weeks in advance. The train usually consists of reclining seat, covered couchette and dining cars. Sleeping cars are only available on the Tourist Eastern Express. Breakfast, dinner and snack options are offered in the dining car; you can also consume your own food at the tables.

Sarıkamış's Place and Importance on the Route

Sarıkamış is an important stop close to Kars. The district at 2634 meters altitude is famous for its natural beauty and winter sports. The Bayraktepe Ski Center slopes covered with yellow pine forests are covered with the famous "crystal snow" seen only in the Alps in the world. The ski season lasts from mid-December to the end of March with snow thickness usually reaching 1-1.5 meters. The snow-white forests and mountains visible from the window as the train passes through this region are mesmerizing.

Sarıkamış is also a meaningful stop for history enthusiasts. Commemoration ceremonies are held in the region for soldiers who fell as martyrs in World War I. The historical Katerina Hunting Lodge, built by Russian Tsar Nicholas II without using nails, is also worth seeing. For these reasons, many passengers prefer to get off in Sarıkamış instead of Kars.

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Sarıkamış

Sarıkamış stands out especially in winter months with ski tourism. You can snowboard or ski at Bayraktepe and have a pleasant time on long and wide slopes. Sled safaris (horse-drawn sleds) and various festivals are also organized in the region.

It is also an ideal region for nature walks and photography. Snow-covered pine forests in winter, mountain flowers and plateaus in summer and spring offer visitors a peaceful environment.

Those who want to take a historical tour can visit the Katerina Hunting Lodge in Sarıkamış Center. In addition, Sarıkamış Martyrdom provides an emotional experience. It is possible to taste local delicacies such as goose liver, gruyere and cheddar cheese in small restaurants near the train station. Influences from Erzurum and Sivas cuisine in the region are also included in the menus.

Travel Tips for the Eastern Express

Buy tickets early: Tickets sell out quickly, it is important to buy them as soon as the date is determined.

Carry cash: POS devices may sometimes not work on the train.

Adjust your internet expectations: There is no Wi-Fi in the cars; phones may not work in some areas.

Bring a power source: There are few outlets in compartments, it is useful to have a power bank.

Be prepared for winter: Sarıkamış and Erzurum can be very cold; dress in layers.

Prepare food and drinks: Although there are options in the dining car, there are not many long stops.

Bring things to accompany you for comfort: Music, books and a camera make the journey more enjoyable.

Try regional flavors: Erzurum cağ kebabı, Kars cheeses and goose meat are among the must-try items.

An Unforgettable Experience

The Eastern Express journey is a unique experience that allows you to discover the most remote corners of Anatolia by train. The Beypazarı plain flowing from the window, Erzurum's snowy mountains, Sarıkamış's fairy-tale pine forests and finally Kars's history-filled atmosphere make this journey unforgettable. Sarıkamış's snow views and silence will stay in your mind for a long time. The Eastern Express is an adventure that will be remembered for a lifetime by nature lovers, travelers and everyone taking a train journey for the first time.