Hopping on the Trans-Siberian railway train is an experience you simply cannot compare to anything else. With the route of 6.000 miles and 7 time zones, the list of things to see and do along the way might seem endless but do not worry; we hope to help you choose. Here are the 5 things to do along the Trans-Siberian railway.
1. Spend Some Time Near Lake Baikal
One of the most popular stops on the Trans-Siberian railway and top attraction in all of Russia, Lake Baikal is a convenient place for all kinds of activities. You can simply lay back and relax, drinking in the views, or you can treat yourself to a picnic. If you are up to something more active and wish to depart again with your muscles deliciously sore, go kayaking!
2. Explore Ulan Ude
The last stop on one of the most popular routes in the Trans-Siberian railway tours, Ulan Ude, is a cultural gem of centuries-old traditions and monuments. It is home to the Buryats - indigenous people closely related to their neighbors in the south, Mongolians. Get to know the wonders of Tibetan Buddhism and shamanism traditions, visit the temples and one of the only monasteries that survived Soviet times, Ivolginsk Datsan. Ulan Ude is a perfect destination for people interested in tasting completely different cultures and religions.
3. Visit Mongolia’s Naadam Festival
One of the best things about going on a Trans-Siberian railway trip is the variety of cultural events you can see along the way. One of them is the impressive Naadam Festival, a Mongolian folk festival, a sort of celebration of their independence from China. It is also an affair to commemorate the country’s best athletes. There are many activities presented at this festival, such as horse racing and archery, wrestling, and “ankle-boot shooting.” So soak up the national pride of Mongolia - this place will leave you with unforgettable memories.
4. Walk Along The Great Wall of China
Who could possibly miss the opportunity to walk across one of the oldest historical monuments? In order to visit The Great Wall, you should pick the route finishing on or starting at Beijing. Despite being a rich and colorful city in itself, this, however, remains the most popular tourist attraction. The entire wall, including all of its branches, stretches over 13.000 miles, starting at Dandong, and finishing up at Lop Nor-Lake, in southeastern Xinjiang. Put the Great Wall of China on your Trans-Siberian railway itinerary since you never know when you will have the chance to walk through this significant road again.
5. Explore Moscow
Whether you start or finish your Trans-Siberian railway trip in Moscow, exploring it is a must! The center of Russia’s cultural and historical heritage, the capital city, is a perfect mixture of its past and present. Centuries-old churches stand shoulder to shoulder with modern, extravagant buildings and establishments. One of the most popular places to see is the UNESCO-recognized Red Square, where you can visit the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and Moscow Kremlin.
As you can see, the Trans-Siberian railway is not only a great adventure on the world’s most popular routes but also an exciting time off of it. Pick the best routes, make a list of stops along the way, buy the tickets, and off to a once-in-a-lifetime Russian holiday!
