Travelling by train between Irkutsk (Russia) and Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia) offers a scenic and atmospheric way to cross Central Asia. Popular with those visiting Lake Baikal or continuing on the Trans-Mongolian Railway, the route is operated by Russian and Mongolian companies on different days.
Here’s the yearly schedule for train No. 305/306.
Winter & Shoulder Season: 1 January – 30 April
During this period, trains run every two weeks per operator, but because Russian and Mongolian trains alternate, there is a train every week in each direction.
- Irkutsk – Ulaanbaatar: Fridays (once every two weeks) and Sundays (once every two weeks). Departure at 06:58, arrival at 06:38 next day.
- Ulaanbaatar – Irkutsk: Fridays (once every two weeks) and Saturdays (once every two weeks). Departure at 15:22, arrival at 14:55 next day.
What this means in practice: Every week there is a train from Irkutsk to Ulaanbaatar — one week departing on Friday, the next on Sunday, and so on. The same logic applies in the opposite direction.
The train from Irkutsk to Ulaanbaatar departs on the following dates: 09/01/2026, 18/01/2026, 23/01/2026, 01/02/2026, 06/02/2026, 15/02/2026, 20/02/2026, 01/03/2026, 06/03/2026, 15/03/2026, 20/03/2026, 29/03/2026, 03/04/2026, 12/04/2026, 17/04/2026, 26/04/2026
Summer Season: 1 May – 9 October
From May to early October, the route runs twice weekly, following the same schedule as in winter. This provides greater flexibility and easier planning during the peak travel season.
- Irkutsk – Ulaanbaatar: Fridays and Sundays. Departure at 06:58, arrival at 06:38 next day.
- Ulaanbaatar – Irkutsk: Fridays and Saturdays. Departure at 15:22, arrival at 14:55 next day.
How to Buy Train Tickets
We can assist with all train tickets in Russia, including international train services. You can easily book the most popular routes online, or alternatively send us a request with your destination, travel dates, and number of passengers, and we will be happy to arrange the tickets for you.
Train tickets from Irkutsk to Ulaanbaatar:
- €195 for second class and
- €245 for first class.