The Trans-Mongolian Railway is an iconic journey that traverses breathtaking landscapes, linking Mongolia and China. However, the direct international train service between Ulaanbaatar and Beijing was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic and has yet to resume. Travellers now have alternative ways to complete this route, each with unique benefits and experiences. Below, we explore the current options:
Option 1: Flying from Ulaanbaatar to Beijing or v.v.
For those seeking the quickest and most straightforward route, flying is the ideal choice. Direct flights from Ulaanbaatar to Beijing and v.v. operate regularly, making it the fastest way to connect the two cities. A significant bonus is that you may qualify for visa-free entry to China, as this flight is considered a transit route through Beijing.
Why choose this?
- Convenience: Short travel time and minimal planning.
- Visa-free transit: Simplifies your entry requirements to China.
- Time-saving: Perfect for travellers on a tight schedule.
Option 2: Train Journey via Hohhot
For rail enthusiasts and adventurers, this option offers a combination of Mongolian and Chinese trains with a transit stop in Hohhot, a vibrant city in northern China. The available options vary depending on the direction of your travel. Regardless of whether you are travelling from Mongolia to China or vice versa, the journey will take a total of 3 days, providing ample time to enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the route.
Eastbound from Mongolia to China
In total, the journey to Beijing will take 3 days. You depart from Ulaanbaatar in the evening and arrive in Beijing in the morning, two days later.
Step 1: Ulaanbaatar to Hohhot. Take the train from Ulaanbaatar to Hohhot on either Friday or Monday. The train departs Ulaanbaatar at 20:22 and arrives in Hohhot the following evening at 21:23.
- Train number: in Mongolia – 34, in China – 4654/4651. It is the same train operated jointly by Mongolian and Chinese railways.
- Departure: every Friday and Monday from Ulan Bator.
- Arrival: every Saturday and Tuesday in Hohhot.
- Distance: 1210 kilometers (752 miles).
- Duration: 25 hours.
| Train | Station | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | Ulaanbaatar | — | 20:22 |
| Choir | 00:42+1 | 01:00 | |
| Saynshand | 04:23 | 04:54 | |
| Zamyn-Uud (border check point) | 08:30 | 10:00 | |
| 4654/4651 | Erlian (border check point) | 10:25 | 13:45 |
| Jining South | 19:26 | 19:46 | |
| Hohhot | 21:23 | — |
Step 2: Hohhot to Beijing. Once in Hohhot, you have two options to reach Beijing:
- Overnight train: Take an overnight train that departs after 11:00 PM and arrives in Beijing after approximately 10 hours. This option allows you to travel while you sleep, saving daytime for sightseeing.
- Bullet train: Stay overnight in Hohhot and take a high-speed bullet train the following day. Bullet trains run every hour between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM, with a travel time of just 2.5 hours. This option provides flexibility and a chance to explore Hohhot.
Westbound from China to Mongolia
In total, the journey to Ulaanbaatar will take 3 days. You depart from Beijing in the afternoon and arrive in Ulaanbaatar in the morning, two days later.
Step 1: Beijing to Hohhot. Take a high-speed bullet train. Bullet trains run every hour between 6:10 AM and 8:58 PM, with a travel time of just 2.5 hours.
Step 2: Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar. Take the train from Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar either Friday or Monday. The train departs Hohhot at 21:59 and arrives in Ulaanbaatar two days later at 10:05.
- Train number: in China – 4652/4653; in Mongolia – 33. It is the same train operated jointly by Mongolian and Chinese railways.
- Departure: every Friday and Monday from Hohhotr.
- Arrival: every Sunday and Wednesday in Ulaanbaatar.
- Distance: 1210 kilometers (752 miles).
- Duration: 36 hours.
| Train | Station | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4652/4653 | Hohhot | — | 21:59 |
| Jining South | 23:45 | 00:01 +1 | |
| Erlian (border check point) | 05:26 | 17:10 | |
| 33 | Zamyn-Uud (border check point) | 17:35 | 21:30 |
| Saynshand | 01:05+2 | 01:45 | |
| Choir | 05:19 | 05:50 | |
| Tsagaan khyar | 08:44 | 08:52 | |
| Amgalan | 10:08 | 10:12 | |
| Ulaanbaatar | 10:05 | — |
Optional Excursions while in Hohhot
Enhance your journey in Hohhot by considering an overnight stay to explore its attractions. You can visit the Inner Mongolia Museum to learn about the local culture and history, or wander through the vibrant streets and sample the delicious Mongolian-Chinese cuisine.
For an optional add-on, take a side trip to Datong, known for the spectacular Yungang Grottoes and ancient temples. This additional stop will enrich your journey with historical and architectural wonders before you continue on to Beijing.
Which Option is Right for You?
- Fly if you value speed and simplicity.
- Take the train if you crave adventure, cultural exploration, or a slower, scenic journey.
With either choice, you’ll experience the essence of the historic Trans-Mongolian route while navigating the current travel landscape.
Have you taken the Trans-Mongolian journey recently? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below!