Reopening of the Transmongolian: the legendary train connecting Beijing and Ulaanbaatar returns in 2025
Suspended since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and after five long years of interruption, the legendary Transmongolian line is finally back in service. As of June 3, 2025, this train
June 3, 2025 — Suspended since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and after five long years of interruption, the legendary Transmongolian line is finally back in service. As of June 3, 2025, this storied train linking Beijing to Ulaanbaatar welcomes travelers once again in search of adventure, vast open spaces, and nomadic culture. Welcome news for rail enthusiasts, Central Asia lovers, and those drawn to Mongolie.
A historic rail link between China and Mongolie
Inaugurated in 1956, the Transmongolian line stands as one of Asia's most emblematic railway corridors. It stretches over 1,300 kilometers, connecting the sprawling Chinese megacity of Beijing to Mongolie's capital, Ulaanbaatar, traversing the Mongolian steppe—one of the planet's last truly wild regions.
This rail segment forms a branch of the celebrated Trans-Siberian Railway, yet distinguishes itself through a singular itinerary, linking Beijing (or as it's also known, Beijing) to Ulaanbaatar (also spelled Ulaanbaatar) in approximately 30 hours of travel.
Far more than simply a train, the Transmongolian offers a legendary journey—a traverse of spectacular landscapes between China and Mongolie, across majestic Chinese mountains and plains, the endless Mongolian steppes, the Gobi Desert, and the mountains of the Inner Mongolie autonomous region.
Beyond admiring the nation's most remote vistas, the voyage delivers an immersive experience in local culture. You'll make meaningful connections and share rare moments with locals. One thing is certain: it ranks among the most unforgettable experiences to have on a Mongolie journey.
Transmongolian Reopening: What You Need to Know
When does the Transmongolian resume service in 2025?
After being halted in March 2020 due to health restrictions linked to Covid-19, the Transmongolian returns to service as of June 3, 2025.
What are the new Transmongolian schedules and how frequently does the train run?
The Transmongolian offers the opportunity to reach Mongolie and China with an overnight stay aboard. As before, the journey lasts approximately 30 hours. Here are the Transmongolian departure and arrival times for 2025:
- From Beijing, trains depart every Tuesday at 7:27 AM, arriving in Ulaanbaatar on Wednesday at 2:35 PM (Mongolian time);
- From Ulaanbaatar, trains depart every Thursday at 7:18 AM, arriving in Beijing on Friday at 2:35 PM (Beijing time).
| Good to know: Several stops punctuate the journey, notably at Hohhot, Erenhot/Zamyn-Üüd, and Sainshand (the first Mongolian steppes). A 2 to 4-hour stop always occurs at Erenhot/Zamyn-Üüd, the Sino-Mongolian border, to change bogies (rail gauge adjustment) and conduct customs checks. At this time, passengers can step out to observe local scenes and find local food vendors. |
|---|
How much does a Transmongolian journey cost in 2025?
Ticket prices depend on the class type and desired comfort level. Transmongolian trains offer several comfort categories, from standard berth compartments to more luxurious cabins with onboard services.
Two class types are available:
- Second class with 4 berths per compartment;
- First class with 2 berths per compartment.
| Note that sheets, quilts, and pillows are provided. For added comfort, consider packing earplugs and eye masks. |
|---|
Prices remain unchanged from the pre-Covid period. Here are the train ticket rates for the different Transmongolian routes in 2025.
- €190 for Ulaanbaatar–Beijing in 2nd class;
- €260 for Beijing–Ulaanbaatar in 2nd class;
- €360 for Beijing–Ulaanbaatar in 1st class;
- €300 for Ulaanbaatar–Beijing in 1st class.
How do you book train tickets?
Several options allow you to reserve your Transmongolian train tickets:
- At the Ulaanbaatar station ticket counter: note that tickets are scarce, particularly in summer, and station staff don't always provide clear information. This option works if you have time and are traveling outside peak season;
- On the official Mongolian railways website (eTicket UBtz): tickets go on sale 1 to 2 months before departure. The interface is in English, but destinations appear in Mongolian Cyrillic ("Улаанбаатар" for Ulaanbaatar and "Бээжин" for Beijing), which can make navigation less straightforward;
- Contact your local travel agency Horseback Adventure: this gives you access to comprehensive service (visas, transfers, assistance should issues arise...). Though prices are slightly higher than at the station (due to commissions), you'll be assured of your tickets and spare yourself last-minute complications.
Why the Transmongolian's Reopening is an Opportunity Not to Miss in 2025
With border reopenings and the Transmongolian's return to service, Mongolie positions itself anew as a premier destination for travelers seeking authenticity and journeys off the beaten path.
Indeed, Mongolie offers travel experiences that remain relatively undiscovered. It ranks among the world's least densely populated countries, with still-limited tourist traffic. This is therefore the ideal moment to live a travel experience far from mass tourism, within an ultra-preserved natural setting.
The Transmongolian's reopening is also an invitation to embrace a sustainable, low-carbon journey. It's a genuine call to slow travel—to rediscover the charm of unhurried, authentic exploration.
Not to mention the remarkable local culture, unique to the world, and encounters with nomadic peoples and local inhabitants that promise rare, deeply moving moments of human connection.
Our advice for planning your Transmongolian journey in 2025
Booking a Transmongolian ticket requires some advance planning, especially after five years of suspension. Here's our guidance for preparing your train journey between Mongolie and Beijing:
- Reserve your tickets well in advance: particularly if traveling in summer, as tickets are highly sought-after, especially around Naadam or Lunar New Year. To ensure you don't miss out and avoid managing last-minute booking complications, contact us!;
- Verify visa requirements: tourist visas are required for both China and Mongolie. Agencies like ours can handle the paperwork for you, so you need only focus on savoring the moment;
- Pack snacks and entertainment: note that the train does have a dining car with a menu featuring local specialties.
So, ready to experience a rail adventure filled with unforgettable encounters and unexpected discoveries? Contact us without delay to organize your Transmongolian journey on your next Mongolie adventure!
Florine Dergelet
Florine DergeletA web writer for over 10 years, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by an eagerness to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. For her, travel isn't about checking countries off a map—it's about weaving connections (often invisible but always powerful) with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures from the animal kingdom. Her philosophy? To advise travelers ethically, to awaken their consciousness around animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble, sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories often bloom far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, at the edge of a conversation, or in the quiet breath of a world we finally take time to truly listen to…
