Dogu Express: A Scenic Train Ride From Kars to Ankara
Recently, I travelled on the Dogu Express, one of the most scenic train journeys not only in Turkey but perhaps in the world.
Doğu Ekspresi is Turkish for Eastern Express, and a ride on this train certainly does not disappoint, no matter you travel.
I took the Dogu Express in winter from Kars to Ankara, which is perhaps when the train is most popular with domestic tourists.
This night train sells out quickly, so getting a seat – let alone a proper berth in a couchette or sleeper – can be quite difficult.
Fortunately, DiscoverByRail can now book tickets for you for the Doğu Express, and on their Doğu Ekspresi page, you can find much more information about this train and precise booking details.
Kars railway station. ©AndyBTravels
The Dogu Express arrives at the station of Kars from the nearby sidings, ready to embark on its epic trip across Turkey to Ankara. ©AndyBTravels
Train destination shield. ©AndyBTravels
Impression of a ride on the Dogu Express
The Dogu Express takes you on a wonderful journey through the remote Turkish interior, offering fabulous views of rugged mountains, wild rivers, and traditional towns.
The trip is particularly special in winter, with thick snow covering the high plateau near Sarıkamış and stunning river views along the railway line as the train winds through the Karanlık Canyon.
In the distance, there are gorgeous vistas of snow-capped mountains.
The pictures and videos below will give you a good impression of the stunning scenery you can admire from the window of the Doğu Express train.
View from the train just after departure from Kars. ©AndyBTravels
Sarıkamış station. ©AndyBTravels
Snow on the mountain pass between Kars and Erzurum. ©AndyBTravels
Window view. ©AndyBTravels
The Doğu Express is a long train, and when it curves around a bend, you can see the carriages ahead or behind. ©AndyBTravels
View from the Dogu Express. ©AndyBTravels
One of the villages along the railway line. ©AndyBTravels
Snowcapped mountains in the distance. ©AndyBTravels
View towards the front of the train. ©AndyBTravels
Hasankale station and hilltop castle. ©AndyBTravels
Crossing a bridge. ©AndyBTravels
View from the rear of the train over the railway track. ©AndyBTravels
Crossing the snowy plains. ©AndyBTravels
View from the train. ©AndyBTravels
Another view back over the railway line. ©AndyBTravels
Dogu Express mountain view. ©AndyBTravels
View from the rear carriage of the train. ©AndyBTravels
More superb mountain views from the train. ©AndyBTravels
Riding through a river gorge. ©AndyBTravels
Scenic stretch of railway line along a river. ©AndyBTravels
River view. ©AndyBTravels
Sunset view from the Dogu Express. ©AndyBTravels
Travel classes
There are two Dogu Express trains operating between Ankara and Kars: the regular Doğu Ekspresi, which features Pullman seats and 4-berth couchettes, and the seasonal Turistik Doğu Ekspresi (Touristic Doğu Express) during the winter months, which offers 2-berth sleepers.
These 2-berth sleepers on the Turistik Doğu Ekspresi can also be booked for solo occupancy.
The Dogu Express also has a dining car, though it’s always wise to bring your own food and drinks on such a long overnight journey rather than rely solely on what’s available on board.
For more details about travel classes and how to book, check the DiscoverByRail Doğu Express page.
Pullman seats. ©AndyBTravels
Sleeper compartment in daytime mode. At night, the seats and top bunk fold down to create two comfortable beds. ©AndyBTravels
Dogu Express dining car. ©AndyBTravels
Conclusion
The Dogu Express is one of the most remarkable night train journeys you can take.
During the long ride between Kars and Ankara, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged landscapes of the Turkish interior.
It’s a truly memorable experience that every passionate train traveller should embark on at least once in their lifetime!
