Thrilling 30-Hour Train Adventure Gets Snapped Up Quickly
Originally a commuter train, the Dogu Express has morphed into a tourist sensation, leaving travel enthusiasts grasping at tickets.
Whew, hop aboard the Dogu Express! This 30-hour train journey from Ankara to the scenic Kars has become an alluring escape for adventure lovers. But wait, nabbing tickets is no walk in the park. It's more like an Olympic-level sprint.
Berry Romo, a seasoned Turkey-based travel influencer, has witnessed its popularity soaring among locals and tourists. However, international tourists remain largely in the dark about this hidden gem.
Securing a Seat in Paradise
The trick to clinching tickets is checking online at midnight, with frenzied refresh cells at the ready. When the website updates, it's time to strike. But only if you're quick.
The ticket demand is not purely due to the train itself, but the cities it connects. Travel agencies buoy up by purchasing large ticket batch to cater to organized tours, snatching up seats for excited customers.
However, securing a single ticket one month in advance is an elusive treasure. Even when a rare ticket shows up, it changes hands quickly for a premium.
Embark on an Unforgettable Journey
You might think the winding journey with 38 tunnels and breath-taking views is enough to live for. YES. YES, it is.
Start your adventure in the sprawling capital Ankara, know as the political heart of Turkey. Amid urbanization, the old city still retains a charming historical aura. The "Uros," ancient settlement, and the restorated "Sanat Sokağı" art street in Ulus offers a whiff of the past.
Midway, travelers stop at Ilic, sharing its spotlight with the astonishing Karanalik canyon, boasting a vertical cliff, dramatic twists, and a rock-hugging path. Don't be surprised if you find tourists captivated by the breathtaking sights.
As the night falls, the train rolls into Erzurum, beaming at its rich history, culture, and unusual cuisine.
Explore Off-Beat Destinations
The train's route is no ordinary journey. Its path ventures through the heart of Anatolia, offering an authentic sight into the diverse regions of Turkey.
From the lush green landscapes and serene valleys to the captivating Georgian border, the train ride delivers a splendid blend of cultures and histories.
The "Ani," a medieval Armenian city nearby Kars, is a significant attraction. Well-preserved ruins from 1600 years ago open their door for visitors, bringing them on a journey through history.
Make the Most of Your Adventure
While getting tickets might be squeaky-tight, once onboard, the journey amply rewards you with picturesque scenery, delectable Turkish cuisine, and memories of an unforgettable adventure. The Dogu Express, an efficient and budget-friendly travel option, invites you to uncover the hidden gems of Turkey, hand-in-hand with nature itself.
Get ensnared by the captivating landscapes, lose yourself in the historical charm and be left bewitched by the ethereal beauty of your Turkish exploration.
### References
[1] Turengil, B., & Çetin, F. (2022, January 28). Is It Worth It to Take the 30-Hour Train Trip from Ankara to Kars? Retrieved from [https://www.travelgazete.com/en/headlines/18724-is-it-worth-it-to-take-the-30-hour-train-trip-from-ankara-to-kars](https://www.travelgazete.com/en/headlines/18724-is-it-worth-it-to-take-the-30-hour-train-trip-from-ankara-to-kars)
[2] Amber Travel. (2023). Dogu Express: Train Journey from Ankara to Kars. Retrieved from [https://ambertravel.co.uk/travel-guide/dogu-express-train-journey-from-ankara-to-kars](https://ambertravel.co.uk/travel-guide/dogu-express-train-journey-from-ankara-to-kars)
[3] Ömer, G. (2019, January 3). Just how popular is the Dogu Express train from Istanbul to Kars? Retrieved from [https://www.dailysabah.com/travel/2019/01/03/just-how-popular-is-the-dogu-express-train-from-istanbul-to-kars][1](https://www.dailysabah.com/travel/2019/01/03/just-how-popular-is-the-dogu-express-train-from-istanbul-to-kars)
[4] Dogu Express. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://www.tcdd.gov.tr/en/dogu-treni/dogu-express](https://www.tcdd.gov.tr/en/dogu-treni/dogu-express)
[5] Pekovic, M. (2018, June 14). The History and Culture of Dogubeyazit, Turkey. Retrieved from [https://www.historvius.com/blog/the-history-and-culture-of-dogubeyazit-turkey/](https://www.historvius.com/blog/the-history-and-culture-of-dogubeyazit-turkey/)
