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Ankara to Kars Trains

Timetable

How to book

Why book with RM

Route overview

Classes

Luggage

Rating & reviews

Train Map

Comparison table

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FAQ

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Ankara to Kars Train Tickets & Timetable

The Ankara to Kars route features the Dogu Express and the Touristic Dogu Express, offering various classes such as Pullman and Sleeper. Departing from Ankara Gar, the train makes stops at stations like Kayseri, Sivas, and Erzurum. Ticket availability for sleeper cabins is often limited, so it is best to book tickets online early. The price range for a one-way ticket is approximately 450–1,650 TRY ($14–52 USD) depending on the service level. Use the search page for accurate timetable information, departures, and current prices.

13May

Seats

Ankara

Kars

Each ticket has information about

Departure Time

Travel time

Arrival Time

Changes

Brand name / Train type

Ticket price

Evening trains

18:00

AnkaraAnkara Station

26h 26m

20:26

KarsStation

Direct

AH 22010

from

4022 USD

26h 26m, Direct

18:00

AnkaraAnkara Station

20:26

KarsStation

from

4022 USD

Direct

AH 22010

First train

18:00

Last train

18:00

Travel duration

22m

Daily departures

Departure station

Ankara

Changes

direct

Arrival station

Kars

Ticket price

$19

How to Book Train Tickets Online from Ankara to Kars

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24/7 Human Customer Support

Get assistance from our human support team, available 24/7 to answer your questions or assist with your online ticket booking. We ensure a straightforward process from start to finish.

All Travel Classes

All travel classes are supported. You can choose from Pullman seats, covered couchette, or private sleepers offered by the rail supplier for your journey to Kars.

Secure Payment Options

Enjoy a safe booking process with multiple payment options, including credit cards and digital wallets. Our online booking system offers secure transactions when you buy Ankara to Kars tickets.

Book Official Tickets Easily

Rail Monsters provides official tickets for the Ankara to Kars route, ensuring a reliable booking experience. With just a few clicks, you can confirm and purchase your tickets online for the Dogu Express or Touristic Dogu Express.

Flexible Exchanges & Cancellations

We offer flexible exchange and cancellation policies. Easily adjust your travel plans if needed, and modify your Ankara to Kars reservations service based on availability and fare conditions.

Why Book Ankara to Kars Train Tickets with Rail Monsters?

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Ankara to Kars Route Overview

The rail journey from Ankara to Kars is one of the longest in Turkey, spanning over 24 hours. It traverses the diverse landscapes of Central and Eastern Anatolia, passing through rugged mountains and high plateaus. While the standard Dogu Express serves as a functional transport link, the Touristic version includes longer stops for sightseeing. Both offer sleeper options and an onboard dining car. This route is favored by photographers and those traveling to the Caucasus border region.

Travel time

22m

Train type

Anahat

Fastest trip

10m

Longest trip

26m

Ankara

Ankara - The modern capital of Turkey, home to the Ataturk Mausoleum and the historic Ankara Castle. It serves as the primary gateway for the national rail network.

Ankara Station

Polatlı YHT

Eryaman Yht

Sincan

Polatli

22m

Kars

Kars - A city in Northeast Turkey known for its unique Russian-influenced architecture and proximity to the Ani archaeological site near the Armenian border.

Kars

Station

Available Ticket Classes

On the Ankara to Kars line, passengers can choose Pullman (standard seating), Covered Couchette (shared 4-bed compartments), or Sleepers (private 2-bed cabins with a sink and fridge). The Touristic Dogu Express consists exclusively of sleeper wagons to provide more space for long-distance travelers.

from

$4027

Economy Class

Practical Information for Dogu Express Travelers

Luggage Guidelines on Turkish Long-Distance Trains. Traveling to Kars involves several rules for personal items. Below are key points for bringing luggage aboard:

Luggage Allowance

Passengers may bring up to 30 kg of luggage. Items should be manageable by the individual as there are no porters on the platforms. Storage is limited to the space within your compartment or under the seats.

Storage Facilities

Sleeper cabins feature overhead niches and under-bed spaces for bags. In Pullman cars, small racks are available above the seats. Large trunks may be difficult to accommodate in shared couchette areas.

Special Items

Bicycles and oversized sports equipment are permitted if disassembled and packed in appropriate bags. Always arrive at the station early to coordinate with staff regarding large items in the cargo section.

Average rating & reviews

4.7

Among mobile stores and search platforms

4.7

Among mobile stores and search platforms

Easy purchase and process

We went from Tokyo station to Hiroshima for the first time. We bought our tickets online, printed the tickets and had no issues. Great experience

Denise Harston

Thank you very much for your support

Even with very short time frame you suceeded to change our tickets. We are very gratefull. You are the best.

Mitja Bostner

Thank you, David!

Could not thank David from Rail Monsters enough, i made a couple of errors in my booking for japan and he fixed them asap with no hassle, customer service A1

Alan

Local Guide

Wonderful trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Excellent service.

Marius-Adrian Nicoara

Very kind and helpful staff

Very kind and helpful staff who were very diligent and thorough in helping secure tickets for a sold out train. Thank you so much!

Allison Makhoul

Ankara to Kars Map

Plan your trip from Ankara to Kars across the Anatolian plateau. The transport system follows the main east-west line through Kirikkale, Kayseri, Sivas, and Erzincan before reaching Kars. You will travel through the Euphrates valley and past the Munzur mountains. This trek through Turkey highlights the transition from steppe to alpine environments. Use the map to identify key stopovers where the train pauses for local departures and arrivals.

Rail vs Bus vs Plane

Train

Changes

Travel time

Price from

Departures

Rating

Train

Changes

Direct

Travel time

23m

Price from

$19

Departures

Rating

Rail travel between Ankara and Kars is chosen primarily for the scenery and social experience, unlike flights which take under two hours. While buses are faster than the train, they lack the sleeping facilities required for such a long distance. For travelers wanting to see the Anatolian interior, the train remains the most atmospheric choice despite the 26-hour duration.

Plus, it’s a greener choice, reducing your carbon footprint

Travel time

Price range

Travel time

Price range

Travel time

Price range

Winner

Train

Apprx.

22m

$19-$19

Bus

Apprx.

14h 30m

$25-$40

Flight

Apprx.

1h 45m

$45-$110

Ankara to Kars Train

Two main services operate this route: the Dogu Express and the Touristic Dogu Express. The standard Dogu Express runs daily, stopping at over 50 stations and maintaining a steady speed for local transport. The Touristic Dogu Express operates seasonally with fewer passengers and dedicated sleeper cars, stopping for several hours in Erzincan and Erzurum. Speeds vary significantly due to the mountainous terrain, average around 60 km/h (37 mph), with a total travel time of roughly 26 hours. Both trains offer a dining car for refreshments during the trip.

Anahat

Discover Turkey's Anahat train, offering comfort at up to 200 km/h.

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Cities at Both Ends

Ankara is the political center of Turkey, known for its museums and the massive Anitkabir complex. From the historic Ankara Gar, the train departs eastward toward Kars, a city famed for its Baltic-style stone houses and the nearby ancient city of Ani. The journey concludes at Kars Station, placing you near the border highlands and winter resorts. Both cities offer distinct perspectives on Turkish history and architecture.

Ankara

The capital of Turkey, known for its museums and government buildings.

FAQ about the Ankara - Kars Route

How long does the train take from Ankara to Kars?

The journey typically takes between 25 and 27 hours. Delays can occur due to winter weather conditions in the eastern mountains or track maintenance along the single-line sections.

How to book sleeper cabins for Kars?

Sleeper cabins are in high demand and often sell out minutes after release. It is best to check Rail Monsters regularly or use our booking alerts to secure a spot as soon as inventory becomes available online.

How much is the train ticket from Ankara to Kars?

The ticket price for a Pullman seat is approximately 630 to 850 TRY (20 USD - 27 USD). Sleeper cabins on the Touristic service are higher, ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 TRY (80 USD - 160 USD) depending on the season and demand.

Is there food on the Ankara to Kars train?

Yes, both versions of the Dogu Express include a dining car where simple meals, snacks, and hot drinks are served. Many travelers also bring their own food for the 24-hour trip.

Learn more information at our

Country Guide