Booking train tickets from Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar

Question

Hi there! I’m looking to book train tickets from Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar. From what I read online, tickets can only be bought at the train station but it’s possible to buy through a local travel agent. I’ve emailed CITS, a state town travel company, but the price quoted was 100USD more, per person, not inclusive of another 5% service charge. I was wondering if anyone would know of a reliable travel agent (that they’ve used before) that would be able to buy train tickets? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Answer

Booking train tickets from Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar can be a bit challenging for foreign travelers because this route is international and the ticketing system in China does not always allow online booking for foreign passports. Here is detailed guidance and options:

1. Buying Tickets at the Train Station

Hohhot Railway Station is the primary place to purchase tickets directly. If you go in person, make sure to bring:

Your passport (required for international train tickets).
Exact travel dates and train times you want.
Cash or local card for payment (some counters may accept foreign cards, but it’s not guaranteed).

Buying at the station is often cheaper, but can be stressful if you don’t speak Chinese, and tickets may sell out quickly, especially in peak travel periods.

2. Using Local Travel Agents

Many travelers opt for local travel agents who handle the purchase for a service fee. Tips for finding a reliable agent:

Look for agencies in Hohhot with experience handling international train routes, especially China-Mongolia trains.
CITS (China International Travel Service) is official, but as you noted, they charge a premium plus service fees.
Other travel agencies that foreigners have successfully used include:

Inner Mongolia Travel Service (Hohhot office)
Hohhot Overseas Travel Agency
Local tour desks near major hotels in Hohhot (they often speak basic English)

Always confirm the total price, including service fees and any delivery method for the ticket (pick-up at station vs. hotel delivery).

3. Timing and Reservations

Tickets for the Hohhot-Ulaanbaatar train may not be available far in advance; it’s usually 1–2 weeks prior.
Peak travel periods (Chinese holidays) may see all tickets sell out quickly.
If possible, plan to pick up the ticket at the station a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute issues.

4. Other Considerations

Check the train schedule in advance. There is typically one train every few days, and the journey can take 12–16 hours.
Ensure your visa for Mongolia is ready in advance if required.
Bring enough cash in RMB for station or agent payments.

In summary, the most secure approach for foreign travelers is to either buy at the Hohhot station with a translator or use a reputable local travel agent. Be prepared for higher service fees but guaranteed access to tickets. If you have flexibility, booking a few days earlier than departure reduces the risk of sold-out trains.

Booking train tickets from Hohhot to Ulaanbaatar

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