Train Urumqi --> Almaty

Question

Hi, everybody, anybody knows if a train goes from Urumqi to Almaty?

If yes, the train goes nonstop, without changing on the way ?

Thank's, Tony S.

Answer

Currently, there is a train service connecting Urumqi in Xinjiang, China, to Almaty in Kazakhstan. This international route allows travelers to cross the border by rail, but there are important details to be aware of.

Train Route and Operation:

The train runs from Urumqi to Almaty several times per week, depending on the schedule and season.
The journey is not completely nonstop; passengers must go through immigration and customs at the border crossing between China and Kazakhstan. This is usually done at Alashankou on the Chinese side and Dostyk on the Kazakh side.
Border procedures can take several hours, so the train will have a longer stop at the border station for passport and customs checks.

Travel Details:

The total journey time is typically around 16–18 hours, depending on waiting times at the border.
Seats and cabins vary from soft sleepers to hard seats. It is recommended to book soft sleeper cabins for comfort on the long journey.
Tickets can be booked through Chinese railway booking platforms or through travel agencies that handle international trains from Urumqi to Central Asia.

Considerations:

Ensure your passport and any required visas for Kazakhstan are valid before booking, as border control is strict.
Bring food and water for the journey, though some trains have limited dining cars or trolley service.
Schedules may change seasonally, so it’s important to confirm the latest timetable before traveling.

In summary, while there is a direct train connection from Urumqi to Almaty, it is not completely nonstop due to mandatory border procedures. Planning ahead and booking the appropriate class for comfort is highly recommended for this long international journey.

Train Urumqi --> Almaty

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