Moskova–Kazan–Jekaterinburg–Novobirsk–Krasnojarsk–Irkutsk–Baikal–
Ulan-Ude–Ulan Bator–Peking tai päin vastoin

Englanniksi opastetut matkat luksusjunalla 2013: 

GO EAST
July 5-19 & August 16-30

GO WEST
July 13-27 & August 24-September 07

Hinta alk. 4375 € 

- 9 nights accommodation onboard the private train Trans Siberian train
- 1 night accommodation onboard the private Chinese train Standard Class compartments
- 1 night accommodation in Moscow hotel****
- 1 night accommodation in Terelj gers
- 2 nights accommodation in Beijing hotel****
- full board throughout the tour, starting with welcome dinner on the first day and terminating with breakfast on the last day (go east) and starting with breakfast on the second day and terminating with breakfast on the last day (go west)
- bathroom set (towel and soap)
- bath robe and slippers
- tea/coffee throughout the day
- extensive trip on the ancient rail lines of the Trans-Siberian Railway directly on the banks of Lake Baikal with photo Stop
- luggage service on the railway stations
- brief informative lectures on the Trans-Siberian railroad as well as the geography and history of the country
- doctor on board (from Moscow till Erlian and from Erlian till Moscow)
- culinary specialties (Beijing Duck, Caviar and vodka tasting, picnic on Lake Baikal)
- transfers without guide assistance airport – hotel – airport in Moscow and Beijing
- excursions according to the program with local guides
- English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese speaking guides (guarantee with language group from 10 persons on board the train)
- Intourist English Speaking Tour Director throughout the tour

Services not included:
- International Flights
- Visa Russia, Mongolia, China
- Gratuities

DATES AND ITINERARY

GO EAST: July 5-19, 2013

GO WEST: July 13 - 27, 2013

GO EAST:  MOSCOW – BEIJING

GO WEST: BEIJING – MOSCOW

DAY-BY DAY PROGRAM

GO EAST: MOSCOW – KAZAN – EKATERINBURG – NOVOSIBIRSK – KRASNOYARSK – IRKUTSK – CIRCUM BAIKAL RAIL ROAD – ULAN UDE – ULAN BATOR – ERLIAN – BEIJING

DAY 1 MOSCOW
Arrival in Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, a city of great historical and cultural traditions. INTOURIST representative meets you at the airport. Transfer to the hotel for the overnight stay. Welcome dinner. Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

DAY 2 MOSCOW
Guided city tour: Prospect Mira (Peace Avenue), Ostankino TV Tower, Garden and Boulevard Ring, the Moskva River, Novodevichiy (New Vergin) Convent, Vorobiovy Gory (Sparrow Hills), Moscow State University, Poklonnaya Gora (Bow Hill) , Victory Park, Kutuzov Avenue, The Federal Government Building (White House), New Arbat Avenue, Tverskaya Street. The afternoon tour: historical Red Square, the Kremlin territory including gold-domed Cathedrals with magnificent ancient mural icon paintings, Armory Chamber with the unique collection of treasure objects once in the possession of Russia’s Tzars. In the evening transfer to the railway terminal to board the INTOURIST EXPRESS. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 3 KAZAN
Arrival in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, a city of a 1,000 year-long history. Guided city tour: Kazan Kremlin, major historical citadel in the 16th -18th centuries, historical Qol-Sarif Mosque and Minarets, the Square of Freedom, magnificent Orthodox Churches and Cathedrals, President’s Palace, a folk show. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 4 EKATERINBURG
Arrival in Ekaterinburg, the major historic, economic and administrative center of the Urals Region, an area which gave a rise to Russia’s industry in the 18th century. Ekaterinburg is a natural border between Europe and Asia. The city is also known as a place of exile and execution of Russia’s last Tzar Nicholas II and his family in 1918. Guided city tour visiting architectural monuments of Russian classicism of the 18-19th centuries, the Obelisk marking the virtual Europe-Asia border, the Temple-on-Blood Church erected in place of Ipatiev’s
House where the Tsar’s family spent their last days. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 5 NOVOSIBIRSK
Arrival in Novosibirsk, the biggest city in Siberia and major scientific center, the seat of Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Guided city tour: the Red Avenue, Lenin Square, Opera and Ballet Theatre, the geographical centre of Russia – the chapel, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the railway station historic building, the Ob River embankment, the Trans Siberian Bridge. Excursion to the open air museum of railway machinery with an extensive exposition of the railroad history, locomotives and cars. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 6 KRASNOYARSK
Arrival in Krasnoyarsk, the largest Siberian port on the Yenisei River. The history of the city, founded by the first Russian explorers of Siberia, dates back more than 300 years. Guided city tour of the key landmarks. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 7 IRKUTSK
Arrival in Irkutsk, the oldest city in Eastern Siberia, a historical transit point on trade routes between Russia and China. Irkutsk is situated on the picturesque Angara River in close vicinity of Lake Baikal. City tour: Kirov Square, Eternal Flame Memorial, Orthodox churches and cathedrals, Bell Tower to admire a magnificent panoramic view on a city, the old wooden town, Museum of Decembrists with a private classical concert. Also included is a visit to the Taltsy open-air museum of wooden architecture. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 8 LISTVYANKA AND THE CIRCUM BAIKAL LINE
Arrival at Listvyanka Village to board the train for a ride on the Circum Baikal Line. The Circum Baikal Line was part of the Trans-Siberian Mainline that connected the Eastern and Western rail lines separated by the Baikal Lake. Nowadays the Circum Baikal Line, no longer on the Trans-Siberian main route, is an open-air museum. There is not much traffic on this railroad, only a few local and excursion trains. The road starts from the dead end at Port Baikal, a small settlement nearby Listvyanka Village and goes along the picturesque southern shore of Lake Baikal to join the Trans Siberian Mainline at Sludyanka Village. A photo stop is arranged at a small village where the passengers can get off the train and put their feet into the clear and cold water of Lake Baikal. A barbeque by the lakeside is also part of the program. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 9 ULAN UDE
Arrival in Ulan Ude, the capital of Buryatia, a former outpost of Russian Cossacks set up in the 17th century at the junction of the Selenga and the Uda Rivers. The settlement became a busy crossroad of trade routes between China, Mongolia, Russia and Europe. Nowadays Ulan Ude is the major regional city in Russia and prominent center of the Buddhist culture. The program includes a visit to local Datsan, prominent Buddhist Monastery and centre of Buddhism in Russia. On the way to Mongolia, the INTOURIST EXPRESS crosses the Russian border at Naushki and the Mongolian border at Sukhe Bator and joins the Trans-Mongolian Mainline. All passport and customs control formalities are done on board the train. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 10 ULAN BATOR AND TERELJ
Morning arrival in Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Transfer to Terelj National Park 70 km away. At Terelj Tourist Camp time is given to set up gers and freshen up before lunch.
After lunch excursion to the beautiful Turtle Rock to be followed by a short hiking tour to the top of the Overlooking Hill to have a panoramic view on Terelj National Park. Horse riding. Disassembling and setting up a smaller Mongolian ger. Admire the sunset and bright shining night stars in the wide steppe. Accommodation in Gers.

Day 11 TERELJ AND ULAN BATOR
In the morning a visit to a nomadic family to learn the authentic lifestyle of Mongolian nomads and try traditional dairy food. After lunch transfer to Ulan Bator. Visits to Sukhbaatar Square, Gandan Monastery, National History Museum, the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum. Climb to the Zaisan Hill to admire the Ulan Bator panorama. Small shopping tour to buy Mongolian souvenirs. In the evening Mongolian traditional music and dance performance. Board the INTOURIST EXPRESS to continue the voyage in destination to China, enjoy wonderful Mongolian sceneries with gers, nomads and horses passing by. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 12 ERLIAN (TRANSIT TOWN)
In the morning arrival at the Mongolian border village of Zamyn-Uud and the Chinese border town of Erlian. All passport and customs control formalities take place on board the train.
At Erlian the Russian railway gauge system (“broad gauge” 1520 mm wide) meets the China railway gauge system (“standard gauge” 1435 mm wide).Thus the INTOURIST EXPRESS terminates at Erlian. The connecting Chinese train will be waiting on the same platform. While service staff transfer passengers’ luggage to the private Chinese train, passengers enjoy a sumptuous Chinese welcome lunch. In the afternoon the train goes via the Gobi Desert famous for its spacious territory, most severe environment and unique fauna. Accommodation on board the private Chinese train.

DAY 13 BEIJING
In the morning arrival in Beijing, the capital of China, a city of ancient history and culture, unique architectural monuments and modern dynamic life. Full day guided city tour: Forbidden City ruled by Emperors and khans and unreachable for ordinary people, the Imperial Palace. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 14 BEIJING
In the morning excursion to the Great Wall and after lunch to the Ming Tombs. Farewell dinner at a Beijing Duck Restaurant. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 15 BEIJING
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport.



DAY-BY DAY PROGRAM

GO WEST: BEIJING – ERLIAN – ULAN BATOR – ULAN UDE – CIRCUM BAIKAL RAIL ROAD – IRKUTSK - KRASNOYARSK - NOVOSIBIRSK – EKATERINBURG – KAZAN – MOSCOW

DAY 1 BEIJING
Arrival in Beijing, the capital of China, a city of ancient history and culture, unique architectural monuments and modern dynamic life. INTOURIST representative meets you at the airport. Transfer to the hotel for overnight stay. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4 star hotel.

Day 2 BEIJING
In the morning excursion to the Great Wall and after lunch to the Ming Tombs. Welcome dinner at a Beijing Duck Restaurant. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 3 BEIJING
Full day guided city tour: Forbidden City ruled by Emperors and khans and unreachable for ordinary people, the Imperial Palace. Transfer to the rail terminal to board the Chinese private train in destination to Mongolia. On the way the train goes via the Gobi Desert famous for its spacious territory, most severe environment and unique fauna. Accommodation on board the private Chinese train.

DAY 4 ERLIAN (TRANSIT TOWN)
In the morning arrival at the Chinese border town of Erlian, where the China railway gauge system (“standard gauge” 1435 mm wide) meets the Russian railway gauge system (“broad gauge” 1520 mm wide). The passengers will change the Chinese train for the connecting INTOURIST EXPRESS waiting on the same platform. While the service staff transfer passengers’ luggage to the INTOURIST EXPRESS, passengers enjoy a sumptuous Chinese lunch. In the afternoon the train crosses the Chinese-Mongolian border. All passport and customs control formalities take place on board the train.

Day 5 ULAN BATOR AND TERELJ
In the morning arrival in Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Transfer to Terelj National Park 70 km away. At the Terelj Tourist Camp time is given to set up the gers and freshen up before lunch. After lunch excursion to the beautiful Turtle Rock to be followed by a short hiking tour to the top of the Overlooking Hill to have a panoramic view on Terelj National Park. Horse riding. Disassembling and setting up of a smaller Mongolian ger. Admire the sunset and bright shining night stars in the wide steppe. Accommodation in Gers.

Day 6 TERELJ AND ULAN BATOR
In the morning a visit to a nomadic family to learn the authentic lifestyle of Mongolian nomads and to try traditional dairy food. After lunch transfer to Ulan Bator. Visits to Sukhbaatar Square, Gandan Monastery, National History Museum, the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum. Climb to the Zaisan Hill to admire the Ulan Bator panorama. Small shopping tour to buy Mongolian souvenirs. In the evening Mongolian traditional music and dance performance. Board the INTOURIST EXPRESS to continue the voyage in destination to Russia. Enjoy wonderful Mongolian sceneries with gers, nomads and horses passing by. Upon leaving Ulan Bator on the way to Ulan Ude INTOURIST EXPRESS switches from the Trans-Mongolian line to the Trans-Siberian Line. The train reaches the Mongolian border station of Sukhe Bator and the Russian border station of Naushki. All passport and customs control formalities are done on board the train. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 7 ULAN UDE
Arrival in Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryatia, a former outpost of Russian Cossacks set up in the 17th century at the junction of the Selenga and the Uda Rivers. The settlement became a busy crossroad of trade routes between China, Mongolia, Russia and Europe. Nowadays Ulan Ude is the major regional city in Russia and prominent center of the Buddhist culture. The program includes a visit to local Datsan, prominent Buddhist Monastery and centre of Buddhism in Russia. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 8 LISTVYANKA AND RIDE ON THE CIRCUM BAIKAL LINE
Arrival at Listvyanka Village to board the train for a ride on the Circum Baikal Line. The Circum Baikal Line was part of the Trans-Siberian Mainline that connected the Eastern and Western rail lines separated by the Baikal Lake. Nowadays the Circum Baikal Line, no longer on the Trans-Siberian main route, is an open-air museum. There is not much traffic on this railroad, only a few local and excursion trains. The road starts from the dead end at Port Baikal, a small settlement nearby Listvyanka Village and goes along the picturesque southern shore of Lake Baikal to join the Trans Siberian Mainline at Sludyanka Village. A photo stop is arranged at a small village where the passengers can get off the train and put their feet into the clear and cold water of Lake Baikal. A barbeque by the lakeside is also part of the program. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 9 IRKUTSK
Arrival in Irkutsk, the oldest city in Eastern Siberia, a historical transit point on trade routes between Russia and China. Irkutsk is situated on the picturesque Angara River in close vicinity of Lake Baikal. City tour: Kirov Square, Eternal Flame Memorial, Orthodox churches and cathedrals, Bell Tower to admire a magnificent panoramic view on a city, the old wooden town, Museum of Decembrists with a private classical concert. Also included is a visit to the Taltsy open-air museum of wooden architecture. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 10 KRASNOYARSK
Arrival in Krasnoyarsk, the largest Siberian port on the Yenisei River. The history of the city, founded by the first Russian explorers of Siberia, dates back more than 300 years. Guided city tour of the key landmarks. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 11 NOVOSIBIRSK
Arrival in Novosibirsk, the biggest city in Siberia and major scientific center, the seat of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Guided city tour: Red Avenue, Lenin Square, Theatre of Opera and Ballet, the geographical centre of Russia – a chapel, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the railway station building, the Ob River embankment, the Trans Siberian Bridge. Excursion to the open air Museum of railway machinery with an extensive exposition of the railroad history, locomotives and cars. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 12 EKATERINBURG
Arrival in Ekaterinburg, the major historic, economic and administrative center of the Urals Region, which forms a natural border between Europe and Asia. Founded in the 18th century as a fortress the city grew to become a significant regional center, which gave a rise to Russia’s industry. Ekaterinburg is also known as a place of exile and execution of Russia’s last Tzar Nicholas II and his family in 1918. Guided city tour visiting architectural monuments of Russian classicism of the 18-19th centuries, the Obelisk marking the virtual Europe-Asia border, the Temple-on-Blood Church erected in place of Ipatiev’s House where the Tsar’s family spent their last days. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 13 KAZAN
Arrival in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, a city of a 1,000 year-long history. Guided city tour: Kazan Kremlin, major historical citadel in the 16th -18th centuries, historical Qol-Sarif Mosque and Minarets, the Square of Freedom, magnificent Orthodox Churches and Cathedrals, President’s Palace, a folk show. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 14 MOSCOW
Arrival in Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, a city of great historical and cultural traditions. Guided city tour: Prospect Mira (Peace Avenue), Ostankino TV Tower, Garden and Boulevard Ring, the Moskva River , Novodevichiy (New Virgin) Convent, Vorobiovy Gory (Sparrow Hills), Moscow State University, Poklonnaya Gora (Bow Hill), Victory Park, Kutuzov Avenue, The Federal Government Building (White House), New Arbat Avenue and Tverskaya Street. The afternoon tour: historical Red Square, the Kremlin territory including gold-domed Cathedrals with magnificent ancient mural icon paintings, Armory Chamber with the unique collection of treasure objects once in the possession of Russia’s Tzars. Farewell dinner at a city restaurant. Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

Day 15 MOSCOW
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport.

Matkaohjelma julkaistu sitoumuksetta. Muutokset ovat mahdollisia.

Matkanjärjestäjä: VAO Intourist, Moscow.

DATES AND ITINERARY

GO EAST: August 16-30, 2013

GO WEST: August 24 – September 07, 2013

GO EAST: MOSCOW – BEIJING

GO WEST: BEIJING – MOSCOW

DAY-BY DAY PROGRAM

GO EAST: MOSCOW – KAZAN – EKATERINBURG – NOVOSIBIRSK – KRASNOYARSK – IRKUTSK – CIRCUM BAIKAL RAIL ROAD – ULAN UDE – ULAN BATOR – ERLIAN – BEIJING

DAY 1 MOSCOW
Arrival in Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, a city of great historical and cultural traditions. INTOURIST representative meets you at the airport. Transfer to the hotel for the overnight stay. Welcome dinner. Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

DAY 2 MOSCOW
Guided city tour: Prospect Mira (Peace Avenue), Ostankino TV Tower, Garden and Boulevard Ring, the Moskva River, Novodevichiy (New Vergin) Convent, Vorobiovy Gory (Sparrow Hills), Moscow State University, Poklonnaya Gora (Bow Hill) , Victory Park, Kutuzov Avenue, The Federal Government Building (White House), New Arbat Avenue, Tverskaya Street. The afternoon tour: historical Red Square, the Kremlin territory including gold-domed Cathedrals with magnificent ancient mural icon paintings, Armory Chamber with the unique collection of treasure objects once in the possession of Russia’s Tzars. In the evening transfer to the railway terminal to board the INTOURIST EXPRESS. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 3 KAZAN
Arrival in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, a city of a 1,000 year-long history. Guided city tour: Kazan Kremlin, major historical citadel in the 16th -18th centuries, historical Qol-Sarif Mosque and Minarets, the Square of Freedom, magnificent Orthodox Churches and Cathedrals, President’s Palace, a folk show. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 4 EKATERINBURG
Arrival in Ekaterinburg, the major historic, economic and administrative center of the Urals Region, an area which gave a rise to Russia’s industry in the 18th century. Ekaterinburg is a natural border between Europe and Asia. The city is also known as a place of exile and execution of Russia’s last Tzar Nicholas II and his family in 1918. Guided city tour visiting architectural monuments of Russian classicism of the 18-19th centuries, the Obelisk marking the virtual Europe-Asia border, the Temple-on-Blood Church erected in place of Ipatiev’s House where the Tsar’s family spent their last days. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 5 NOVOSIBIRSK
Arrival in Novosibirsk, the biggest city in Siberia and major scientific center, the seat of Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Guided city tour: the Red Avenue, Lenin Square, Opera and Ballet Theatre, the geographical centre of Russia – the chapel, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the railway station historic building, the Ob River embankment, the Trans Siberian Bridge. Excursion to the open air museum of railway machinery with an extensive exposition of the railroad history, locomotives and cars. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 6 KRASNOYARSK
Arrival in Krasnoyarsk, the largest Siberian port on the Yenisei River. The history of the city, founded by the first Russian explorers of Siberia, dates back more than 300 years. Guided city tour of the key landmarks. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 7 IRKUTSK
Arrival in Irkutsk, the oldest city in Eastern Siberia, a historical transit point on trade routes between Russia and China. Irkutsk is situated on the picturesque Angara River in close vicinity of Lake Baikal. City tour: Kirov Square, Eternal Flame Memorial, Orthodox churches and cathedrals, Bell Tower to admire a magnificent panoramic view on a city, the old wooden town, Museum of Decembrists with a private classical concert. Also included is a visit to the Taltsy open-air museum of wooden architecture. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 8 LISTVYANKA AND THE CIRCUM BAIKAL LINE
Arrival at Listvyanka Village to board the train for a ride on the Circum Baikal Line. The Circum Baikal Line was part of the Trans-Siberian Mainline that connected the Eastern and Western rail lines separated by the Baikal Lake. Nowadays the Circum Baikal Line, no longer on the Trans-Siberian main route, is an open-air museum. There is not much traffic on this railroad, only a few local and excursion trains. The road starts from the dead end at Port Baikal, a small settlement nearby Listvyanka Village and goes along the picturesque southern shore of Lake Baikal to join the Trans Siberian Mainline at Sludyanka Village. A photo stop is arranged at a small village where the passengers can get off the train and put their feet into the clear and cold water of Lake Baikal. A barbeque by the lakeside is also part of the program. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 9 ULAN UDE
Arrival in Ulan Ude, the capital of Buryatia, a former outpost of Russian Cossacks set up in the 17th century at the junction of the Selenga and the Uda Rivers. The settlement became a busy crossroad of trade routes between China, Mongolia, Russia and Europe. Nowadays Ulan Ude is the major regional city in Russia and prominent center of the Buddhist culture. The program includes a visit to local Datsan, prominent Buddhist Monastery and centre of Buddhism in Russia. On the way to Mongolia, the INTOURIST EXPRESS crosses the Russian border at Naushki and the Mongolian border at Sukhe Bator and joins the Trans-Mongolian Mainline. All passport and customs control formalities are done on board the train. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 10 ULAN BATOR AND TERELJ
Morning arrival in Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Transfer to Terelj National Park 70 km away. At Terelj Tourist Camp time is given to set up gers and freshen up before lunch. After lunch excursion to the beautiful Turtle Rock to be followed by a short hiking tour to the top of the Overlooking Hill to have a panoramic view on Terelj National Park. Horse riding. Disassembling and setting up a smaller Mongolian ger. Admire the sunset and bright shining night stars in the wide steppe. Accommodation in Gers.

Day 11 TERELJ AND ULAN BATOR
In the morning a visit to a nomadic family to learn the authentic lifestyle of Mongolian nomads and try traditional dairy food. After lunch transfer to Ulan Bator. Visits to Sukhbaatar Square, Gandan Monastery, National History Museum, the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum. Climb to the Zaisan Hill to admire the Ulan Bator panorama. Small shopping tour to buy Mongolian souvenirs. In the evening Mongolian traditional music and dance performance. Board the INTOURIST EXPRESS to continue the voyage in destination to China, enjoy wonderful Mongolian sceneries with gers, nomads and horses passing by. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 12 ERLIAN (TRANSIT TOWN)
In the morning arrival at the Mongolian border village of Zamyn-Uud and the Chinese border town of Erlian. All passport and customs control formalities take place on board the train. At Erlian the Russian railway gauge system (“broad gauge” 1520 mm wide) meets the China railway gauge system (“standard gauge” 1435 mm wide).Thus the INTOURIST EXPRESS terminates at Erlian. The connecting Chinese train will be waiting on the same platform. While service staff transfer passengers’ luggage to the private Chinese train, passengers enjoy a sumptuous Chinese welcome lunch. In the afternoon the train goes via the Gobi Desert famous for its spacious territory, most severe environment and unique fauna. Accommodation on board the private Chinese train.

DAY 13 BEIJING
In the morning arrival in Beijing, the capital of China, a city of ancient history and culture, unique architectural monuments and modern dynamic life. Full day guided city tour: Forbidden City ruled by Emperors and khans and unreachable for ordinary people, the Imperial Palace. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 14 BEIJING
In the morning excursion to the Great Wall and after lunch to the Ming Tombs. Farewell dinner at a Beijing Duck Restaurant. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 15 BEIJING
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport.



DAY-BY DAY PROGRAM

GO WEST: BEIJING – ERLIAN – ULAN BATOR – ULAN UDE – CIRCUM BAIKAL RAIL ROAD – IRKUTSK - KRASNOYARSK - NOVOSIBIRSK – EKATERINBURG – KAZAN – MOSCOW

DAY 1 BEIJING
Arrival in Beijing, the capital of China, a city of ancient history and culture, unique architectural monuments and modern dynamic life. INTOURIST representative meets you at the airport. Transfer to the hotel for overnight stay. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4 star hotel.

Day 2 BEIJING
In the morning excursion to the Great Wall and after lunch to the Ming Tombs. Welcome dinner at a Beijing Duck Restaurant. Accommodation in Beijing at a 4-star hotel.

Day 3 BEIJING
Full day guided city tour: Forbidden City ruled by Emperors and khans and unreachable for ordinary people, the Imperial Palace. Transfer to the rail terminal to board the Chinese private train in destination to Mongolia. On the way the train goes via the Gobi Desert famous for its spacious territory, most severe environment and unique fauna. Accommodation on board the private Chinese train.

DAY 4 ERLIAN (TRANSIT TOWN)
In the morning arrival at the Chinese border town of Erlian, where the China railway gauge system (“standard gauge” 1435 mm wide) meets the Russian railway gauge system (“broad gauge” 1520 mm wide). The passengers will change the Chinese train for the connecting INTOURIST EXPRESS waiting on the same platform. While the service staff transfer passengers’ luggage to the INTOURIST EXPRESS, passengers enjoy a sumptuous Chinese lunch. In the afternoon the train crosses the Chinese-Mongolian border. All passport and customs control formalities take place on board the train.

Day 5 ULAN BATOR AND TERELJ
In the morning arrival in Ulan Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Transfer to Terelj National Park 70 km away. At the Terelj Tourist Camp time is given to set up the gers and freshen up before lunch. After lunch excursion to the beautiful Turtle Rock to be followed by a short hiking tour to the top of the Overlooking Hill to have a panoramic view on Terelj National Park. Horse riding. Disassembling and setting up of a smaller Mongolian ger. Admire the sunset and bright shining night stars in the wide steppe. Accommodation in Gers.

Day 6 TERELJ AND ULAN BATOR
In the morning a visit to a nomadic family to learn the authentic lifestyle of Mongolian nomads and to try traditional dairy food. After lunch transfer to Ulan Bator. Visits to Sukhbaatar Square, Gandan Monastery, National History Museum, the Bogd Khaan Palace Museum. Climb to the Zaisan Hill to admire the Ulan Bator panorama. Small shopping tour to buy Mongolian souvenirs. In the evening Mongolian traditional music and dance performance. Board the INTOURIST EXPRESS to continue the voyage in destination to Russia. Enjoy wonderful Mongolian sceneries with gers, nomads and horses passing by. Upon leaving Ulan Bator on the way to Ulan Ude INTOURIST EXPRESS switches from the Trans-Mongolian line to the Trans-Siberian Line. The train reaches the Mongolian border station of Sukhe Bator and the Russian border station of Naushki. All passport and customs control formalities are done on board the train. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 7 ULAN UDE
Arrival in Ulan Ude, the capital of the Buryatia, a former outpost of Russian Cossacks set up in the 17th century at the junction of the Selenga and the Uda Rivers. The settlement became a busy crossroad of trade routes between China, Mongolia, Russia and Europe. Nowadays Ulan Ude is the major regional city in Russia and prominent center of the Buddhist culture. The program includes a visit to local Datsan, prominent Buddhist Monastery and centre of Buddhism in Russia. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 8 LISTVYANKA AND RIDE ON THE CIRCUM BAIKAL LINE
Arrival at Listvyanka Village to board the train for a ride on the Circum Baikal Line. The Circum Baikal Line was part of the Trans-Siberian Mainline that connected the Eastern and Western rail lines separated by the Baikal Lake. Nowadays the Circum Baikal Line, no longer on the Trans-Siberian main route, is an open-air museum. There is not much traffic on this railroad, only a few local and excursion trains. The road starts from the dead end at Port Baikal, a small settlement nearby Listvyanka Village and goes along the picturesque southern shore of Lake Baikal to join the Trans Siberian Mainline at Sludyanka Village. A photo stop is arranged at a small village where the passengers can get off the train and put their feet into the clear and cold water of Lake Baikal. A barbeque by the lakeside is also part of the program. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 9 IRKUTSK
Arrival in Irkutsk, the oldest city in Eastern Siberia, a historical transit point on trade routes between Russia and China. Irkutsk is situated on the picturesque Angara River in close vicinity of Lake Baikal. City tour: Kirov Square, Eternal Flame Memorial, Orthodox churches and cathedrals, Bell Tower to admire a magnificent panoramic view on a city, the old wooden town, Museum of Decembrists with a private classical concert. Also included is a visit to the Taltsy open-air museum of wooden architecture. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 10 KRASNOYARSK
Arrival in Krasnoyarsk, the largest Siberian port on the Yenisei River. The history of the city, founded by the first Russian explorers of Siberia, dates back more than 300 years. Guided city tour of the key landmarks. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 11 NOVOSIBIRSK
Arrival in Novosibirsk, the biggest city in Siberia and major scientific center, the seat of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Guided city tour: Red Avenue, Lenin Square, Theatre of Opera and Ballet, the geographical centre of Russia – a chapel, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the railway station building, the Ob River embankment, the Trans Siberian Bridge. Excursion to the open air Museum of railway machinery with an extensive exposition of the railroad history, locomotives and cars. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 12 EKATERINBURG
Arrival in Ekaterinburg, the major historic, economic and administrative center of the Urals Region, which forms a natural border between Europe and Asia. Founded in the 18th century as a fortress the city grew to become a significant regional center, which gave a rise to Russia’s industry. Ekaterinburg is also known as a place of exile and execution of Russia’s last Tzar Nicholas II and his family in 1918. Guided city tour visiting architectural monuments of Russian classicism of the 18-19th centuries, the Obelisk marking the virtual Europe-Asia border, the Temple-on-Blood Church erected in place of Ipatiev’s House where the Tsar’s family spent their last days. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 13 KAZAN
Arrival in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, a city of a 1,000 year-long history. Guided city tour: Kazan Kremlin, major historical citadel in the 16th -18th centuries, historical Qol-Sarif Mosque and Minarets, the Square of Freedom, magnificent Orthodox Churches and Cathedrals, President’s Palace, a folk show. Accommodation on board the INTOURIST EXPRESS.

DAY 14 MOSCOW
Arrival in Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, a city of great historical and cultural traditions. Guided city tour: Prospect Mira (Peace Avenue), Ostankino TV Tower, Garden and Boulevard Ring, the Moskva River , Novodevichiy (New Virgin) Convent, Vorobiovy Gory (Sparrow Hills), Moscow State University, Poklonnaya Gora (Bow Hill), Victory Park, Kutuzov Avenue, The Federal Government Building (White House), New Arbat Avenue and Tverskaya Street. The afternoon tour: historical Red Square, the Kremlin territory including gold-domed Cathedrals with magnificent ancient mural icon paintings, Armory Chamber with the unique collection of treasure objects once in the possession of Russia’s Tzars. Farewell dinner at a city restaurant. Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

Day 15 MOSCOW
Morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport.

Matkaohjelma julkaistu sitoumuksetta. Muutokset ovat mahdollisia.

Matkanjärjestäjä: VAO Intourist, Moscow.