The night train service between Ankara and Kars has become one of Turkey's most popular tourist routes. This was reported by Turkmenportal with reference to the Culture and Tourism Department of the Turkish Embassy in Turkmenistan.

The touristic ‘Eastern Express’ runs three times a week. The train covers the route in about 24 hours. The carriages are equipped with sleeping compartments. The programme includes scheduled stops for excursions.

The route passes through Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum. On the way to Kars, the train stops in Erzincan and Erzurum, and on the return journey, it stops in Ilich, Divrigi and Sivas.

The final destination is Kars. The city is known for its historical monuments, winter landscapes and regional cuisine. Nearby are the ruins of the ancient city of Ani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The region is also home to the Sarikamish ski resort and Lake Çıldır on the border between Kars and Ardahan. In winter, the lake freezes completely. Here, tourists go sledding and watch ice fishing.