The journey of a lifetime, most travelers dream of taking the trans-Siberian railway, the longest train trip in the world, at some point during their lifetime. Stretching across a breathtaking 9,288 kilometers and seven different time zones, the journey takes at least a week to complete, if for some reason you're able to resist exploring the incredible scenery you'll be traveling through. Exploring this amazing stretch of the continent makes for an incredible journey. For those who want to explore more into this amazing stretch of the continent, here are some stops you shouldn't miss out on.
Perm
On the banks of the Kama River and not far from Russia's rugged Urul Mountains, Perm is a picturesque Russian town that shouldn't be overlooked. Known in particular for its modern art gallery, the PERMM Museum of Contemporary Art, the city is a must-see for art lovers. For the history buffs, make sure to head to Perm-36, once the site of a labor camp for political prisoners during the Soviet Era, this harrowing museum gives a unique insight into Russia's dark past.
Ulan-Ude
Ulan-Ude is a fascinating blend of Russian and Buryat culture, an ethnic group closely related to Mongols. Full of incredible Buddhist and Russian architecture, along with delicious food, both Siberian and Buryat. Make sure to check out Ivolginsky Datsan, an impressive Buddhist monastery located a short drive from the city. It also makes a good spot to get off for those wanting to explore the southeastern side of Lake Baikal, which is much less explored than the southwestern side.
Yekaterinburg
A picturesque city a short journey from Perm, Yekaterinburg is full of beautiful Russian buildings, none quite as grand however as the the Church on the Blood. This harrowing yet beautiful church was the site where the last tsar of Russia, Emperor Nicholas II, was executed along with his family. Explore the city on foot, walking along the Iset River which makes for a wonderful chance to stretch your legs. Apart from the beautiful old buildings here, the city has seen a large amount of development recently with a number of skyscrapers being completed.
Lake Baikal
Easily one of the most beautiful places in Russia, Lake Baikal is the world's deepest lake and is surrounded by incredible scenery. The railway travels around the bottom part of the lake a short while after leaving Ulan-Ude where it bends around the lake until arriving in Irkutsk. Most people then get off at Irkutsk to explore the lake and the surrounding area.
If you're visiting during the winter months, part of the lake is turned into a temporary road due to the thickness of the ice. Other activities include ice skating and buggy rides over the iced lake. During the summer, temperatures are usually well over 20 degrees Celsius, you'll see locals sun-bathing on the beaches here, although the lake is still a little cold for swimming in.
Kazan
East of the capital, Moscow, Kazan lies at the meeting point of the Volga and Kazanka rivers. The city is home to some impressive architecture, namely the Kazan Kremlin and the impressive Kul Sharif Mosque, Kazan is often referred to as the point in Russia where east meets west. You can easily see influences here in cultures from the Middle East, Asia and Europe.
Moscow to Kazan is one of several routes of the Trans-Siberian Railway and only some trains will go this way.
Conclusion
Spanning almost the full length of the world's largest country, the Trans-Siberian Railway is an epic journey both on the train and at its stops in between. For those who want to extend the experience beyond the borders of Russia, the railway also continues into Mongolia and China often referred to as the Trans-Mongolian. This route veers off from the Trans-Siberian at Ulan-Ude and continues through the rolling hills and plains of Mongolia, before eventually arriving in Beijing.
Most people taking the Trans-Siberian usually plan for at least two weeks of travel time, one week spent on the train and the other week for days spent getting off at stops in between. If possible it's best to have at least three however, with a few days spent in Moscow and a few extra days to explore the beautiful scenery around Lake Baikal. If you're planning to extend the journey either end, such as traveling from London to Moscow or taking a ferry from Vladivostok to Japan, plan to have at least a month.