Authorities from Russia, Mongolia, and China are currently engaged in high-level discussions regarding the full restoration of the international passenger train service connecting Moscow, Ulaanbaatar, and Beijing. This initiative was a primary focus during a recent trilateral tourism meeting, where representatives evaluated the logistical requirements for restarting a route that has been largely inactive for several years. The service, a vital link for cross-border tourism and trade, was officially suspended in 2020 due to global health restrictions and border closures.
Progress on the Trans-Mongolian Railway Corridor
The resumption of the Moscow — Ulaanbaatar — Beijing service follows successful technical trials conducted over the past year. In the winter of 2025, a test train successfully completed the journey from the Chinese capital to Moscow via the Mongolian capital, proving the operational readiness of the rail infrastructure. Since that trial, regular service has already been reinstated on the Beijing — Ulaanbaatar segment, serving as a precursor to the full reopening of the northern leg toward Russia.
The trilateral working group is focusing on several key objectives to facilitate the relaunch:
- Optimization of customs and border control procedures at stations like Naushki and Zamyn-Üüd.
- Alignment of passenger tariffs and scheduling between Russian Railways (RZD), Ulaanbaatar Railway (UBTZ), and China State Railway Group.
- Modernization of rolling stock to meet contemporary international comfort standards.
Expansion of Air Connectivity and Regional Tourism
In addition to rail infrastructure, the delegations discussed diversifying transport options to stimulate regional travel. The parties expressed interest in increasing the frequency of direct flights between Russian cities and Mongolia to accommodate the growing demand from business travelers and tourists. This multi-modal approach aims to create a robust tourism corridor that connects the Lake Baikal region with the Gobi Desert and the historic landmarks of Beijing.
The restoration of this historic rail route is a cornerstone for the development of the "Great Tea Road" international tourism project, providing travelers with a unique land-based transit experience across Eurasia.
The successful implementation of these plans is expected to significantly boost the flow of international visitors across the three nations. As of July 2026, technical consultations remain ongoing, with officials aiming to finalize the schedule for the first through-trains. The return of the Moscow — Ulaanbaatar — Beijing service represents a major milestone in the recovery of Eurasian transit tourism, offering an eco-friendly and culturally rich alternative to air travel.