The Lake Van Express, departing from Ankara, completed a captivating 30-hour journey, reaching Tatvan district in Bitlis, Türkiye. Operated by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s Republic of Türkiye State Railways (TCDD), this scenic train marks the inaugural trip of the 2023-2024 season.
Running biweekly, the train navigates through Ankara, Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Elazığ, Bingöl, and Muş before arriving at Tatvan in Bitlis. With nine carriages accommodating 320 passengers, the Van Lake Express offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the winter landscapes of the eastern region. The journey between Ankara and Tatvan spans approximately 30 hours.
Some passengers expressed a desire to witness the snow-covered scenery more prominently, as the late arrival of winter hindered this experience. They hope for future trips to showcase the snowscape to its fullest beauty.
Mücahit Tarlan-Hakan Okay