Train travel in Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan

[rabbit111]

Has anyone travelled by train in these 2 countries? Looking to travel between Tashkent , Samarkand and Bukhara. Also Turkmenabad, Mary and Ashgabat. Are the trains reliable? clean? and OK to travel on!
Thanks

[Buenchico]

From the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Website:

Turkmenistan:
"Rail travel is slow and can be uncomfortable. If you have to travel overnight, store valuables in a safe place. Do not leave the compartment unattended and secure the door from the inside."

Source:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living -overseas/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceani a/turkmenistan

Uzbekistan:
"Take care when travelling long distances by train. If you have to travel overnight, store valuables in a safe place. Do not leave the compartment unattended, and secure the door from the inside. You need to present your passport when booking train tickets".

Source:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living -overseas/travel-advice-by-country/asia-oceani a/uzbekistan

Photograph of a train toilet on Turkmenistan railways!:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/118/316383342_9 690551e37_o.jpg

Some travellers' experiences (using various modes of transport, including rail) in Uzbekistan:
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Uzbe kistan/Transportation-Uzbekistan-BR-1.html
(Note that the link goes to the first of 4 pages. Click the page links to read more).

'Silk Route' info:
http://www.seat61.com/SilkRoute.htm

L

[Buenchico]

Lots more about train travel in Uzbekistan:
http://uzbekistan-railway.blogspot.com/
(Use the links on the right).

Chris

[rabbit111]

Thankyou both for those websites. I'll definately stay clear of the toilets!!