Here are some train-related photos from the trip so far:
- Bogie changing in Erlian, at the Chinese border with Mongolia (another photo).
- A "MADE IN USSR" double-unit engine, as used in Mongolia (nameplate here). When I saw it, I thought it belonged in a museum, and indeed it does: there’s a very similar engine pair at the Locomotive Museum in Seyatel.
- Under a Russian passenger car: every car has a generator attached to the wheels that provides power for the car. Batteries are used when the train isn’t moving. This is probably why the Circumbaikal train lacks lighting and ventilation.. I doubt the generator can operate at 10km/h, nor can the batteries last 7 hours.
- A very weird car from the Seyatel museum. Does anyone know what this is?
Right now I’m in Yekaterinberg.. no longer in Siberia but still in Asia. I accidentally booked my ticket out for a day later than planned, which I’ve decided was nature’s way of telling me to slow down. So I’m spending an extra night here and heading out tomorrow. It just means I won’t make it to Suzdal, but that isn’t a must-see anyway.