Join me today as I recount one of my most challenging train travel experiences. Embarking on a 25-hour overnight journey from Bishkek to Astana, spanning Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, I'll take you through the ordeal of cramped trains lacking air conditioning, barely functional windows, and temperatures soaring close to 40 degrees Celsius. All of this while battling food poisoning and confronting the less-than-pleasant conditions of the train toilets. Come along for an unforgettable experience—one I'm eager to put behind me.

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Train type: 2TE10B + various Kyrgyz carriges
Route: Bishkek to Astana train continues to Kazan
Train: 405
Distance: 1285 km
Journey time: 25h43m
Average speed: 50 km/h
Price: 80 euro or about 40000 ktz