‘Touristic Tuz Express’ train returns after almost a century, offering cultural exploration

The  “Touristic Tuz Express” (Turistik Tuz Ekspresi) embarked on its first journey in 90 years, traveling from Ankara to Cankiri on May 18.

This event marked the revival of the historic train service, which first ran in 1934 as the “Tenezzuh Train.” The new initiative was a collaborative effort by the Cankiri Governorship, Cankiri Municipality, TCDD, and the North Anatolian Development Agency (KUZKA).

The train departed from Ankara at 7:50 a.m. and arrived in Cankiri after three hours. Passengers enjoyed a festive atmosphere with songs and dances, accompanied by mascots resembling the saber-toothed tiger “Tuzi,” which once lived in the Cankiri region.

Upon arrival, the travelers were welcomed with a ceremony at the train station, where Cankiri Governor Mustafa Firat Tasolar greeted them.

The inaugural journey offered passengers a chance to explore Cankiri’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The tour began with a visit to the Yer Alti Tuz Sehri, an underground salt city located 150 meters below the surface.

The visitors marveled at the massive salt cave, followed by tours of significant historical sites including the Tas Mescit, Cankiri Mevlevihanesi, Bugday Pazari Medresesi, Civitcioglu Medresesi and Sultan Suleyman Mosque (Ulu Cami).

These locations provided a glimpse into the region’s past, especially its medical and pharmaceutical heritage.

In addition to historical landmarks, the passengers explored the Ferit Akalin Radio and Communication Museum and the Cankiri Museum, which houses 8 million-year-old fossils.

They also visited the Historical Laundry Museum, showcasing traditional communal washing practices. The culinary aspect of the trip included tasting Cankiri’s geographically indicated traditional flavors.

Due to high demand, the Touristic Tuz Express will continue its day trips on the Ankara-Cankiri-Ankara route on May 25, June 1, and June 8.

Governor Tasolar noted that the second train is already 80% booked, indicating the popularity of this cultural revival.