Expanding Access to the Carpathian Region
Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine's state railway operator, is introducing new train services to the Carpathian Mountains. This initiative includes a new daily train, #26/25, connecting Odesa with Rakhiv, and an additional service, #255/256, running between Kyiv and Rakhiv on specific dates. The Odesa-Rakhiv train will commence operations from Odesa on February 3, with the return journey from Rakhiv starting February 4. This expansion provides a vital link for travelers heading to Ukraine's premier mountain destination.
Route and Onboard Accommodations
The route for train #26/25 includes stops at several key towns and cities:
- Podilsk
- Vapniarka
- Zhmerynka
- Khmelnytskyi
- Ternopil
- Lviv
- Ivano-Frankivsk
- Yaremche
- Tatariv-Bukovel
- Vorokhta
- Yasinia
- Kvasy
The train will offer a variety of carriages, including luxury, coupe, platskart (open-plan sleeper), and compartments designated for women and children. This service is also part of the '3000 Kilometers Across Ukraine' tourism program.
Separately, the additional Kyiv-Rakhiv service, #255/256, will be available for travel from Kyiv on January 26 and 28. Tickets for these journeys are now on sale.
Ukrzaliznytsia also highlighted that 97 'Unbreakable Points'—24/7 support hubs—are operational at stations across the country. The company plans to import approximately 50% of its electricity consumption this winter. To meet its specific energy needs, the government has tasked Ukrzaliznytsia, the Naftogaz oil and gas company, and the Ukroboronprom defense concern with increasing electricity imports.
The schedule for the Odesa-Rakhiv service sets departure from Odesa at 18:38, with arrival in Rakhiv at 13:20 the following day. The return journey departs Rakhiv at 14:21, arriving in Odesa at 08:38.
These new rail connections represent a significant step in improving Ukraine's domestic transport network, particularly ahead of the tourist season. The Carpathian Mountains have long been a favored destination for domestic tourism, and enhanced access is expected to boost local travel. The additional services will provide greater convenience for passengers traveling between major urban centers and the country's scenic mountain resorts.