ABOUT US

The Gulbene-Alūksne Banītis is the only regularly running narrow-gauge train in the Baltic States, providing passenger services over a 33-kilometre stretch connecting the centres of two regions – Alūksne and Gulbene. This section is a remnant of the 210-kilometre narrow-gauge Stukmani (Pļaviņas)-Valka line of 1903. The Gulbene-Alūksne narrow-gauge railway is recognised as a cultural monument of national importance. On the Gulbene-Alūksne route, the train runs two daily services in each direction according to the timetable. Diesel locomotives are used for regular services. In the summer season, special steam services are offered with the restored steam locomotive “Ferdinands”.

On regular and special trains, the funicular offers:

• guided tours during the journey,
• an impromptu performance with the attack of the Forest of the Baneiss,
• outdoor meals at special stopping points or in the bar car during the journey.

Timetable (Gulbene-Alūksne) – www.banitis.lv

Visit the Gulbene depot, which is a 20th-century railway depot. See the turntable with double-width tracks, the only one of its kind in Latvia!

On offer:

• a tour of the depot, including a demonstration of the turntable in operation,
• a ride in a hand or motor car,
• camping and picnicking in the apple orchard near the depot.

PRICES

Tour of the depot and a ride on a stagecoach – 3,50 EUR (per person) Meeting with the Bānīša forest veks and fun activities – 10,00 – 15,00 EUR (per person)

Photos from the Gulbene Municipality TIC archive.