Heading towards the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, Tibet train offers travelers comfortable accommodations for long-distance journey, including economical hard seats. If you plan to start a memorable train voyage along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, read on for more details about hard seats to see if it suits your needs.

Hard Seats on Tibet Train

All Tibet trains offer plenty of hard seats for travelers. Compared with a soft sleeper and a hard sleeper, a hard seat is the most economical option.

Normally, there are a total of four hard seat compartments in every train to Tibet. Each compartment has 98 seats, with two seats on one side and three on the other side. In total, there are 392 hard seats on the trains to Lhasa.

The size of hard seats on Tibet trains varies slightly depending on the specific train model and configuration. Typically, the seat width ranges from around 40-45 cm.

A hard seat has its advantages and disadvantages compared with sleeping berths.

Advantages:

Cost-effective: Hard seats are typically more affordable than sleeping berths, making them a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Availability: Hard seat tickets are usually more readily available, especially during peak seasons when sleeping berths may be fully booked.

Disadvantages:

Limited Space: Generally, the hard seats on Tibet trains are narrower and have less legroom compared to sleeper berths. The legroom can be somewhat limited, especially for taller passengers.
Less Comfort: Hard seats provide limited comfort compared to sleeping berths. Long-time sitting can make the journey very uncomfortable and grueling for passengers.

How to Find Your Seat on Tibet Train?

You can find your seat according to your train ticket. Before boarding the train, carefully check your ticket to identify your carriage number and seat number.

Then, refer to the sign on the train to locate your carriage. The carriage number is usually indicated on the landmarks or the side of every carriage.

After boarding the train, find your seat by referring to the seat numbers on the seats. After that, you can settle in your seat.

Facilities in Hard Seat Compartment

Oxygen Outlets

Tibet trains are equipped with two kinds of oxygen supply systems. One is a diffusing system on the top of each carriage. The other is oxygen outlets installed beneath each seat. You can use this device to inhale oxygen to alleviate altitude sickness.

oxygen supply

Luggage Space

Hard seat carriages are equipped with luggage racks above the seats. The holder is about 50 cm wide, which is enough to accommodate suitcases and backpacks. You can also place small bags at your feet. It's recommended that you keep essentials such as passports, tickets, permits, and valuables in a smaller bag that you can keep with you.

Public Facilities on Tibet Train

Toilets

There are two squat toilets at the end of each carriage. Please notice that toilet paper is not provided. Remember to flush after using the toilet and keep it clean.

hand washing sink

Water Dispenser

Free hot water is provided 24 hours during the entire trip. You can bring a bottle or paper cup to get boiled water. Be careful with hot water!

Food Services

The dining carriage, usually in the middle of the train, offers three meals and drinks. During meal time, you can go to the dining car to order dishes and enjoy your meal. You can get snacks and drinks from mobile food carts as well. You can also bring some food and fruit with you in case you don’t get used to the food served on the train.

dining carriage

How to Get a Hard SeatTicket?

How to Book a Hard Seat Ticket?

There are several ways to get a hard seat ticket. You can buy a Tibet train ticket on China Railway’s official website https://www.12306.cn/ or its app “Railway 12306”. You can buy the ticket from the ticket windows at the railway stations. However, foreign travelers need to complete a quite complicated process of registration, identity verification, passport information upload, and payment. The most convenient and worry-free way to get a hard seat ticket for Tibet train is to book online with us. Specializing in Tibet tourism, Tibet Horizon can help you book the train ticket and arrange a smooth and wonderful Tibet train trip for you.

What’s the Price for the Hard Seat Ticket?

The price for a hard sleeper ticket is higher than a hard seat ticket and lower than a soft sleeper ticket. It’s a popular choice among travelers who want to take a train trip to Tibet.

The price can vary depending on the train route, distance traveled, and additional services. We can check the latest updates of train schedules and ticket prices for you according to your trip route. Feel free to ask us for more information.

Conclusion

Despite the relatively basic amenities and comfort level, a hard seat is still a popular option for travelers on Tibet trains, offering an opportunity to experience the stunning scenery along the journey at a lower cost. If you have any questions about booking your hard seat train ticket or applying for your Tibet Travel Permit, you can contact us for inquiries.