Tibet Train Tour
Taking a train to Tibet is an unparalleled experience. Riding the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the world’s highest railway, you can take in the stunning views of hard-to-access areas like Yuzhu Peak, Kekexili, and the Tuotuo River, making it a popular means of reaching Tibet.
We have planned Tibet train tours departing from various cities of the Chinese Mainland, including Xining, Chengdu, Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, and Lanzhou, to cater to the diverse travel needs of every visitor. Furthermore, we offer flexible and convenient connecting itineraries for international travelers from Asia, Europe, the Americas, or Oceania, allowing you to first fly into a major gateway city in China before boarding the Tibet train. Combining a Tibet train trip with a tour of these gateway cities gives you more time to explore China’s infinite charm.
With dedicated persons handling train ticket buying and pick-up service at the railway station, we ensure you a worry-free Tibet train experience. Choose from our best Tibet train tours and embark on the scenic ride on the “road to heaven”!
Trains to Tibet
Beijing to Lhasa Train: Z21 (19:49-11:47, +2), Every day
Shanghai to Lhasa Train: Z164 (18:33-15:36, +2), Every day
Guangzhou to Lhasa Train: Z264 (09:26-14:53, +2), Every day
Chengdu to Lhasa Train: Z322 (20:53-07:24, +2), Every other day
Chongqing to Lhasa Train: Z223 (21:53-07:24, +2), Every other day
Xi’an to Lhasa Train: Z165 (09:27-15:36, +1); Z265 (07:53-14:53, +1), Daily
Lanzhou to Lhasa Train: Z21/Z165/Z265, Daily; Z323/Z223, Every other day
Xining to Lhasa Train: Z8981/Z21/Z265/Z165 /Y971/Z8991, Daily; Z323/Z223/Z9813, Every other day
Tibet Train Map
Top 2 Tibet Train Tour Packages
We’ve selected two of the most classic Tibet train tours for those who wish to appreciate more plateau scenery on the train. Boarding the train at Xining Railway Station is the most popular choice, which shortens the train ride while capturing the most stunning plateau scenery. Another desirable option is enjoying the highlights of Beijing and Xi’an before taking a Tibet train to Lhasa, which allows you to fully experience China’s diverse cultures and vast landscapes.
- Epic Tibet Train JourneyClassic Xining Lhasa Everest Route
9 Days Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Tour
Features:
Unparalleled train trip experience
The most scenic train ride
A time-reasonable optionGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
- Top Tibet Train TripGrand China ExplorationBest China Cities Tour
12 Days Beijing Xian Qinghai-Tibet Train to Lhasa and EBC to Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Classic China Tibet Nepal route
Ancient Chinese capitals
Best for cultural and natural immersionGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Gateway Cities
Our all-inclusive itineraries are well-crafted with Tibet train encounters. Explore our tour packages and join us for an adventure that blends awe-inspiring natural beauty with profound cultural significance!
Xining to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Xining
Currently, all trains to Tibet stop at Xining Railway Station, the starting point of Qinghai-Tibet Railway, so you can buy tickets for any train heading to Lhasa, making it a convenient hub for booking your Tibet train ticket and starting your Qinghai-Tibet Railway journey. Taking an Xining Lhasa train to Tibet is a time-smart choice as it takes less than 20 hours. This line also presents stunning scenery along the way, offering tourists the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
Xining Tibet Train Travel Guide
Chengdu to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Chengdu
Chengdu offers tourists the chance to meet cute giant pandas up close and explore the mysterious Jinsha Ruins, making it an ideal starting point for a Chengdu Tibet tour. Visit Chengdu’s highlights and enjoy authentic Sichuan dishes before hopping on a Chengdu Lhasa train to Tibet, which takes you across over 3,016km at around 34h31min.
Chengdu Tibet Train Travel Guide
Beijing to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Beijing
Beijing, the capital of China, is a popular gateway to Tibet. There is one train running daily between Beijing West Railway Station and Lhasa Railway Station. You can visit the landmarks of Beijing and get on the Beijing Lhasa train to Tibet, combining a classic China city tour with an unforgettable Tibet train experience. It stretches 3,757km and passes through 8 provinces to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, taking around 39h58min. Join us on this epic train journey to unveil the majestic Tibet Plateau!
Beijing Tibet Train Travel Guide
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Tibet Train Tour from Xi'an
Xi’an is an ancient capital city with a long history, boosted with many cultural relics like the Terracotta Warriors, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Ancient City Wall, etc. We have classic packages that allow you to tour all the essence of this city and then take a Xi’an Lhasa train to Tibet. Enjoy the scenic 2864km Train trip and continue to explore the beautiful plateau!
Xi’an Tibet Train Travel Guide
Shanghai to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Shanghai
Shanghai, an international metropolis in eastern China, has many famous attractions like the Bund and Oriental Pearl Tower. You can enjoy the fashion vibe before taking the Z164 train from Shanghai to Lhasa, a journey of 4,373km from east to west to explore the mysterious land. This ride takes 45h03min, allowing you to enjoy the distinctive scenery of diverse landscapes.
Shanghai Tibet Train Travel Guide
Chongqing to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Chongqing
Chongqing is also one of the most popular gateways to enter Tibet. You may tour this city of mountains, enjoying its spicy and delicious hot pot and dazzling night view, and then take a 3,055km Chongqing Lhasa train ride to Tibet. It takes 33h31min as the altitude rises gradually and stunning views unfloods before your eyes.
Chongqing Tibet Train Travel Guide
Lanzhou to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Lanzhou
Located on the banks of the Yellow River, Lanzhou is an important transportation hub connecting central and western China. Currently, there are five Lanzhou to Lhasa trains to Tibet, covering a distance of 2188 km. It only takes around 23-25 hours to land you in the holy land.
Lanzhou Tibet Train Travel Guide
Guangzhou to Tibet Train Map
Tibet Train Tour from Guangzhou
Guangzhou is the largest coastal city in China with stylish cityscapes and a unique regional culture. The Guangzhou to Lhasa train marks the longest Tibet rail route, taking about 53 hours. However, it’s an ideal choice for you to appreciate the contrasting landscapes of China from south to north, and east to west.
Guangzhou Tibet Train Travel GuideTibet Train Tour by Flight + Rail
- Yunnan
- Xinjiang
- Hong Kong
- Macau
- Taiwan
- Kathmandu
- Asia
- the Americas
- Europe
- Oceania
Tibet Train Tour from Yunnan
Although the direct train from Kunming or Shangri-La to Lhasa is unavailable, you can still have a chance to enjoy a journey along Qinghai-Tibet Railway by a Yunnan to Xining flight + Xining to Lhasa train.
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11 Days Kunming Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Namtso Tour
Features:
Lifetime Train Journey to the Tibet Plateau
Renowned landmarks deep in religious and cultural atmosphere
Snowy-capped Himalayan RangeGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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11 Days Shangri-La Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Namtso Tour
Features:
Train Ride to the Roof of the World
Sacred Lakes Surrounded by Snowy Mountains
Grand Himalayan RangeGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Xinjiang
The most convenient way to travel from Xinjiang to Tibet by rail is to fly from Xinjiang to Xining first and then take the Xining to Lhasa train. The whole train trip would be much easier with the Xinjiang-Tibet Railway opening to the public in the future.
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11 Days Xinjiang Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Namtso Tour
Features:
Lifetime Train Journey to the Tibet Plateau
Snowy-capped Himalayan Range
Shimmering Lakes Nestled in MountainsGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Hong Kong
Hong Kong, a commercial center in Asia, serves as a major gateway into China. Although there’s no direct train from Hong Kong to Lhasa, you can take a bullet train or flight to one of the eight gateway cities in the Chinese Mainland: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi'an, Xining, and Lanzhou, then board on a Tibet train to Lhasa.
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11 Days Hong Kong Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Namtso Tour
Features:
Sky Train to the Roof of the World
Tibetan Buddhism Learning at renowned monasteries
Breathtaking Scenery of the HimalayasGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Macau
Traveling from Macau, you first need to take a flight to a transit city - such as Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Beijing, or Shanghai - and then transfer to the classic Tibet train bound for Lhasa.
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11 Days Macau Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Namtso Tour
Features:
Scenic Train to the Roof of the World
Solemn Tibetan monasteries
Grand Himalayan RangeGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Taiwan
Embark on a Tibet train tour from Taiwan, combining a unique cultural journey with the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. You typically fly from Taiwan to key Chinese cities such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Beijing, or Shanghai, and then board the Tibet train to Lhasa.
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12 Days Taiwan Chengdu Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp and Namtso Lake Tour
Features:
Sky Train to the Roof of the World
Diverse Chinese cultures encounter
Breathtaking Scenery of the Himalayan MountainsGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Kathmandu
Since the China-Nepal Railway is still under construction, you can travel overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa first and then board an outbound train from Lhasa to enjoy the stunning scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
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12 Days Kathmandu Everest Lhasa Xining Tour with Tibet Train Ride
Features:
Unparalleled Nepal to China adventure
Tibetan natural beauty and cultural highlights
Mirror-like salt lake with crystal-blue watersGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Asia
Thanks to convenient international flight connections to major Chinese gateway cities, like Chengdu, Chongqing, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Xining, Asian travelers can effortlessly connect with the world-renowned Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa, transferring from these cities.
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11 Days Malaysia Xi’an Lhasa Everest Gyirong Lhasa Train Tour
Features:
Embark on an epic journey through the Himalayas
Experience the gateway between Tibet and Nepal
Unveil the beauty of Tibet’s hidden gemsGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Thailand Chengdu Train to Lhasa Everest Base Camp Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Explore the historical and cultural heritage of Lhasa
Discover the wonder of Tibet to Nepal tour
Witness panoramic views of the HimalayasGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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9 Days Thailand Chongqing Train to Lhasa EBC Gyirong/Nyalam Nepal Tour
Features:
Marvel at the iconic seat of Tibetan Buddhism
Ride the world’s highest railway across the Tibetan Plateau
Enjoy the magnificent highland sceneryGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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11 Days Vietnam Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Mount Everest Tour
Features:
Explore the sacred sites of Tibetan Buddhism
Take in the stunning views along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Experience the beauty of Yamdrok Lake and Mount Everest
Group size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Bangladesh Chengdu Train to Lhasa Yamdrok Everest Base Camp Tour
Features:
Enjoy stunning views at Everest Base Camp
Travel along the world’s highest railway
Feel local Tibetan customs and cultureGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Japan Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Scenic Tibet train tour from Chengdu to Lhasa
Cross high Himalayan passes with panoramic mountain views
Overland adventure from Tibet to Nepal
Group size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from the Americans
For travelers traveling from the Americas to Lhasa, the standard route involves first flying to major international gateway cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, for a layover. Since these cities offer direct train connections to Lhasa, this arrangement allows for a seamless transition onto the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, making the entire itinerary smoother and filled with the excitement of exploration.
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12 Days Canada Shanghai Xining Train to Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Visit the spiritual wonders of Tibet
Enjoy stunning vista along Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Capture panoramic views of the HimalayasGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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13 Days USA Shanghai Xining Train to Lhasa Yamdrok Everest Tour
Features:
Wander through the spiritual heart of Shigatse
Dive deep into Tibetan cultural heritage
Marvel at the breathtaking views of Mount EverestGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Brazil Chengdu Train to Lhasa Yamdrok Everest Base Camp Tour
Features:
Experience the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Wander through the ancient Street of Lhasa
Witness the sunset and sunrise on Mount EverestGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Europe
Typically, travelers departing from Europe first fly to major Chinese transit hubs, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chengdu, before boarding a Tibet train bound for Lhasa.
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14 Days UK Xi’an Train to Lhasa Everest Kailash Mansarovar Gyirong/Zhangmu Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Feel the spirit and culture of Lhasa and Kailash
Learn more about Tibetan cultural heritages
Explore the spiritual gateway connecting Tibet and NepalGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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15 Days Germany Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Kailash Mansarovar Gyirong/Zhangmu Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Find Tibetan monastic & Lama heritage
Explore Tibet's natural wonders
Experience cross-cultural highlights from Tibet to NepalGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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12 Days France Chengdu Train to Lhasa Shigatse EBC Namtso Tour
Features:
Take the world's highest railway from Chengdu to Lhasa
Deeply experience the traditional Tibetan Buddhism
Experience the unique Tibetan cultureGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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11 Days Spain Xining Train to Lhasa EBC Namtso Tour
Features:
Ride the world’s highest railway from Xining to Lhasa
Stand beneath the towering Everest peaks
Witness sacred Tibetan rituals in ancient monasteriesGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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11 Days Italy Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Gyirong/Zhangmu Lhasa Tour
Features:
Ride the legendary Tibet train
Unveil the unparalleled natural wonders from Tibet to Gyirong or Nyalam
Experience the charm of Everest Base Camp up closeGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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11 Days Norway Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Gyirong/Zhangmu Lhasa Tour
Features:
Ride the legendary Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Unveil unparalleled natural wonders from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp
Experience the warmth of the Tibetan peopleGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Switzerland Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Enjoy the stunning scenery along Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Overnight at Everest Base Camp
Experience the cultures of Switzerland - Tibet - NepalGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
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10 Days Russia Chengdu Train to Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Tour
Features:
Scenic train journey on the world-famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway
Discover the spiritual heart of Tibet
Travel the epic Himalayan overland route to Everest and Nepal
Group size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
Tibet Train Tour from Oceania
International visitors from Oceania wishing to take a train to Lhasa typically need to first fly to major Chinese cities, such as Guangzhou, Beijing, or Shanghai, and then board a Tibet train from one of these locations.
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12 Days Australia Shanghai Xi’an Train to Lhasa Yamdrok Everest Base Camp Tour
Features:
Step into the spiritual heart of the Himalayas
Immerse yourself in local Tibetan customs
Explore the untouched beauty of Mount EverestGroup size: Min.1 pax
Tour price: free enquire >
FAQs on Tibet Train Tour
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Lhasa in Tibet with major cities in the Chinese Mainland, including Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xining. Currently, Tibet trains run daily between Lhasa and Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Lanzhou, Xining, and Xi'an, and depart every other day from Chengdu and Chongqing. You can board the Tibet train in one of these cities and take the scenic ride directly to Lhasa.
2. What is the best time to take a Tibet train trip?Taking a Tibet train to Lhasa is a popular choice for tourists as it offers a glimpse of the stunning scenery along the ride.
The best time to take a Tibet train ride is generally from April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making the view outside the windows clearer. Also at this time, the scenery along the way is stunning: the grasslands are lush and green, the lakes are glittering with sunlight, and the peaks are covered with snow.
Summer is also a good time to travel along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway as the green grasslands are dotted with flowers, the lakes and glaciers are shining under the sun. However, June to September is China’s peak travel season so the Tibet train ticket may sell out quickly. If you want to appreciate the summer landscape on the Tibet train, remember to contact us in advance, and our dedicated personnel will help you handle ticket purchasing.
If you want to appreciate snowfields, you can take a Tibet train in winter. During this time, the meadows and mountains are thick in snow, painted into a holy white land. The lakes are ice blue, immersed with a tranquil and captivating charm. Usually, there are fewer travelers in winter, so the tickets are more accessible. However, the weather may be cold.
3. What permits are needed to join a Tibet train tour?To enter Tibet by train, travelers typically need the following permits:
Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) and is required for all foreign travelers visiting Tibet.
Aliens' Travel Permit and Military Area Entry Permit: Travelers visiting military-sensitive areas such as Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, etc. need to apply for those two permits.
Our Tibet tour packages include the Tibet Travel Permit and all the necessary Tibet travel documents. If you book with us, we’ll help you apply for the permits needed to ensure a smooth and worry-free Tibet train tour.
4. How to book a Tibet train ticket?You can buy a Tibet train ticket on China Railway’s official website or its app “Railway 12306”. You can also buy the ticket from the ticket windows at the station.
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 your ticket is to book online with us. Specializing in Tibet tours, we can guarantee you the Tibet train ticket and arrange a smooth and wonderful China Tibet train trip for you.
5. How to collect the Tibet train ticket?If you book your train ticket with us, we can deliver your Tibet train ticket to your hotel. If you purchased your train ticket independently, you no longer need to collect the ticket; simply present your passport and Tibet Travel Permit to the staff. However, please arrive at the station in advance; trains for Lhasa typically experience heavy crowds, so you will need to allow sufficient time for security checks.
6. How to board the Tibet train?You can enter the station with your passport and Tibet Travel Permit. After going through the security check and entering the station, you will see a screen showing all train information, including train number, departure time, and gate number. You can find your ticket barrier according to it. If you arrive early, you can stay in the waiting hall for check-in. After the ticket check starts, you will pass through the manned ticket gates. After passing through the gate, you can proceed to the correct platform, find your corresponding carriage according to your ticket, and queue there to board the train.
7. What are the facilities on the Tibet train?Seats: Except for standing tickets, there are three types of seats: hard seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper. A hard seat is the cheapest option with minimum comfort. A hard sleeper compartment usually has six hard sleepers with three (upper, middle, and lower berths) on each side. However, there is no lockable door. A soft sleeper compartment has four berths (two upper berths and two lower berths) and a lockable door, providing more personal space for tourists.
Toilets: There is one squat and one Western toilet at the end of each carriage. Please note that toilet paper is not provided.
Water Dispenser: Free hot water is provided during the entire trip. You can bring a bottle or a paper cup to get boiled water. Be careful with hot water!
Oxygen Supply: Trains to Tibet 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 under each seat and sleeper. You can use this device to inhale oxygen to alleviate altitude sickness.
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 Chinese and Tibetan-style dishes and enjoy your meal while appreciating the beautiful views outside the window. You can get snacks and drinks from mobile food carts as well. You can also bring some food and fruits with you in case you don’t get used to the food served on the train.
Air Conditioning: All trains are equipped with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable temperature inside the carriages and a pleasant resting environment for you.
Medical Services: As the train journey to Lhasa involves a gradual increase in altitude, dedicated medical personnel are on board to help you better cope with altitude sickness and ensure your health throughout the Tibet train journey.
8. What to see on the Tibet train?Yuzhu Peak: Soaring to a height of 6,178m, it is snow-capped all year long.
Kekexili: Situated in the northwest part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it’s one of the largest and highest nature reserves in China, home to many rare species such as snow leopards, Tibetan antelope, and wild yaks.
Tanggula Mountains: This is the world's highest railway pass, at an altitude of approximately 5,072 meters. Here you will see snow-capped peaks and a blue sky that seems almost within reach.
Tuotuo River: Originating from the glaciers of Jianggendiru Snow Mountains, the highest peak of the Tanggula Mountain range, Tuotuo River is the official head stream of the Yangtze River.
Cuona Lake: It’s the world’s highest freshwater lake and the closest lake to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, with clear and green waters against the blue sky and the mountains beyond.
9. How to deal with possible altitude sickness on the Tibet train?Taking a train on the Tibet Plateau with an average altitude of over 4,000 meters, it’s common for some tourists to experience altitude sickness when taking a China Tibet train tour. The symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, and dizziness.
To minimize the effect of altitude sickness, it is important to allow time to acclimate to the high altitude and to take precautions to prevent altitude sickness. Travelers should drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol or caffeine.
Besides, Tibet trains are equipped with oxygen supplies. After starting from Golmud, the oxygen diffusing system starts to pump oxygen into the carriage. If you feel uncomfortable, you can also use oxygen outlets or take some medications. Don’t worry that you may have a severe effect because each train has a doctor to ensure your comfortable travel. Ask for help if you feel extremely sick.
10. What else should I be aware of during the scenic Tibet train tour?The most important thing is to carry your travel documents with you at all times, including your passport, China Visa, and Tibet Travel Permit; they may be checked at any time during the journey. Additionally, although the train begins supplying oxygen to the carriages after reaching Xining, it is still recommended that you bring altitude sickness medication to alleviate discomfort. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

inquiry@tibettourism.com


