The article is written by Anna Chen
Taking the train to Lhasa was absolutely one of our highlights in our Tibet tour. The Qinghai – Tibet luxury train is well equipped with facilities for all passengers. Taking a Tibet tour by train can partly reduce the impact that is caused by high altitude. My friend and I were good examples.
We searched on several travel forums, and tourists are highly recommended to take the train to Tibet as the first option mode. As a matter of fact, it is the best train service in China. Highland train route can no doubt ensure a happy journey!
The train is specially designed to adjust plateau travel. Each carriage is equipped with an oxygen system to maintain the air pressure at a suitable level. Every seat is equipped with an oxygen mask which can be used by certain passengers who find it difficult to breathe. Double-layer glass containing the anti-ultraviolet radiation film better prevent the intense sunlight. The equipment on the train indeed provided us a comfort experience of the train to Lhasa. In addition, temperature in the train is regulated and pressurized to adjust to the high pressure over 4,000 m (13,123 ft.).
Food is available on each train, which totally surprised us for we had bought our own food before hopping on the train. There are 3 meals a day, Chinese food only, and the price is between 10-20 RMB (1.6-3.2$). You can buy snacks at any time on the train to Lhasa. You can have milk, eggs, cakes and bread as your breakfast. There are also instant noodles on the train, which is a common and typical food on the train in China. Hot water is of course available.
For now, food yes, hot water yes. What about washrooms? This was what we concerned most before the trip. Good news is yes! Washrooms are available on the train! And two types can be chosen – “squat” type and western sit-down toilet type. Sink areas, yes. But we recommend you to avoid the rush hours (mainly in the morning and after your dinner) to wash or clean up. One useful tip: you should bring your own toilet supplies. As for the rest, you can get everything you need on one Tibet train. There are even doctors if you get sick. So, don’t worry. You won’t feel uncomfortable on the train to Lhasa as they have such convenient services!
Anyway, you should have your own experience on the train to know how convenient the services are. Don’t hesitate! Take a Tibet train tour and share your stories to other travelers!
