View from Xining-Lhasa train. Photo: Shutterstock One of China’s most remarkable rail journeys takes travelers from Xining to Lhasa across the vast Tibetan Plateau, reaching elevations of more than 5,000 meters above sea level.
The approximately 22-hour journey is famous not only for its destination but also for the dramatic landscapes visible along the route. Passengers can see snow-covered mountains, high-altitude lakes, vast open plains and wildlife as the train crosses some of the world’s highest terrain.
Altitude is a defining feature of the experience. At the highest points, oxygen levels are significantly lower than at sea level, so trains operating on the route are equipped with supplemental oxygen systems. Passengers can access oxygen outlets near their seats if needed.
The journey ends in Lhasa, one of the world's highest major cities and the historic heart of Tibet. The city combines dramatic mountain scenery with centuries of Tibetan culture and landmarks, including the iconic Potala Palace.
For travelers, the train offers an unusual way to experience the Tibetan Plateau without spending the entire journey at high altitude on foot or by road. The gradual climb also provides a distinctive transition from the landscapes around Xining to the high-altitude environment of Tibet.
The railway has become an attraction in its own right, with travelers often choosing the route for the views along the way rather than simply as transportation between two cities.