An epic train journey which climbs 4,500 metres is considered one of the best in the world. The Qinghai-Tibet railway, a marvel of engineering across the Himalyan plateau, runs from Xining in central China to Lhasa in Tibet.
The 1,200-mile journey gives passengers breathtaking views of the highest hills in the world. As the train heads through the vast expanse, people can gaze at the blue skies and devoid landscape where yellowed grass stretches endlessly. However, the harsh conditions make it a challenging journey, with few signs of life apart from the occasional carcass.
On board the train, compartments are fitted with nozzles pumping in purified oxygen to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. As the train heads around the Kunlun Mountains, the inside darkens from the shadows caused by looming ice and snow.
The total journey from Xining to Lhasa takes 21 hours and 30 minutes to complete. At Xining, the altitude is 2,200 metres before the train heads to Delingha at 2,982 metres and Golmud at 2,780 metres.
The train reaches its highest point at 4,500 metres in Nagchu, a city in the north of Tibet. From here, it will head to Lhasa where the altitude is 3,650 metres.
Between Golmud and Lhasa, passengers are treated to the sight of grazing yaks in vast grassland, snow-blanketed peaks and stunning alpine lakes. The train also runs below the amazing Kunlun Mountain Range, across the glittering TuoTuo River and past the Kekexili Nature Reserve.
As well as enjoying the stunning views, passengers can enjoy a range of food and drink onboard. There is a dining carriage on the train that offers traditional Chinese boxed meals, snacks and soft drinks.
The Xining railway station is the first that links Tibet with other cities across inland China. It is located around 25km, the equivalent of a 40 minute drive, away from Xining Caojiabao International Airport.
The railway line to Tibet was completed in 2006 and its construction came with challenges. Engineers had to contend with the harsh winter conditions, tempestuous winds, and the vast expanse of permafrost.
It was initially promoted as part of China’s Drive West policy which aimed to boost the economy of western provinces. It initially resulted in a boom in regional tourism but has since been mocked as “Tibet’s Second Invasion.”
