Qinhai Tibet Train

The Qinhai train from Peking to Lhasa opened in 2006 to Chinese and foreigners alike. Indeed, the new line has made Tibet more accessible to the world. This is not without controversy however as many people, especially Tibetans, see this new development as a threat to Tibetan culture as more people begin to migrate towards the high plateau.

The state-of-the-art train is equipped with oxygen tanks, fed directly into each bunk, to help prevent AMS, or altitude sickness. The train reaches its highest point at around 5000 meters. The service, the facilities, and the rooms are of the best but there are a few oddities. The cheapest sleeper room has no door or curtain, giving tit a public feel. Additionally, the room light is controlled by the car operator. You are at their mercy to sleeping and waking. There are also no personal lights and claustrophobics should think twice about sleeping in a small room with six other people. If you are on a budget, plan on eating lots of noodle bowls; there is little else offered in the stations. There is also a dining car available.

The train gave some amazing views of the lower Chinese countryside and the plateau. As you cross the tundra, it's hard to believe tracks could be laid in such a seemingly inaccessible area. My contention? I've had worse.