The New Tibet Railway – An Affordable Trip Across The

The New Tibet Railway – An Affordable Trip Across The Roof Of The World

The Siberian Express across Russia to Moscow has been described as the best train ride in the world. Maybe not anymore. The Tibetan Railway from Qinghai to Lhasa has thrown its hat in the ring. It will eventually be extended to the Nepalese border, only an hour’s drive from Kathmandu.

Some things you might want to think about before boarding:

Price: Tibetan Railway tickets are CHEAP, ranging from US$49 to $180 depending on how much comfort you require and where youre coming from. A soft sleeper from Beijing, a 48 hour journey, cost only $158 in early 2007. Although a travel agency might charge more than that, the frugal can purchase a ticket directly from the station.

Visas: A China visa is of course necessary. Contrary to some information on the Internet, though, a Tibet Permit is also required for foreigners. They are relatively inexpensive and not difficult to obtain, and can be arranged through a travel agency.

Altitude Sickness: Tibet is often called the roof of the world, and the Tibetan Railway is the worlds highest altitude railway. Nearly 1,000...