最佳答案From The Capital to The Tibetan Plateau: A Train Journey Through Beijing to Lhasa If you are a traveler who’s always wanted to discover how the top of the worl...
From The Capital to The Tibetan Plateau: A Train Journey Through Beijing to Lhasa
If you are a traveler who’s always wanted to discover how the top of the world feels, there’s no better way than taking a Beijing to Lhasa train journey. As the longest and the highest altitude railway in the world, the Beijing-Lhasa train journeys 3,757 kilometers through some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth. Here’s what you can expect on one of the most incredible train journeys on the planet:
First Stop: Beijing to Xian
Your journey will start in Beijing, where you will board the train at the Beijing Railway Station. The train usually departs in the late evening, and you can expect to be on it for about 13 hours before making your first stop in Xian. The journey from Beijing to Xian takes you across the loess plateau and the rural farmlands of China’s north, through which the Yellow River winds.
As one of the oldest cities in China, Xian is known for its rich cultural heritage and 8th-century Terracotta Army. In Xian, you can take a break to explore the city’s attractions, including the ancient city wall, the Muslim Quarter, and Big Wild Goose Pagoda. But make sure you don’t spend too much time in Xian, as the real adventure on the train is yet to come.
Second Stop: Xian to Lanzhou
After leaving Xian, the train continues its journey towards Lanzhou, which is a bustling city on the banks of the Yellow River. The train journey from Xian to Lanzhou takes about 5-6 hours. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Qinling Mountains to the south, and the Hexi Corridor to the northwest.
Lanzhou is famous for its beef noodles, which you absolutely must try during your stopover. You can also explore the city’s Gansu Provincial Museum to learn about the Silk Road and the ancient history of the area. The highlight of your stop in Lanzhou is the sight of the Yellow River and the vividly colored sunset that falls over the city, so make sure you don’t miss it!
Third Stop: Lanzhou to Lhasa
The final leg of your journey is the most exciting, as you leave the plains of China and head towards the plateau of Tibet. The train journey from Lanzhou to Lhasa is the longest of the trip, taking around 24 hours and covering over 1,500 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Kunlun Mountains, the Qaidam Basin, and Tanggula Pass, which at 5,072 meters above sea level, is the highest point of the railway.
The train arrives in Lhasa in the evening, and you’ll have to adjust to the high altitude before you explore the city. Lhasa is the spiritual heart of Tibet, and there’s plenty to see and explore here. You can visit the iconic Potala Palace, stroll around Barkhor Street to soak in the culture, or attend a traditional Tibetan opera performance at the local opera house.
Your Beijing to Lhasa train journey may come to an end in Lhasa, but the memories of the sights, sounds, and experiences you’ll have on board will last you a lifetime. This journey is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that any traveler should add to their bucket list.