Train Travel

Since 2006 it's been possible to travel on the world's highest railway, complete with oxygen tanks, and arrive in Tibet by train—provided you have your TTB permit. This means that you will need to book a tour that includes your train trip. Now there are direct air-conditioned trains from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xian to Lhasa several times a week. Everyone has to sign a health waiver saying they're fit to travel. The rail link is not without its controversies—some argue that the train encourages Han migration, and that its construction has had a tremendous environmental impact.