Step aboard a train that promised more than just a ride—Tangula Luxury Train, a moving palace that suppose to redefine luxury travel in China. From its lavish interiors to the majestic landscapes it traversed, Tangula luxury train was an experience like no other. But where is it now? Let’s dive into the story of this luxurious journey and uncover its fate today.

1. What is the Tangula Luxury Train? Basic Information and Train Routes

Tangula luxury trains, operated by Tangula Railtours Ltd., a joint venture between RailPartners Inc and Qinghai-Tibet Railway Co., featured the most luxurious train manufactured by BSP. Each carriage costs around 3,000,000$. Managed by the Kempinski Hotel Group, these trains offer top-tier luxury. The trains reach speeds of up to 160 km/h.

Tangula trains run on two distinct routes: from Beijing to Lhasa across the Tibetan Plateau, and from Beijing to Lijiang through Yunnan Province. The Beijing to Lhasa Route takes 5 days/4 nights, and the Beijing to Lijiang takes 5 days/4 nights, with return trips taking 4 days/3 nights. Travelers could enjoy unparalleled luxury and comfort while exploring diverse cultures and stunning landscapes.

Beijing-Lhasa route, also known as the northern route. Along the journey, you can appreciate the spectacular scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, pass by the snow-capped Yuzhu Peak, the pristine Cuona Lake, and the boundless Qiangtang Grassland. The daily off-train excursions included in the journey will enable you to further immerse in local cultures and traditions.

Tangula Luxury Train

2. How Luxurious Is the Tangula Luxury Train?

Each Tangula luxury train carries a maximum of 96 guests in 48 spacious suites. It is comprised of 15 cars, with one scenic car, two dining cars, and 12 accommodation suite cars with 4 private suites per car. As for the suites on Tangula trains, they are designed to be like a cozy home with all technological conveniences including a bathroom with a shower, an LCD TV, an entertainment system, satellite internet, a minibar, and a safe.

Each suite car has its own bi-lingual 24-hour butler service to anticipate your every need, while a doctor is available to take care of those suffering from altitude sickness. Managed by Kempinski Hotels, Europe’s oldest luxury hotel collection, all onboard hospitality, and world-class service will be highly ensured. International travelers need to show the passport as well as Tibet Travel Permit to board the train. After getting on such a train, you will feel like being in a five-star hotel.

The food on the Tangula luxury trains is also pretty good. There are the best chefs of Western cuisine as well as Asian cuisine. You never need to worry about the taste of food, the seats, or the environment, for the dining car is designed to be able to serve all 96 guests while making sure that they feel comfortable in the dining car during the mealtime.

Dining Car in Tangula Luxury Train

3. Is It Available to Take Right Now? Why Is It No Longer in Service?

It’s unfortunate that these luxury trains are no longer in service. The Tangula Luxury Train ceased operations due to a mix of factors, including high operational costs and limited demand. Despite its lavish amenities, the steep ticket prices—around $5,500 per person from Beijing to Lhasa—made it hard to attract enough passengers to sustain the service.

Logistical challenges and the extensive maintenance required for such a high-end experience also played a role in the decision to discontinue the route. Additionally, the company was significantly impacted by the 2008 financial crisis, which further contributed to the end of the luxury trains.

4. What Kinds of Tangula Train are Available Right Now?

Although the luxury train is no longer available, you can still experience an unforgettable trip on the regular Tibet trains along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Every day, there are two trains depart from Xining to Lhasa, Z8981 and Z8991, passing through Tangula Station. The journey spans 1,956 kilometers and takes about 19.5 to 21.5 hours. Train Z8981 departs at 12:50, and Z8991 departs at 21:50.

While the service and amenities on these trains aren't as luxurious as the Tangula, they offer a reasonable price and breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau. Ticket prices are 224 RMB for a hard seat, 495 RMB for a hard sleeper, and 781 RMB for a soft sleeper. This route is extremely popular, and demand often exceeds supply, so securing tickets may involve an additional service fee. We will ensure your ticket is booked and your journey is smooth.

The Tibet Train is passing through a stunning view of snow-capped mountains.

5. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway Tour: A Lifetime Trip Experience

Set out on the Qinghai-Tibet railway tour for a journey that promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. As you glide through the rugged terrains of the Tibetan Plateau, you'll be mesmerized by an ever-changing landscape of vast grasslands, shimmering lakes, and towering, snow-capped peaks, making each moment of this long ride an unforgettable experience. With every mile, you’ll feel the thrill of crossing one of the highest railways in the world, witnessing a natural spectacle that’s both majestic and serene.

To meet our customers' needs, we've meticulously crafted a variety of Tibet train tours, departing from some of China's most dynamic cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. These bustling metropolises, often the first choice for international travelers entering China, offer an exciting gateway to your adventure. Our thoughtfully designed tours not only let you explore the attractions of these vibrant cities but also take you on a breathtaking journey along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes you'll ever see.

10 Days Shanghai Lhasa Everest Base Camp Tour by Train

Tour Route: Train from Shanghai - Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Lhasa

Price from USD p.p

Conclusion

Tangula trains provided passengers with unique and unforgettable luxury travel experiences. It is a pity that these luxury trains have already been out of service. However, you can still take regular Tibet trains to explore the roof of the world. Just feel free to share your travel plan with us, with more than 10 years’ Tibet travel experience and 1:1 travel consultant service, we can customize the itinerary, apply for the permit, book the train tickets, and arrange a satisfying once-in-a-lifetime Tibet trip for you.