Shangri-La Express (formerly China Orient Express)

The private Shangri-La Express (formerly China Orient Express) is at this writing still the most modern hotel train in China and far surpasses regular train service in every aspect. The Shangri-La Express is modern, air-conditioned and has first-class sleeping compartments with two bunk-style twin beds. It is not a luxury train, but it is the best way to see this fascinating country. The much-touted Tangula Express continues to be postponed and thus the Shangri-La Express is currently the best private touring train available in China.

The Shangri-La Express is modern, air-conditioned and has first-class sleeping compartments with two bunk-style twin beds. A small washroom with sink is shared between compartments. Toilets are down the hall. Showers are in a purpose-built shower car. Service on board is cheerful; each car has
its own attendant who cleans the cabins, makes the bed and is on call to serve tea and coffee 24 hours a day.

Discriminating travelers should book two adjoining cabins so they can spread out more, each have a lower bed and share the washroom.

On Shangri-La Express tours that include Tibet, the day-long (12+ hours) trip between Lhasa and Golmud is by regular-service, purpose-built train equipped with special reinforced windows and additional oxygen pumped into the cars. This line reaches a height of 16,640 feet at the Tangula Pass.