Tibet Train Dining Tips: What to Eat

A practical consideration for every tourist embarking on a Tibet train tour is the journey's length—anywhere from 20 to over 40 hours on the rails. This means that mealtimes are essential milestones that break up the long journey. Let's discover the best ways to satisfy your appetite while on board.

Dining Car: Your "Mobile Restaurant" on the Rails

Every Tibet train has a dedicated dining car, usually in the middle (8th or 9th car—just check the sign by the car door or ask a crew member if you're not sure). Grab a window seat, and you'll eat while watching the Qinghai-Tibet Railway's stunning scenery—rolling grasslands, glistening lakes, even distant yaks! That's a dining experience you'll never get on a plane.

The dining car isn't open 24/7, so timing matters. Usually, breakfast runs 7:30 to 8:30 AM, with warm, gentle options like rice porridge, steamed buns, and boiled eggs—perfect if you're still waking up to the journey. Lunch is the busiest (11:30 AM to 2 PM) and has the biggest menu: stir-fries, set meals, and hot noodle soups. Try the radish rib soup or tomato and egg soup—they're comforting, easy on the stomach, and taste like home. Dinner (5:30 to 7 PM) is similar to lunch, with hearty options to end your day. And if you just need a pick-me-up? They sell water, soda, and even coffee here too.

Snack Carts: Convenient Bites Without Leaving Your Seat

If you don't feel like making the trip to the dining car or get peckish between meals, listen for the familiar sound of the rolling snack trolley. Crew members push these carts up and down the aisles several times a day, calling out what they have—no need to stand up or wait in line. You'll find classics like instant noodles, ham sausages, and marinated eggs. They also stock snacks: potato chips, cookies, fresh apples, and even Tibetan specialties like highland barley cakes and yak jerky. Grab a bottle of water here if you run out, too—super handy.

12306 App: Pre-Order Meals for Hassle-Free Dining

Want to skip lines and have food delivered right to your seat? Use the 12306 app (China's official train ticket platform)—its homepage has a meal-ordering service! Just browse the menu, pick what you want (from snacks to full meals), and place your order. When the train stops at a station, a crew member will bring your food straight to you. It's perfect if you're traveling with kids, have limited mobility, or just want to relax and enjoy the views without rushing.

Platform Stops: Temporary Supply Stations

When the train pulls into big stations—like Xi'an Railway Station, Lanzhou Railway Station, or Xining Railway Station (a popular starting point for Tibet trains)—you might see vendors on the platform selling food. This is a great way to grab a fresh boxed meal or a bar of chocolate for a little variety. But here's a key tip: the train only stops for about 10 minutes, so don't wander far! Grab your food, pay quickly, and hop back on—you don't want to miss your ride to Lhasa.

Smart Savings: Bringing Your Own Food

Frankly speaking, buying all your meals on the train can add up. A simple boxed meal can start around 30 RMB and go much higher. Packing your own supplies is a fantastic way to save money and ensure you have your favorite snacks. Here are some recommended options.

Main Meals: Instant noodles, cup noodles, bread, and sandwiches are easy.

Energy Snacks: Nuts, chocolate, granola bars, and beef jerky are great for sustained energy.

Drinks: Bring a reusable water bottle. The train provides free hot water, so you can also pack tea bags or instant coffee. A thermos is a great idea for cozy hot drinks.

Fresh Fruit: Apples, oranges, and bananas are sturdy and help you feel fresh.

Eating Well at High Altitude

As you climb higher, your body needs a bit of extra care. These simple tips can help you acclimatize better.

Go easy on greasy and heavily spiced foods to avoid upsetting your stomach.

Focus on carbohydrates like noodles and bread for steady energy.

Stay hydrated! The train and high altitude are very dry. Aim to sip water consistently throughout the day rather than drinking a lot at once. This helps with altitude sickness.

Avoid alcohol, as it can worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Conclusion

If you have specific dietary needs like being vegetarian or gluten-free, your best bet is to bring your own food, as options are very limited. It's always safer to come prepared.