Red train waiting at a Tibet railway platform
Tibet travel guide

Toilet & Bathroom on Tibet Train

The Tibet train has toilets and washbasins in every carriage. At the end of each carriage there are two toilets: one Western sit-down toilet and one Asian squat toilet.

Toilet Facilities

Western Sit-Down Toilet

  • usually one per carriage
  • flushing toilet
  • toilet paper usually provided, but bring your own too
  • more space

Asian Squat Toilet

  • usually one per carriage
  • standard Chinese design
  • often cleaner, as many Chinese passengers prefer it

Both are cleaned by the attendants during the journey and are usually reasonably clean.

Sink & Washing Areas

Each carriage has a small washing area with a row of basins, for brushing your teeth and washing your face. There are no showers on the train.

Everyone in the carriage shares the washing area, so it is busy in the morning. Go early or a little later than the main rush.

Hot Water

There is a hot water boiler at the end of each carriage. Use it for tea, coffee or instant noodles. Bring a mug or a flask.

What to Bring

  • toiletries (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste)
  • a small towel
  • extra toilet paper
  • hand gel
  • wet wipes
  • earplugs and an eye mask

Tip: buy everything you need before you board, as the train sells only snacks and drinks. The washing area is quietest early in the morning, before most passengers get up.

We answer within 12 hours, Monday to Saturday.

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