Tanggula, in Tibetan, means "the mountains on the plateau." It stands at the heart of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, forming the natural border between northwest China's Qinghai Province and southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. With an average altitude exceeding 5,000 meters, its peaks are covered in year-round snow and ice. Since ancient times, it has been one of the most formidable natural barriers on the route into Xizang.
In 2006, the Qinghai-Xizang Railway opened to traffic. It crossed the Tanggula Pass at 5,072 meters above sea level, the highest point of any railway in the world. Join CGTN to enjoy the breathtaking scenery at the world's highest railway station.
A train passes Tanggula Railway Station, the world's highest railway station, at Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, in July, 2024. (Photo: China Railway Qinghai-Xizang Group)
The natural scenery of the Tanggula Mountains, at the border area between northwest China's Qinghai Province and southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, May 23, 2026. (Photo: CGTN)