Up-to-date information on Trains to Tibet
The Tibet Train, also known as the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, connects Xining to Lhasa in Tibet. This railway line is the world’s highest, crossing an elevation of 5,100 meters above sea level. The Tibet Train covers a distance of more than 1,956 km, and the journey takes around 20 hours to complete. The train passes through some of the most breathtaking landscapes globally, including the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau natural reserve area, Kunlun, and Tanggula Mountain ranges.
All Tibet Trains are equipped with oxygen supply systems. If any passenger feels uncomfortable during the trip, they can use the oxygen to adjust to the altitude. The cabins have air conditioning, comfortable seats, and sleeping berths. Dining cars, toilets, and medical centers are also available on board.
Since 2008, thousands of tourists from mainland China and foreigners have been attracted to take the train to Tibet, as it’s a reasonable way to enter Tibet. Taking the train to Tibet also helps you acclimatize to the altitude.
Due to the factors mentioned above, traveling to Tibet by train has become quite popular among tourists. Therefore, Tibet train tickets are in high demand. It can be challenging for foreigners to purchase train tickets on their own, particularly during the busy tourist season. Tibet Nature Tour can assist each traveler in arranging a Tibet Train Ticket to Lhasa.
However, it might be difficult to ensure the availability of a Soft Sleeper or First Class berth, particularly from Chengdu, Shanghai, Xi’an, or Beijing.
Attention: Train tickets will start to sell 30 days before the train departure date. If you book the trip with us before 35 days of your trip’s start date, it normally won’t be an issue for us to arrange the train ticket accordingly. We can organize your train ticket reservations with ease during the winter when there are fewer travelers visiting Tibet.
Xining is the best option for taking the train. Since Xining is located at a height of around 2,700 meters, there are often 5 to 7 trains operating to Lhasa each day. It will take around 24 hours to travel by rail from Xining. To check the Train Schedules, click here.
| Duration | Distance | Frequency | Soft Sleeper | Hard Sleeper |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xining - Lhasa | ||||
| 21:40hrs | 1,972km | Every Day | CNY808 | CNY521 |
| Lanzhou - Lhasa | ||||
| 26:30hr | 2,188km | Every Day | CNY823 | CNY522 |
| Chengdu - Lhasa | ||||
| 42:12hrs | 3,641km | One Train Every Day | CNY1,035 | CNY663 | Beijing - Lhasa |
| 39:43hrs | 3,757km | One Train Every Day | CNY1,186 | CNY763 | Shanghai - Lhasa |
| 44:32hrs | 4,373km | One Train Every Day | CNY1,310 | CNY841 | Guangzhou - Lhasa |
| 53:2hrs | 4,980km | One Train Every Day | CNY1,526 | CNY919 |
Tibet Nature Tour isn’t just your travel agency in Tibet, we’re your partner throughout your journey. That’s why we offer 24/7 service during your trip.
We put all our efforts into ensuring that you’ll receive a hassle-free and memorable travel experience in Tibet.
Our local Tibetan tour guides are experienced, knowledgeable, and fun-loving. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
