Getting to Lhasa by train

Traveling in Tibet by train from mainland China is a unique and scenic journey that offers travelers a chance to experience the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. Here’s what you need to know:

The Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Route: The most popular and scenic route is via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which stretches from Xining in Qinghai Province to Lhasa, Tibet. This is the world’s highest railway, reaching an elevation of over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet).
Duration: The train journey from Xining to Lhasa takes approximately 21 to 22 hours. If you are traveling from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, the journey can take anywhere between 40 to 55 hours due to the stops along the way.

Train Options

Hard Seat/Hard Sleeper/Soft Sleeper: Trains are equipped with different seating classes, including hard seats, hard sleepers, and soft sleepers. Soft sleepers offer more privacy and comfort with four berths per compartment, while hard sleepers are a more budget-friendly option with six berths per compartment.
Oxygen Supply: Due to the high altitudes, trains are equipped with oxygen supply systems and are pressurized to help passengers acclimatize to the higher elevations.

Tickets and Booking

Advance Booking: It is highly advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as summer and around major Chinese holidays.
Online and Offline Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or through travel agencies. Alternatively, you can buy them at the train stations. Be prepared to present your passport and necessary Tibet travel permit.

Getting to Lhasa by air

Traveling to Lhasa by air is a convenient and fast way to reach the heart of Tibet, allowing travelers more time to explore the region. Here’s a guide to help you plan your journey:

Major Airports and Flight Routes

Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA): This is the main airport serving Lhasa and is situated about 62 kilometers (39 miles) from the city center. It handles both domestic and limited international flights.
Domestic Flights: There are frequent direct flights to Lhasa from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an. Chengdu offers the most flight options, making it a popular gateway to Tibet.
International Flights: Direct international flights are limited, but there are some options from Kathmandu, Nepal, giving travelers the chance to combine visits to both Nepal and Tibet.

Flight Duration

From Major Cities: Flight times vary depending on the departure city. For example, flights from Chengdu to Lhasa take approximately 2 to 3 hours, while flights from Beijing may take about 4 to 5 hours.

Booking and Tickets

Advance Booking: It is advisable to book flights well in advance, especially during peak travel periods like summer and the Tibetan New Year (Losar).
Online and Offline Booking: Flights can be booked online through airline websites or travel agencies. Make sure to confirm your tickets and check-in details early, as flights to Lhasa can often be fully booked.

GETTING FROM KATHMANDU TO LHASA

By Air

Direct Flights: The quickest way is by taking a direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to Lhasa Gonggar Airport. The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours and provides stunning aerial views of the Himalayas. Direct flights available only on Monday, weekday and Friday.
Via Chengdu: You can reduce costs by taking a flight to Lhasa via Chengdu. While this option is more budget-friendly, it typically involves a layover of approximately 9 to 16 hours, depending on flight schedules.

Overland

Kyirong Border: This scenic route involves a combination of driving and possible trips through interesting cultural and historical sites. The journey allows you to experience the transition from Nepal’s lush landscapes to Tibet’s stark beauty.
Duration and Entry: This option takes several days and typically involves entering Tibet at the Kyirong border crossing, requiring a detailed itinerary planned with a Tibet tour operator.

GETTING FROM MAINLAND CHINA TO LHASA

By Train

Qinghai-Tibet Railway: The most popular and scenic train route to Lhasa is via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, starting from Xining. This journey offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau and high-altitude landscapes. It takes about 21 to 22 hours from Xining, but longer if you’re departing from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu due to additional stops.
Booking: Train tickets should be booked well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

By Air

Direct Flights: There are direct flights to Lhasa Gonggar Airport from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, and Xi’an. Chengdu offers the most frequent flights.
Flight Duration: Depending on your departure city, flights to Lhasa range from 2 to 5 hours.