Tibet Train: Route, Schedule & Tickets 2025

The Tibet Train, or Qinghai-Tibet Railway, is a remarkable high-altitude rail line connecting Lhasa with major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Opened in 2006, this engineering marvel spans over 1,900 kilometers, with sections soaring above 5,000 meters—earning its title as the world's highest railway. For anyone captivated by the allure of Tibet, this train journey is more than transportation—it's an unforgettable part of the adventure.

Why is taking a Tibet Train a must when traveling to Tibet?

• Scenic Views: The journey offers stunning vistas of Tibet’s landscapes—endless grasslands, pristine lakes, and majestic snow-capped mountains.
• Affordable: Train tickets are often more budget-friendly than flights, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Altitude Acclimatization: The Qinghai-Tibet Railway features an oxygen supply system that helps passengers adjust to the altitude, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
• Cultural Connection: The train ride is a cultural experience, providing opportunities to meet locals and fellow travelers, share stories, and forge meaningful connections.

This guide dives into everything you need to know about the Tibet train journey. Discover train schedules, route maps, onboard facilities, suggested itineraries, an introduction to the trains operating to and from Tibet, and answers to common questions. Whether you're after practical tips or simply building excitement for your adventure, this guide is your ultimate companion for the Qinghai-Tibet Railway experience!

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• Beijing Tibet Train Tour

  The train from Beijing to Tibet is the most popular among foreign guests.
  Shanghai Tibet Train Tour

  The train from Shanghai to Tibet is the most popular among Mainland Chinese tourists
• Xining Tibet Train Tour

  Xining is the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway
  Chengdu Tibet Train Tour

  Chengdu is the hometown of giant pandas and convenient to travel to Tibet by train or plane.
• Chongqing Tibet Train Tour

  Chongqing is a mountain city located on the Yangtze River
  Guangzhou Tibet Train Tour

  The train from Guangzhou to Tibet takes the longest time, passing through most of China
• Xian Tibet Train Tour

  Xi'an is home to the Terracotta Warriors and was also the capital of the Tang Dynasty
  Hong Kong Tibet Train Tour

  There is no direct train from Hong Kong to Lhasa. You can transfer from nearby Guangzhou.

Qinghai-Tibet Railway Scenery and Facts

Tibet Train Life and Facilities Onboard

Oxygen Supply

The Qinghai-Tibet train commences diffuse oxygen supply throughout the train from Xining, ensuring passengers' comfort against altitude sickness. Each seat and bunk in the passenger cabins is equipped with individual oxygen ports, allowing for private oxygen inhalation as needed.

Dining Car

Positioned in the middle of the train, the dining car offers a selection of delicious Chinese meals, snacks, and beverages. Additionally, a snack trolley service is available throughout the train, providing passengers with various options for snacks, drinks, and fruits.

Washrooms

At the junction between two carriages, there are washrooms and washbasins available for passengers. These facilities are intended for simple hygiene routines like washing faces and brushing teeth, as showers are not available on the train. Soft sleeper compartments are equipped with Western-style toilets, while other compartments have squat toilets.

Hard Sleeper

The hard sleeper section provides an economical way to travel, with open bays of six bunks (upper, middle, and lower) on each side of the compartment. The bunks are relatively comfortable and come with clean bedding.

Soft sleeper

Soft sleeper compartments on the Tibet train journey offer a blend of comfort and privacy, ideal for those seeking a tranquil travel experience. These cabins typically feature four bunks with comfortable bedding, climate control, and a lockable door, ensuring a restful and secure environment. Passengers can enjoy amenities such as personal reading lights, power sockets, and storage space for luggage, all while having access to a large window that frames the ever-changing, breathtaking landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

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Hong Kong to Tibet: Train Schedule, Time & Price

Lhasa to Nyingchi Bullet Train: Schedule, Tickets & Travel Tips

Tibet Train FAQs - Plan Your Tibet Train Worry-Free

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  1. What documents do I need if I take a train to Tibet from Xining?

  

  As a foreigner who wants to do a Tibet Tour , it is essential to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit (TTB permit; Lhasa) before entering Tibet for travel. If your tour in Tibet covers areas beyond Lhasa, aditional permits for Tibet are required, such as the Aliens' Travel Permit (PSB Permit; Shigatse, Mount Everest Base Camp), and Military Travel Permit (Shannan, Kailash). You can contact AOT Team for all the Tibet Permits you need for free and enjoy a worry-free trip with us. Your guide in Xining can help to arragne your train boarding with your Tibet permit.

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  2. Is it hard to buy the Train Ticket from Xining to Lhasa, Tibet?

  

  Xining is the starting point of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway , annd it is convenient to reach Xining from other cities by air or bullet train. Furthermore, taking a Tibet train from Xining to Lhasa is the quickest way to experience the best Train Journey to Tibet. Therefore, Train Tickets from Xining to Lhasa are very popular, expecially during peak season, when the demand for train tickets can far exceeds the supply. However, we will manage to secure the ticket. Contact AOT Team ahead of the time, and we will try our best to ensure you a lifetime memory on your train journey to Tibet from Xining.

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  3. Should I worry about altitude sickness when take the train via Qinghai-Tibet Railway?

  

  Extending 1,956 kilometers on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects, Xining (2,200m), capital of Qinghai Province, and Lhasa (3,650m), capital of Tibet. The train from Xining to Lhasa runs at an altitude of 4,000m above sea level, and the highest point is 5,072 m. For Xining Tibet Tours, you will usually spend a night in Xining, which is at 2,200m above sea level. This will help you adjust to the altitude before boarding the train.

   

  Besides, taking the train via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway can actually help alleviate altitude sickness. The train is equipped with oxygen supply systems and pressurized carriages, which can regulate air pressure and provide additional oxygen to passengers.

  Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to undergo a physical examination before traveling to Tibet. Be sure to let your companions or the train staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to assist and are experienced in dealing with altitude. Most of our guests who finished their Xining Tibet Tour did not suffering altitude sickness.

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  4. Is it safe to take the train to from Xining to Tibet?

  

  Yes, it is absolutely safe to take the train to from Xining to Tibet. The crime rates in the train are notably low. The train is equipped with modern safety features, including fire alarms, smoke detectors, and security cameras. Additionally, the train staff undergoes regular safety training to ensure the safety of passengers.

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  5. What does the train from Xining to Tibet offer?

  

  The train from Xining to Tibet offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel through the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It provides a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Here are some facilities equipped on the train from Xining to Lhasa/Tibet:

  1.Sleeping Berths: The train has four types of sleeping options, including soft sleeper, hard sleeper, soft seat, and hard seat.

  2.Dining cars: The train offers a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages in dining cars. If Chinese and Tibetan dishes is not to your taste, you can bring some instant food.

  3.Toilets/Restrooms: The train has both Western-style and squat-style toilets available in each soft sleeper carriage. However, passengers should be prepared for their towels, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

  4.Oxygen supply systems: The train is equipped with oxygen supply systems and supplemental oxygen to help passengers adjust to the high altitude.

  5.Observation decks:Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau.

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  6. What is the highlights of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway?

  

  The Qinghai-Tibet Railway means the train journey from Xining to Lhasa which is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.Take the train from Xining to Tibet, you will passing through vast grasslands, snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, yaks and herders’ tents, and barren deserts. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the journey for antelope, foxes, and Kiang, plus the occasional nomad.

  There is even a popular song in China called “Take a train to Lhasa”. Listen to the beautiful songs during a train journey from Xining to Lhasa (about 21.5 hours by train) to appreciate the charming beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.

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  7. How can I arrive in Xining? By Train or by Flight?

  

  Xining is capital of Qinghai province and is well connected by air and high speed rail. You can arrive in Xining by either train or flight, depending on your preference and location.

  There is a Xining Caojiapu international airport operating many international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Xining by air directly from most cities of China, like Beijing (2.5 hours), Xian (1.5 hours), Chengdu (1.5 - 2 hours), Shanghai (3 hours), Lhasa (2.5 hours), Hangzhou (3 hours)...

  There are two main train stations in Xining: Xining Railway Station and Xining West Railway Station. Both Train stations offer convenient connections to various destinations in China, including Tibet via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.You can take the high speed train to Xining from Xian (5.5 - 6 hours), Langzhou (2.5 - 3.5 hours), Chengdu (10.5 hours), etc.

  By Train or by Flights? Both options are convenient and comfortable, and the choice between them depends on your personal preference and travel plans.

  Contact AOT Team if you need help with the tickets booking.

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  8. How many train stations are there in Tibet? Do Lhasa, Shigatse, and Nyingchi have train stations?

  

  There are several train stations in Tibet that are served by the Qinghai-Tibet Railway . For traveller who want to enjoy a nice jouney in Tibet would like to take the trains connect with Shigatse, Lhasa , and Nyingzhi.

  1. Lhasa Railway Station

  Lhasa Railway Station is located in the capital city of Lhasa. This station serves as the terminal station for the Qinghai-Tibet Railway and offers connections to other cities in Tibet, such as Shigatse (2.5 hours) and Nyingchi (4 hours). It also offers connections to other parts of China.

  2. Shigatse Railway Station

  Shigatse Railway Station is located in the city of Shigatse. This station offer convenient connections to Lhsasa and provide access to popular tourist destinations, such as Perklor Monastery, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Rongpuk Monastery, and Mount Everest. It takea about 2.5 hours to reach Lhasa from Shigatse by train.

  3. Nyingchi Railway Station

  Nyingchi Railway Station is located in the city of Nyingchi, which is known for its stunning natural scenery and biodiversity. It takea about 4 hours to reach Lhasa from Nyingchi by train. This train journey is one of the most scenic Train journeys in the world, passing through breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped mountains, deep river valleys, and pristine forests.

  Contact AOT Team if you need help with the tickets booking.

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  9. How to get to Lhasa? By air or by train, which one is better?

  

  There are usually two ways to get to Lhasa , depending on your starting point and travel preferences.

  (1) By Air: You can fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport from major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Guangzhou, as well as from some international destinations such as Kathmandu, Nepal. The airport is located about 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) from Lhasa and can be reached by taxi or bus.

  (2) by train The Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Lhasa with several major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, and Xining. The train journey is a popular way to reach Lhasa as it offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and the Himalayan mountain range. However, the journey can take several days, so it's important to plan accordingly.

  Once you arrive in Lhasa, our team at Asia Odyssey Travel will be there to greet you with English-speaking guides and experienced drivers. We'll escort you from the airport or train station to your hotels in Lhasa.

• 

  10. How to get to Tibet by Train?

  

  The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the world's highest railway and provides a scenic journey to Tibet. The train passes through stunning landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and high-altitude lakes. It is also a more affordable option than air travel and allows for gradual acclimation to the altitude. The main gateway cities for traveling to Tibet by train are Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, and Xining. The journey time varies from 22 to 55 hours depending on your departure city.

See More Tibet Train FAQs

Latest Tibet Train Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest Tibet Train. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>

Tim M

Britain

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119

Trip to Tibet

We used Asia Odyssey to arrange a tour (just for two) to Tibet, including train from Xi'an to Lhasa, hotel and transfers in Lhasa, a car + driver + guide there for a day, flight back to Chongqing and, of course, the vital Tibet Entry Permit. There was a little initial difficulty in making our bespoke requirements clear to them (worth checking the draft itinerary carefully) but once our needs were understood, everything went extremely well. Jasmine was our co-ordinator. Communications were clear, our trip went according to plan, costs were as initially stated and payable by international credit card, our Tibet Entry Permit was delivered by post to our hotel in Xi'an. In addition, Asia Odyssey proved flexible and agile. Firstly, they were happy to delay agreement of the contract while I consulted my doctor about altitude sickness issues. Secondly, the train tickets we wanted from Xi'an to Lhasa were unavailable but the company sought alternatives, got round a quirk in the China Rail booking system, and bought tickets for the same train but from a previous station (at no extra cost to us) - which worked fine. And our guide in Lhasa was more than helpful, accommodating our unusual photographic requests, taking us exactly where and when we wanted, and answering all our questions. I would use their services again.

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Photos of Asia Odyssey Travel

Tim M

Britain

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We used Asia Odyssey to arrange a tour (just for two) to Tibet, including train from Xi'an to Lhasa, hotel and transfers in Lhasa, a car + driver + gu...

Gallery

Destination(s): Tibet

Date of Experience: May 29, 2025

Tour Customized by: Jasmine

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

Sherelle Myburgh

South Africa

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208

A dream come true!

What an awesome experience we had on our 15 day tour of China ! Thank you to Mandy of Asia Odyssey Travel for your professional service , prompt response to queries and tips prior to our visit, Your advice before the trip and keeping us updated throughout the tour was greatly appreciated. The tour guides in every city we visited were amazing, knowledgeable and helpful and gave 100% to ensure our comfort and happiness. This tour of Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Lhasa, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp and Shanghai far exceeded my expectations. I cant wait to book my next tour !

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Photos of Asia Odyssey Travel

Sherelle Myburgh

South Africa

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What an awesome experience we had on our 15 day tour of China ! Thank you to Mandy of Asia Odyssey Travel for your professional service , prompt respo...

Gallery

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Tibet, Chengdu/Sichuan

Date of Experience: Jun 13, 2025

Tour Customized by: Mandy

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

Ramesh

United States

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58

Enchanting China and Tibet Tour

We recently returned from a 21-day trip to Hong Kong, China, and Tibet, organized through Asia Odyssey Travel (asiaodysseytravel.com). From the moment we landed in Hong Kong until our departure from Shanghai, the level of care, assistance, and coordination provided by the Asia Odyssey team was simply outstanding.

Though our time in Hong Kong was short, the organizers managed to fit in a number of key highlights, including a sampan boat tour and a visit to a Michelin-starred dumpling restaurant that felt more like a palace. From there, we took a high-speed train to Shenzhen, followed by a trip to Guilin—a charming town famous for its rice noodles. Our journey continued with a river cruise to Yangshuo, where we explored a picturesque village, soaked in the local culture, and rode e-bikes through rice paddies, streams, and winding paths.

Next, we took a train to Kunming, a vibrant city with incredibly friendly people. After enjoying the city, we flew to Lhasa, Tibet—a long-held dream of ours. Asia Odyssey took care of the necessary permits and flights, making the experience seamless. Tibet exceeded every expectation. Lhasa was clean, organized, and safe. We spent nine days in the region visiting Shigatse, Basum Tso Lake, Yamdrok Lake, and even a Himalayan glacier. The natural beauty—snow-capped peaks, endless lakes, and lush landscapes—was breathtaking.

One of the highlights of our trip was the 18-hour train ride from Lhasa to Xining. It was a peaceful, scenic journey through untouched nature—something everyone should experience. Oxygen was provided on the train, buses, and even in hotels, ensuring a comfortable trip. Though we didn’t spend much time in Xining, we found it charming and refreshingly cool, even in summer.

Our final destination was Shanghai, where we spent four days enjoying luxury, modernity, diverse cuisine, efficient high-speed trains, immaculate metro lines, and countless attractions. It was the perfect finale to our incredible journey.

From a traveler’s perspective, China is a remarkable destination. The infrastructure is world-class—we visited remote areas in Tibet without experiencing a single power outage or mobile network issue. All taxis were electric, the air quality in Shanghai was comparable to Florida, and greenery was abundant in every city. Cleanliness and safety stood out. We never once felt unsafe, and we didn’t see homelessness or begging anywhere we went.

A special thanks to the local guides in each city—they were knowledgeable, hospitable, and always one step ahead of our needs. And most importantly, a huge thank you to Jojo, our dedicated agent and point of contact throughout the trip. She was always in touch, ensured smooth transitions between destinations, and even upgraded our hotels to 4-star or better accommodations.

We wholeheartedly recommend Asia Odyssey Travel for anyone planning a trip to Asia. Go with an open mind—you’ll be amazed.

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Photos of Asia Odyssey Travel

Ramesh

United States

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We recently returned from a 21-day trip to Hong Kong, China, and Tibet, organized through Asia Odyssey Travel (asiaodysseytravel.com). From the moment...

Gallery

Destination(s): Tibet

Date of Experience: May 04, 2025

Tour Customized by: Jojo

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

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