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.

• 

  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 >>

Simple Patel

Canada

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199

Private tour to Kailash Mansarovar

We were on private trip to kailash- Mansarovar through Lhasa with Asia Odyssey travel.
It was a great experience booking with Asia Odyssey travel. Asia Odyssey provided agent Rex to work with us. Rex is amazing individual who helped us through out our journey like carving itenary the way we wanted, provided good comfortable vehicle with very good driver and a very
friendly and caring tour guide. We are also satisfied with hotel stay in each city.All stays were upto the standard as he promised they would be. Thank you Rex.we are happy with the deal we got. Rex was in constant touch with us before, during and ending our journey. We requested many changes during our journey due to changed interest and flight schedule . He was there to help us every time.
I would highly recommend to travel with Asia Odyssey specially having Rex by your side.
Just one thing I would like to mentions is that the meal plans. I would suggest that if all three meals included in itenary would be great help for vegetarian travellers like us. So we didn't have to worry about food.
Overall it was a very good experience with Asia Odyssey and travel and Agent Rex. Much appreciated
Simple
Canada

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Simple Patel

Canada

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We were on private trip to kailash- Mansarovar through Lhasa with Asia Odyssey travel.It was a great experience booking with Asia Odyssey travel. Asia...

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Destination(s): Tibet

Date of Experience: Sep 23, 2025

Tour Customized by: Rex

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Colin Chan

Australia

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219

Our agent Chia is simply the best

Our agent Chia is simply the best! She was in contact with us every step of the way from the time we committed to the Beijing - Xian - Chengdu - Lhasa - Shanghai tour. There was absolutely no stress with the entire tour ie. Pick ups, train/ plane tickets, payments. Each time Chia was able to answer any questions that we had almost immediately. The tour itself was great, met some really nice people from different parts of the world. Groups were a maximum of 12 so the guides were always very attentive - in Tibet, we only had 3 left in the group. We have travelled quite extensively but this is the first time we have engaged in a tour and it certainly did not disappoint. Highly recommended!

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Colin Chan

Australia

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Our agent Chia is simply the best! She was in contact with us every step of the way from the time we committed to the Beijing - Xian - Chengdu - Lhasa...

Gallery

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

Date of Experience: Sep 14, 2025

Tour Customized by: Chia

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Vinoth Pillay

Nepal

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189

Tibet with Mt Kailash…

We had a very memorable trip in Tibet with Mt Kailash trek in September of 2025. First of all,I must say that Mr Isaac of Asia Odyssey was the most patient tour agent I have come across. Not only was he most patient with our questions, he was with us for a whole year into our preparation for this trip. Not only that, on more than one occasion,he was taking care of us as situations arose which affected our trip, like the flooding which occured at Gyirong border, the unrest in Nepal and such. The permits were applied in a timely manner and when things didn't work out for our group, Asia Odyssey made alternative arrangements as soon as possible to help our group. The guides arranged for us stayed with us till almost midnight to help us out when we had some difficulty. Most of the trip went smoothly and everything went like clockwork and hotels were good. We would definitely use Asia Odyssey for our travel plans again for this region. Asia Odyssey was outstanding and Mr Isaac was most helpful in arranging our trip and taking care of us.

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Vinoth Pillay

Nepal

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We had a very memorable trip in Tibet with Mt Kailash trek in September of 2025. First of all,I must say that Mr Isaac of Asia Odyssey was the most pa...

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Destination(s): Tibet

Date of Experience: Sep 02, 2025

Tour Customized by: Isaac

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

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