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How to Get to Lhasa from Kunming by Train, Flight & Car
| Factor | Train | Car | Flight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 40-50 hours (fastest route) | 30-40 hours driving time (excluding stops) | 3-4 hours |
| Travel Cost (Starting Range) | ¥500 (hard seat) - ¥1,650 (soft sleeper) | From ¥1,500 | From ¥ 900 |
| Suitable For | Budget travelers, scenic journey | Seasoned adventurous travelers | Time-pressed travelers, comfort travelers |
Travel times of Kunming to Lhasa Train can vary depending on the route and chosen train.
Travel costs of going to Lhasa from Kunming by Car are estimates and can vary depending on fuel efficiency, tolls, and food choices.
Prices of Kunming to Lhasa flight can fluctuate depending on the season, airline, and booking time.
Kunming to Lhasa Train: Grand Tibet Railway Tour, Transfer Needed from Yunnan
| Route | Departure | Arrival | Total Travel Time (approx.) | Total Price Range (RMB) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Chongqing | 3:24 PM | 7:41 AM (3rd day) | 40 hours 45 minutes | 654 - 1,650 |
| Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Xining | 3:19 PM | 11:36 PM (3rd day) | 46 hours | 448 - 1,379 |
| Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Chengdu | 11:16 AM | 7:41 AM (3rd day) | 43 hours 8 minutes | 564.5 - 1,420 |
Note: Kunming to Lhasa Train prices can fluctuate depending on the season.
Unlike the already completed Qinghai-Tibet Railway , the Yunnan-Tibet Railway is still under construction, which means that as of June 2024, you would have to switch trains to reach Tibet from Kunming or Yunnan in general.
Transfer options for Kunming to Lhasa by train are abundant. Listed are the 3 routes recommended by Asia Odyssey Travel to travel to Lhasa from Kunming by train.
Choose the transfer in Xining for the most scenic train ride. The route from Kunming to Lhasa via Xining takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in China, including some of the magnificent Tibetan Mountains.
Choose to go via Chongqing from Kunming for a most smooth trip to reach Lhasa.
Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Chongqing: Smooth Train Ride to Reach Tibet from Yunnan
To go to Lhasa by train from Kunming via Chongqiong take G2880 from Kunming South Train Station to Chongqing West Train Station, then take Z223 from Chongqing South Train Station to Lhasa.
To go by train from Kunming to Lhasa via Chongqing would take a travel time of 40 hours and 45 minutes, with a price range from RMB 654 to RMB 1,650.
Step 1: Kunming South Train Station to Chongqing West (G2880)
Train: G2880
Departure: 3:24 PM from Kunming South
Arrival: 8:24 PM at Chongqing West
Step 2: Chongqing West to Lhasa (Z223)
Train: Z223
Departure: 9:53 PM from Chongqing West
Arrival: 7:41 AM at Lhasa on the third day
Ticket Prices: Second Class Seat RMB 654, Business Seat & Soft Sleeper RMB 1,650
Chongqing to Lhasa Train: Schedule, Time & Price
Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Xining: Most Magnificent Scenery on Your Way to Lhasa by Train
Take Z372 from Kunming Train Station to Xining Train Station, then take Z21 from Xining Train Station to Lhasa.
To go by train from Kunming to Lhasa via Xining would take a travel time of 45 hours and 58 minutes, with a price range from RMB 448 to RMB 1,379.
This would be one of the train routes with the most magnificent scenery in China , since you will be traveling on the Tibetan Plateau on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the railway at the highest altitude in the world.
Step 1: Kunming to Xining (Z372)
Train: Z372
Duration: 24 hours 25 minutes
Departure: 3:19 PM from Kunming Train Station
Arrival: 14:04 PM at Xining
Step 2: Xining to Lhasa (Z21)
Train: Z21
Duration: 21 hours 33 minutes
Departure: 3:28 PM from Xining
Arrival: 11:36 PM at Lhasa the third day
Ticket Prices: Hard Seat RMB 448, Soft Sleeper RMB 1,379
Qinghai Tibet Railway - Highest Rail in the World (Over 4000 Meter)
Kunming to Lhasa Train Via Chengdu: Fun Side Trip for Your Kunming to Lhasa Train Ride
Take D276 from Kunming South Station to Chengdu East Train Station. Then take Z322 from Chengdu West Station to Lhasa.
To go by train from Kunming to Lhasa via Chengdu is a wonderful train ride with a travel time of 43 hours and 8 minutes, and a price range from RMB 564.50 to RMB 1,420.
Chengdu, the Southwestern Chinese city famous for pandas, deserves a side trip on your way from Kunming to Lhasa, especially considering you will Not be switching trains at the same train station in Chengdu. So it can be a perfect interval for your Kunming to Lhasa trip.
Step 1: Kunming South Train Station to Chengdu East Train Station (D276)
Train: D276
Duration: 6 hours 50 minutes
Departure: 11:16 AM from Kunming South
Arrival: 6:36 PM at Chengdu East Train Station
Step 2: Chengdu to Lhasa (Z322)
Train: Z322
Duration: 36 hours 18 minutes
Departure: 9:11 PM from Chengdu West Train Station
Arrival: 7:41 AM at Lhasa on the third day
Ticket Prices: Hard Seat RMB 564.5, Soft Sleeper RMB 1,420
Chengdu to Lhasa Train: Schedule, Time & Price
Kunming to Lhasa Flight: Fastest Way to Reach Tibet from Yunnan
To travel from Kunming to Lhasa by flight, it would take 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours of travel time and ticket price would cost from RMB 900 depending on travel season.
Several major airlines offer daily flights from Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA), making travel convenient for tourists. Here are some of the major airlines:
- China Eastern Airlines (MU): China Eastern is one of the largest airlines in China and offers frequent flights on various routes, including Kunming to Lhasa. Their flights from Kunming to Lhasa typically take between 2 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours and 10 minutes, with layovers depending on the specific flight.
- Sichuan Airlines (3U): Sichuan Airlines also offers frequent daily flights from Kunming to Lhasa. Similar to China Eastern, flight times range between 2 hours and 40 minutes to over 4 hours with potential layovers.
- Tibet Airlines (TV): Tibet Airlines is a regional carrier specializing in flights to and from Lhasa, including flights from Kunming to Lhasa. They offer daily flights from Kunming to Lhasa with a travel time of around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Tips: For Flight Ticket from Kunming to Lhasa or any domestic flights in China using booking platform that specialized in Chinese airlines can reduce cost significantly. You can simply skip the booking and leave it all to us at Asia Odyssey Travel for a hassle-free logistic. Contact us for free consultation
Taking a Train to Tibet vs. Taking a Flight to Tibet
Kunming to Lhasa by Car: Yunnan Tibet Overland Grand Tour
Traveling from Kunming to Lhasa by car is indeed a grand overland trip, offering breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.
The total distance from Kunming to Lhasa by car is approximately 2,200 kilometers (1,367 miles). Travel time from Kunming to Lhasa by car can take anywhere from 30 to 40 hours of driving time, depending on road conditions, stops, and your pace.
The primary route for driving from Kunming to Lhasa is via the Yunnan-Tibet Highway, also known as the Dian-Zang Road. This route starts on the G214 National Road heading north from Kunming and connects with the G318 National Road, or the Sichuan-Tibet Highway near Markam in northwestern Yunnan.
This road trip from Kunming to Lhasa by car offers a chance to experience diverse landscapes, from the lush forests of Yunnan to the high-altitude . You'll encounter unique cultures, charming towns, and breathtaking natural wonders!
Sichuan Tibet Highway: Southern Route (G318) vs Northern Route (G317)
Tips for Traveling from Kunming to Lhasa by Train, Flight & Car
Permits: Ensure you obtain the necessary permits for travel in Tibet, including the Tibet Travel Permit and Alien's Vehicle Travel Permit (if driving).
Altitude Sickness: Tibet has high altitudes. Be aware of altitude sickness and take precautions like acclimatization to avoid any issues. The good news is Lhasa Altitude is relatively beginner friendly at some 3,656 meters (11,995 feet). Here's your Alititude Sickness Solution.
Book in Advance: Book your flight tickets in advance and compare prices on platforms. Or simply Contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for the best deals.
Route Planning: Plan your route meticulously if traveling from Kunming to Lhasa by car, including stops for rest, refueling, and overnight stays.
Prepare for Long Journeys: The total travel time for a trip from Kunming to Lhasa by train and car would both be a long ride. Bring snacks, entertainment, and necessary medications to ensure a comfortable Kunming-Lhasa trip.
How to Plan a Kunming to Tibet Tour: from Everlasting Spring Kunming to Sunlit Lhasa
Kunming (2-3 Days):
Must-Sees: Explore the otherworldly rock formations of the Stone Forest, delve into Buddhist history at Yuantong Temple, and find serenity at Green Lake Park in Kunming.
Optional: Venture to the Western Hills for panoramic city views, and visit Dongchuan Red Land or Yuanyang Rice Terraces for dazzling natural landscape, or Jianshui, the charming little ancient town.
Lijiang (2-4 Days):
Must-Sees: Hike through the dramatic landscape of Tiger Leaping Gorge, marvel at the reflection of Yulong Snow Mountain in Black Dragon Pool Park, and wander the charming Old Town of Lijiang with its cobblestone streets and canals. Consider a side trip to the historical Baisha Ancient Town known for its Naxi minority culture.
Optional: Hike the scenic trails of Yulong Snow Mountain or take a cable car ride for breathtaking views. For a cultural experience, visit the Naxi Dongba Museum or participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
Shangri-La (1-3 Days):
Must-Sees: Soak in the serenity of Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist gem, delve into the past at the Dukezong Ancient Town, and explore the diverse ecosystems of Potatso National Park, home to rare plants and animals in Shangri-La.
Optional: For a more adventurous experience, trek the challenging paths of the Napahai Lake or visit the Bita Lake nature reserve.
Lhasa (3-4 Days):
Must-Sees: Ascend to the majestic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama, explore Monasteries-stand in awe of the spiritual significance of Jokhang Temple, and experience the vibrant energy of Barkhor Street, a hub for pilgrims and locals. Visit Sera Monastery, famous for its afternoon debate sessions.
Optional: Take a day trip to the Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the world. For stunning natural beauty, visit the Norbulingka Palace and its expansive gardens.
How to Visit Lhasa: How to Plan Lhasa Tour
Shannan & Gyantse (1-2 Days):
Must-Sees: Witness the breathtaking turquoise expanse of Yamdrok Lake and stand in awe of the majestic Karola Glacier, a sight that will leave you speechless. Explore the impressive architecture of Gyantse Dzong, a historic fortress.
Shigatse (1-2 Days):
Must-Sees: Head to Shigatse. Explore the sprawling Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, and witness the magnificent golden statue of the Buddha Maitreya.
Everest Base Camp (2-3 Days):
Must-Sees: Push on for a rewarding journey to Mount Everest Base Camp, standing at the foot of the world's tallest mountain. Visit the serene Rongbuk Monastery, and experience the awe-inspiring views from the Gyawu La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in the world.
Other Optional Destinations to Add in Your Kunming to Lhasa Trip
Dali (2-3 days): Head to Dali, a charming town with a laid-back atmosphere. Explore the historic sites of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and enjoy the beautiful Erhai Lake. Also, you can visit Zhoucheng Village, embracing the local way of life with the Jing Ethnic Group.
Xishuangbanna (1-2 days): Consider a visit to Xishuangbanna . Known for its tropical climate and rich biodiversity, it's a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the rainforests, visit the Dai ethnic villages, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Note: This Kunming to Lhasa travel plan aims to inspire more travel ideas. You can always adjust it based on your interests and travel style. For more travel inspirations from travel experts at Asia Odyssey Travel, feel free to Contact your travel expert!
Join Asia Odyssey Travel from Kunming to Lhasa
Traveling from Kunming to Lhasa, whether by train, flight, or car, is an uplifting experience. As a travel company based in Lhasa since 2011, it's always been our favorite destination at Asia Odyssey Travel!
Travel from Kunming to Lhasa, from Yunnan's tropical flare & culture diversity to Tibet's pristine landscapes and solemn spiritual world. Enjoy a most enchanting mix-match trip with Asia Odyssey Travel!
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