Located just east of Tibet, Chengdu is the most popular and convenient gateway to the plateau. From here, you can easily reach Tibet in several ways: take a quick two-hour direct flight, enjoy a scenic train ride along Qinghai-Tibet Railway, or go on an adventurous overland journey along the G318 Highway.

To help you plan a smooth and hassle-free trip, this ultimate guide explains everything you need to know about traveling from Chengdu to Tibet. Read on to discover why Chengdu is the best starting point, the top travel routes, the ideal time to visit, the required documents, and more. Get inspired for your next adventure from Chengdu to Tibet!

Why Travel from Chengdu to Tibet? Convenient Gateway Close to Tibet

Chengdu is one of the best and closest gateways to Tibet, sitting just about 1,346 kilometers from the plateau. As the main transport hub in western China with two international airports, it’s the perfect starting point for your Tibet journey.

You can fly directly to Chengdu from over 50 cities across North America, Europe, and Asia etc. If you’re already in China - in places like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, or Guangzhou - it’s also super easy to make a quick transfer here before heading to Tibet.

From Chengdu, there are more than 20 flights to Lhasa every day, taking only about 2 hours. For a slower and scenic option, take the Tibet train that runs every other day, or travel overland via the adventurious G318 Highway.

Beyond the convenient transporation, Chengdu itself is worth exploring. You can watch the adorable giant pandas, taste spicy hotpot or lesirely stroll along the city’s laid-back street, before journey to Tibet.

Chengdu is the most popular gateway to Tibet.

Join our small group tour to enjoy a smooth journey from Chengdu to Tibet!

Chengdu to Tibet by Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Way

Flying from Chengdu to Tibet is the most popolar and time-saving way to reach the plateau. It is fast, flexible, and can fit easily into any travel plan.

At present, there are over 20 non-stop flights from Chengdu to Lhasa every day, departing as early as 6:30 am and as late as 19:30 pm. The journey takes only about two hours, with major airlines like Sichuan Airlines, Tibet Airlines, and Air China.

One thing to note is that these flights to Tibet depart from two airports in Chengdu: Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) or Tianfu International Airport (TFU). So be sure to double check which one your flight leaves from to avoid any last-minute rush.

The airfares also vary from season to season. During the peak season from May to October, a one-way ticket usually costs from $150 per person, while in the low season, prices can drop to $40 or less. To get a discounted price, always book early or choose to visit Tibet in winter.

Besides, considering the alittude jump from Chengdu (500m) to Lhasa (3,650m) in a short period, it is best to to take it easy on your first day to help your body adjust smoothly.

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport offers many daily flights to Tibet.

Chengdu to Tibet by Train: The Relaxing and Scenic Way via Qinghai-Tibet Railway

For those with more time who want to enjoy a scenic railway journey, taking the train from Chengdu to Tibet is a great way to reach the plateau.

The train departs every other day at 21:10 pm from Chengdu West Railway Station, and takes around 34.5 hours to reach Lhasa Railway Station. Depsite the long duration, the journey takes you to admire the spectacular views along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, including beautiful Qinghai Lake, mighty Tanggula Mountains, vast Qiangtang grasslands, and more.

For a more comfortable experience, choose a soft sleeper berth, which provides more privacy and comfort. Due to high demand during peak season, it is recommended to book your Tibet train ticket through us well in advance.

Also, during the train journey, you can make use of the convenient onboard facilities, like oxygen supply, hot water, dinning car, etc. Bring snacks and entertainment to kill the time, and remember to stay hydrated and rest well to help with the altitude adaption.

Chengdu to Tibet by Overland: The Adventurous Route along the G318 Highway

If you are really looking for adventure, a road trip to Lhasa by car is the way to go. There are two options between the North and South route, while the South Route via the G318 National Highway is the more popular, scenic and convenient choice.

An immersive journey of 2,149 kilometers, the road trip from Chengdu to Lhasa takes about seven days or more to complete. You will travel through Kangding, Xinduqiao, Litang, Zogang, Ranwu, and Nyingchi to reach Lhasa, and pass through diverse landscapes from vast plains to lofty peaks, deep gorges, serene lakes, and meandering rivers.

The road trip is considered one of the most adventurous roads to drive in China, so experienced drivers are needed. If you join our Chengdu to Lhasa overland tour, we can arrange seasoned local drivers and guides, obtain the necessary travel documents, and handle all other logistics.

Also, choose the best travel time during April to May and September to November, when your Chengdu to Lhasa tour will be less affected by landslides, icy roads, or other hazairds of the rainy and winter seasons.

Join our Chengdu Tibet tour for a hassle-free journey!

Chengdu to Tibet by Bike: The Ultimate Challenge for Cycling Enthusiasts

While driving along the G318 from Chengdu to Lhasa is an amazing adventure, taking a bicycle along this awesome road is more challenging and immervise. It is a popular way for bike enthusiasts to travel to Tibet, and does require a good level of physical fitness.

Covering more than 2,100 kilometers, the cycling trip from Chengdu to Lhasa can take up to three weeks to complete. The road takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside in western Sichuan and eastern Tibet, traveling through the ancient region of Tibet known as Kham, one of the four original regions of the former Tibetan Empire.

The cycling tour also gives you the advantage of being able to see all the amazing scenery along the way without obstructions, including Mount Minya Konka, Xinduqiao, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, Ranwu Lake, and more.

To ensure a safer and smoother cycling journey, it’s best to travel between March to June and September to October, when road conditions are favorable and the weather is stable and clear.

What Documents are Required to Travel from Chengdu to Tibet?

To travel from Chengdu to Tibet, you mainly need to obtain a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. You can apply for the Chinese Visa on your own at the Chinese Embassy in your home country or a third country.

As for the Tibet Travel Permit, it can only be obtained through a registered Tibet tour operator like us after you’ve booked a pre-arranged tour. Once your tour is confirmed, simply send us copies of your passport and Chinese Visa, and we’ll handle the application for you.

The application process usually takes around 8 to 9 working days. Once approved, we will deliver the permit to your hotel in Chengdu ready for your expected departure date. In urgent cases, we wil also hand it to you directly at Chengdu Airport or Chengdu Railway Station.

Alternatively, you’re always welcome to visit our Chengdu office to pick up your Tibet Travel Permit in person.

When is the Best Time to Travel from Chengdu to Tibet?

The best times to travel from Chengdu to Tibet are April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is warm and stable, with little rain or snow — perfect for overland driving and cycling, as conditions are safer and more comfortable.

The peaks season, from July and August, is ideal for those that are more interested in having warmer weather and lush landscape of Tibet. It is also a great time to take the Tibet train along the scenic Qinghai-Tibet Railway, though the tickets can be in high demand.

The winter season, from December to March, is actually the best time for budget travelers to Tibet. As there are fewer tourists, you can enjoy lower prices of hotels, flights, etc, and experience a quieter side of Tibet.

Join our Chengdu to Tibet tour with the best departure dates!

Join Our Chengdu Tibet Tour for a Hassle-Free Experience

All international travelers to Tibet are required to join a pre-arranged tour with a registered local travel agency. As one of the leading tour operators with over 20 years of experiences, we can offer you the best Tibetan travel experience possible.

Our Chengdu Tibet tours provide a full range of awesome services, including well-designed itineraries that showcase the best of Tibet, free processing of all required permits, experienced English-speaking Tibetan guides, comfortable vehicles with seasoned drivers, quality local hotels, and dinning arrangements tailored to your needs, etc.

You can join one of our small group tour which features the best local prices and a friendly group size of no more than 12 travelers. Or, if you prefer, we can customzie a private tour just for you or your friends and family. With our one-stop, tourist-friendly service, you will enjoy a smooth, worry-free and rewarding journey to Tibet.

Conclusion

A journey from Chengdu to Lhasa is one of the most spectacular ways to get to the Tibetan Plateau and explore this land of snow-capped mountains, crystal lakes, and magnificent Buddhist monasteries. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or travel overland by car or bike, departing from Chengdu is one of the best ways to explore Tibet.

With the right preparation, choosing the proper route and the best travel season, securing the required travel documents, your Chengdu to Tibet tour can be truly wonderful. For more information or to start planning your trip, feel free to contact us or book your tour today!