There are seven train routes to reach Tibet, including departures from Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xining, Xi’an and Guangzhou. Among them, the Xining to Lhasa route is the most recommended - it’s the fastest, most frequent and offers the most breathtaking scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you know about choosing the best train route to Tibet. Read to know why Xining to Lhasa train is the top choice, learn about other great route options, and get insider tips for a smooth and enjoyable Tibet train journey.

There are Seven Train Routes from Mainland China to Tibet

At present, you can take a Tibet train to Lhasa from seven major cities in mainland China: Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xining, Chongqing, Guangzhou and Xi’an. Each route varies in travel duration, departure time and frequency. Check the following table about schedules of each train route.

Timetable and Schedule of All Tibet Train Routes

Train Route	Train No.	Dep./Arr.	Duration	Frequency
Beijing to Lhasa	Z21	19:22 / 11:42	40hr, 20min	Daily
Shanghai to Lhasa	Z164	18:33 / 15:30	44hr, 57min	Daily
Chengdu to Lhasa	Z322	21:10 / 07:41	34hr, 31min	Every Other Day
Xining to Lhasa	Y971	16:40 / 14:02	21hr, 22min	5–6 Trains Daily
Chongqing to Lhasa	Z223	21:53 / 07:41	33hr, 48min	Every Other Day
Ghangzhou to Lhasa	Z264	09:26 / 14:54	53hr, 28min	Daily
Xi’an to Lhasa	Z265	07:53 / 14:53	31hr, 01min	Twice Daily

Note: The schedules above are for reference only. Train times and frequencies are updated regularly, so we recommend checking in advance for the latest 2025/2026 timetable.

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The Xining to Lhasa Train is the Most Popular and Scenic Route

While there are seven options for traveling to Tibet by train, the route from Xining to Lhasa is the most recommended. Every year, over 90% of tourists taking Tibet train choose this route - mainly for the following reasons:

1. The Shortest Travel Time for a Tibet Train Journey

Trains from Xining to Lhasa are the shortest of all Tibet train routes, and take just about 21 hours and 20 minutes to cover a distance of 1,972 kilometers. Compared to the long-distance departures from cities like Guangzhou, this can cut your travel time by nearly half.

You will spend only one night on the train, and still enjoy all of the amazing plateau scenery in northern Tibet without enduring the longer two- or three-day rides across mainland China.

2. The Most Beautiful Scenery along Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Xining is the starting point of the world-famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway, so the stretch from Xining to Lhasa covers the most spectacular landscape of the entire journey. As soon as the train leaves Xining, it brings you through various breathtaking scenery, from Qinghai Lake to Kunlun Mountains, Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, Tanggula Pass, Cuo Na Lake, and the vast Qiangtang Grassland dotted with yaks and prayer flags.

3. More Departures Every Day and Easy to Get Tickets

While most other train route to Tibet have only one departure per day, Xining to Lhasa train runs five to six times daily. This is because all the train routes will pass and stop in Xining along the journey.

This gives you greater flexibility in planning your trip, by choosing departures between 11:55 am and 19:28 pm according to the schedule. You will also have a better chance of securing your preferred ticket type and travel date, which can be quite harder from other cities.

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4. Best for Altitude Acclimatization Before Reaching Lhasa

Xining lies at an altitude of 2,275 meters above sea level, within the ideal range for intermediate altitude acclimatization before ascending to Lhasa (3,650 meters). Spending a day or two in Xining can help your body gradually adjust to the high altitude and thin air, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

This is a major benefit to travelers coming from very low-altitude areas, allowing for a safer and more comfortable transition to the highlands of Tibet.

Other Recommended Tibet Train Route: Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu to Lhasa

In addition to Xining, you can also choose from other three recommended Tibet train routes, depending on where you’re traveling from:

1. Beijing to Lhasa Train

Beijing is the first choice for many international travelers entering China and also a popular gateway to Tibet. It is a great idea to first enjoy a wonderful sightseeing in this imperial capital, and then take the daily train from Beijing to Lhasa.

Departing at 19:22 pm, the train takes about 40 hours to cover a distance of 3,757 kilometers. Along the way, you will witness the varied landscapes of northern and western China, passing through Yellow River, Loess Plateau and then magnificent snowy Tibetan Plateau.

2. Shanghai to Lhasa Train

The most modernized metropolis in China, Shanghai is also an important gateway to the plateau. By taking the train from Shanghai to Lhasa, you can experience both the country’s iconic urban skylines and its stunning pristine natural landscape from east to west.

The train also departs daily at 19:33 and takes about 45 hours to reach Lhasa. You will pass the gentle picturesque water towns of Jiangnan, extensive farmland and scenic rivers in central China, before ascending to the plateau of snow peaks and sweeping prairie.

3. Chengdu to Lhasa Train

As the most popular city neighboring to Tibetan Plateau, Chengdu is also an excellent starting point for trains to Tibet. Departing every other day at 21:10 pm, the Chengdu to Lhasa train takes about 34.5 hours to reach the destination.

Before the journey, you can make use of your time to explore this lovely city, by tasting delicious Sichuan hotpot, experiencing leisure lifestyle in Renmin Park, and watching the adorable Giant Pandas.

More Insider Tips for a Smooth Tibet Train Journey

Obtain your Tibet Travel Permit in advance: Before boarding a Tibet train to Lhasa, you need to obtain the required Tibet Travel Permit. We can help you apply for it - just make sure to contact us at least 20 days before your departure.

Book the Tibet train ticket early: Tibet trains are quite popular among both overseas and domestic travelers. It is wise to book early to secure your seat, especially during the peak season (April to October). Tickets often go on sale 15 days ahead of its departure, so check and book in advance.

Prepare for the altitude: Bring medications like acetazolamide to help prevent altitude sickness. Also stay hydrated, have enough rest, avoid heavy meals during the train ride. Make use of the oxygen supply available near your berth if needed.

Pack smart for the journey: Warm clothing is essential, even though air conditioners are provided on the train. Pack your favorite snacks or food to make the trip more comfortable and save on dining cost. Also bring books, download movies or musics to kill the time, especially when some sections may be out of signal.

Keep your camera ready: The highlight of the Tibet train is its breathtaking scenery. Make sure your camera ready and easily accessible to capture the rare landscape and wildlife along the route. Clean the window in advance to get clearer photos.

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Conclusion

The most popular route for taking a Tibet train is from Xining to Lhasa. It is not only faster, but also offers more tickets, the most breathtaking scenery, and a better chance to acclimatize to the altitude. Besides, trains from Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu are also recommended.

If you are planning your Tibet train journey and have some travel ideas or questions, feel free to contact us. We are glad to help you enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and rewarding train experience to Tibet.