In addition to the many flights to Lhasa, you can also fly directly to Shigatse, which brings you closer to the iconic Everest Base Camp in Tibet. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Chengdu to Shigatse flight—from why it’s a great choice, to how to book your ticket, what to prepare before boarding, and what to do upon arrival. Read on to get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

How Far is Chengdu from Shigatse? Why Choose to Fly to Tibet via Shigatse?

Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city, is situated in the southwestern part of the region, around 270 kilometers west of Lhasa. In contrast, Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is about 1,600 kilometers from Shigatse. Traveling between these two cities by air takes about 2.5 hours.

Flying from Chengdu to Shigatse has a clear advantage: Shigatse is much closer to Everest Base Camp than Lhasa, the traditional gateway to Tibet. By taking this direct flight, you can skip the long overland journey needed when entering Tibet through Lhasa. This saves you time and eases the strain of traveling long distances in high altitude.

Shigatse also offers a quieter, more peaceful experience compared to Lhasa. If you want a calm and authentic Tibetan visit, Shigatse is a great choice. The city has a rich history, including ties to the Panchen Lama, and is the home to important cultural sites like Tashilhunpo Monastery.

Chengdu to Shigatse Flight Schedule: 2024/2025 Updates

Currently, there are 1 to 2 non-stop flights every day from Chengdu to Shigatse, operated by Air China and Tibetan Airlines. These flights depart from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport between 6:10 and 10:55 in the morning. The flight takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, arriving at Shigatse Peace Airport.

Flights from Chengdu to Shigatse

Dep. – Arr.	Flight No.	Airlines	Frequency
06:10 – 08:30	TV9883	Tibet Airlines	Every Day
10:55 - 13:20	TV9967	Tibet Airlines	Tues, Thurs, Sat
06:15 – 09:00	CA4431	Air China	Wednesday

On the return trip, there are also 1 to 2 flights from Shigatse to Chengdu every day. These flights depart from Shigatse Peace Airport between 9:30 and 14:50 and take around 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Chengdu.

Flights from Shigatse to Chengdu

Dep. – Arr.	Flight No.	Airlines	Frequency
9:30 - 12:05	TV9884	Tibet Airlines	Tues, Thurs, Sat
10:10 - 12:25	TV9884	Tibet Airlines	Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
14:50 – 17:15	TV9968	Air China	Tues, Thurs, Sat

The flight schedules between Chengdu and Shigatse are generally stable, but it’s important to check for updates as your travel date approaches, as flight times can vary due to weather conditions and other factors. It is also advisable to book your tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons to secure your preferred flight and seat.

How to Book the Flight from Chengdu to Shigatse? Can I Get a Cheap Discount?

Booking a flight from Chengdu to Shigatse is simple. You can buy tickets directly from airline websites or through platforms like Ctrip and Expedia. If you need assistance with booking, feel free to contact us - we're here to help you find a flight that meets your needs.

To get the best price, it's recommended to book early. Being flexible with your travel dates can also help, as flight prices vary by day and season. Joining an airline's loyalty program or watching for promotional fares can also lead to savings.

Traveling during the low season can also save you money, as many airlines offer discounts during these times. Winter is typically the cheapest season for flights to Tibet, while spring and autumn are also more affordable compared to the busy summer months.

What Documents to Prepare to Take the Chengdu to Shigatse Flight?

For international tourists arriving in Chengdu from overseas, a Chinese Visa is required. However, there’s good news: travelers from countries like Australia, New Zealand, Poland, France, Germany, Italy, and Singapore can now enjoy visa-free access to China. This policy is valid until the end of 2024 or 2025, depending on your passport.

Before flying from Chengdu to Shigatse, you’ll also need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit. This permit must be arranged through a registered travel agency in Tibet, as individual travelers cannot apply for it themselves.

But don’t worry—we can handle this for you! If you book your Tibet tour with us, we will guarantee the Tibet Travel Permit for you. Just contact us in advance so that there’s enough time for the application process. Once the permit is issued, we’ll deliver it to your address in Chengdu, and you’ll be all set to board your flight.

Where is Chengdu Airport and How to Get There for Boarding?

Chengdu has two airports, and flights to Shigatse depart from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), which is located about 16 kilometers southwest of downtown Chengdu.

The airport is easily accessible by public transportation, including metros. From Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street, you can take Metro Line 3 and transfer to Line 10, reaching the airport in about 50 minutes at a cost of 6 RMB. Chengdu East and South Railway Stations also connect conveniently to the airport via Metro Line 10.

If you’re transferring from Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, buses operate between the two airports every 30 minutes throughout the day. Taxis are readily available across the city, offering a more direct option.

Regardless of how you choose to get there, it’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow sufficient time for check-in and security procedures.

Where is Shigatse Airport and How to Get to Downtown After Arrival?

The flight from Chengdu arrives at Shigatse Peace Airport (RKZ), which is located about 43 kilometers from Shigatse's city center. The airport offers a shuttle bus service that connects directly to the downtown area, providing a convenient and economical option at 30 yuan per person.

For those seeking a quicker and more private mode of transport, taxis are readily available, with the ride to downtown Shigatse typically taking around an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

If you book your Tibet tour with us, you'll also enjoy our complimentary airport pickup service, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival.

How to Get to Tibet Everest Base Camp from Shigatse?

Shigatse is the closest major city to Everest Base Camp, making it an ideal starting point for your journey. From Shigatse, EBC is approximately 340 kilometers away, and the overland journey can be completed in about 6 hours.

The drive from Shigatse to EBC offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau and passes through significant landmarks such as Gawula Pass, which offers stunning views of the Himalayas, and Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world.

Given the high altitude and challenging terrain, it is recommended to make the journey with our organized Everest Base Camp tour, which includes an experienced driver and local guide. Also, ensure you are properly acclimatized before attempting to reach EBC.

How to Get to Lhasa from Shigatse?

After visiting Shigatse, you can continue your journey to Lhasa, which is about 270 kilometers away. One popular option is to take the train. Currently, there are two daily trains from Shigatse to Lhasa, departing in the morning and afternoon. The journey takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, offering a comfortable way to experience the Tibetan landscape.

Also, you can opt for an overland journey from Shigatse to Lhasa. There are two highways connecting the cities. The northern route is shorter and quicker, taking about 4 to 5 hours. However, most tourists choose the southern route, as it passes by famous attractions like Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, and Gyantse town. Though longer, taking about 8 to 9 hours, this scenic route offers a great opportunity to appreciate these stunning sights in Tibet.

Conclusion

Flying from Chengdu to Shigatse is a convenient and efficient way to reach Everest Base Camp and explore Tibet's breathtaking landscapes. With daily flights available, you can easily travel to the region and begin your adventure. As the leading Tibet tour operator, we can assist you in obtaining the necessary Tibet Travel Permit for a hassle-free journey, and even help you book your flight. If you have any questions about traveling from Chengdu to Shigatse by air, feel free to contact us or book your Tibet tour with us today.