Convenient Lhasa Train Travel Within Tibet
Apart from road trips between cities, Tibet's modern railway network is developed enough to allow for comfortable travel between major destinations. Two key rail lines—the Lhasa-Shigatse and Lhasa-Nyingchi railways—have transformed how visitors explore Tibet, slashing travel times to just 2.5 to 4 hours. These trains let you soak in stunning Himalayan landscapes, rivers, and villages from the comfort of your seat, all while avoiding the fatigue of mountain roads.
The Lhasa to Shigatse Line
The railway from Lhasa to Shigatse covers 248 kilometers, whisking you between the two cities in a mere 2.5 hours—half the time of driving—with two or three daily round trips. The train tickets start from a very affordable ¥64. And the altitude transition on this route is remarkably smooth, taking you from 3,650 meters in Lhasa to 3,800 meters in Shigatse. And keep your camera ready for window views of the Yarlung Zangbo River and picturesque Tibetan villages nestled among barley fields. Upon arriving in Shigatse, you can easily visit the magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery. This line is ideal for a day trip or can be extended into a longer tour that serves as a stepping stone toward the Everest Base Camp.
The Lhasa to Nyingchi Line
For those nervous about altitude or craving lush, green scenery, the Lhasa to Nyingchi railway is a good choice. This route is famous for taking you into a dramatically different, more temperate part of Tibet. The 435-kilometer journey takes about 4 hours at a cost of ¥129 for a hard seat. It's Tibet's first electrified railway, featuring modern trains with large, clear windows perfect for photography. Best of all, it's the most altitude-friendly route, as you travel from 3,650 meters in Lhasa down to about 2,900 meters in Nyingchi. This drop in elevation makes breathing easier and the climate more pleasant. The landscape transforms as you roll past the turquoise Nyang River and catch glimpses of the mighty Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon. If you travel in spring, you'll be treated to valleys blanketed in wild peach blossoms. From Nyingchi, you can easily arrange trips to the stunning Basum Tso Lake or the vibrant Lulang Forest.
A Look Ahead: The Future Lhasa to Kathmandu Railway
The adventure doesn't stop at Tibet's borders! The future is bright for cross-Himalayan travel with the planned Sino-Nepal railway. This ambitious project will eventually link Lhasa directly to Kathmandu. The Chinese section, extending from Shigatse to the Gyirong Port, is actively in development. This engineering marvel will one day carry travelers past the crystal-blue Lake Peiku tso and offer distant views of Mount Shishapangma. For now, the popular overland tour from Kathmandu to Lhasa via the Gyirong border offers a thrilling preview of this incredible corridor.
Conclusion
You can set aside worries about altitude sickness on Tibet's trains, thanks to their built-in oxygen systems that significantly increase cabin oxygen levels. All of these mentioned above radiate a unique charm, don't you think?
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35 Comment ON "Convenient Lhasa Train Travel Within Tibet"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash