How to Get to Tibet from China

Welcome to this guide on how to reach the mystical land of Tibet from mainland China. While Tibet is located in the far northwest of China, deep within the mainland, it has an advanced transportation network that connects it to modern Chinese metropolises. Exploring other charming cities in China before heading to Tibet can enrich your Chinese adventure. This article will recommend various flight and train routes to Tibet, suitable for tourists from around the globe.

Best Three Cities for Flying to Tibet

Chengdu

Chengdu is a great choice for flying to Tibet. It's relatively close to Tibet, with flights taking just 2 hours. It's Chengdu that has the most frequent daily flights to Lhasa in China, making it the top choice for tourists eager to reach the Tibetan plateau quickly. Chengdu, also known as the "Food Capital," offers stunning natural scenery and globally renowned cuisine. During layovers, you can visit the Chengdu Panda Base to see adorable pandas and savor authentic Sichuan cuisine.

Chongqing

Chongqing is another excellent option. With over 10 flights daily to Lhasa, it's only 1,489 kilometers away, with a flight time of about 3 hours. Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City," is famous for its unique geography and delicious hot pot. A stopover in Chongqing allows you to enjoy both the breathtaking mountain views and the authentic hot pot.

Beijing

As China's capital and a major aviation hub, Beijing offers 2 to 3 direct flights daily to Lhasa, with a flight time of about 4 hours. Besides, Beijing, a center of politics, economy, and culture, has a rich historical heritage. The Forbidden City is a must-see for many tourists before their Tibet trip. Exploring Beijing's modern vibrancy and ancient dynastic history makes for a fulfilling pre-Tibet experience.

Best Three Cities for Taking a Train to Tibet

Xining

Xining is the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. All trains to Tibet must stop here to switch to oxygen-equipped carriages, making it the only transfer hub with the highest frequency. Departing from Xining, you can directly enter the Tibetan Plateau, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Hoh Xil Nature Reserve and the Tanggula Mountains. The journey takes about 21 hours, with around 7 trains daily.

Shanghai

Shanghai, an international hub, is a great place to enjoy a luxurious urban experience before your journey. The 4,300-kilometer train ride from Shanghai to Lhasa takes 44 hours, crossing China's diverse geography: from the Yangtze River Delta to the Tibetan Plateau, spanning the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, Kunlun and Tanggula Mountains, and covering nine types of landscapes. This long-haul train journey is perfect for those who love train travel and offers plenty of time to meet fellow travelers.

Lanzhou

Lanzhou, a key city on the ancient Silk Road where Tibetan and Islamic cultures meet, is another great starting point. The train journey from Lanzhou to Lhasa, crossing the Hexi Corridor and the Qaidam Basin, takes about 24 hours. This moderate-length journey avoids the fatigue of a very long trip. In peak season, tickets from Xining to Lhasa can be hard to come by, while Lanzhou offers four daily trains to Lhasa, making it easier to secure a Tibet train ticket.

Conclusion

Our travel agency provides ticket-booking services for trains and flights for all guests who purchase our Tibet travel packages, hoping this guide helps you plan your journey to Tibet smoothly and enjoy a memorable adventure in this enchanting land.