Road Trip Vs Train Journey between Lhasa and Shigatse
Lhasa, as the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, is home to the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and other religious centers of the "former Tibet". Shigatse is the center of the "Back Tibet", represented by Tashilhunpo Monastery. The round-trip route between Lhasa and Shigatse usually includes the gentle blue tones of Yamdrok Lake and the majestic grandeur of Everest Base Camp During a Lhasa and Shigatse combined trip. Tourists can not only enjoy the tranquility of the plateau lakes but also get up close with the snow-capped peaks over 8,000 meters high, creating a strong visual feast. The regular 6 to 10 days of the itinerary can cover core scenic spots such as Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake, the urban area of Shigatse, EBC and even Namtso Lake. The route is mature and the supply points are complete. Most importantly, the budget suitable for most tourists has pushed the combined tour of Lhasa and Shigatse to the peak of popularity. Due to the popularity of this tourist route, more and more tourists are inquiring about transportation methods. Therefore, this article is designed for solving problems.
Travel Time Comparison
The road route from Lhasa to Shigatse usually passes through Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier and Gyantse Fortress, and the whole journey takes about 6 to 7 hours. Although there is a shortcut that takes less than four hours, many beautiful scenes along the way are missed. So the vast majority of Tibet group tours adopt the former route.
There are three fixed intercity trains departing from Lhasa to Shigatse every day, which take about two hours. Whether it is from Lhasa city to Lhasa Railway Station or from Shigatse Railway Station to Shigatse City, the driving distance is within half an hour, which is very convenient.
Travel Scenery Comparison
This 300-kilometers highway route will take you through the Gangbala Pass, which is mainly located between Langkazi County and Gongga County in Shannan Prefecture. It is a must-pass place on the way to Yamdrok Lake. Here, at an altitude of around 5,000 meters, it is the best vantage point to overlook Yamdrok Lake. You can enjoy a full view of the sacred lake without any walking fatigue. Your visit to Yamdrok Lake gives you the opportunity to taste an authentic farm lunch and get up close with the lake surface, as well as the yaks and herdsmen around it.
The railway line from Lhasa to Shigatse does not pass through any high-altitude mountain passes. It will travel along the magnificent Yarlung Zangbo River. This line runs through deep canyons, with the river surging and the mountains on both banks steep, featuring unique geological features. In addition, vast river valley plains can also be seen. In summer, the aroma of barley fills the air and herds of cattle and sheep graze, presenting a typical scene of a highland pastoral scene.
Altitude Comparison
The road trip from Lhasa to Shigatse involves an ascent and descent of approximately 1,800 meters. The starting point is Lhasa at an altitude of approximately 3,650 meters, and the highest point of the entire journey is reached at an altitude of about 5,000 meters when crossing the Gangbala Pass. The altitude of Yamdrok Lake is approximately 4,441 meters. The surrounding viewing platforms and roads are mostly between 4,400 and 4,700 meters. Next, the altitude near the tongue of the Karola Glacier is approximately 5,400 meters. Finally, the altitude of the final destination, Shigatse, drops to approximately 3,850 meters.
The Lhasa-Shigatse Railway is approximately 250 kilometers long. Compared with land transportation, its altitude changes are relatively gentle. The entire line is at an altitude ranging from 3,600 meters to 3,920 meters, and the trains are equipped with diffused oxygen supply facilities to cope with the high-altitude environment. For tourists who are worried about altitude sickness, railway transportation is a good choice.
Conclusion
Your suggestions will be an important reference factor for us regarding the itinerary arrangements, so we are looking forward to having a very detailed communication with you to create a itinerary that satisfies you.
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39 Comment ON "Road Trip Vs Train Journey between Lhasa and Shigatse"
Asked by Jacob Keis** from N/A
Train booking
We are a group of 15 (perhaps 17) who need to take the June 8th 15:27 train from Xining to Lhasa. We need to book this soon so prompt reply would be helpful. We are getting our permits from an agent and should have them in 6-8 days.
Asked by Nirm** from Australia
Hi, I’m interested in doing the Mount Kailash tour. I only have holidays from 20/09 to 4/10 this year. Do you have a tour that includes these dates? How much would the tour be? Are the flights, visas, passes and permits included in your prices? Thank you kindly. Regards, Nirmala (Nationality: Australian Group Size: 1 person Arrival Date: 20/09/26) Nationality: Australian Group Size: 1 person Arrival Date: 20/09/26
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
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.