Masks and ornaments at a Barkhor Street stall, Lhasa
Tibet travel guide

Train Schedule & Price

Complete guides for every departure city — timetables, station info and ticket booking advice for the world’s highest railway

Leaving Tibet by train? Read Lhasa to Xining by train — how to see both halves of the plateau in daylight on the way out.

Choose Your Departure City

The Qinghai-Tibet Railway has trains departing from 6 major cities. Select your city below for the full timetable, station guide and ticket purchasing information.

Tibet Train from Shanghai to Lhasa

The Z164 train departs from Shanghai Railway Station every day, reaching Lhasa in approximately 47 hours. Here’s the full schedule, station guide and ticket booking information.

Tibet Train from Chengdu to Lhasa

The Z322 train runs from Chengdu North Station to Lhasa every other day, arriving in approximately 36 hours. Chengdu is among the most popular departure cities for Tibet.

Tibet Train from Chongqing to Lhasa

The Z223 train runs from Chongqing West Station to Lhasa every other day in approximately 35 hours — 6 hours faster than when the line opened in 2006.

Tibet Train from Beijing to Lhasa

The Z21 train runs daily from Beijing West Station to Lhasa in approximately 40 hours — the iconic journey crossing China’s great rivers and mountains before climbing to the plateau.

Tibet Train from Xining to Lhasa

Xining is the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway — the most convenient and flexible city to board for Tibet, with at least 5 trains daily, shorter journey time (22 hrs), and the best ticket availability.

Tibet Train from Hong Kong to Lhasa

There is no direct train from Hong Kong to Lhasa. This guide explains the best transit cities and routes for Hong Kong travellers boarding the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Need Help Booking Your Tibet Train?

We handle train tickets, Tibet Travel Permits and the complete tour package from any departure city. Book 3–6 months in advance for peak season.

Frequently asked questions

Which cities have direct trains to Lhasa?

Direct services run from Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xining and a number of other Chinese cities. All of them join the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, the highest railway in the world.

How much do Tibet train tickets cost?

Fares depend on your departure city and whether you choose a soft or hard sleeper, and they change with season and availability. We confirm the current fare when you book.

Should I choose a soft or hard sleeper?

Soft sleeper berths are four to a compartment with more space, while hard sleeper berths are six to a compartment and cost less. Either is comfortable for the journey into Tibet.

We answer within 12 hours, Monday to Saturday.

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