Xining to Lhasa Train

Xining to Lhasa Train, Trains Z8981 and Z8991 are two trains that run directly from Xining to Lhasa. Compared with trains to Lhasa from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, the Xining-Lhasa train (Z8981 and Z8991) offers you the shortest ride of 1,956km in total. Train Z8981 runs every other day while Train Z8991 runs daily.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Xining to Lhasa train schedule, ticket prices, stations, and insider travel tips. Check out why to chose the Xining to Lhasa train and what to see along the train journey. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, this guide will equip you with the key information you need to turn your Xining to Lhasa train tour into a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable journey.

Xining to Lhasa Train Time Schedule

There are 5 trains departing from Xining to Lhasa every day. These include 2 direct trains and 4 trains departing from other cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing) but stopping in Xining. During the peak season (June to September), there are more direct trains from Xining to Lhasa.

Xining to Lhasa Train Schedule via Xining

If buying train tickets from Xining to Lhasa during peak season is difficult, you may consider going to Lhasa from cities other than Xining. The following is the train schedule from Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou/Chengdu/Chongqing to Lhasa via Xining.

Xining to Lhasa Train Price & Facilities (soft sleeper)

The ticket price of the Xining-Lhasa train is only 781 CNY for a soft sleeper berth, and 495 CNY for a hard sleeper berth. The following is the train price list from Xining to Lhasa. Tourists can choose the appropriate class of tickets according to their own needs.

The Tibet train also has a dining car that serves meals and snacks. Packaged food and drinks can often be purchased from cart vendors who periodically walk down the aisles. Oxygen is supplied throughout the train to help passengers adjust to the high altitude, and first aid kits are available for emergencies.

Xining to Lhasa Train Altitude changes along

The Tibet train journey from Xining to Lhasa is a Beautiful experience that takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. As you traverse this route, you will encounter varying altitudes, each offering unique perspectives and breathtaking views. Here is an altitude overview of the Xining to Lhasa train journey:

How to Book and Get a Xining to Lhasa Train Ticket

1. Online Booking - Convenient

Many online platforms allow you to book Tibet train tickets in China. Websites such as 12306.cn, China Railway's official website, and other online travel agencies, typically offer this service. After booking online, you'll usually need to collect the physical tickets at the train station with your passport. Please note that websites may vary in terms of English language support. However, it may be difficult to successfully purchase sleeper tickets during the peak season.

2. Through a Travel Agency - Highly Recommended for Foreigners

Many travel agencies can book the train tickets for you, which can be especially helpful if you're not fluent in Chinese or familiar with the process. They can also help with travel plans, and accommodation, and provide guidance for travel in Tibet. However, they may usually charge a service fee for this service.

Please note that train tickets in China often become available 30 days before departure for online bookings and 28 days before departure for in-person sales at train stations. It's recommended to book your tickets as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons.

3. At The Train Station - Not Recommended

You can buy the tickets directly at the ticket window at the train station. Keep in mind that English might not be widely spoken at the stations, and during peak times, there may be long lines. Always have your passport with you, as it's required for purchasing tickets. However, this might not be an ideal option during peak travel times as tickets can sell out quickly.

Xining-Lhasa Train On the Life

The unique life aboard the Tibet train gives you a rare chance to experience the real engineering wonder running on the lofty Tibetan Plateau. You will be surprised to find many tourist-friendly facilities and cutting-edge technology that help to give you a thrilling ride all the way to holy Lhasa.

Luggage Storage

If you happen to stay in a soft sleeper cabin, you can put your big suitcase below the lower bunk and leave your small handbag either in the corner of your bed or store it in the upper storage area above the door. If you stay in a hard sleeper, you can leave your heavy suitcase below the lowest bunk or put it above the luggage rack above the narrow aisle. For travelers of the hard seat, putting your big belongings above the public luggage rack is the only option.

Food and Drink

Quite similar to what happens when you take the flight, the staff will pass your cabin with a food trolley at meal times. You can easily buy a boxed meal or some snack or soft drinks like orange juice and coke from him. Of course, if you prefer some formal dishes, you can move to the dining carriage where the professional chef will make mostly traditional Chinese food for you. The meal costs around 15 CNY, the lunch and dinner cost around 25-50 for each person.

And you can buy some snack or fruit before you board the Tibet train to fill the leisurely time while enjoying the stunning window view. For a vegetarian, you may also find tasty food. If you wanna some drinks, you may also buy some beers and wine on the train. However, just don’t drink too much because it won’t help the acclimatization to the Tibetan Plateau.

Air Conditioning and Oxygen Supply

The windows and exterior of the Tibet train are airtight and protect you from extreme temperature changes outside. As the Xining-Lhasa train leaves Golmud, the oxygen will be released pervasively in passengers’ carriages. Meanwhile, if you still have shortness of breath, you may ask for an oxygen tube from the conductor and connect it to the oxygen outlet inside the soft sleeper or in the corridor to inhale oxygen. However, it’s advisable not to become addicted to the oxygen supply. Normally, your discomforts such as headache, fast pulse, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, etc. will disappear within two days.

Top Highlights along the Xining to Lhasa Train Route

The highlights of Tibet train center from Golmud to Lhasa. Do wipe off the dirt from your cabin ’s window at Golumd because you are about to enjoy a real treat to your eyes. Grazing yaks in vast Kekexili Nature Reserve grassland, snow-blanketed peaks shimmering alpine lakes at sunset, etc. Before arriving in Lhasa, be sure to pick up your camera to capture this spectacular scenery.

Yuzhu Peak
With an altitude of 6,178 meters, Yuzhu Peak is the first major attraction as the Tibet train leaves Golmud to Lhasa. As the Tibet train runs below the spectacular Kunlun Mountain range, you will be deeply impressed by the snow-topped summit of Yuzhu Peak in the distance. To the mountaineers in China, Yuzhu Peak is no stranger. It has served as a great destination for entry-level mountaineering and climbing training for years.

Kekexili Nature Reserve
Believed to be a haven for wildlife, Kekexili Nature Reserve, also known as Hoh Xil, is the largest (83,000 square kilometers) and highest (4800m) nature reserve with one of the most diverse flora and fauna in China. It is home to a variety of alpine wildlife, such as Tibetan antelope, wild yak and Tibetan wild ass, white-lipped deer, and brown bear, etc. If you happen to take the Tibet train from May to July, you may have a higher chance of catching a glimpse of the migration of lively Tibetan antelopes.

Tuotuo River
Originating from the melting glaciers of the Tanggula Mountains, the enchanting Tuotuo River, also known as the "Red River" in Mongolian, constitutes the source of the great Yangtze River. You are expected to enjoy the train ride and cross the glittering Tuotuo River via a gigantic Tuotuo River bridge, which symbolizes the first bridge (1389.6 meters long with 42 piers) over the source of the Yangtze River. Do get ready for the epic shot.

Tanggula Mountain
After passing the source of the Yangtse River, we are about to reach the highest place of the Tibetan train, i.e. Tanggula Mountain Pass (5072m) while the famous Tanggula Railway Station is located at an elevation of 5,068m. You have a short time to take a picture with the landmark Tanggula sign on the platform. And the incredible vista of Tanggula mountains from afar will blow your mind away.

How to Get to Xining Railway Station

The legendary Xining railway station is the first railway station that links Tibet with other cities across inland China. The newly-renovated railway station offers convenient and comfortable service for you to take trains to Tibet and other cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, etc. We suggest you arrive at the Xining Station early to line up to be checked to board the train.

Address: No. 128, Huzhu Middle Road, Xining (青海省西宁市互助中路128号)

Xining Caojiabao International Airport to Xining Railway Station:

Take a taxi from the airport to the railway station It takes about 40 minutes for a 25 km ride.

Take the shuttle bus to the railway station

Take the airport shuttle bus, and you can go directly to the train station. It takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes and costs 21 CNY.

How to Plan a Xining to Lhasa Train Tour

A 11-day itinerary is generally suitable for a Xining to Lhasa train tour, which includes exploring Xining, taking a train journey, and experiencing the classic Tibet tour.

Day 1-3: Spend the first three days exploring Xining and its surroundings. Visit the Dongguan Mosque, Ta'er Monastery, and Qinghai Lake. On the third day, board the train to Lhasa.

Day 4: Spend the fourth day enjoying the scenic train journey on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Upon arrival in Lhasa, check into your hotel and rest.

Day 5-6: Take two days to acclimate to the altitude in Lhasa and explore the city. Must-see sites include the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.

Day 8-11: Spend the next four days on a round trip to Everest Base Camp. You can take in the stunning high-altitude landscapes and get a close-up view of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest.

Day 12: On the 11th day, check out from your hotel in Lhasa and proceed to your next destination.

Xining to Lhasa Train Tips

Tibet Travel Permit: Ensure you have the necessary Tibet Travel Permit, as it's checked before you board the train.

Train Schedule: Try to choose a train that departs from Xining in the afternoon or evening. This way, you'll get to see more of the plateau's scenery during daylight hours.

Soft Sleeper: If soft sleepers are available, it's recommended to buy one. They offer more comfort, which can help alleviate discomfort and symptoms of altitude sickness during the journey.

Window Cleaning: Before the train departs, find an opportunity to clean the window on your side if possible. A clean window will provide a clearer view of the stunning landscapes and make photography easier.

Bathing: There are no bathing facilities on the train, and it's also recommended not to bathe on the day you arrive in Lhasa. Therefore, it's a good idea to take a thorough bath before you depart from Xining.

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