Lhasa to Xining Train

Lhasa to Xining train and Xining to Lhasa  trains are running back and forth along Tibet Railway with the total distance of 1,956 km. Currently, 5 pairs of trains are available daily with the journey time of about 21 - 21.5 hours. Ticket price is CNY 521 for a hard sleeper and CNY 808 for a soft sleeper.

Like each Tibet train, the train from Lhasa to Xining is also especially built for the high altitude environment and equipped with advanced facilities, such as air-conditioning, supercharging system, oxygen supply, altitude display, etc. The train is also tightly sealed so as to firstly keep the inside air pressure normal and secondly prevent passengers from littering. Besides, all the carriages are installed with double-paned windows and ultraviolet filters to protect passengers from ultraviolet radiation.

Lhasa to Xining direct train schedule & Tickets 2026

There are several trains from Lhasa to Xining, but most are bound for other cities in China and stop at Xining Train Station for about 20 minutes. Only two trains, Z8982 & Z8992starts from Lhasa and end at Xining. The train Z8982 and Z8992 from Lhasa to Xining departs daily at 09:25 / 17:50 from Lhasa Train Station, and arrives at Xining Railway Station at 06:25 / 14:49 on the second day after over 21:30 hours covering a distance of 1972 kilometers. The operational speed is also 120 km/h, 100 km/h over sections laid on permafrost. It costs around RMB800 for a first-class sleeper berth, about RMB500 for a second-class sleeper berth, and half that for a soft seat.

Please Notice:
1. The timetable provided above is for reference purposes only. For the most up-to-date train schedule, please don't hesitate to contact us.
2. You need to book the train ticket and board the train with your passport.
3. No Tibet Permit is required for trains leaving Tibet.
4. For better scenery, we recommend taking Z8982, Z166, or Z266 because the earlier departure provides more time for passengers to appreciate the stunning scenery along the Lhasa-Golmud section, the essential scenery of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Lhasa to Xining Train Ticket Fare 2026

What's the difference between hard sleeper and soft sleeper

Hard Sleeper: Open compartments with 6 berths (3 levels), less privacy, more affordable, shared with other passengers

Soft Sleeper: Enclosed compartments with 4 berths (2 levels), more privacy, more comfortable bedding, quieter, includes door lock

Which berth is best - upper, middle, or lower?

Lower berth: Easy access, can sit during day, but less privacy as people sit on your bed

Middle berth: Good compromise, moderate price, reasonable privacy

Upper berth: Most privacy, cheapest, but requires climbing and has least headroom

Most travelers prefer middle or lower berths.

How to Book Lhasa Xining Train Tickets

In the past, securing a train ticket from Lhasa to Xining as a foreign visitor in China was a challenging task. However, the procedure has been simplified and made more user-friendly recently.

Despite these improvements, it's still crucial to reserve your Chongqing to Lhasa Train Ticket ahead of time through the Official Railway App or Website, ensuring that the name used for booking corresponds with your passport. It's important to be aware that the English instructions on their App or website might be inadequately translated, which could make navigation a bit difficult.

To book a Lhasa to Xining Train Ticket, you will need:

A valid Chinese phone number or email to receive the verification code.

You will also need to upload a photocopy of your passport to the Official Railway App or Website.

Accepted payment methods: Mastercard and Visa, with Alipay serving as a convenient backup option.

How to get to Lhasa Railway Station

To take the Lhasa-Xining train, make sure you get to Lhasa Railway Station. The station serves as the only station that has regular trains connecting mainland China. Due to the huge number of travelers in the railway station, it’s advisable to arrive at the Lhasa Railway Station early to line up to be checked to board the train.

Address: Tongzhan Road, Niu New Area, Doilungdêqên District, Lhasa City (西藏自治区拉萨市柳梧新区通站路)

Bus Route to Lhasa Railway Station: Lhasa Bus No.1, 13, 14, and 30

Lhasa Gonggar Airport to Lhasa Railway Station

Take the Airport Shuttle Bus It will take around 1 hour and 26 minutes to reach the station from the airport. The shuttle bus travels directly from Lhasa Gonggar International Airport Station to the railway station, with no stop en route. It crosses 51.5 kilometers and costs 30CNY per person.

Take a Taxi from the Airport to the railway station

It takes about 48minutes by taking a taxi, and it costs around 200 CNY. (Taxi fares are for reference only and do not take into account waiting times and traffic jams)

(Notes: for tourists who have booked our Tibet tour package, you can enjoy free shuttle transfer after your trip. Our guide will transfer you to the train station and help you get on board.)

Life and facilities on the train from Lhasa to Xining

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.

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 a 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, and lunch and dinner cost around 25-50 for each person.

And you can buy some snacks 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 with acclimatization to the Tibetan Plateau.

Air Conditioning and Oxygen Supply

The windows and exterior of the Tibet train are airtight and can protect you from extreme temperature changes outside. As the train departs, 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 discomfort, such as headache, fast pulse, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, etc., will disappear within two days.

Best Highlights along the Lhasa-Xining Train Route

As the train from Lhasa to Xining travels along the prestigious Qinghai-Tibet Railway, you will appreciate the same highlights of the route from Xining to Lhasa. You will see grazing yaks in vast Nagqu grassland, snow-blanketed peaks, and shimmering alpine lakes at sunset, etc. A lot of wonders await your discovery!

Lhasa River: Tibet Train Ride Right along side with It

The Lhasa River (拉萨河) is renowned as one of the five major tributaries of the Yarlung Zangbo River (雅鲁藏布江). Translated from Tibetan, "Yarlung Zangbo" means "snow water from high mountains."

During the train ride from Chongqing to Lhasa, you will have the opportunity to catch glimpses of the Lhasa River. The train passes through multiple sections where the river flows, with the closest proximity occurring between Delingha and Lhasa. At certain points, the train even runs parallel to the river, providing captivating views of its pristine waters.

Tuotuohe National Scenic Area:

During your train journey from Lanzhou to Lhasa, you will have the opportunity to witness the scenic beauty of Tuotuohe (Mar Qu, Ulan Moron, 沱沱河) National Scenic Area. As the train passes by the Tuotuohe River, which meanders through this picturesque area, you will be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped mountains, verdant meadows, and the shimmering turquoise waters of the river. The optimal time to admire the scenery of Tuotuohe from the train is in the morning, when the sun illuminates the landscape.

The train travels through Tuotuohe National Scenic Area for approximately 15-20 minutes, offering a relatively brief but captivating experience. The closest proximity to the scenic area occurs when the train is traveling in an easterly direction.

Delingha: Colorful Landscape Chongqing to Lhasa Train Ride Through

The Delingha (德令哈) region of Qinghai Province in China offers a remarkable blend of natural landscapes, from serene lakes to towering mountains, making it a picturesque destination for train journeys. In the Delingha region, red willows and Danxia landforms are often found together. This creates a unique and visually stunning landscape. As the train passes through this region, you will be treated to views of red willows silhouetted against a backdrop of colorful Danxia landforms along the Qinghai-Tibet railway.

Kekexili Nature Reserve

Believed to be a haven for the wildlife, Kekexili Nature Reserve, also known as Hoh Xil, is the largest (83,000 square kilometres) 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, 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.

Yuzhu Peak

With an altitude of 6,178 meters, Yuzhu Peak is a major attraction of the train journey. 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.

Qinghai Lake

As you near Qinghai Province, you will be greeted by the immense beauty of Qinghai Lake(青海湖), one of the largest saltwater lakes globally. The lake's mesmerizing turquoise waters and the majestic snow-capped mountains form a breathtaking scenery along the train route.

If you happen to travel during the summer months of July or August, you might be fortunate enough to witness the blooming of vibrant yellow rapeseed flowers. These blossoms create a captivating spectacle, covering the surrounding hills and valleys in a colorful carpet. The flowers are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world each year.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lhasa to Xining Train

Q: How much does a train ticket from Lhasa to Xining cost?

A: Ticket prices vary by class:
Hard Seat: ¥224-250 ($31-35 USD)
Hard Sleeper (lower/middle/upper): ¥495-560 ($70-80 USD)
Soft Sleeper (lower/upper): ¥781-808 ($110-115 USD)
Prices fluctuate based on season and availability.

Q: How far in advance can I book Lhasa to Xining train tickets?

A: Train tickets can be booked up to 30 days in advance through official channels. For popular travel periods (May-October), book as early as possible as tickets sell out quickly.

Q: Can foreigners book Tibet train tickets online?

A: Yes, but it's challenging. Foreign passports aren't always accepted on Chinese booking platforms like 12306.cn. It's highly recommended to book through a registered travel agency that can handle bookings with your passport information and Tibet Travel Permit.

Q: Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit to take the train from Lhasa to Xining?

A: No. You do not need a Tibet travel permit to leave Lhasa by train.

Q: Can I buy tickets at Lhasa Railway Station on the day of travel?

A: While technically possible, this is extremely risky and not recommended, especially during peak season (May-October)

Q: Is there an oxygen supply on the Lhasa to Xining train?

A: Yes. All carriages on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway are equipped with oxygen supply systems. Individual oxygen outlets are available at each berth, and the entire carriage maintains pressurized oxygen levels to help prevent altitude sickness.

Q: Are there bathrooms on the train?

A: Yes. Each carriage has both Western-style sitting toilets and Chinese squat toilets at both ends. There are also washbasins with running water. Bathrooms are cleaned regularly but can become crowded during peak hours.

Q: Is there a dining car on the Lhasa to Xining train?

A: Yes. The train has a dining car serving Chinese meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) ranging from ¥25-60 per dish. Food trolleys also pass through carriages selling snacks, instant noodles, drinks, and packaged meals.

Q: Can I charge my phone/devices on the train?

A: Yes. Soft sleeper compartments have electrical outlets. Hard sleeper carriages have limited outlets in corridors or common areas. Bring a power bank as a backup since outlets may be occupied.

Q: Is there WiFi on the train?

A: No. There is no WiFi service on Qinghai-Tibet trains. Mobile phone signal is also intermittent, especially when passing through remote plateau regions and tunnels.

Q: What should I do if I feel unwell during the journey?

A: Use the individual oxygen outlet at your berth, drink plenty of water, rest, and avoid excessive movement. Notify train attendants if symptoms are severe—they're trained to help with altitude-related issues and can provide medical assistance.

Q: What scenic highlights can I see on the Lhasa to Xining train?

A: Notable sights include:
Vast Tibetan Plateau grasslands
Namtso Lake (visible from a distance)
Tanggula Mountain Range
Hoh Xil (Kekexili) Nature Reserve with possible wildlife sightings (Tibetan antelope, wild yaks)
Kunlun Mountains
Qinghai Lake (visible before arriving in Xining)
Endless alpine meadows and nomadic settlements

Q: Which side of the train has better views?

A: Both sides offer spectacular scenery. Generally, the right side (when facing the direction of travel from Lhasa) offers slightly better views of certain landmarks, but the plateau landscape is stunning on both sides. Don't worry too much about which side—you'll see amazing scenery regardless.

Q: What's the best time of day for viewing scenery?

A: The train departs Lhasa in the late afternoon and travels overnight, so you'll see Tibetan Plateau scenery at sunset, then wake up to views of Qinghai Province. Morning light (around 7:00-10:00 AM) offers particularly beautiful photography opportunities of the Kunlun Mountains and the approaching Qinghai Lake area.

Explore Tibet with Travel Tibet China

With more than 10 years of local expertise in Lhasa and Tibet, our dedicated team at travel tibet china brings you carefully curated Tibet tours for an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Drawing upon our extensive experience, we have meticulously crafted a range of Tibet tour packages, including Lhasa tours, Mount Everest Tours, Mount Kailash Tours, Tibet Trekking Tours, Tibet Train Tours, and Tibet Overland Tours. Whether you prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private tour or the budget-friendly option of a group tour, we have you covered without compromising on quality.