Lhasa Railway: 3 Extended Railways for Traveling within Tibet

The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which opened in 2006, has created a popular way to experience Tibet, turning a dream into reality for travelers worldwide. Carrying thousands of tourists each year, this remarkable journey offers breathtaking scenery on the way to the "Roof of the World."

But Tibet’s railway network continues to expand. The lately built Lhasa-Shigatse and Lhasa-Nyingchi high-speed railways have been very popular among locals and tourists, greatly reduced travel time, while the planned Shigatse-Kathmandu railway will further strengthen the connections with Himalayan neighbors.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know - available train routes within Tibet, schedules, ticket prices and what to expect. Read on to plan your unforgettable train journey across the breathtaking plateau!

The First Train Ride Within Tibet: Lhasa to Shigatse, Connecting the Two Biggest Cities

Opened in August 2014, the Lhasa-Shigatse Railway is the only rail connection between Tibet's two largest citie. This 248-kilometer high-speed line reduces travel time between Lhasa and Shigatse to just 2.5 hours, half the time it takes by car.

There are three daily trains from Lhasa to Shigatse. Train Z9805 departs at 08:10 and arrives at 10:39, with a travel time of 2 hours and 29 minutes. Train C887 leaves at 13:00 and reaches Shigatse at 15:20, taking 2 hours and 20 minutes. Train Z9807 departs at 15:05 and arrives at 18:11, with a journey time of 3 hours and 6 minutes.

Similarly, three trains run daily from Shigatse to Lhasa. Train Z9806 departs at 11:30 and arrives at 14:15, taking 2 hours and 45 minutes. Train C888 leaves at 15:50 and reaches Lhasa at 18:10, taking 2 hours and 20 minutes. Train Z9808 departs at 18:50 and arrives at 21:10, with a travel time of 2 hours and 20 minutes.

The journey features two stunning sections. Between Qushui County and Nimu, you'll be treated to views of the majestic Yarlung Zangbo River. From Renbu to Shigatse, the scenery transitions to classic Tibetan farmland and villages, offering picturesque sights from the train window.

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Schedule in 2025

Shigatse to Lhasa Train Schedule in 2025

Lhasa to Shigatse train car.

Lhasa to Shigatse High-Speed train.

The Second Train Ride Within Tibet: Lhasa to Nyingchi, Linking Central and Eastern Tibet

The Lhasa to Nyingchi Bullet Train, which started running in June 2021, is the first electrified train on the Tibetan plateau. It covers about 435 kilometers and takes roughly 4 hours to travel, with a top speed of 160 km/h. Compared to driving, the train cuts the travel time from 5 hours to just 3.5 hours.

Lhasa to Nyingchi Railway Map.

Each day, two trains operate between Lhasa and Nyingchi. Train C881 departs from Lhasa at 07:55 and arrives in Nyingchi at 11:36, completing the journey in 3 hours and 41 minutes. Train Z8901 follows later, leaving at 10:50 and reaching Nyingchi at 15:29, with a travel time of 4 hours and 39 minutes.

Likewise, two trains run daily from Nyingchi back to Lhasa. Train C882 departs at 12:00 and reaches Lhasa at 15:42, covering the distance in 3 hours and 42 minutes. In the evening, Train Z8902 leaves at 16:30 and arrives in Lhasa at 20:51, taking 4 hours and 21 minutes..

The train ride offers amazing views, including the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, full of beautiful plants and flowers. You’ll also see the Nyang River along the way. The scenery changes with the seasons, from peach blossoms and azaleas of Nyingchi tour in spring to lush forests and wildflowers in summer.

Lhasa to Nyingchi Train Schedule in 2025

Nyingchi to Lhasa Train Schedule in 2025

Enjoy beautiful scene in Lhasa to Nyingchi High-Speed train.

Lhasa to Nyingchi High-Speed train.

The Third Train Ride Within Tibet: Will Soon Traverse the Himalayas from Lhasa to Nepal

The Shigatse-Gyirong Railway is a planned another extension of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Construction of the section between Shigatse and Gyirong is expected to begin in 2025.

The entire Shigatse to Gyirong Railway will be 540 kilometers long, with the remaining 120 kilometers connecting Gyirong to Kathmandu. Once complete, this railway will make it faster and easier for both locals and tourists from Lhasa to Kathmandu and cross the stunning Himalayan regions.

Currently, since the railway is not yet finished, the most popular way is enjoy the overland tour from Kathmandu to Lhasa, using the well-known Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. This journey is a top choice for you, offering a chance to see the diverse landscapes of the Himalayas, from Nepal's southern side to Tibet’s northern side, with a stop at Everest Base Camp.

Lhasa to Nepal Train Route Map.

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tour: Traverse from the North Side to the South Side of Mt.Everest for the Best of the Himalayas

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Gyirong - Kathmandu

Price from USD989 p.p

More Train Routes Within Tibet & Essential Travel Tips

In the future, Tibet’s railway network will expand even further. A new railway line is planned from Shigatse to Yadong, a small town near the borders of India and Bhutan. Though still in the early stages, this extension could eventually improve travel connections toward south Asia including India and Bhutan.

Another major railway under construction is the second phase of the Sichuan-Tibet Railway, running 1,011 kilometers from Ya’an to Nyingchi. This project started in November 2020 and is expected to be completed by 2030. Once finished, it will greatly improve access to eastern Tibet.

As more rail routes are built, train travel in Tibet will become even more convenient. To ensure a smooth journey, here are some important travel tips from local experts.

Before boarding a Tibet train, ensure you have both your Tibet Travel Permit and passport ready. The permit is mandatory for all international travelers to board. However, there’s no need to collect a physical ticket - you can simply use these documents to board your train.

Important Note： Train schedules within Tibet may change from time to time. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend booking your tickets through us. Not only can we provide the latest train information, but we also guarantee your tickets, arrange your Tibet Travel Permit, and offer seamless transfers between railway stations and your hotel for a hassle-free experience.

Sichuan Tibet Railway Map

Our valued guests are savoring their dinner aboard the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Conclusion

Tibet’s growing railway network offers a remarkable way to experience its breathtaking landscapes. With the Lhasa-Shigatse and Lhasa-Nyingchi high-speed rail lines already in operation, travelers can enjoy stunning scenery while benefiting from significantly reduced travel times.

Future expansions, including the Shigatse-Kathmandu and Shigatse-Yadong railways, will further strengthen Tibet’s connections with its neighbors. These railways promise not only greater accessibility but also an unforgettable journey across Tibet.