Taking a train from Shenyang to Tibet is a scenic and unique journey from northeast to southwest China, allowing you to experience the country's vast landscapes. Although there is no direct train to Lhasa from Shenyang, the new high-speed trains from Shenyang to Beijing make the trip more convenient.

From Beijing, you can easily transfer to the Beijing-Lhasa Z21 train at Beijing West Station with a short 1-hour stopover. Here, we'll provide you with detailed information on train schedules, ticket information, and useful travel tips to help you plan a smooth Tibet train trip.

How Far is Shenyang from Tibet? Distance and Location Map

Shenyang, the capital city of Liaoning Province, is the largest city in Northeast China and a major industrial and transportation hub. The Tibet Autonomous Region, known as the "roof of the world," is located on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in southwestern China.

Shenyang-Lhasa Train Route Map

The straight-line distance from Shenyang to Lhasa is around 3,232 kilometers, while the driving distance is approximately 4,306 kilometers. However, if you travel by train from Shenyang to Lhasa, the journey covers a longer distance of about 4,767 kilometers.

Now, No Direct Train from Shenyang to Tibet: Best Option via Beijing

Although there is no direct train from Shenyang to Lhasa, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a train journey to Tibet by transferring in Beijing, the capital city of China.

Thanks to China's increasingly developed high-speed railways, traveling between the two cities is very convenient. The 1,198 kilometers train journey from Shenyang to Beijing takes just 2 hours and 45 minutes. So, you can quickly hop on Shengyang Beijing high-speed train. Once you arrive in Beijing, you'll transfer to the Beijing West Railway Station for the Z21 Tibet train to Lhasa.

The Beijing Lhasa train takes about 40 hours, it’s definitely an unforgettable experience. You’ll have the chance to enjoy stunning views of China’s diverse landscapes as you travel through diverse regions, from the plains to the high-altitude plateaus.

Scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Train Schedules and Ticket Prices: Shenyang to Lhasa via Beijing

There are over 30 high-speed trains from Shenyang to Beijing every day from 8:25 to 18:21. These trains depart from Shenyang South Railway Station or Shenyang North Railway Station and arrive at Beijing Chaoyang Station.

Usually, the Shenyang to Beijing high-speed train takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach Beijing Chaoyang Station. The train from Shenyang to Beijing offers three seating options: First Class (559 RMB), Second Class (350 RMB), and Business Class (1,101 RMB)

However, there is about a 1-hour drive between Beijing Chaoyang Station and Beijing West Station. To ensure you can catch your connecting train to Lhasa, it is best to arrive in Beijing by 4:00 PM.

The Z21 train from Beijing to Lhasa departs daily from Beijing West Station at 19:52 and arrives at Lhasa Railway Station at 11:36, taking a total of 39 hours and 44 minutes.

On every Beijing to Lhasa train, you'll find three ticket classes: soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seat. The price are 1,144 RMB for a soft sleeper, 720 RMB for a harder sleeper, and 360 RMB for a hard seat.

The following is the most recommended train schedule for the Shenyang to Lhasa via Beijing.

Kind reminder:
1. The train timetable provided above is for reference purposes only. For the most up-to-date train schedule and availability, please feel free to contact us.

2. For a smooth and relaxed start to your Tibet train trip, it's a good idea to arrive at Beijing West Station at least 1.5 hours ahead of time. This way, you can avoid any last-minute rush and have enough time to settle in comfortably.

3. Instead of boarding the Tibet train immediately upon arriving in Beijing, you can also choose to spend a few days exploring Beijing first. Explore the grandiose Forbidden City, the scenic Summer Palace, the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, etc.

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Before transferring to the train to Tibet in Beijing, spending a day or two exploring the city is also a good choice.

Two More Travel Options from Shenyang to Lhasa by Train

If you’re looking to experience the famous Tibet train journey but don’t want to spend too much time on the train, here are two alternative options for you.

Option 1: Shenyang to Lhasa by Train via Xining

The first option is to fly from Shenyang to Xining. Since there are no direct flights, it will take around 7 hours to reach Xining. This is much faster than the 40+ hours train journey from Shenyang to Xining.

Once you arrive in Xining, you can easily hop on the Xining to Lhasa train. Xining is the starting point of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway, so there are plenty of trains heading to Lhasa, giving you many options. This way, you can fly to Xining and then take the train to Lhasa on the same day.

Taking train from Shenyang to Lhasa via Xining offer you a chance to explore the Ta’er Monastery.

In addition, Xining is one of the closest cities to Lhasa. The train from Xining to Lhasa takes only 19.5 to 21.5 hours, making it the fastest option. This allows you to experience the full Tibet train journey in less time. Plus, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the stunning views of the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau along the way.

Option 2: Shenyang to Lhasa by Train via Xi’an

Another convenient option is to fly from Shenyang to Xi’an, one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. There are more than 10 daily flights from Shenyang to Xi’an , and it takes 3 hours 10 minutes.

From Xi’an, you can take the Xi’an to Lhasa train, Z917, to Lhasa. This train departs every other day, and the journey takes 34 hours and 45 minutes. Additionally, the train Z165 and Z265 from Shanghai and Guangzhou also stop at Xi’an Station, so you can choose these options as well.

As the ancient capital of China, Xi’an also has many attractions worth visiting. You can explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the Terracotta Warriors of Qin Shihuang, etc. If this is your first time in Xi’an, why not take a day or two to explore this amazing city before heading to Tibet?

The Terracotta Warriors of Qin Shihuang is a must see attraction in Xi’an .

What Travel Documents are Needed for Shenyang to Tibet Train Tour?

In addition to your passport, Tibet Travel Permit is a must document for boarding the train from Shenyang to Lhasa. However, the Tibet Travel Permit can not be obtained independently.

Don’t worry, we are here to help you! With years of experience in organizing Tibet tour, we have established strong relationships with the relevant authorities, allowing us to assist you efficiently in obtaining your Tibet Travel Permit.

We, at Tibet Vista, can assist you in obtaining your Tibet Travel Permit for free.

Once the permit is issued, your travel consultant will send you the electronic version. You just need to print it out in color and bring it with you when boarding the train from Shenyang to Lhasa. Please note that it’s a good idea to make a few copies of your Tibet Permit, just in case it gets lost.

Additional Travel Tips for Shenyang to Lhasa Train Journey

Usually, the train tickets from Shenyang to Lhasa via Beijing are available for booking 15 days in advance. It would be advisable to book train tickets early to ensure that you will get the train ticket for your preferred travel date.

For Shenyang Lhasa train ticket booking, you can book it at the train station counter or through official website 12306.cn. If you prefer a hassle-free option, it’s better to book your Tibet train tickets through a travel agency. We have more than 30 years of experience in Qinghai-Tibet train ticket booking and can easily book tickets for you.

When traveling to Lhasa by train, it’s important to arrive early at the station for security checks. Also, please keep your passport, visa, and Tibet permit handy for easy access. Be patient and follow the staff’s instructions, this will help ensure a smooth process.

Although snacks and drinks are available for purchase on the train, the selection is limited. It's a good idea to bring your perferred snacks and drinks for the train journey.

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Conclusion

Traveling from Shenyang to Tibet by train is an unforgettable experience. While there is no direct train, you can easily travel via Beijing, Xining, or Xi'an. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, prepare for the long journey, and don’t forget apply for your Tibet Travel Permit.

As a Lhasa-based travel agency, we have been engaged in Tibet travel for over 30 years. Please feel free to share your travel plan with us, we will customize the most suitable itinerary, prepare all the needed travel documents, buy the train tickets, and arrange a smooth once-in-a-lifetime Tibet train tour for you.