With 4+ daily direct flights to Tibet, and 2 scenic trains to Lhasa, Xi'an is one of the popular gateway to holy Tibet.
Xi’an, also known as Changan, was the capital of the Tang dynasty (618–907), the heyday in ancient Chinese history. The historical city impresses newcomers with its rectangular ancient walls, life-size Terracotta Army iconic Tang-style Big Wild Goose Pagoda, etc. Because of its unique cultural and historical significance, quite a number of international tourists would like to visit Xi’an before heading to Tibet.
The Shanghai - Lhasa and Guangzhou - Lhasa lines pass through Xi'an on their way to Tibet. Additionally, there are daily non-stop flights connecting Xi'an to major cities in Tibet, including Lhasa, Nyingchi, and Shigatse.
Whether you are seeking an affordable Xian Tibet Tour or fully customizable Tibet tours from Xian and beyond, we’re here to craft the perfect Xian Tibet itinerary for you..
Check detailed schedules about Xi'an to Lhasa flights and trains for 2025

Xian to Tibet Flight (Lhasa / Nyingchi / Shigatse)
Route | Duration | Frequency |
---|---|---|
Xi’an to Lhasa |
3 hrs 10 mins (non-stop flight) |
4 to 5 direct flights per day |
Xi’an to Nyingchi |
3 hours (non-stop flight) |
1 to 2 direct flights per day |
Xi’an to Shigatse |
3 hrs 30 mins (non-stop flight) |
1 to 2 direct flights on Tues., Thurs., Sat., and Sun. |
The Latest and Detailed Schedules about Xi'an to Lhasa Flights
Xian to Tibet Train (About 30 to 31 hrs)
Currently, two trains to Tibet pass by Xi’an, including the Z265 Tibet train from Guangzhou and the Z165 Tibet train from Shanghai. The entire railway distance from Xi’an to Lhasa is 2,864 km, which takes 30 to 31 hours to complete. You will spend 1 night on board the train from Xian to Lhasa.
You may also contact us if you have any ideas about Tibet tours from Xi'an.
Tell Us Your Xi'an Tibet Tour Plan Now!
Best Tibet Tours from Xi’an for 2025
Every year, we help 8,000+ global travelers fulfill their dreams of exploring Tibet. Traveling from Xi’an to Tibet is one of the popular route for first-time travelers who are curious about local culture and religions. Here we offer the hot small group tours in Tibet, among which the 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour are the most popular that picked by over 85% tourist.
Whether you plan to travel from Xian to Tibet by train or by flight, we will ensure smooth travel and guarantee your Tibet Travel Permit to Tibet. Let’s join us for your next adventure to the mysterious land with the best local services.
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8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: Marvel at Mt.Everest Real Close from 4 Different Viewing Platforms
Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa
"We planned this trip with four moments to experience the amazing Mt. Everest, all in one journey."2025 Available Dates & Price: -
15 Days Kailash and Manasarovar Small Group Tour: A pilgrim’s final fantasy and the greatest overland trip in Tibet.
Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - E.B.C - Saga - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Lake Manasarovar - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Lhasa
"This is the trip for any of Kailash tourists; the ultimate overland trip of Tibet with 3-day trek & chance to admire Mt.Everest."2025 Available Dates & Price: -
10 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and Namtso Lake Small Group Tour
Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - EBC - Shigatse - Lhasa - Namtso Lake - Damxung - Lhasa
"Combine the best scenery of Tibet in one go with a rich cultural experience as visiting local villages, teahouses, and monasteries."2025 Available Dates & Price: -
5 Days Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour: Take a 360° Tour and Visit the Loneliest Temple in the World
Tour Route: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa
"It’s a leisurely journey to downtown Lhasa with a short ride to turquoise Yamdrok Lake, best for family visits to Tibet."2025 Available Dates & Price:
Most Popular Xian Tibet Tours by Train
Riding through the world’s highest railway to Tibet could be a once-in-the-life-time travel experience to explore the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau deeply. You can travel from Xi'an to Tibet by train on two routes: the Z265 (Guangzhou to Lhasa) departs from Xi’an at 07:53 and arrives in Lhasa at 14:54 the next day, or the Z165 (Shanghai to Lhasa) departs from Xi’an at 09:27 and arrives at 15:30 the following day.
Once you book a Xi’an Tibet train tour with us, we will secure your Tibet Travel Permit and train tickets for this epic ride.
Most Recommended Xian Tibet Tours by Flight
The daily non-stop direct flights from Xi’an to Lhasa makes it convenient and fast to travel to Tibet. Let’s travel to Tibet from the ancient heart of China within 3.5 hours.
Xian Tibet Nepal Tour
Why not extend your journey from Tibet to Nepal? Traveling along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway is one of the most epic overland routes in the world. While traveling from the northern side to the southern side of Mount Everest, you will explore some of the best Himalayas in one go.
Why Choose Our Xi'an Tibet Tours?
Since overseas travelers can’t directly travel from Xi'an to Tibet, choosing a reliable local Tibet travel agency with one-stop tour services from Xi'an to Lhasa saves you tons of hassle.
As the largest local Travel travel agency since 1984, we have received 6,515 bookings worldwide in 2024, with many choosing to travel from Xi'an to Tibet. We can help you handle all travel permits, secure flights, trains, and hotels, and arrange expert local guides, transfers and much more. So, you can focus on exploring modern Chinese cities and holy Tibet.
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Fully Upgraded Small Group Tours in 2024
As the first and largest local Tibetan tour operator running join-in small group travel itineraries, this year, we have upgraded small group Tibet Tours with fixed departures for all travelers to travel from Xi'an to Tibet including extended tours to Nepal and Bhutan. You can choose small tour costs with other like-minded travelers or easily customize your Xi'an Tibet tour to your interests and preferences.
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Secure Tibet Travel Permit and One-stop Tour Arrangement
We can help you apply for a Tibet Travel Permit for free and deliver it to you in Xi'an by SF Express or in person and arrange other travel documents, secure train or flight bookings, and local pick-up and transfer, saving you time and effort.
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Local Travel Experts and Local Drivers for Authentic Travel Experience
From your first contact online, an expert travel consultant will offer you personal and prompt travel solutions. Throughout your journey, you will be traveling with our local guide with 20+ years of experience and a seasoned local driver to provide you with in-depth local knowledge and ensure your travel safety.
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Dual Travel Service Managers to Ensure Your Smooth Travel
During your trip, whenever you encounter any issues or need assistance, you can reach your travel agent or email us, our online travel service manager and local travel service manager in Lhasa and the whole team behind will resolve any problems quickly so you can enjoy a trouble-free adventure.
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Get the Best Value of Money for Xi'an Tibet Tour
A packaged tour includes everything for less—transfers, accommodation, guide and driver services, and attraction fees. As the first Tibet operator to run Join-in Small Group tours, we offer competitive prices and guaranteed service. Unlike booking separately with different agencies, our package saves you from extra service fees, ensuring consistent, high-standard service from Xi'an to Tibet with one payment.
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We Have the Most 5-star Reviews on Tripadvisor
Seeing is believing. On TripAdvisor, our team’s ceaseless efforts and commitment to quality service have earned us the most 5-star reviews, a testament to the exceptional experiences we provide.

Xi'an to Tibet Travel FAQs & Travel Tips
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1. How Far is Xi’an from Lhasa?
Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, is located in central China. It is well-known as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road and has been the capital of several ancient Chinese dynasties for centuries.
Surrounded by the Qin Mountains to the south and the Loess Plateau to the north, Xi’an is about 2,000 kilometers northwest of Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region.
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2. How to Get to Lhasa from Xian?
Xi’an is one of the most popular gateways to Tibet from the mainland of China. From here, you can choose to take a train or flight to Lhasa as you like.
Trains from Xi’an to Lhasa typically take between 30 to 35 hours. While there are several train routes passing through Xi’an on their way to Tibet, securing a ticket can be difficult, especially during peak travel season, as Xi’an is mainly a stopover. If you’re unable to book a direct train ticket from Xi’an to Lhasa, you can take a bullet train from Xi’an to Xining and then catch a Xining to Lhasa train instead.
Though flying from Xi’an to Lhasa may not offer the same scenic experience, it is the most efficient way to travel from Xi’an to Tibet. It takes about 3.5 hours by non-stop flight to Lhasa. A non-stop flight takes around 3.5 hours, making it the quickest way to reach Tibet from Xi’an.
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3. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit when Traveling to Lhasa from Xi’an?
The Tibet Travel Permit can only be obtained through a licensed travel agency in Tibet. As the leading local tour operator, we at Tibet Vista simplify your application process with clear, easy steps.
First, you need to book a Tibet tour with us and confirm your travel itinerary, your entry city, and your travel date. Then, after you complete the payment, you need to provide scanned copies of your passport and your Chinese Visa. We will apply for the permit on your behalf, which usually takes about 8 to 9 working days.
Once approved, the Tibet Travel Permit will be sent to your hotel or your accommodation location in the mainland of China. You’ll need the Tibet Travel Permit to board the flight or train to Tibet.
Notice: If your passport allows for a 15-day or 30-day visa-free stay in China, you can simply apply for the Tibet Permit with a copy of your passport. Feel free to contact us for more details.
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4. What Are the Best Times of Year for Tibet Tours from Xian?
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best seasons to visit Xi’an and Tibet. During these months, the weather in Xi’an is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing tours. In spring, you can enjoy the blooming flowers, while in autumn, the ancient city of Xi’an looks even more majestic and beautiful.
In Tibet, April, May, September, and October are also the best months to visit Everest Base Camp, one of the most popular destinations for tourists. During these months, the climate is mild and dry, offering the clearest views of the magnificent scenery of Mount Everest and the Himalayas in Tibet.
Of course, summer and winter are also viable times to visit Xi’an and Tibet, but careful planning is necessary. Summer brings rainfall in Tibet, which may cause clouds and fog to cover the mountain peaks, while the cold winter in both Xi’an and Tibet requires a well-prepared itinerary.
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5. How to Prevent the High Altitude when Flying from Xian to Lhasa?
There is a large altitude difference as Xi’an is at 405 meters above sea level while Lhasa is at 3,650 meters. It is normal to experience altitude sickness such as headache and shortness of breath.
But don’t worry too much about this. Shortly after you arrive in Lhasa, never rush to visit the city. Having a good rest in your hotel is vital to acclimatize to the altitude on the Tibetan Plateau.
In addition, moving slowly and not doing strenuous exercise on the first few days are also important. Remember that drinking plenty of water can also relieve the discomfort caused by altitude sickness.
Generally, it takes one or two days to adapt to the high altitude in Lhasa. Keeping a good mood and not being too nervous can help you adapt better.
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6. How to Plan My Tour in Xian Before Heading to Tibet?
When you arrive in Xi’an, you will find it like a giant museum. Whether it is the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world’s eight wonders, the ancient city wall, or the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, which once housed the scriptures of the Sindhu...every brick and tile left behind by the ancients reveals the depth of history.
It is suggested to arrange one or two days in Xi’an before traveling to Tibet. You can spend one day exploring the famous Terracotta Warriors and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and another day for a city walk and visiting attractions in downtown Xi'an, like the Ancient City Wall and the Muslim Quarter.
Moreover, you can enjoy a unique northwestern flavor of Chinese food in Xi’an. The most representative food in Xi’an is the yummy Ruojiamo (Chinese burger), cruded pancake in mutton soup, minced noodles, etc.
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Let’s Plan Your Tibet Tours from Xi'an!

If you are planning to enjoy a Tibet tour from Xian, yet have no ideas of how to sort out the details, no worries! We would like to hear your tour plan and offer free professional consultancy and viable solutions. Please feel free to contact us.
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