Flights from Singapore to Xining: How to Get to Xining from Singapore by Flight
While there are no direct flights between Singapore and Xining, flying via connecting routes is still the most convenient option for travelers. Plenty of flights through major Chinese cities allow you to reach Xining with just one stopover and minimal waiting time.
The most popular transit cities are Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Among them, Shanghai offers the most daily flights, followed by Beijing, while Guangzhou and Chengdu are excellent options for travelers from Southeast Asia.
In this guide, we explore how to get to Xining from Singapore by flights via these transit cities, including details on flight routes, durations, and estimated costs. With practical tips and FAQs, you’ll have everything you need to plan your journey from Singapore to Xining with ease.
Quick Facts About Flights from Singapore to Xining
- Flight: There are currently no direct flights between Singapore and Xining.
- Airlines: Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airline, Singapore Airlines
- Best Transit Cities: Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Chengdu.
- Flight Duration: 10 to 24 hours, depending on the route and layover.
- Flight Cost: $200 to $750, depending on airline and season.
Are There Direct Flights from Singapore to Xining?
What is the Most Popular Option from Singapore to Xining?
What Are the Options from Singapore to Xining via Beijing?
Is Flying from Singapore to Xining via Guangzhou Convenient for Travelers?
Can I Book a Flight from Singapore to Xining with a Layover in Chengdu?
Essential Travel Tips for Flying to Xining from Singapore
Are There Direct Flights from Singapore to Xining?
Currently, there are no direct flights from Singapore to Xining. You first need to fly to a major Chinese gateway city such as Beijing, and then take a connecting flight to Xining. Flights from Singapore to major Chinese cities usually take around 5 to 6 hours, while domestic flights from these cities to Xining take another 2 to 3 hours.
Fortunately, with multiple connecting flights available, flying remains the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Singapore to Xining. In total, there are around 25 connecting flights daily through cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. You can choose your preferred airline and transit city based on schedules, layover times, and prices.
The major airlines operating flights on this route include Singapore Airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines.
-Click here to see the top things to do in Xining
Air China mainly offers connections via Beijing, while China Eastern Airlines primarily operates through Shanghai. China Southern Airlines usually provides connections through Guangzhou or Shenzhen. Singapore Airlines also offers direct flights to all four cities.
Smart Booking Tip
To avoid travel disruptions, it is highly recommended to book your entire journey on a single multi-city ticket through the same airline or alliance (e.g., all China Eastern or an Air China). This ensures that if your first flight from Singapore is delayed, the airline is obligated to rebook your domestic connection to Xining for free.
Fly to a major Chinese gateway city from Singapore and then take a connecting flight to Xining.What is the Most Popular Option from Singapore to Xining?
The most popular option is flying via Shanghai. With around 20 direct flights between Singapore and Shanghai, Shanghai is the most popular transit city for your journey from Singapore to Xining.
The entire journey can be divided into two parts: the first part is flying from Singapore to Shanghai which takes around 5.5 hours, and the second part is flying from Shanghai to Xining, which takes around 3.5 hours.
For the first section, there are around 6 daily flights between Singapore and Shanghai operated by China Eastern Airlines, with flight durations ranging from 5 hours to 5.5 hours. Ticket prices range from USD 300 to USD 650, depending on the class you choose and the time you book.
Singapore to Shanghai Flights by China Eastern Airlines
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| MU546 | 10:10 | 15:35 | 5 hrs 25 min | Around 600$ |
| MU3982 | 16:10 | 21:30 | 5 hrs 20 min | Around 650$ |
| MU6050 | 18:25 | 00:50 | 5 hrs 55 min | Around 300$ |
| MU568 | 16:55 | 22:15 | 5 hrs 20 min | Around 450$ |
| MU566 | 23:10 | 04:40 | 5 hrs 30 min | Around 300$ |
| MU544 | 00:55 | 06:20 | 5 hrs 25 min | Around 400$ |
Singapore Airlines also operates five flights daily between Singapore and Shanghai, with flight durations ranging from 5 hours 20 minutes to 5 hours 40 minutes. Ticket prices usually range from USD 400 to USD 800, depending on the class and booking time.
Singapore to Shanghai Flights by Singapore Airlines
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| SQ826 | 01:15 | 06:35 | 5 hrs 20 min | Around 400$ |
| SQ836 | 17:10 | 22:45 | 5 hrs 35 min | Around 400$ |
| SQ832 | 12:35 | 18:05 | 5 hrs 30 min | Around 500$ |
| SQ828 | 07:45 | 13:25 | 5 hrs 40 min | Around 500$ |
| SQ830 | 09:30 | 15:05 | 5 hrs 35 min | Around 900$ |
After arriving in Shanghai, you can take a direct flight from Shanghai to Xining. There are around 5 direct flights from Shanghai to Xining every day. The flight duration is around 3.5 hours, and ticket prices range from USD 150 to USD 300.
-Click here to see the details of Shanghai Xining Tibet tour
Flights from Shanghai to Xining
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| HO2245 | 07:35 | 10:55 | 3 hrs 20 min | Around 150$ |
| 9C6833 | 16:40 | 20:10 | 3 hrs 30 min | Around 160$ |
| CA8563 | 09:00 | 12:30 | 3 hrs 30 min | Around 200$ |
| MU6427 | 19:50 | 23:20 | 3 hrs 30 min | Around 210$ |
| MU6411 | 15:05 | 18:40 | 3 hrs 35 min | Around 220$ |
Important Notes: There are two airports in Shanghai: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, which are around 55 kilometers apart.
When you fly from Singapore to Shanghai, you will arrive at Shanghai Pudong Airport. However, flights from Shanghai to Xining may depart from either Pudong Airport or Hongqiao Airport, so please carefully verify your departure airport.
Travelers can transfer between Hongqiao Airport and Pudong Airport in several ways, including the Airport Link Line train, Airport Bus Line 1, Metro Line 2, and taxi services.
Among these options, the Airport Link Line train is considered the most convenient choice for traveling from Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 to Pudong Airport. The trip takes about 40 minutes, with a one-way ticket costing around RMB 26 per person.
Flying via Shanghai is the most popular option from Singapore to Xining.Join our 11 days Shanghai Xining Tibet train tour to discover the essence of Qinghai-Tibet plateau.
What Are the Options from Singapore to Xining via Beijing?
As Chinese capital, with around 9 direct flight between Singapore to Xining, Beijing is the second popular transit city for flying from Singapore to Xining.
Similarly, the entire trip is divided into 2 parts, fly from Singapore to Beijing which takes around 6 hours and then fly from Beijing to Xining, which takes around 2.5 hours.
For the first section, there are around 5 daily flights between Singapore and Beijing operated by China Airlines, with flight durations ranging from 6 hours to 6.5 hours. Ticket prices range from USD 350 to USD 820, depending on the class you choose and the time you book.
Singapore to Beijing Flights by China Airlines
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| CA890 | 17:55 | 00:20 | 6 hrs 25 min | Around 350$ |
| CA970 | 23:25 | 06:00 | 6 hrs 35 min | Around 350$ |
| CA976 | 09:00 | 15:15 | 6 hrs 15 min | Around 500$ |
| CA5286 | 01:10 | 07:15 | 6 hrs 5 min | Around 450$ |
| CA5282 | 23:10 | 04:40 | 5 hrs 30 min | Around 820$ |
Singapore Airlines also operates 4 flights daily between Singapore and Beijing, with flight durations ranging from 6 hours 5 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes. Ticket prices usually range from USD 400 to USD 1200, depending on the class and booking time.
Singapore to Beijing Flights by Singapore Airlines
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| SQ810 | 00:30 | 06:35 | 6 hrs 5 min | Around 400$ |
| SQ800 | 01:10 | 07:15 | 6 hrs 5 min | Around 400$ |
| SQ806 | 16:40 | 23:00 | 6 hrs 20 min | Around 400$ |
| SQ802 | 08:30 | 14:40 | 6 hrs 10 min | Around 1200$ |
Once you are in Beijing, you can take a direct flight from Beijing to Xining. There are around 15 direct flights from Beijing to Xining every day. The flight duration is around 3.5 hours, and ticket prices range from USD 110 to USD 250.
-Click here to the details of Beijing Xining Tibet tour
Major Flights from Beijing to Xining
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| MU2444 | 19:10 | 21:40 | 2 hrs 30 min | Around 100$ |
| MU6208 | 22:45 | 00:55 | 2 hrs 10 min | Around 110$ |
| MU2428 | 12:00 | 14:25 | 2 hrs 25 min | Around 110$ |
| CA1267 | 06:30 | 08:50 | 2 hrs 20 min | Around 120$ |
| MU8087 | 16:20 | 18:55 | 2 hrs 35 min | Around 130$ |
| CA1203 | 12:25 | 14:45 | 2 hrs 20 min | Around 130$ |
| CA1261 | 16:45 | 19:10 | 2 hrs 25 min | Around 130$ |
Important Notes: There are two airports in Beijing: Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, which are around 80 kilometers apart.
When flying from Singapore to Beijing, you may arrive at either airport. Likewise, flights from Beijing to Xining may depart from either Daxing International Airport or Capital International Airport, so please carefully verify your departure airport before your journey.
Depending on traffic conditions, it takes about 90 minutes by car or airport taxi to travel from Beijing Daxing International Airport to Beijing Capital International Airport, with taxi fares costing around RMB 250.
In addition, the Daxing Airport shuttle bus can also take you from the new airport to Capital Airport in about 90 minutes at a much lower cost. A one-way bus ticket costs only RMB 40. You can also take the airport subway. However, since you need to transfer between three different subway lines, the total travel time is around 110 minutes, with a total cost of RMB 65.
Beijing is the second popular transit city for flying from Singapore to Xining.Join our 13 days Beijing Xining Tibet train tour to discover the essence of Qinghai-Tibet plateau and explore Everest Base Camp.
Is Flying from Singapore to Xining via Guangzhou Convenient for Travelers?
Yes, Guangzhou is definitely a convenient option for travelers flying from Singapore to Xining, as a major gateway city in southern China. Compared with flying via Shanghai or Beijing, the first part of the journey - from Singapore to Guangzhou - is shorter, taking only around 4 hours.
For the Singapore to Guangzhou section, there are around 6 daily direct flights operated by China Southern Airlines and Singapore Airlines, with flight durations ranging from 4 to 4.5 hours. Ticket prices usually range from USD 300 to USD 700, depending on the class you choose.
Singapore to Guangzhou Flights by Singapore Airlines and China Southern Airlines
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| CZ3040 | 17:50 | 22:10 | 4 hrs 20 min | Around 280$ |
| CZ354 | 13:45 | 17:50 | 4 hrs 5 min | Around 310$ |
| CZ8490 | 03:55 | 08:15 | 4 hrs 20 min | Around 300$ |
| CZ352 | 08:00 | 12:20 | 4 hrs 20 min | Around 700$ |
| SQ852 | 19:50 | 00:15 | 4 hrs 25 min | Around 450$ |
| SQ850 | 08:00 | 12:10 | 4 hrs 10 min | Around 750$ |
Once you arrive in Guangzhou, you can take a direct flight to Xining. There are around 4 direct flights from Guangzhou to Xining every day. The flight duration is around 3.5 hours, and ticket prices generally range from USD 200 to USD 300.
-Click here to see the details of Guangzhou Xining Tibet train tour
Flights from Guangzhou to Xining
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| CZ6393 | 19:10 | 21:40 | 2 hrs 30 min | Around 100$ |
| CZ3249 | 22:45 | 00:55 | 2 hrs 10 min | Around 110$ |
| CZ2133 | 12:00 | 14:25 | 2 hrs 25 min | Around 110$ |
| 3U1101 | 06:30 | 08:50 | 2 hrs 20 min | Around 120$ |
Guangzhou is definitely a convenient option for travelers flying from Singapore to Xining.Join our 10 days Guangzhou Xining Lhasa Everest base camp tour with scenic Tibet train.
Can I Book a Flight from Singapore to Xining with a Layover in Chengdu?
Yes, flying from Singapore to Xining with a layover in Chengdu is also a good choice. The journey has two sections: first, you fly from Singapore to Chengdu, which takes around 4 to 5 hours, and then you fly from Chengdu to Xining, which takes around 2 hours. Among all the transit options, flying via Chengdu offers one of the shortest total flight times.
There are 3 daily direct flights between Singapore and Chengdu operated by Air China, Sichuan Airlines, and Singapore Airlines, with flight durations of around 5 hours. Ticket prices usually range from USD 250 to USD 300, depending on the class you choose and the time you book.
Singapore to Chengdu Flights
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| 3U3910 | 17:00 | 21:40 | 4 hrs 40 min | Around 200$ |
| CA404 | 16:00 | 20:50 | 4 hrs 50 min | Around 200$ |
| SQ842 | 12:25 | 17:10 | 4 hrs 45 min | Around 300$ |
Although there are only 3 direct flights between Singapore and Chengdu, there are more than 20 daily flights from Chengdu to Xining, which is more than from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou to Xining. The flight duration is only around 2 hours, and ticket prices range from USD 80 to USD 150, making Chengdu one of the cheapest transit cities for traveling to Xining.
-Click here to see comparison between Chengdu and Xining
Major Flights from Chengdu to Xining
| Flight Number | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price |
| 3U6343 | 13:50 | 15:50 | 2 hrs | Around 110$ |
| CA4421 | 20:15 | 21:45 | 1 hrs 30 min | Around 150$ |
| MU4337 | 17:25 | 19:10 | 1 hrs 45 min | Around 110$ |
| CA3945 | 09:15 | 10:50 | 1 hrs 30 min | Around 100$ |
| CA5571 | 06:50 | 08:50 | 2 hrs | Around 100$ |
| CA2599 | 18:25 | 19:55 | 1 hrs 30 min | Around 100$ |
| 3U5363 | 09:35 | 11:10 | 1 hrs 45 min | Around 100$ |
| CA2593 | 07:25 | 09:10 | 1 hrs 45 min | Around 100$ |
Flying from Singapore to Xining with a layover in Chengdu and can also visit the Giant Panda Base on the way.Essential Travel Tips for Flying to Xining from Singapore
Flying from Singapore to Xining is quite convenient with multiple daily connecting flights via major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. To make your journey smoother and more comfortable, here are some useful travel tips before booking your flight.
1. Choose the Right Transit City Based on Your Travel Style
Since there are no direct flights, choosing the right stopover city is important. Shanghai and Beijing offers the most flight options and smoother international connections. Chengdu usually provides the shortest total flying time, while Guangzhou often has more budget-friendly tickets.
2. Leave Enough Time for Your Layover and Check the Airport Carefully
It is recommended to leave enough time between connecting flights, especially if you need to change terminals and airports. Large cities like Beijing and Shanghai have two major airports, so please double-check your departure and arrival airports carefully to avoid missing your flight.
3. Prepare for Xining’s High Altitude and Dry Climate
Xining sits at around 2,200 meters above sea level at the east of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau, much higher than Singapore. Although most travelers adapt easily, some may feel mild altitude discomfort such as shortness of breath or headaches after arrival.
4. Book Flights Early During Peak Travel Season
If you plan to travel from Singapore to Xining during the summer holidays, especially in July and August, it is best to book your flight early. This is the peak tourism season in China, and flight prices between major transit cities and Xining can rise quickly during this period. Booking early can help you secure better fares and more flight options.
5. Continue Your Journey with a Tibet Train Tour from Xining to Lhasa
As the starting point of the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway, Xining is also one of the best places to begin your Tibet tour. Many of our Singaporean guests fly to Xining first and then continue their adventure to the Roof of the World by taking the Tibet train tour from Xining to Lhasa.
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is known as the world’s highest railway and one of the most scenic train journeys on earth. The 20-hour train ride is an unforgettable experience in itself. Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau, including snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, beautiful lakes, and Tibet animals such as antelopes and yaks.
Once you arrive in Lhasa, iconic attractions like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple await you. From Lhasa, you can either enjoy an overland Mount Everest Base Camp tour or continue your adventure into remote western Tibet to tour Mount Kailash. Xining is more than just a transit city, it is the gateway to the magnificent Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
As the leading local Tibet travel agency since 1984, we are headquartered in Lhasa with branch offices in Xining. We offer a wide range of Xining-Lhasa train tours that cover the most popular destinations in these two places. With decades of experience in Tibet travel, we are dedicated to providing you with a smooth, comfortable, and authentic travel experience.
Beautiful scenery along the Qinghai Tibet Railway.FAQs About Flights from Singapore to Xining
The following frequently asked questions cover the most important information about flight duration, transit cities, airlines, visas, and travel tips to help you better prepare for your journey.
Are there direct flights from Singapore to Xining?
No, currently there are no direct flights from Singapore to Xining. Travelers need to transit through major Chinese cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, or Chengdu before flying to Xining.
How long does it take to fly from Singapore to Xining?
The total travel time usually ranges from 9 to 15 hours depending on the transit city and layover duration. Flights via Chengdu are often the fastest, while routes via Beijing or Shanghai may take longer due to larger airports and longer connections.
What is the cheapest way to fly from Singapore to Xining?
Flights via Guangzhou and Chengdu are often more budget-friendly compared to routes via Shanghai or Beijing. Booking your tickets several months in advance and avoiding peak travel seasons can also help you get cheaper airfare.
Which airlines operate flights from Singapore to Xining?
The major airlines for Singapore to Xining flights include Singapore Airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines. Most flights require one stop in mainland China.
Which transit city is the most convenient for flying from Singapore to Xining?
Shanghai is one of the most popular and convenient transit cities because it offers many daily international and domestic connections. Chengdu is another excellent choice for travelers who prefer shorter total flying time.
Do Singaporeans need a visa to visit Xining?
Now, with the new visa-free policy between Singapore and China, Singapore passport holders do not need a Chinese visa to visit Xining and other cities in mainland China for stays of less than 30 days. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a Chinese visa.
What is the best season to fly from Singapore to Xining?
The best time to visit Xining is from April to October when the weather is milder and transportation conditions are better. Summer is especially popular because it is cooler than many other Chinese cities and ideal for Tibet train journeys.
Conclusion
Although there are currently no direct flights from Singapore to Xining, traveling between the two cities is still convenient with multiple daily connecting flights via Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
Major airlines operating flights from Singapore to Xining include Singapore Airlines, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines, making the journey flexible and accessible throughout the year.
For travelers looking for the smoothest connections and the largest number of flight options, Shanghai and Beijing are often the most popular transit cities. Chengdu and Guangzhou are also favored by many travelers because they usually offer shorter total flying times and more affordable airfare options.
We hope this guide helps you better plan your Singapore to Xining flight journey. If you have any more questions about flying from Singapore to Xining, feel free to contact us!
Search








