How to Choose Your Route to Tibet from Chengdu: Train vs. Plane vs. Car

Practically speaking, Chengdu is Tibet's most connected gateway, with the most frequent flights, a direct train line, and the start of one of the world's most epic roads. Your journey truly begins the moment you land in Chengdu.

By Plane: The Quickest Way to Reach Lhasa

Flying from Chengdu to Lhasa is the best choice if you're short on time and want a hassle-free journey. The non-stop flight covers around 1,300 kilometers in just 2 or 3 hours, getting you from Chengdu's low altitude (around 500 meters) straight to Lhasa (3,650 meters) in no time. There are over 50 direct flights between Chengdu and Lhasa every day, operating from early morning to midnight during peak season, so you'll have plenty of options to fit your schedule. These flights depart from either Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport or Chengdu Tianfu International Airport—Shuangliu is closer to downtown, roughly 18 kilometers away, while Tianfu is a newer airport about 63 kilometers from the city center.

By Train: A Scenic Journey on the World's Highest Railway

For travelers who want to savor the gradual transition from Sichuan's landscapes to the Tibetan Plateau, taking the train from Chengdu to Lhasa is an unforgettable experience. The Chengdu to Lhasa train (Z322) departs every other day from Chengdu West Railway Station at 21:10 and arrives in Lhasa at 07:41 the next day after, covering 3,070 kilometers in 34.5 hours. From Golmud to Lhasa, you'll be treated to some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth: the serene blue waters of Qinghai Lake, the snow-capped peak of Mount Yuzhu (6,178 meters), the vast wilderness of Kekexili Nature Reserve—home to wild yaks and Tibetan antelopes—and the endless grasslands of Qiangtang. This slow travel experience not only lets you enjoy the views but also helps your body adjust to the increasing altitude gradually, though the train's airtight cabins mean acclimatization is still a process once you arrive in Lhasa. Booking train tickets can be challenging, especially from mid-April to mid-October during peak travel season, as demand is extremely high. If you're struggling to secure a ticket on your own, our agency can assist you with bookings as part of our Chengdu to Tibet tour packages. Just like with flights, you'll need a Tibet Travel Permit to board the train, so make sure to apply at least 20 days in advance. Arrive at the station 45 minutes to an hour early to allow time for additional security checks, where you'll need to present your passport, train ticket, and Tibet Travel Permit.

By Car: The Ultimate Adventure on the G318 Scenic Highway

If you're an adventure seeker looking for a once-in-a-lifetime road trip, traveling from Chengdu to Lhasa by car via the G318 National Highway is the way to go. Known as "China's Most Beautiful Scenic Road," the G318 journey takes around 7 days and takes you through a stunning variety of landscapes—from the lush green valleys and bamboo forests of Sichuan to the rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and vast grasslands of the Tibetan Plateau. Along the way, you'll pass through charming Tibetan villages, visit ancient monasteries, and have the chance to interact with local Tibetan people, experiencing their unique culture and way of life. Winter is also a magical time to take this route, with fewer crowds and a higher chance of witnessing the spectacular "sunlit golden mountains" as the winter sun illuminates the snow-capped peaks.

Conclusion

No matter which transportation method you choose, there's one crucial thing to remember: international travelers cannot visit Tibet independently. You must book a guided tour with a local travel agency like ours, which will handle all the necessary documentation. The most important document is the Tibet Travel Permit, which is required to board any flight or train to Tibet, as well as to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region by road. To apply for the permit, you'll need to provide us with clear copies of your passport information page and your Chinese Visa, which you can apply for at a Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country. The permit processing takes around 8 to 9 working days, but we recommend starting the application at least 20 days in advance to avoid any delays. Once your permit is ready, we'll deliver it to your hotel in Chengdu or hand it to you in person at the airport or railway station. For overland trips, additional permits may be required for certain restricted areas, and our agency will take care of these as part of your tour package.