How to Book Tibet Train Tickets in Advance?
Train tickets across China go on sale 15 days before the departure date, but the exact release time varies by train station. You can check this easily: log into the 12306 website, select your intended travel date, departure city, and destination, and the system will show you the specific time tickets become available. The same works on the 12306 mobile app—simple and straightforward! There are two types of Tibet train tickets: those heading into Tibet and those leaving. Tickets into Tibet are almost always harder to get, no matter the season. That's why booking early is a must—popular routes fill up fast, and you don't want to miss out on your chance to explore this stunning region.
Tibet gets extra busy during peak travel months, especially July and August, as well as Chinese public holidays. Weekends and the days just before or after holidays are total chaos for ticket hunters. For example, around China's National Day in early October, tickets for September 30, October 1, 7, and 8 are like gold dust. If you can be flexible with your dates, try avoiding these periods or traveling mid-holiday instead—you'll skip the worst of the rush. Trust us, avoiding these super-busy times can save you a lot of stress!
Since there aren't that many trains heading to Tibet, popular routes get snapped up quickly. Don't limit yourself to just one train or seat type. If your first choice is sold out, check for connecting trains—sometimes taking two shorter trips gets you there just as well. Seats also matter: hard seats are easier to find but less comfy, while soft sleepers are luxurious but tough to book. Mixing them up (like a hard seat for part of the journey and a sleeper for the rest) can work wonders. And if you strike out at first, use the 12306 waitlist feature! Pick your train, click “waitlist,” choose your seat type, and the system will automatically book tickets for you if they become available. Adding multiple trains and dates to your waitlist boosts your chances—more options mean more luck!
Conclusion
Booking Tibet train tickets in advance takes a bit of planning, but it's totally doable with these tips. If you'd rather skip the hassle, our travel agency is here to help. Just share your travel dates, seat preferences, and passport details, and our team will handle the rest. For peak seasons, reach out a month early, and we'll also sort out your Tibet Travel Permit. Happy travels!
Related Articles & Posts
34 Comment ON "How to Book Tibet Train Tickets in Advance?"
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash
Asked by Nyen** from India
Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit
Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit, we are three people and 2 adults and 1 infant 2 Indian Passport and 1 Nepal passport. we have applied for a China visa also.