
Chengdu to Tibet Train Tickets: Booking Hacks for Foreigners
First things first, the most legit and reliable way to book your train ticket is through the China Railway Customer Service Center website, namely the 12306 platform, and its mobile app. No doubt, this is where you'll get your ticket info straight from the source. You can register using your passport and link it to an international phone number or email for verification. It's super easy! Just follow the steps, and you'll be all set to embark on your Tibetan adventure.
Train Schedule and Ticket Prices
The Z322 train runs from Chengdu to Lhasa every two days. It departs from Chengdu West Station at 21:10 sharp and arrives in Lhasa at 07:41, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 kilometers in 34 hours and 31 minutes. The ticket prices for this route remain relatively stable throughout the year. A hard seat costs 302.5 yuan, a hard sleeper is 627.5 yuan, and a soft sleeper is 997.5 yuan. If you're looking for the best value for money, the hard sleeper is a great choice. It offers a relatively comfortable rest environment. The soft sleeper, on the other hand, is the most comfortable option, perfect for those who prefer a more luxurious journey. However, the hard seat is not highly recommended. Since traveling to Tibet, it's crucial to get enough rest to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Booking
Preparation is key! Make sure to complete the identity verification process on 12306 in advance. Ensure your account details are accurate and that you've passed real-name authentication. Train tickets go on sale 15 days before the departure date, and for Chengdu West Station, they usually become available at 14:30 Beijing Time. Set an alarm or mark it on your calendar—you don't want to miss this golden opportunity! If you can't get a ticket right away, don't panic. Use the "wait-list" function. Here's how it works: submit your request with your preferred details and pay a deposit. If there are cancellations, the system will automatically assign you a ticket, but there's no 100% guarantee.
If direct tickets are sold out, consider transfer routes, as the Z322 train passes through Guangyuan, Lanzhou, Xining, Delingha, and Golmud.
Option 1: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu East to Xining and then catch a train to Lhasa (around 30 hours). Xining has multiple daily trains to Lhasa.
Option 2: Go from Chengdu West to Guangyuan by train and then continue to Lhasa (about 35 hours). Save money by choosing a hard seat for the 5-hour Chengdu-Guangyuan leg.
Option 3: Transfer in Lanzhou, following the same cost-saving logic.
Option 4: If available, take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing and then a train to Lhasa (37 hours).
Conclusion
With early planning, an open mind to transfers, and multiple wait-list requests, you stand a great chance of snagging a ticket. Just a heads-up: July and August are peak tourist months in Tibet, so booking might be a bit tougher. Start planning now and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!
34 Comment ON "Chengdu to Tibet Train Tickets: Booking Hacks for Foreigners"
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.