Lhasa Railway Station: The Gateway for All Tibet Trains to Lhasa

Lhasa Railway Station is the largest station in Tibet, and the terminus of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It is where all trains to Tibet arrive and where your adventure in Tibet truly begins. Located in the southwest of Lhasa, the station is conveniently connected to iconic sites throughout the city.

In this guide we will walk you through all the essential information about Lhasa Railway Station. Read to know its location, Tibet train routes, transfer options and more useful tips.

Where is Lhasa Railway Station?

Lhasa Railway Station sits at an elevation of 3,641 meters above sea level on the south bank of the Lhasa River. It’s located in the Liuwu New Area of Doilungdeqen District, about 7 km from Lhasa’s city center.

It’s connected to the downtown area by the Liuwu Bridge, giving convenient access to sites around the city. Potala Palace is 9 km away, Barkhor Street and Jokhang Temple are 9.5 km away, and Lhasa Gonggar Airport is 51 km to the south.

The station is served by several bus lines and can be conveniently reached by taxi. Its central location is well known by all drivers.

Facade of Lhasa Railway Station

Facilities of Lhasa Railway Station

The three-floor station building covers an area of 23,600 square meters with modern facilities for travelers. Its ten tracks serve both passenger and cargo trains for the Qinghai-Tiber Railway as well as the Lhasa-Shigatse and Lhasa-Nyingchi lines.

The central hall of the first floor is decorated with a Tibetan flair. Travelers can find departure information, the ticket hall, and a large soft-seat waiting room. Additional waiting rooms are on the second floor where you can also find a shopping mall with restaurants, cafes, and small shops.

The ticket entrance is on the southwest of the second floor. Ticket gates open shortly before departure. After passing through, you can proceed to the boarding platform and get on your train.

VIP waiting rooms decorated in Tibetan style of Lhasa Railway Station

All Tibet Trains Arriving at Lhasa Railway Station

Lhasa Railway Station receives trains from several major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Xian, Xining etc. The scheduled arrival time of Tibet trains ranges from morning to late afternoon. It is advised to take a good rest in your hotel on the first day upon your arrival in Lhasa, to accommodate yourself to the high altitude and get well-prepared for your following adventure in Tibet.

How to Get to Downtown Lhasa from Lhasa Railway Station?

By Public Bus

Bus lines No.1, No.13, and No.14 depart from Lhasa Railway Station to various destinations in downtown Lhasa. Tickets cost only 1-2 yuan, making it the cheapest option. It usually takes 35-55 minutes to arrive, depending on the traffic conditions.

The bus stops are conveniently located on the east side of the station and are easy to spot from the exit.

By Taxi

Taxis are readily available on the main road in front of the station. A taxi ride to downtown Lhasa takes about 25 minutes and costs approximately 30-50 yuan, depending on your exact destination and traffic.

Use Our Free Private Transfer

Once you book your Tibet tour from us, we will provide free shuttle service for the transfer between the station to downtown. Upon your arrival at Lhasa Railway Station, one of our Tibetan local tour guide will meet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel in Lhasa with a private car. Then your lifetime Tibet tour will start right from here.

One can take either bus or taxi to Lhasa downtown from the station along the smooth highway.

How to Get to the Potala Palace from Lhasa Railway Station?

The easiest way to reach Potala Palace from Lhasa Railway Station is to take a taxi. It is around 9 km away, and the drive takes around 25-30 minutes. A taxi costs 30-40 yuan.

You can also take the Bus No.1, No. 13 or No.14 to get to Potala Palace from the train station. It takes around 50 minutes cross 8 kilometers. The best route with easy walking distance is the Bus No. 1 line, which stops at Lhasa Department Store, just 180 m to the southeast of the Potala Palace.

However, for foreign tourists visiting Tibet, you are required to join in an organized tour while visiting Potala Palace or other famous sites in Lhasa. As the leading Tibet tourism operator, we provide well-designed Lhasa tours for you to explore the essence of both Lhasa city and its surrounding areas. Accompanied by our professional and thoughtful local guide, you will enjoy your Lhasa city sightseeing in a more pleasant way.

One thing to be noted for everyone is to avoid high altitude sickness while travelling to Tibet. And the best precaution is to stay in Lhasa city for one or two days, before ascending to other areas with higher elevation. Taking this point into consideration, all our itineraries are in reasonable arrangement, ensuring tourists a smooth and comfortable journey in Tibet.

You can join our well-designed Lhasa tour to explore the Potala Palace.

More Tips for Train Travel to and from Lhasa

1. Book your train tickets as early as possible. Tickets sell out quickly for the Tibet train, particularly during peak seasons.

2. If you have trouble finding a ticket from Xining to Lhasa, consider flying to Lhasa and taking the train on the journey out. Traveling from Lhasa to Xining goes along the same route, and return tickets are often easier to book.

3. We recommend booking soft sleeper tickets. The added comfort and privacy will help you arrive well-rested and ready to start your tour. And if you book your Tibet train tour with us, we will guarantee a soft sleeper train ticket for you.

4. It takes time to adapt to the high elevation of Tibet. Take some time to rest after arriving, and don’t rush to start your tour.

5. If you experience any discomfort or symptoms of altitude sickness on the train, ask for help from the train attendants immediately. Tibet Train attendants are trained to offer medical assistance, and trains are equipped with oxygen systems for passenger comfort.

6. Our tour guide will be waiting for you in the arrival hall. Expect a warm welcome and for assistance with your luggage.

Conclusion

Taking the train to Tibet is an unforgettable experience, seeing the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. As you approach Lhasa, the city’s iconic sites will come into view, and you will exit Lhasa Railway Station into a land of wonders. The station’s modern facilities and central location are the perfect arrival point for a Tibet tour.

Our guide will meet you at the station and escort you to the hotel while introducing you to the sights of the city. If you have any questions or would like to book your tour, feel free to contact us today!