How to Travel from Shanghai to Tibet: by Train or Flight

Shanghai is a natural starting point for a tour of Tibet in China. Every day, flights arrive to Shanghai from countries all over the world. Once there, you’re linked into China’s modern transportation network with options on how to transfer to Lhasa. Find out how to plan your trip with our guide on traveling from Shanghai to Tibet.

How Far is Shanghai from Tibet?

Shanghai and Tibet are at opposite ends of the country. Shanghai, the ultramodern metropolis on the coast of the East China Sea, is a gateway for tourism into China. The city is a major transportation hub in Asia and a center for culture and finance. It’s separated from Tibet by the whole width of the country. A distance including five or six provinces, depending on the route.

In a straight line, almost directly to the west, Lhasa is 2,978 km away. The capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region is one of the highest-elevation cities in the world at 3,656 m. Tibet is remote, the far western province of China shares a border with India, Nepal, Myanmar, and Bhutan. In addition to flights, rail and road routes link Tibet to the rest of China. The scenic train route spans 4,373 km across the country and includes the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway. China National Highway 318 is the main route for reaching Tibet overland. It starts in downtown Shanghai, reaches Lhasa after 4,670 km, and continues on to the border crossing with Nepal.

Lhasa is nearly 3000 km away from Shanghai in a straight line.

Traveling to Tibet from Shanghai by Train: The Scenic Route

Train travel across China, from Shanghai to Tibet, is a leisurely way to witness the changing scenery as you ascend from the coastal area of Shanghai to the ‘roof of the world’ on the Tibetan plateau. More than just a mode of transportation, the train journey is an experience in itself. Tickets for the 4,373 km trip are highly sought after, particularly the last segment from Xining to Lhasa.

From Shanghai, the train takes 44 hours and 32 minutes to arrive in Lhasa. Trains offer hard and soft sleeper berths, as well as a dining car, and facilities for hot water. We highly recommend choosing a soft sleeper for your Shanghai to Lhasa train journey. The added privacy and comfort will help you arrive well-rested and ready to explore Tibet after almost two days on the train.

Traveling to Lhasa from Shanghai by train follows a scenic route.

Shanghai to Lhasa Train Schedule

After seeing the scenery of the countryside across China, the final 20 hour stretch is on the highest railway in the world. The Qnghai-Tibet Railway runs from Xining to Lhasa and gives you a view of some of the most unique landscapes on earth. It’s the highlight of the train route to Tibet, traveling across vast grasslands with snow-capped mountains ever present along the horizon.

Traveling to Tibet from Shanghai by Flight: The Fastest Option

Flying from Shanghai to Lhasa will get you there the fastest. Cutting down on travel time is perfect for anyone on a tight schedule who wants to maximize the time spent exploring Tibet. Direct flights from Shanghai are available on China Eastern Airlines. The flight departs from Pudong International Airport and takes 4 hours and 20 minutes. Ticket prices vary by season but start from around 158 USD.

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a connecting flight to Tibet can save some money at the cost of a few extra hours of layover time. Daily flights connecting through cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, and Kunming are available. One of the cheapest fares can be found by connecting through Kunming. With a 5h and 35m layover, tickets to Lhasa can be found for as low as 123 USD. Even with the stopover, the roughly 10 hour trip is much faster than going by train.

Planes on Lhasa Konggar Airport

Shanghai to Lhasa Flight Schedule

Flying to Lhasa from Shanghai involves a rapid ascent in elevation from close to sea level to 3,656 meters. It is very important to give your body time to adapt to the altitude after arriving in Lhasa. Spend at least 2-3 days in the city before venturing out to higher regions. With all of the iconic sites there, like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery, it will be time well spent.

Traveling to Tibet from Shanghai by Train and Flight: Transfer via Xining

A recommended option to get the best of both worlds is flying from Shanghai to Xining and taking the train from there. The flight to Xining is under four hours and takes you to the start of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Shanghai Airlines, Air China, China Eastern, and Juneyao Airlines fly daily between the two cities with tickets starting from 91 USD.

All the trains to Tibet pass through Xining, so there are many options to choose from. The 1,956 km route from Xining to Lhasa takes between 19.5 and 22 hours. Along the way, you can see sights like Qinghai Lake, the Kunlun Mountains, Tangula Pass, and the Grasslands of Nagqu.

Scenery along Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

The Xining to Tibet train has a dispersed oxygen system that activates after passing through Golmud. Increased oxygen is used to help passengers avoid altitude sickness. Each train cabin is also equipped with individual oxygen stations for any passengers experiencing distress. Spending time in Lhasa after arrival is still recommended to ensure you acclimatize safely.

Insider Tips for Traveling to Tibet from Shanghai

1. All international travelers to Tibet need a Tibet Travel Permit. We will apply for it on your behalf after you receive your Chinese Tourist Visa. It is best to apply for the visa a month in advance to ensure there is enough time for the TPP.

2. Flights, train tickets, tours, and hotels fill up quickly, particularly in peak seasons. Book your trip well ahead of time to ensure you can get the arrangement you want.

3. If train tickets to Tibet are not available, return tickets are often easier to book. The return journey has all the same sights, just in the opposite order.

4. Pack for the climate. Evenings can be cool to cold, even in summer. It’s best to dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. Pack a thermal base, warm pants and shirt, jacket, and wind and rainproof outer shell.

5. Bring your own toiletries for the train. A small towel, wet wipes, and comfortable sleeping clothes will help keep you comfortable and refreshed.

6. Consider spending a few days touring Shanghai before going to Tibet. You can visit sites like Yu Garden and the French Concession and see a panorama of the sprawling city from Shanghai Tower.

Conclusion

Choose between fast or scenic routes or a mix of the two, traveling from Shanghai to Tibet. With direct flights and trains and easy access to the start of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, you can personalize your Tibet tour. It’s an easy place for travelers to visit, and combined with one of our Tibet tours, you’ll be surprised just how easy it is to travel to one of the most remote regions of the world.