Lhasa to Shigatse Train

Lhasa-Shigatse Railway is an extension of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, connecting local people and tourists between Lhasa and Shigatse. It runs east-west, starting from Lhasa Railway Station in the east and ending at Shigatse Railway Station. 4 trains depart from Lhasa to Shigatse, namely, C4391, C887, C4393, and C883. It is really a great option for tourists to travel from Lhasa to Shigatse since it only takes about 2-3 hours. The only bad part is that you can't stop by when you want to appreciate the overwhelming scenery along the road.

Basic Facts about Lhasa to Shigatse Train

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Open Date: 2014
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Route: C4391, C887, C4393, and C883
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Type: C-series
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Departure Station & Time: Lhasa Railway Station (08:55 / 13:00 / 15:05 / 16:30)
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Arrival Station & Time: Shigatse Railway Station (11:35 / 15:20 / 18:07 / 19:02)
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Distance: 248 kilometers (154miles)
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Duration: 2hrs 40mins for C4391 / 2hrs 20mins for C887 / 3hrs 2mins for C4393 / 2hrs 32mins for C883
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Frequency: Daily
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Ticket Class & Cost: Business Class ($31), First Class ($14), Second Class ($9)
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Avg. Speed: About 106km/h
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Stops: Lhasa, Shigatse
Lhasa to Shigatse Train Highlights: Brahmaputra River, Tibetan Villages

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Route Map

The Lhasa-Shigatse Railway opened for use in August 2014 with a total distance of 248 kilometers. It is faster than traveling by road as it only takes about half of the time if you choose to drive from Lhasa to Shigatse. However, tourists can also enjoy the views along the road when the train follows the Brahmaputra River and passes through the Tibetan Villages. Check out the map below to get a panoramic view of Lhasa to Shigatse railway route.

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Schedule: Station, Altitude, Time, and Distance

Currently, there are four trains running between Lhasa and Shigatse. C4391, C887, and C4393 run daily and C883 departs on Friday and Sunday in order to guarantee the needs of increasing tourists around the weekend. All of those are direct trains without stops during the journey. As with other trains running on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, these trains running between Lhasa and Shigatse are all equipped with oxygen for every tourist.

You can choose one of the four trains according to your needs. Please check the real-time train schedule below to find out the main train stations and altitude changes along the way.

Lhasa to Shigatse Train C4391

Lhasa to Shigatse Train C887

Lhasa to Shigatse Train C4393

Lhasa to Shigatse Train C883

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Ticket Class & Cost: Business Class, First Class, Second Class, and Ticket Price

The Lhasa to Shigatse train is a high-speed train and has business class, first class and second class seats, which offer different levels of comfort and amenities. We will detail the features and prices of each carriage to help you make the best choice.

A. Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet Train Business Class

Business class seats are arranged in a 2+1 pattern, with only three seats in each row, providing the most spacious and comfortable ride. The ticket price is relatively high, usually $31/¥225, making it the most expensive seat type on the train.

B. Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet Train First Class

First-class seats are arranged in a 2+2 pattern, with four seats in each row. They are more spacious than second-class seats and provide a more comfortable ride. The seats can be adjusted to an angle, making it easier for passengers to relax during the journey, and are suitable for long rides. The ticket price is $14/¥103, which is very cost-effective.

C. Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet Train Second Class

Second-class seats are arranged in a 3+2 pattern, with 5 seats in each row. This is the most common and affordable seat type. Among the seat letters, A and F are usually window seats, C and D are aisle seats, and B is the middle seat. For example, "A8" is a window seat, and "B6" is a middle seat. Although the aisle is relatively narrow, the ticket price is only $9/¥64, which is suitable for short travel and has a high cost-effectiveness.

D. Which kind of train ticket should I choose?

The train journey time from Lhasa to Shigatse is much shorter than other Tibet trains, so we recommend taking the second class seat. Of course, your personal wishes determine the final specific choice. Please check the table below for reference.

About Lhasa to Shigatse Train Ticket Price: The ticket prices above are the net price. Actually, an additional service fee is charged since the demand for Tibet train ticket far exceeds the supply. Once entrusted, we will manage to secure the ticket and ensure a seamless train journey for you.

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Ticket

Once you’ve decided to take the train to Shigatse, be sure to book Tibet train tickets as early as possible. Currently, you can book Tibet train tickets 15 days earlier before you leave for Shigatse.

A. How to book Lhasa to Shigatse train ticket?

There are three main ways to book train tickets from Lhasa to Shigatse:

Option 1: You can buy tickets on-site at major train stations in large cities.
Option 2: You can book tickets directly through the official website-12306.cn.
Option 3: You can book through Tibet Horizon in advance. In addition to booking train tickets, we also provide Shigatse Everest tour packages, including local sightseeing and Tibet Travel Permit application services. Just contact us and let us know your needs, and we will try our best to arrange everything for you.

B. Where and how to get Lhasa to Shigatse train ticket?

If you book your train ticket with us, we can deliver your Tibet train ticket to your hotel. In another case, we can also give you a booking number by which you can collect your train ticket from self-service ticket machines or by showing the staff your booking number, passport, and Tibet Travel Permit.

C. How to read Lhasa to Shigatse train ticket?

拉萨站: Lhasa Railway Station
日喀则站: Shigatse Railway Station
xx月xx日(周x): xx Month xx Date (Mon.-Sun.)
xx座xx车xx号: xx Class xx Carriage xx Seat

Lhasa to Shigatse Train Trip

If you want to know more about train travel from Lhasa to Shigatse, please continue reading, the following section will answer most of your questions.

A. How to get to Lhasa Railway Station?

It costs about ￥20-40 to take a taxi from the city center to Lhasa Railway Station, and about ￥2-3 to take a bus. Foreigners cannot travel alone in Tibet, but don't worry. If you choose Tibet Horizon, our guide and driver will accompany you to the railway station.

B. What travel documents do l need for Lhasa to Shigatse train?

A valid passport, Chinese Visa, and Tibet Travel Permit are required to board the train from Lhasa to Shigatse.

C. How to board the train from Lhasa to Shigatse?

After going through security and entering the station, find your ticket barrier. If you arrive early, you can stay at the waiting hall for check-in. After the ticket check starts, you can board the train through manned ticket gate. Find the platform of your train on the overhead screens after check in. Then, refer to the carriage number and seat number on your ticket to find your seat and you can sit comfortably to enjoy this train voyage.

Tips: Tibet Travel Permit is a prerequisite for your Tibet Train trip. The permit is needed for boarding the train. Please apply for the permit in advance. If you book with us, we can help you get your Tibet Travel Permit and make sure your travel is smooth and worry-free.

D. What to see in Lhasa to Shigatse train journey?

During the train journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, one of the most stunning sights is the Brahmaputra River, known locally as the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The train closely follows the river and offers the breathtaking views of its shimmering waters flowing through the Tibetan Plateau. The contrast between the snow-capped mountains, golden fields, and the deep blue river creates a truly unforgettable panorama.

As the train passes through small villages like Qushui, Nyimu, and Renbu, you'll see the Tibetan-style dwellings, whitewashed walls, red eaves, cattle and sheep, all seemingly telling the story of daily life and ancient traditions on the plateau. For travelers interested in nature and culture, this journey is more than just a way of transportation; it's a tranquil visual feast.

E. How about Lhasa Shigatse high-speed train facilities?

Seat Classes
Whether you're a budget-savvy explorer or a luxury-seeking traveler, the Lhasa-Shigatse bullet train caters to your travel needs and preferences with three classes of seats. The second-class seat is a desired option for those seeking an economical yet enjoyable ride. A second-class seat carriage has five chairs in a row. The five chairs are numbered A, B, C, D and F. A, B, and C are on the three-seat side with A by the window and C by the aisle. D and F are on the two-seat side with D by the aisle and F by the window. The first-class seat offers a wider seat and ample legroom, ensuring a relaxing trip. A first-class seat carriage has four chairs in a row. The four chairs are numbered A, C, D, and F. A and F are by the window and C and D are by the aisle. For the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to the luxurious business class. A business-class seat carriage has two sofa-like leather chairs in a row, with adjustable seats and top-notch amenities such as individual TV screens and power sockets, creating a personal sanctuary for relaxation and entertainment. No matter which class you choose, the Lhasa-Shigatse bullet train promises a journey filled with comfort, luxury, and unforgettable views.

Oxygen Supply System
As the train soars along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, two oxygen supply systems ensure comfort. One is a diffusing system on the top of each carriage. The other is oxygen outlets under each seat and sleeper. You can use this device to inhale oxygen to alleviate altitude sickness.

Toilets
Step aboard the Lhasa-Shigatse high-speed train, and you'll enter a world where modern convenience meets thoughtful design. Each carriage boasts Western-style restrooms at one end. Please notice that toilet paper is not provided. Across the corridor, a communal hand-washing sink provides travelers with a chance to refresh themselves.

Dining car
The dining car on the Lhasa-Shigatse high-speed train, usually in the middle of the train, is a vibrant hub where you can order a delightful array of Tibetan and Chinese dishes and beverages. You can get snacks and drinks from mobile food carts as well. In case you don’t get used to the food served on the train, you can bring some food and drinks.

F. How to get to Shigatse City from Shigatse Train Station?

Located 8 kilometers from the downtown, Shigatse Railway Station offers a convenient transfer to the city center. Upon arrival, our guides and drivers will pick you up at the exit hall on time and transfer you to Shigatse downtown. The journey lasts about 20 minutes. Sitting comfortably in our well-equipped vehicles, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. Soaking up the surreal beauty of Shigatse and then traveling back to Lhasa and relishing the beauty of central Tibet along the way.

G. What to See in Shigatse?

After arriving in Shigatse, you can visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the second largest temple in Tibet. It is an important holy place of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism and the residence of successive Panchen Lamas. The giant Maitreya Buddha statue and the golden roof are shocking. You can also stroll in the ancient city, appreciate the magnificent natural scenery of Mount Everest, and make an in-depth exploration to Nepal via Gyirong.

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H. How can I travel from Shigatse to other cities?

Sitting in the center Tibet, Shigatse has an easy access to Lhasa, Ngari, Nyingchi, and Shannan by train or road. If you want to fly to other provincial cities like Chengdu, you can take the flight from Shigatse Peace Airport or Shigatse Tingri Airport. It depaneds on your budget, travel length, group size, etc.