ContentPlanning an unforgettable Tibet train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa? You're in the right place. This remarkable trip takes you from the modern cityscape of Wuxi to the breathtaking Tibetan Plateau, offering a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you plan every step of the way, including ticket prices, train schedules, route maps, scenic highlights, and essential travel tips.
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Open Date: 2006
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Route: Z164
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Departure Station & Time: Wuxi Railway Station (19:49)
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Arrival Station & Time: Lhasa Railway Station (15:30+2)
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Distance: 4,246 kilometers (2,638 miles)
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Duration: 43hrs 41mins
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Frequency: Daily
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Ticket Classes & Cost: Soft Sleeper (from $178), Hard Sleeper (from $112), Hard Seat (from
$57)
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Avg. Speed: 92 km/h
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Stops: Wuxi, Nanjing, Bengbu, Xuzhou, Zhengzhou, Luoyang, Xi'an, Xianyang, Baoji, Lanzhou,
Xining, Golmud, Amdo, Nagqu, Lhasa
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Highlights: Yangtze River (China's longest river), Qinling Mountains (Natural boundary between North and South China, rich in biodiversity), Loess Plateau (Unique yellow soil landscapes, shaped by wind and water erosion), Hoh Xil Nature Reserve (Wildlife and untouched landscapes), Tanggula Pass (Highest railway point at 5,072m)
Starting from Wuxi, the train travels westward crossing key provinces and regions including Jiangsu, Anhui, Henan, Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, and finally Tibet Autonomous Region. Along the way, it makes stops at several important cities and hubs such as Wuxi, Nanjing, Bengbu, Xuzhou, Zhengzhou, Luoyang, Xi'an, Xianyang, Baoji, Lanzhou, Xining, Golmud, Amdo, and Nagqu, before reaching its final destination, Lhasa.
The train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa covers approximately 4,246 kilometers, crossing multiple provinces and highland regions, and takes around 44 hours. The train stops at key stations including Wuxi, Nanjing, Zhengzhou, Xi’an, Lanzhou, Xining, Golmud, Nagqu, before finally arriving in Lhasa. Along the way, you’ll gradually leave the eastern plains and ascend onto the Tibetan Plateau, experiencing breathtaking natural scenery throughout the trip. Below is an overview of the main stations, including their elevations, estimated stop times, and cumulative distances, to help you keep track of your journey.
| No. | Station | Altitude | Day | Arrival | Departure | Stop Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wuxi | 8m | Day 1 | / | 19:49 | / | 0km |
| 2 | Nanjing | 5m | Day 1 | 21:13 | 21:19 | 6min | 175km |
| 3 | Bengbu | 25m | Day 1 | 22:52 | 22:56 | 4min | 359km |
| 4 | Xuzhou | 36m | Day 2 | 00:18 | 00:25 | 7min | 523km |
| 5 | Zhengzhou | 108m | Day 2 | 03:14 | 03:20 | 6min | 872km |
| 6 | Luoyang | 147m | Day 2 | 04:47 | 04:52 | 5min | 996km |
| 7 | Xi'an | 385m | Day 2 | 09:19 | 09:27 | 8min | 1383km |
| 8 | Xianyang | 366m | Day 2 | 09:42 | 09:44 | 2min | 1406km |
| 9 | Baoji | 618m | Day 2 | 11:00 | 11:08 | 8min | 1556km |
| 10 | Lanzhou | 1520m | Day 2 | 16:16 | 16:36 | 20min | 2059km |
| 11 | Xining | 2200m | Day 2 | 19:08 | 19:28 | 20min | 2275km |
| 12 | Golmud | 2780m | Day 3 | 01:31 | 01:56 | 25min | 3104km |
| 13 | Amdo | 4800m | Day 3 | 10:42 | 10:44 | 2min | 3798km |
| 14 | Nagqu | 4500m | Day 3 | 12:02 | 12:08 | 6min | 3924km |
| 15 | Lhasa | 3650m | Day 3 | 15:30 | / | / | 4246km |
| No. | Station | Altitude | Day | Arrival | Departure | Stop Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wuxi | 8m | Day 1 | / | 19:49 | / | 0km |
| 2 | Nanjing | 5m | Day 1 | 21:13 | 21:19 | 6min | 175km |
| 3 | Bengbu | 25m | Day 1 | 22:52 | 22:56 | 4min | 359km |
| 4 | Xuzhou | 36m | Day 2 | 00:18 | 00:25 | 7min | 523km |
| 5 | Zhengzhou | 108m | Day 2 | 03:14 | 03:20 | 6min | 872km |
| 6 | Luoyang | 147m | Day 2 | 04:47 | 04:52 | 5min | 996km |
| 7 | Xi'an | 385m | Day 2 | 09:19 | 09:27 | 8min | 1383km |
| 8 | Xianyang | 366m | Day 2 | 09:42 | 09:44 | 2min | 1406km |
| 9 | Baoji | 618m | Day 2 | 11:00 | 11:08 | 8min | 1556km |
| 10 | Lanzhou | 1520m | Day 2 | 16:16 | 16:36 | 20min | 2059km |
| 11 | Xining | 2200m | Day 2 | 19:08 | 19:28 | 20min | 2275km |
| 12 | Golmud | 2780m | Day 3 | 01:31 | 01:56 | 25min | 3104km |
| 13 | Amdo | 4800m | Day 3 | 10:42 | 10:44 | 2min | 3798km |
| 14 | Nagqu | 4500m | Day 3 | 12:02 | 12:08 | 6min | 3924km |
| 15 | Lhasa | 3650m | Day 3 | 15:30 | / | / | 4246km |
The train tickets from Wuxi to Lhasa are available in three classes: soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seat, each varying in price and comfort level to suit different travel needs and budgets. Keep reading to choose the option that best fits your preferences.
The soft sleeper is the most comfortable option for the long journey from Wuxi to Lhasa. It features a private, lockable compartment with four berths (two upper and two lower), softer bedding, and more personal space. Prices start at around $178, making it the premium choice for a restful ride.
The hard sleeper offers a good balance between comfort and affordability. Each open cabin has six berths (upper, middle, and lower), with basic bedding provided. While less private than the soft sleeper, it still allows passengers to lie down and rest. Prices start at approximately $112, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a decent sleep.
The hard seat is the most economical option, with basic padded seats in an open carriage. While it’s the cheapest (starting at $57), it’s not recommended for the entire journey unless you’re comfortable sitting for long hours.
For the long journey from Wuxi to Lhasa, it is recommended to choose a soft sleeper for a better travel experience. The soft sleeper offers more spacious accommodations, significantly enhancing comfort, and ensures you get better rest during this high-altitude journey.
| Feature | Soft Sleeper | Hard Sleeper | Hard Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wuxi to Lhasa Train Z164 | ![]() |
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| Comfort Level | ★★★★☆ (High) | ★★★☆☆ (Medium) | ★☆☆☆☆ (Low) |
| Berths per Compartment | 4 (2 upper, 2 lower) | 6 (2 upper, 2 middle, 2 lower) | No berths (seats only) |
| Privacy | More (with door) | Less (no door) | None |
| Bed Softness | Softer mattress | Firmer mattress | No bed |
| Space | More spacious | Less spacious | Very cramped |
| Noise Level | Lower | Higher | Very high |
| Cost | Most expensive Upper Berth: $178, Lower Berth: $181 |
Moderate Upper Berth: $112, Middle Berth: $114, Lower Berth: $116 |
Cheapest Hard Seat: $57 |
| Best for | Comfortable travel | Budget travelers | Short trips or low-budget travelers |
| Feature | Soft Sleeper | Hard Sleeper | Hard Seat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wuxi to Lhasa Train Z164 | ![]() |
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| Comfort Level | ★★★★☆ (High) | ★★★☆☆ (Medium) | ★☆☆☆☆ (Low) |
| Berths per Compartment | 4 (2 upper, 2 lower) | 6 (2 upper, 2 middle, 2 lower) | No berths (seats only) |
| Privacy | More (with door) | Less (no door) | None |
| Bed Softness | Softer mattress | Firmer mattress | No bed |
| Space | More spacious | Less spacious | Very cramped |
| Noise Level | Lower | Higher | Very high |
| Cost | Most expensive Upper Berth: $178, Lower Berth: $181 |
Moderate Upper Berth: $112, Middle Berth: $114, Lower Berth: $116 |
Cheapest Hard Seat: $57 |
| Best for | Comfortable travel | Budget travelers | Short trips or low-budget travelers |
Currently, tickets for the Wuxi to Lhasa train can be purchased in advance, with sales usually opening 15 days before departure. Since this is a popular route and tickets tend to sell out quickly, it is strongly recommended to book as early as possible to secure your seat and ensure a smooth journey.
You can book tickets directly on the official China Railway website (12306.cn), the 12306 app, or third-party platforms such as Trip.com, which are user-friendly, available in multiple languages, and provide easy access to train schedules and reservations.
You can also visit the railway station or an authorized ticket agent to book your ticket in person. However, this option might be more time-consuming, especially if you are unfamiliar with the language and process.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, it's highly recommended to book through a professional travel agency, such as Tibet Horizon. It is a trusted and authoritative travel agency specializing in Tibet travel, including train ticket bookings. We can provide expert assistance, ensuring you secure your ticket promptly, and can help with additional services like seat preferences, hotel bookings, and arranging travel permits for Tibet.
If you purchased your train ticket from Wuxi to Lhasa through the official China Railway website (12306.cn) or the 12306 app, you will receive an e-ticket. There's no need to collect a physical ticket at the station. Simply bring your passport, Chinese Visa, and Tibet Travel Permit with you when boarding, and you can board the train directly with the e-ticket.
If you booked your ticket through us or another travel agency, your e-ticket or paper ticket will be mailed to your hotel in advance. Once you receive the ticket, make sure to check the details carefully to ensure that your name and passport number match. If you have a paper ticket, remember to bring all necessary documents—your passport, visa, and Tibet Travel Permit—to board the train without any issues.
无锡站: Wuxi Railway Station
拉萨站: Lhasa Railway Station
xx年xx月xx日xx开: xx Year xx Month xx Date xx Departing
xx车xx号上/中/下铺: xx Carriage xx Upper/Middle/Lower Berth
新空调软卧/硬卧/硬座: Soft Sleeper/Hard Sleeper/Hard Seat
To reach Wuxi Railway Station, you have a couple of convenient options. You can take a taxi, which will get you there directly. Alternatively, you can take Metro Line 1. It is a hassle-free option as the metro avoids traffic congestion, ensuring a smooth ride to the station.
For the Wuxi to Lhasa train trip, you will need several important travel documents:
Train Ticket: Either an e-ticket or paper ticket.
Passport: Required for identification, especially when you are traveling to Tibet, China.
Chinese Visa: Necessary if you're a foreigner traveling to China.
Tibet Travel Permit: A special permit is required to travel to Tibet. Without this, you won’t be allowed to board
the train to enter the region.
1) Get your train ticket and head to the station.
2) Pass security check and enter the waiting hall.
3) Fill out the health form.
4) Show your ticket at the ticket checkpoint.
5) Find your carriage using the LED screens or ticket details.
6) Board the train and go through a final ticket check.
7) Locate your berth and settle in.
8) Exchange paper ticket for berth card (if needed).
The best time for the Wuxi to Tibet train journey is typically from April to October, when Tibet's climate is relatively mild and ideal for travel. During the summer months (June to August), the weather is warmer, while spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most favorable conditions, with clear skies and fewer tourists. If you prefer to avoid the cold winter months (November to March), it's recommended to travel during this period to fully enjoy Tibet’s stunning natural scenery. Besides, the train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa is a magnificent experience, offering breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau along the way.
On the train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa, you will experience China's diverse landscapes, passing through beautiful scenic areas and famous landmarks. The journey begins with a view of the majestic Yangtze River, China's longest river, where you can enjoy the vast and flowing water.
As the train heads west, you will pass through the Qinling Mountains, which divide northern and southern China. The lush greenery and winding rivers along the way offer a peaceful and beautiful natural scene. The train will also cross the Loess Plateau, where the yellow soil and unique terrain create a rugged beauty.
As you approach Tibet, the scenery becomes even more stunning as you enter the Tibetan Plateau, the highest and largest plateau in the world. Here, you will see vast grasslands, remote villages, and snow-capped mountains.
You will also pass through Tanggula Pass (5,072 meters above sea level), the highest point on the train route and one of the highest railway stations in the world. The snowy mountains and vast plateau here are breathtaking.
The train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa offers not only stunning views but also well-equipped facilities. The train provides different types of seating and sleeper options for passengers, including soft sleepers, hard sleepers, and hard seats. The soft sleeper area offers beds with sheets, pillows, and blankets, making it ideal for long trips.
The train also has a dedicated dining car that serves a variety of hot meals, drinks, and snacks. You can enjoy a simple meal or a snack to ensure you're not hungry during the journey. Additionally, snacks and drinks are available in the train carriages.
To handle the temperature differences between seasons, the train is equipped with air conditioning and heating systems, keeping the cabin comfortable whether it's hot in summer or cold in winter.
Since the train passes through high-altitude areas, two oxygen supply systems are installed. The carriages are pressurized and provide a continuous oxygen supply, and passengers can also use individual oxygen outlets if they feel discomfort at higher elevations.
The train has attendants who regularly walk through the carriages to assist passengers, answer questions, and ensure cleanliness and proper functioning of the facilities. You can also ask them for any additional information about the train.
The train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa will gradually take you up to the Tibetan Plateau, and this change in altitude can lead to altitude sickness. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea or vomiting, insomnia, and loss of appetite. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person and usually decreases as the body gradually adjusts to the high-altitude environment.
To prevent and alleviate altitude sickness, you can take a few simple precautions. Stay well-hydrated, avoid drinking alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, refrain from strenuous activities, and ensure plenty of rest. Taking it easy and relaxing is an effective way to manage symptoms. If the symptoms become more severe, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately.
If you are traveling with Tibet Horizon, we will arrange a tour guide and driver to pick you up at the Lhasa Train Station and safely transfer you to your hotel. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey as you begin your adventure in Lhasa.
The train journey from Wuxi to Lhasa takes about 44 hours, which is quite long. If you find this travel time too lengthy, or if train tickets from Wuxi to Lhasa are hard to get, you can choose to fly from Wuxi to Xining, and then take a train to Lhasa. This route not only significantly shortens your overall travel time but also allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way, saving time while experiencing different landscapes.
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Map
Wuxi to Lhasa Train Ticket