Xi’an to Lhasa Train Route Map: From the Starting Point of the Silk Road to the Holy Land of Tibet
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Xi’an to Lhasa Train Route Map: From the Starting Point of the Silk Road to the Holy Land of Tibet

time 2025-07-28 written by Mr. Tenzin Sherab comments Comments
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Although Xi’an has no train initially running to Lhasa, you still have the chance to board the train (Z265 and Z165) to Tibet. It takes about 30-31 hours to wind through Shaanxi Province, Gansu Province, Qinghai Province, and Tibet Autonomous Region to finish the 2,864-kilometer-long train journey. You can see all trains passing through Xi'an here:

Train Z265 from Guangzhou-Xi'an(07:53)-Lhasa (14:54), 31hrs 01min, daily.
Train Z165 from Shanghai-Xi'an(09:27)-Lhasa (15:30), 30hrs 03mins, daily.

Xi'an to Lhasa Train MapXi'an to Lhasa Train Route Map

Pros and Cons of Xi'an to Lhasa Train Route

Taking the train from Xi'an to Lhasa is one of the most convenient and scenic ways for foreigners to visit Tibet. However, it also has its pros and cons, especially when compared to other trains into Tibet.

Pros:

Moderate running time: The Xi'an to Lhasa train journey takes about 30-31 hours, which is shorter and more efficient than Beijing to Lhasa train (40 hours 20 minutes) and Guangzhou (53 hours 39mins).

More convenient to depart: As an ancient capital of China, Xi'an has attracted numerous tourists to explore the mysterious relics. After touring Xi’an, you can jump on the train to Tibet without the need for the long-distance transfer.

Cons:

Poor viewing experience: You may miss the best highlights of Qinghai-Tibet Railway because the train would pass over the Hoh Xil Nature Reserve and Tanggula Pass at night.

Major Railway Stations and Highlights in Xi’an to Lhasa Train Route

The train route from Xi'an to Lhasa passes through Xi'an, Xianyang, Baoji, Lanzhou, Xining, Delingha, Golmud, Amdo, Nagqu, Lhasa. Here we take Z265 as a reference.

No. Station Altitude Day Arrival Departure Stop Time Distance
1 Xi'an 385m Day 1 / 07:53 / 0km
2 Baoji 618m Day 1 09:20 09:26 6mins 173km
3 Lanzhou 1520m Day 1 15:05 15:32 27mins 676km
4 Xining 2200m Day 1 17:59 18:19 20mins 892km
5 Delingha 2982m Day 1 22:04 22:08 4mins 1409km
6 Golmud 2780m Day 2 00:29 00:54 25mins 1722km
7 Amdo 4800m Day 2 09:34 09:38 4mins 2416km
8 Nagqu 4500m Day 2 10:56 11:02 6mins 2542km
9 Lhasa 3650m Day 2 14:54 / / 2864km

Xi’an to Lhasa Train Trip-Day1: Xi'an, Baoji, Lanzhou, Xining, Delingha

At 07:53 in the morning, the Z265 Tibet train from Guangzhou will leave Xi'an, the starting point of the Silk Road. As one of China's ancient capitals with the most dynasties, Xi’an has the longest history and the greatest historical influence. Then the train will arrive at Baoji, the world-renowned cradle of bronze ware. Baoji is also the hometown of Emperor Yan, one of the "Three Emperors" of China.

The train continues westward to Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province. The Lanzhou beef noodles here are world-famous. Beef noodle restaurants are scattered throughout the streets and alleys, becoming a highlight of the city's food culture.

After staying in Lanzhou for 27 minutes, the train will head to Xining, the hub city of the "Belt and Road" on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The climate here is pleasant, with no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It enjoys the reputation of "China's Summer Capital" and has well-known attractions such as Ta'er Monastery and Qinghai Lake. It is also an important transit point to Tibet.

The last stop of today's train journey will be Delingha, which means "golden world" in Mongolian. It has diverse ethnic groups and cultural integration. The Cypress Mountain, Tosu Lake, and Keluke Lake are full of mysterious charm. Then stay overnight on the train and continue westward into the hinterland of the plateau.

Xi’an to Lhasa Train Trip-Day2: Golmud, Amdo, Nagqu, Lhasa

Today the train will head to Golmud, the last major city before you reach the Tibetan Plateau. From here, the train will pump oxygen into the carriages.

The train will then arrive in Amdo, the "northern gate" of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway and the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. The local ethnic group is mainly Tibetan, with a strong traditional nomadic culture. It has 8 ancient temples and rich religious activities, which is a good place to learn about Tibet.

The train will then pass through Nagqu, home to nomadic herders and yaks. At this point, the altitude is as high as 4,500 meters. Please drink warm water and avoid strenuous exercise. If you still feel dizzy, please use the oxygen outlet next to your bed or seat.

The train will finally descend to Lhasa, the final stop of this train. The terrain along the way is more rugged, with canyons, rivers and rocky valleys. Along with the Lhasa River, you can see bits and pieces of Tibetan villages, pagodas, and prayer flags.

Upon arrival in Lhasa, your guide will wait for you at the Lhasa Railway Station and then drive you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa.

Conclusion

The Xi'an to Lhasa train route will bring you an unforgettable trip to Tibet. With stations such as Xi'an, Lanzhou and Golmud along the way, you can enjoy the changing landscapes from the Loess Plateau to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This scenic train journey will allow you to experience the breathtaking scenery of the northern regions of Tibet, which are inaccessible by air. I believe this journey will definitely become one of the most precious and unique memories of your Tibet tour.

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