Xining to Shigatse Train

Xining Shigatse Railway extends 2220 kilometers. It contains two sections: Qinghai-Tibet Railway and Lhasa-Shigatse Railway. Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the world’s highest and longest railway that connects Xining of Qinghai Province and Lhasa of Tibet Autonomous Region. Lhasa-Shigatse Railway is an extension of Qinghai-Tibet Railway, connecting the Tibetan cities of Lhasa and Shigatse. Shigatse is the second largest city in Tibet and the gateway to Mount Everest. The operation of this track means stretching the world’s highest rail closer to EBC and making it possible for travelers to head directly to Shigatse and begin their Mt. Everest Base Camp tour. Read on for more information about Xining Shigatse train and start planning your train trip to Tibet!

Basic Facts about Xining to Shigatse Train

Xining to Shigatse Train Open Date: 2006 for Qinghai-Tibet Railway and 2014 for Lhasa-Shigatse Railway
Xining to Shigatse Train Route: Xining to Lhasa Train+Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet Train
Xining to Shigatse Train Type: Z-series + C-series
Xining to Shigatse Train Departure Station & Time: Xining Railway Station (11:52 / 12:50 / 15:32 / 18:19 / 19:28 / 21:50)
Xining to Shigatse Train Arrival Station & Time: Shigatse Railway Station (11:35 / 15:20 / 18:07 / 19:02)
Xining to Shigatse Train Distance: 2,204 kilometers (1,370 miles)
Xining to Shigatse Train Duration: 26hrs 30mins for Z8981 and C887 / 26hrs 35mins for Z21 and C4393
Xining to Shigatse Train Frequency: Daily
Xining to Shigatse Train Ticket Class & Cost: Soft Sleeper (from $108), Hard Sleeper (from $69), Hard Seat ($31), Business Class ($31), First Class ($14), Second Class ($9)
Xining to Shigatse Train Avg. Speed: About 106-120 km/h
Xining to Shigatse Train Stops: Xining, Delingha, Golmud, Budongquan, Tuotuo River, Amdo, Nagqu, Lhasa, Shigatse
Xining to Shigatse Train Highlights: Qinghai Lake, Kunlun Mountains, Tanggula Mountain Range, Yarlung Tsangpo River, Tibetan Villages

Xining to Shigatse Train Route Map

This route originates from Xining and passes through Qinghai Province and Tibet Autonomous Region. The trains stop at several major stations in China, namely, Xining, Delingha, Golmud, Budongquan, Tuotuo River, Amdo, Nagqu, Lhasa, Shigatse.

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

Since direct Xining to Shigatse train is unavailable, you shall ride the train from Xining to Lhasa first and then take the bullet train from Lhasa to Shigatse. All the Tibet trains to Lhasa would make a stop at Xining, offering you various options.

Xining to Lhasa Train

Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet Train

You can choose the train route as you like. Here we just introduce the two combinations for your reference. Please carefully check the real-time train timetable below to see the main train stations and altitude changes along the Xining-Shigatse Railway.

Xining to Shigatse Train Z8981 and C887

The first route is the Xining to Shigatse train, consisting of trains Z8981 and C887, with a total journey time of 26hrs 30mins. Train Z8981 daily departs from Xining at 12:50. After 21hrs 30mins, you'll arrive in Lhasa at 10:20 on the second day. You can have a rest at Lhasa Railway Station for 2hrs 40mins and then board the high-speed train C887 at 13:00. After 2hrs 20mins, you’ll arrive in Shigatse at 15:20.

Xining to Shigatse Train Z21 and C4393

The second route is the Xining to Shigatse train, consisting of trains Z21 and C4393, with a total journey time of 26hrs 35mins. Train Z21 daily departs from Xining at 15:32. After 20hrs 10mins, you’ll arrive in Lhasa at 11:42 on the following day. You can take a break at Lhasa Railway Station for 3hrs 23mins and then board the bullet train C4393 at 15:05. After 3hrs 2mins, you’ll reach Shigatse Railway Station at 18:07.

Xining to Shigatse Train Ticket Class & Cost: Soft Sleeper, Hard Sleeper, Hard Seat, Business Class, First Class, Second Class and Ticket Price

Xining to Lhasa train offers soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and hard seat. And Lhasa to Shigatse high-speed train provides business class seat, first class seat, and second class seat. The following section help you choose the ticket that suits you best.

A. Xining to Lhasa Train Soft Sleeper

The train from Xining to Lhasa has two soft sleeper carriages, totaling 18 compartments with 72 berths. Each compartment has 4 berths (2 upper berths and 2 lower berths). The price for an upper berth in a soft sleeper is $108 / ¥781, while the price for a lower berth is $112 / ¥808.

B. Xining to Lhasa Train Hard Sleeper

The train has 8 hard sleeper carriages. Each compartment has 6 berths (2 upper, 2 middle, and 2 lower). The compartment is a bit cramped. But this is comfortable for most passengers. Hard sleeper fares are $69 / ¥495 for an upper berth, $70 / ¥507 for a middle berth, and $72 / ¥521 for a lower berth.

C. Xining to Lhasa Train Hard Seat

The train has 3 hard seat carriages, which are not ideal for travelers due to the long distance between Xining and Lhasa. However, hard-seat tickets are the cheapest, costing only $31 / ¥224.

D. 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.

E. 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.

F. 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.

G. Which kind of train ticket should I choose?

Both soft and hard sleeper options are recommended for the Xining to Lhasa train. Second-class seats are also recommended for the Lhasa to Shigatse train. Please see the table below for specific options.

About Xining to Shigatse Train Ticket Price: The schedule and ticket price are just for reference. Please contact us for the latest running and ticketing information on this train when you plan your Tibet Train tour.

Xining to Shigatse Train Ticket

A. How to book Xining to Shigatse train ticket?

You can buy a Chinese train ticket on China Railway’s official website https://www.12306.cn/ or its app “Railway 12306”. You can buy the ticket from the ticket windows at the station. However, foreign travelers need to complete a quite complicated process of registration, identity verification, passport information upload, and payment.

Moreover, if the direct train from Xining to Shigatse is not in service, you need to buy a train ticket from Xining to Lhasa and a bullet train ticket from Lhasa to Shigatse, making the ticket booking more complicated.

The most convenient and worry-free way to get your ticket is to book online with us. Specializing in Tibet tourism, our agency, Tibet Horizon, can help you book the train ticket and arrange a smooth and wonderful Tibet Train trip for you.

B. Where and how to collect Xining Shigatse train ticket?

If you book your train ticket with us, we can deliver your Tibet train ticket to your hotel. In other cases, 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. Please arrive at the station in advance in case there is not enough time to get your ticket.

C. How to read Xining to Shigatse train ticket?

Xining to Lhasa train ticket:
西宁站: Xining 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

Lhasa to Shigatse Bullet 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

Xining to Shigatse Train Trip

If it is your first time taking the trains from Xining to Shigatse, the following questions may help you enjoy your Tibet train journey more smoothly.

A. Why take train to Tibet Shigatse from Xining？

Currently, all trains to Tibet stop at Xining Railway Station, so you can buy tickets for any train heading to Lhasa. Compared with boarding trains starting from Chengdu, Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, taking Xining to Shigatse Train means a shorter travel time, which takes about 24 to 25 hours. This line presents stunning scenery along the way, offering tourists the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Tibetan Plateau before setting foot on their Everest trip.

B. How to get to Xining Railway Station?

Xining Railway Station is the main railway station serving the city of Xining in Qinghai Province, northwest China. As the first station on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, it connects Tibet and other cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Located at Qilian Road, Chengdong District, Xining, the station is not far from the downtown area and the airport, making it convenient for travelers to get to.

Ways from Downtown to Xining Railway Station
Taxi: Taxi fares are calculated based on the distance traveled.
Bus: Several bus lines that arrive at the station, including Bus No. 9, 11, 27, 20, 31, 103, and 701.
Bus Service Time: Most lines operate from 6:00-21:00 in summer and 6:00-20:30 in winter.

Ways from Xining Caojiabao International Airport to Xining Railway Station
Taxi: Taxi fares are calculated based on the distance traveled.
Bus: Airport Bus Line 1/2 directly runs to the airport, which costs ¥23 per person.
Bus Service Time: 7:30-18:00.

C. Why land in Shigatse for your Tibet tour？

Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, is a hot destination for travelers. With a long history, this city is rich in cultural heritage, especially in terms of Buddhism. Tashiluunpo Monastery, located on the southern slope of Nyima Mountain to the west of Shigatse city, was founded by the first Dalai Lama in 1447 and expanded by the fourth and successive Panchen Lamas. Sakya Monastery, located in Sakya County west of Shigatse, is the traditional seat of the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism.

Shigatse sits about 250km west of Lhasa and 343km northeast of Everest Base Camp. After Lhasa Shigatse Railway opened for service in 2014, it has become a vital transportation hub that connects Tibet’s far west to the outside world, making it more convenient for travelers to start their Mt. Everest Base Camp trip.

From Shigatse, you can begin your in-depth exploration of the Himalayas. Continue to travel southward, you can arrive at EBC by road. For trekkers and climbers, it’s also a good starting point for EBC trekking route. You can reach Tingri by road and then begin your trekking route. You can view the majestic Mount Everest, the world’s first peak, and the stunning scenery of the central Himalayas. Driving to EBC, you may also visit Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest monastery.

In short, landing in Shigatse is a good choice for your exploration of Tibetan natural scenery and rich culture.

D. What travel documents do l need for Xining to Shigatse train?

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

E. How to board Tibet train from Xining to Shigatse?

Regarding how to take Tibet train from Xining to Shigatse, we need to explain it in two parts: board Tibet train at Xining Railway Station and transfer to bullet train at Lhasa Railway Station.

How to board Tibet train at Xining Railway Station?
If you choose to collect your ticket by yourself, bring your passport and Tibet Travel Permit to collect your train ticket after reaching Xining Railway Station. 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 gates.

How to transfer to bullet train at Lhasa Railway Station?
After getting off the train at Lhasa Railway Station, follow the sign “Transfer” and walk to the upward stairs leading to the ticket gates. Having your ticket checked, you can enter the waiting hall. Find the ticket barrier of your next train and wait for check-in.

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.

F. What to see along Xining Shigatse Railway?

Xining Shigatse Railway captures the beautiful scenery of Tibet. Riding on Qinghai-Tibet Railway from Xining to Lhasa, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the snow-capped mountain range and the still water of the lake. Moving on to Shigatse, you can appreciate the majestic Yarlung Tsangpo River and Tibetan villages along the way.

Qinghai Lake
As the train departs Xining, you will be greeted by Qinghai Lake. Located in the northeast of the Tibetan Plateau, it is China’s largest alkaline salt lake. The heavenly blue lake is like a sapphire set in the land. The lake is located at the intersection of several bird migration routes. You may witness many species here during migration.

Kunlun Mountains
Kunlun Mountains constitute one of the longest mountain ranges in Asia, stretching over 3000 km. You can admire spectacular glaciers and snow-capped peaks at a distance.

Tanggula Mountain Range
Tanggula Mountain Range is the natural boundary of Qinghai and Tibet. It also marks the highest section of Qinghai-Tibet Railway. As the train climbs to a higher altitude, you can enjoy the stunning view of the blue sky and snow-white mountains.

Yarlung Tsangpo River
From Lhasa to Shigatse, the train runs through the valley of Yarlung Tsangpo River. Outside the window is a majestic view: The river cascades down the valley, rushing the rocks and cliffs. Riverside fields with rich vegetation resources change their color with the seasons, offering colorful and picturesque scenes.

Tibetan Villages
Travelers on the train can also catch a glimpse of the Tibetan villages near the railway. You may witness the living and farming scene of local Tibetans as they sow seeds of highland barley, buckwheat, or rape in spring and get a bumper harvest in autumn.

• 9 Days Xining Train to Lhasa Shigatse Everest Base Camp Tour

  Features:

  Unparalleled train trip experience
  The most scenic train ride
  A time-reasonable option

  Group size: Min.1 pax

  Tour price: free enquire >

  View details

• 12 Days Xining Qinghai Lake, Qinghai-Tibet Train to Lhasa and Mount Everest & Namtso Lake Tour

  Features:

  Scenic sky train
  Enjoy more plateau scenery
  Panoramic tour to Tibet highlights

  Group size: Min.1 pax

  Tour price: free enquire >

  View details

G. How about Xining to Shigatse train facilities?

Seats
There are three types of seats on Tibet train to Lhasa: hard seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper. Hard seats are installed on the two sides of the aisle, with two seats on one side and three on the other side. A hard sleeper compartment usually has six hard sleepers with three (upper, middle, and lower berths) on each side. However, there is no lockable door. A soft sleeper compartment has four berths (two upper berths and two lower berths) and a lockable door, providing more personal space for tourists.

There are three types of seats on Lhasa to Shigatse bullet train: second-class seat, first-class seat, and business-class seat. 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. 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. A business-class seat carriage has two sofa-like leather chairs in a row. The chairs are adjustable and are equipped with intelligent lighting, wireless charging, and LED TV.

Toilets
There is one squat and one western toilet at the end of each carriage. Please notice that toilet paper is not provided.

Food Services
There is a dining carriage on both Tibet Train and bullet train, usually in the middle of the train, which offers three meals and drinks. During meal time, you can go to the dining car to order dishes. You can get snacks and drinks from mobile food carts as well. You can also bring some food and fruit with you in case you don’t get used to the food served on the train.

Oxygen Supply
Trains to Tibet are equipped with two kinds of oxygen supply systems. 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.

H. How to get to Shigatse City and Mount Everest from Shigatse Railway Station?

Located in Zhandui Village of Jiacuoxiong Township, Shigatse Railway Station away from the downtown area. You can take a taxi to the city center. Taxi fares are calculated based on the distance traveled. You can also get downtown by bus. Bus No. 2, 4, 7, 6, 8, Everest Bus No.8, and Cultural and Creative Park Special Bus Line arrive at Shigatse Railway Station.

The distance from Shigatse Railway Station to Mount Everest Base Camp is about 243 km as the crow flies. If you drive from Shigatse Railway Station to EBC the distance extends to 343 km. Although the road conditions are good, it takes about 8 to 9 hours because the speed limit is 40 km per hour.

Most travelers choose to follow local travel guides to get to Mt. Everest Base Camp from Shigatse. Local guides and drivers are more familiar with the route, so they can ensure you a smooth trip. Tibet Horizon has experienced guides and professional drivers. We can pick you up at the station, show you around the Shigatse city, and transfer you to EBC safely. Please contact us for inquiries if you want an unforgettable Shigatse and Everest Journey!

Conclusion

Xining to Shigatse train can take you to the central and western parts of Tibet directly. From Shigatse, you can begin your adventure into the Himalayan area, experiencing spectacular scenery and rich Tibetan culture. If you are inspired and plan to explore Tibet, Tibet Horizon, can help you figure out the best travel plan. Please feel free to ask us for more information.