- Recommended
Tibet Museum
Main regional museum presenting Tibetan history, archaeology, religious art, costumes, and everyday culture in modern galleries.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Xian to Lhasa
ChinaChina
Trains from Xian to Lhasa run on average 2 times per day, taking around 30h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€41) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The fastest train covers the 1091 miles (1757 km) distance in 30h 9m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 1091 miles (1757 km) |
Average train duration 30h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 (€41) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 30h 9m |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: China Railway from Xian to Lhasa trainsChina Railway trains will get you between Xian and Lhasa from $49 (€41). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
China Railway
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average China Railway Duration
30h 9m
Cheapest China Railway Price
$49 (€41)
China Railway frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Lhasa
Things to do in Lhasa
Discover the best of Lhasa — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lhasa trip today.
- Recommended
Norbulingka Museum
Norbulingka's museum spaces display palace rooms, furnishings, murals, and artifacts linked to former summer residence life.
Tibet Mint Museum
Small site museum at the old mint area, useful for learning about Tibetan coinage, trade, and local economic history.
- Must visit
Barkhor Street
Pilgrimage circuit around Jokhang Temple, ideal for experiencing prayer wheels, devotional rituals, and old Lhasa street life.
- Recommended
Norbulingka
Former summer palace park with landscaped grounds, pavilions, and lakeside walks that offer a calmer side of Lhasa.
- Recommended
Old Town of Lhasa
Traditional old-quarter lanes around Barkhor where whitewashed houses, shops, and pilgrims create a memorable walking experience.
Tsampa
Roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea into a dense dough. It is Tibet’s daily staple and central to highland food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Butter Tea
Salty tea churned with yak butter, tea leaves, and often milk. It helps with warmth and calories at high altitude.
Thenthuk
Hand-pulled noodle soup often served in yak or beef broth with meat. It is a common hearty Tibetan comfort food in Lhasa.
Ganglamedo
Popular traditional Tibetan restaurant near central Lhasa, known for momos, thenthuk, and local tea in a busy casual setting.
Snowland Restaurant
Established Tibetan dining room serving yak dishes, soups, and staple local specialties in a comfortable traditional atmosphere.
Tashi Restaurant
Well-known local restaurant for Tibetan comfort food, including noodles, meat dishes, and butter tea, with a straightforward casual feel.
Chinese yuan (¥)
Moderate for China. Hotels and tours can cost more due to permit-linked travel, but local food and taxis are usually affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- ¥20-40 for noodles or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- ¥60-120 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- ¥200+ per person for upscale hotel dining.
- Coffee
- ¥25-40 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected in Lhasa. Restaurants and cafes usually do not require tips. Taxi drivers are not tipped; round up only for convenience.
FAQs: Trains from Xian to Lhasa
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Xian to Lhasa by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lhasa, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Xian to Lhasa can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€41), while the average price is around $49 (€41).
The train from Xian to Lhasa takes 30h 9m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Xian to Lhasa is 1091 miles (1757 km).
There is no high speed train available from Xian to Lhasa.
Yes, there is a direct train from Xian to Lhasa. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by China Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Xian to Lhasa.
Yes, you can take the train from Xian to Lhasa.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
China uses the Chinese Yuan (CNY) as its currency. For travelers, using cards like UnionPay is widely accepted in cities, but cash is still essential in smaller towns and markets where card acceptance may be limited.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
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