Tibet Tours from Xining: The Scenic Qinghai–Tibet Train (2026)

Xining, the capital of Qinghai, holds a special place in any Tibet trip: it is where the Qinghai–Tibet Railway officially begins. If you want the classic train experience — the highest railway in the world, climbing past Qinghai Lake and over the Tanggula Pass — this is the place to board. Flights are available as well, and your permit and guided tour are arranged before you go.

How to Get to Tibet from Xining

The signature option is the train to Lhasa, which takes about 21 hours and is the shortest rail journey onto the plateau. The most scenic, highest stretch of the Qinghai–Tibet Railway runs beyond Golmud past Cona Lake and over the 5,072 m Tanggula railway station — the highest in the world. Several services run the route, including Z6801 and the trains continuing from cities like Beijing and Chengdu; the Z165 in particular covers more of the highlights in daylight. Carriages are sleeper-class with a supplementary oxygen supply for the high section.

There are also nonstop flights from Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN) to Lhasa Gonggar (LXA), taking roughly 2 hours 30 minutes, if you prefer to save time.

Route	Mode	Typical duration	Notes
Xining → Lhasa	Train (Z6801 etc.)	~21h	Start of the railway; shortest plateau ride
Xining → Lhasa	Flight (nonstop)	~2h30	Faster alternative
(East China) → Xining → Lhasa	Fly + train	~1 day	Popular combo to catch the scenic train

This is the route we most often recommend to travelers who specifically want the railway. See the Tibet train guide and how to get to Tibet for more.

Tibet Travel Permit from Xining

Foreign passport holders cannot travel to Tibet independently. A Tibet Travel Permit is required, and it is only granted to travelers on an organized, guided tour. You do not apply yourself — your operator submits the application for you.

After booking, send scans of your passport and Chinese visa. We apply for the permit and arrange a licensed Tibetan guide and private vehicle for your whole trip. The original permit must be in hand before you board the train, so we deliver it to you in Xining ahead of departure. Plan for about 15–20 days between sending documents and your entry date. See our Tibet Travel Permit page for the checklist.

Recommended Tibet Tours from Xining

Because the scenic train doubles as a gentle altitude warm-up, Xining pairs well with itineraries that go beyond Lhasa. The central Tibet tour (7 days) through Gyantse and Shigatse is a great fit, while the Lhasa Essential Tour (4 days) suits shorter trips. Adventurous travelers continue to Everest Base Camp. Explore our Tibet tours page for the full range.

Practical Tips

• This is the train to take for scenery. Xining is the start of the line, so the highest, most dramatic stretch lies ahead of you on the ride.
• Book sleeper berths early. They are in high demand, especially in summer.
• Carry the original permit. It is checked before you board; a scan will not do.
• Hydrate and rest on arrival. Even after the gradual climb, Lhasa's 3,650 m deserves an easy first day.
• Bring warm layers and snacks. A 21-hour ride is more comfortable with your own supplies.