Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway – stretching 435.8 kilometers and engineered for speeds up to 160 km/h, this electrified corridor first opened on June 25, 2021, ushering in a new era of rapid, comfortable travel between Tibet’s political heart, Lhasa, and its verdant eastern gateway, Nyingchi. Today, trains C881/C882 on this plateau railway run daily, taking less than four hours.
A Brief History of the Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway
The Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway represents the third phase of the Sichuan–Tibet rail link, poised ultimately to connect Chengdu with Lhasa. Completed in mid‑2021, it is the first electrified railroad in eastern Tibet—soaring over a quilt of deep valleys, glacial rivers, and dense forests. Engineering this 435.8 km ribbon of track demanded cutting through 47 tunnels and soaring across 121 bridges, among them the 525.1 m Zangmu Bridge spanning the Yarlung Zangbo River and the 2,515 m Lindana Tunnel burrowing under the highlands. Seamlessly shuttling between earth and sky, the train deftly traverses an altitude range far gentler than much of Tibet, ensuring a lower risk of altitude discomfort and granting passengers a privileged window onto the plateau’s hidden gems.

Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Map
Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Schedule & Journey Time
As of 2025, the Lhasa–Nyingchi line operates one round‑trip high‑speed train daily. Early risers can board C881 in Lhasa at dawn to arrive in Nyingchi by late morning, while afternoon travelers catch C882 back to Lhasa.
Train Number | Route | Departure (Local) | Arrival (Local) | Duration |
---|---|---|---|---|
C881 | Lhasa → Nyingchi | 07:55 AM | 11:36 AM | 3 hrs 41 min |
C882 | Nyingchi → Lhasa | 12:00 PM | 03:42 PM | 3 hrs 42 min |
Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Ticket Classes & Fares
The Lhasa–Nyingchi train offers three seating classes—Second, First, and Business—each tailored to different comfort and budget needs. Because the route is relatively short, no sleeper berths are available; however, the seats are ergonomically designed for the journey.
Seat Class | Approx. Fare (CNY) |
---|---|
Second Class Seat | 129 |
First Class Seat | 206 |
Business Class | 452 |
- Second Class
Five seats per row (3+2 layout), economical yet comfortable for most passengers. Ideal for savvy travelers seeking cost efficiency without sacrificing modern amenities. - First Class
Four seats per row (2+2 layout), offering more legroom and personal space. A sweet spot for those valuing extra comfort on an average‑length high‑speed run. - Business Class
The pinnacle of onboard luxury: reclining leather seats arranged in 1+1 configuration, individual entertainment screens, reading lamps, power sockets, and wireless charging pads. Seats fully recline for near-flat sleeping, perfect for travelers wanting maximum privacy and rest.

Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway First Class
How to Book Your Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Ticket
Official Online Booking
China Railway allows ticket purchases using passport information, but its Chinese‑language interface and payment gateways can be daunting for first‑time visitors.
Booking with China Dragon Travel
To sidestep language barriers and payment hurdles, many travelers turn to China Dragon Travel. Simply inform your travel consultant of your preferred train (C881 or C882) and seating class when arranging your Tibet tour. They will secure your tickets in advance, monitor seat availability during peak seasons, and offer immediate alternatives if your first choice sells out.
Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway E‑Ticketing & Identification
No paper ticket is needed. Thanks to China’s real‑name ticketing system:
- Show your passport (used for booking) at the boarding gate.
- Present your Tibet Travel Permit alongside your passport. This permit is mandatory for all foreign visitors to enter and travel within Tibet.
With these documents, you’ll scan in at automatic gates, walk through security, and board the train smoothly.
Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Amenities & Facilities
Oxygen Supply System
Tailored for the plateau’s high altitude, every carriage features both ambient diffused oxygen circulation and individual oxygen ports under seats. Though Nyingchi sits lower than much of Tibet—mitigating altitude sickness risks—traveler peace of mind is paramount.
Restrooms & Hygiene
Modern Western‑style toilets are located at each carriage’s end, paired with hand‑washing sinks opposite. Spotless and well‑maintained, these facilities ensure comfort throughout your journey.
Luggage & Storage
- Overhead racks accommodate daypacks and smaller bags.
- Inter‑carriage luggage bays hold larger suitcases.
- Staff will assist if you need help stowing bulky items.
Snacks & Refreshments
A trolley service rolls through selling snacks, bottled drinks, and light fare. Additionally, each coach features a hot water dispenser for free boiled water—perfect for instant noodles, tea, or coffee.
Connectivity
Complimentary onboard Wi‑Fi lets you research your itinerary, share photos, or simply stream entertainment. Power sockets and USB charging ports at each seat keep devices alive during the three‑plus‑hour ride.
Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway Scenic Highlights Along the Route
Racing across the eastern reaches of Tibet, the Lhasa–Nyingchi train treats passengers to an ever‑changing tableau:
- Shannan’s Terraced Valleys: Mosaic farmland and ancient villages spill across gentle lows.
- River Gorges: The Yarlung Zangbo River carves deep canyons, revealing jade waters and dramatic cliffs.
- Alpine Forests: Pine and fir forests blanket the slopes, their vivid greens contrasting sharply with bare rock.
- Glacial Overlooks: Looming high above, distant peaks sometimes glint with lingering snowfields.
Whether daydreaming in a Business Class cradle or gazing out of a Second Class window, be ready to capture moments of a landscape both fragile and grand.

Shannan’s Terraced Valleys
Choosing Your Seat: Tips & Recommendations
- Best Views: Seats on the right side of C881 (Lhasa→Nyingchi) often frame river gorges and forested hills. Reverse this for C882.
- Privacy & Comfort: Business Class excels for uninterrupted rest and space.
- Value Pick: First Class balances extra legroom with a mid‑range fare.
- Budget Choice: Second Class keeps costs low, especially if you spend most time exploring Nyingchi anyway.
Pro Tip: Book early—seats fill quickly during the Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival (late March–early April), summer holidays (July–August), and National Day Golden Week (early October).
Planning a Lhasa‑Nyingchi Adventure
While the train whisks you swiftly between endpoints, a memorable eastern Tibet trip often blends rail travel with overland exploration:
- Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival
Each spring, peach orchards near Bayi Town burst into blush‑pink bloom. Traveling by train and then touring local orchards provides the perfect cultural and floral spectacle. - G318 Overland Extension
Many travelers combine the high‑speed rail portion with a drive along the G318 National Highway. This “Most Beautiful Road to Tibet” meanders from Chengdu to Lhasa, passing through Nyingchi. A 7–15 day journey showcases Sichuan’s rolling plains, Yunnan’s highlands, and Tibet’s sweeping valleys. - Highlights of Eastern Tibet
- Ranwu Lake: A crystalline alpine lake framed by snow‑capped peaks.
- Lulang Forests: Verdant woodlands amid karst formations.
- Basum‑Tso Lake: Turquoise waters set against pine‑clad ridges.
- Namcha Barwa Peak: Monitored from vantage points en route, this towering mountain often hides in clouds—when it appears, it inspires awe.
- Round‑Trip Mix & Match
Travel eastward by train, explore Nyingchi over several days, then return to Lhasa by road (or vice versa). This approach maximizes both efficiency and scenic immersion.
Discover Tibet with China Dragon Travel
For personalized travel planning, hassle‑free ticket booking, and insider insights into the Lhasa–Nyingchi Railway and beyond, turn to China Dragon Travel. Our experienced consultants will craft a seamless Tibet itinerary—rail tickets secured, permits arranged, and local guides on standby—so you can focus on soaking in every moment of your eastern Tibet odyssey. Contact us today to start your journey on the roof of the world.