How to Book Tibet Train Tickets, help and necessary info

How Mainland Tourists can buy Tibet Train Tickets?

Tickets for train travel to Tibet can be obtained via the official 12306 websites and are generally available for purchase up to 30 days in advance. Policies may vary in different situations, and it is advised to refer to the announcements on the 12306 websites for the most accurate information.
Alternatively, tickets can be purchased in person at the railway station ticket office or designated ticket sales points by presenting a valid ID card.
Some railway stations also provide self-service ticket vending machines for convenient purchases.
Please note that when purchasing tickets online through third-party websites such as Ctrip and Qunar, there may be additional handling fees.
During the peak season from June to August, it can be challenging to find train tickets to Tibet. In such cases, it is recommended to purchase tickets through a travel agency, which may incur a handling fee.

How Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan tourists can Tibet Train Tickets?

Visitors from Hong Kong and Macau have the option to buy Qinghai-Tibet train tickets similarly to how mainland tourists do, but instead of using an ID card, they must present a Hong Kong and Macau Pass as their ticket purchase certificates.
For travellers from Taiwan, a Taiwan Travel Permit and a Tibet Entry Permit are required in order to purchase train tickets. Typically, travel agencies handle the purchase of Tibet train tickets on their behalf.

How do foreign tourists buy

Buy the Tibet train ticket directly at the railway station or train ticket agency with the certification, but the drawback of this method of purchase is that in addition to providing valid certifications, you also need to provide a Tibet entry letter. The Tibet entry permit is generally issued by travel agencies about 10 days in advance, and the train tickets are released one month in advance in China. If you wait to obtain the Tibet entry permit and purchase it, it is very likely that the tickets have been sold out.
On the official website of the Ministry of Railways 12306. cn, this is a good option for foreign guests residing in mainland China. The drawback of this method is that the website requires real-name registration, and the system will review it after registration, and you have to take a train once with your identification card before you can make a purchase on the official website. If you have acquaintances from mainland China, you can ask them to assist you in buying.
Purchase the Tibet train ticket through a travel agency. Foreign tourists who travel to Tibet need to locate a local travel agency in Tibet to travel with a group. Tourists can directly approach a travel agency to purchase Tibet train tickets on their behalf.

Precautions for buying tickets

If tourists buy train tickets themselves, arrive at the train station 2 hours early to exchange for paper tickets, especially during peak seasons. In Lhasa, there are fewer platforms and long lines for ticket exchange. If you’re late, you may not receive your ticket. If purchased through our agency, we’ll provide the ticket in advance.

To ensure Tibet train tickets, use a reliable travel agency due to limited availability. We can help book tickets to Lhasa as a trusted agent with a stable relationship with the train station and reserve tickets annually.

How much is the Tibet train ticket?

A Beijing to Lhasa ticket can be as low as 90 USD, 40-50% of airfare, but the journey takes 46 hours. Sleeper berth tickets range from 130 USD to 250 USD. A service charge, usually 25-30%, is required when booking through a travel agency. The charge increases in August. However, tourtraveltibet.com guarantees the lowest service charge compared to other agencies.

Can our train tickets be guaranteed once I make the reservation?

There are two types of sleeper berths on the train: first class and second class. Second-class berths are easy to secure as there are many available. However, first-class berths, which have a limited supply of 35-56, cannot be guaranteed due to ticket allocation preferences. Although reservations usually work, it is advisable to be flexible with travel dates to increase your chances. The train station may issue tickets one or two days before or after your desired date.

Can children get discounted train tickets?

Children’s discounted prices for train tickets are determined by their height. A child under 1.1m can travel for free without a separate berth but must sleep with their parents. However, only one free child is allowed per adult. For children taller than 1.1m but shorter than 1.5m, the ticket price is 100-160RMB lower than an adult’s and includes a separate sleeping berth. It is usually difficult to obtain this discounted price through a travel agency, as it is challenging to prove the child’s height without them being present. If you have children eligible for free tickets, make sure to inform the travel agency and specify your requirements.

Does the Train station provide a discounted price in the low season like airline companies?

The state railway company monopolizes the Tibet Train, not offering discounts due to the enormous effort put into its construction. The train is the highest railway in the world, crossing challenging terrains and extreme weather conditions. The absence of competition justifies the lack of reduced fares to maintain the train’s financial viability. However, the journey remains enchanting, showcasing the beauty of the Tibetan Plateau. The train also provides a glimpse into Tibetan culture and traditions, making it a unique experience. Despite the absence of discounts, the allure of the Tibet Train is undeniable, promising an unforgettable voyage.

Online Tibet Train Ticket booking through www.12306.cn

However, the website has no English version and more importantly, online payment is limited to a bank account in mainland China. During the peak season and even the offseason of Tibet tourism, it is difficult for foreign tourists to book train tickets.