How to Travel from Yunnan to Tibet: Flights and Train Options

Direct Flights from Kunming to Lhasa

Kunming, Yunnan’s capital, is one of the key departure points for direct flights to Tibet. Kunming Changshui International Airport offers eight daily direct flights to Lhasa Gonggar International Airport. These flights are operated by major airlines such as China Southern Airlines, Tibet Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, and Air China.

Tip: If you’re traveling to Yunnan from other cities, you can easily transfer in Kunming to catch a flight to Lhasa. It’s recommended to plan ahead and book your tickets early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Taking the Scenic Train from Kunming to Lhasa

Another scenic option is traveling by train from Kunming to Lhasa. The journey offers breathtaking views as the train crosses snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands. While the high-speed rail connecting Kunming to Lhasa is set to be completed in 2021, there are already two existing train routes (Z322 and Z324) from Kunming Railway Station to Lhasa. These routes pass through beautiful destinations such as Dali, Zhaotong, Liangshan, and Chengdu before arriving at Lhasa Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you enjoy train travel, this option allows you to experience the stunning landscapes of Yunnan and Tibet at a leisurely pace.

Key Points to Remember:

• Book flights in advance for convenience.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kunming-Lhasa train ride.
• The new high-speed rail will make travel even more accessible now.

Kunming, known as the “Spring City” due to its year-round mild climate, offers a variety of incredible places to visit, and it serves as an excellent gateway to travel to Tibet.

Best Places to Visit in Kunming:

1. Dianchi Lake: One of the largest freshwater lakes in China, Dianchi Lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. A perfect spot for nature lovers, the area has walking trails, boat rides, and the nearby Western Hills, which provide scenic vistas over the lake.
2. Stone Forest (Shilin National Park): A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Stone Forest features limestone formations that have been shaped by natural forces over millions of years. It’s a must-visit for its otherworldly landscape, rich local culture, and fascinating folklore.
3. Yuantong Temple: As one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Kunming, Yuantong Temple boasts beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It’s a peaceful place for reflection and a great spot to experience the spiritual side of the city.
4. Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park): This vibrant city park is known for its beautiful lotus ponds, willow trees, and colorful fish. It’s a popular place for locals to gather, making it an excellent place to experience local culture, join in traditional dance, or enjoy a quiet afternoon walk.
5. Dongchuan Red Land: Located just outside of Kunming, the Dongchuan Red Land is famous for its striking red soil and terraced fields. Best visited during sunrise or sunset, the views are extraordinary, making it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Why Travel to Tibet from Kunming?

1. Convenient Travel Routes: Kunming is well-connected to Lhasa and other regions of Tibet via flights and train services. The train route from Kunming to Lhasa offers a gradual ascent, which helps travelers acclimatize to the altitude of the Tibetan Plateau, making the journey more comfortable.
2. Cultural and Historical Connection: Both Kunming and Tibet share ancient cultural and trade ties through the Southern Silk Road. By starting your trip in Kunming, you can explore the blend of Han Chinese and Tibetan cultures, providing a rich prelude to your Tibetan adventure.
3. Natural Diversity: Kunming’s diverse landscapes—from its temperate climate and green hills to Tibet’s high-altitude mountains and lakes—make for an exceptional travel experience. You can transition from the “Spring City” to the awe-inspiring vistas of Tibet, including places like Mount Everest and Yamdrok Lake.
4. Cost-Effective Option: Compared to other major cities in China, Kunming offers a cost-effective travel experience with affordable flight or train options to Tibet. It’s also known for lower accommodation and food prices, making it a great starting point for travelers on a budget.
5. Preparation for Tibetan Plateau: The relatively high altitude of Kunming (around 2,000 meters) can help travelers gradually adjust before ascending to the higher elevations of Tibet. Starting from Kunming gives you the chance to acclimatize before heading to Lhasa, which sits at over 3,600 meters above sea level.

In summary, visiting Kunming allows you to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the city while offering a strategic starting point for an epic journey to Tibet. Whether you’re drawn by convenience, culture, or acclimatization benefits, traveling to Tibet from Kunming makes for a well-rounded and immersive travel experience.