The journey from Nanjing to Lhasa connects one of China’s ancient capitals with Tibet’s spiritual heart, situated at an impressive altitude of 3,656 meters above sea level. Traveling between these two cities offers a unique opportunity to experience both the rich cultural heritage of eastern China and the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan plateau.
Flight Details for Nanjing Lhasa
Schedule and Routes
For travelers looking for the fastest way to reach Lhasa, flights are the best option. The primary flight choice is Tibet Airlines TV9830, which departs from Nanjing at 10:40 AM and arrives in Lhasa at 4:40 PM, including a 50-minute layover in Guangyuan. The total journey takes approximately 6 hours.
Alternative flight options include:
- Air China/West Airlines via Chongqing
- Eastern Airline/Sichuan Airlines via Mianyang
Most flights to Lhasa require at least one layover due to the high altitude and specific operational requirements of Lhasa Gongga Airport (LXA).
Key Information
- Air distance: Approximately 2,646 kilometers
- Average flight duration: 6 hours outbound, 5 hours 10 minutes on the return trip
- Typical fare: Around USD 472 for economy class
- Departure Airport: Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)
- Arrival Airport: Lhasa Gongga Airport (LXA)
Travel Considerations
Altitude Adjustment
One of the most crucial aspects of traveling to Lhasa is adjusting to the altitude. Nanjing, located at an elevation of 15 meters above sea level, is significantly lower than Lhasa’s 3,650 meters. Many travelers experience symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.
To minimize discomfort:
- Rest well before departure.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine before and after arrival.
- Consider taking altitude sickness medication, such as Acetazolamide (Diamox), under medical supervision.
Required Documents
To enter Tibet, all travelers need the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Chinese visa (for non-Chinese citizens)
- Tibet Travel Permit (issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and required for all foreign visitors)
The Tibet Travel Permit must be obtained through a registered travel agency and takes around 8 to 10 days to process.
Destination Highlights: Exploring Lhasa
Lhasa, known as the “Land of the Gods”, has been Tibet’s religious and administrative capital since the mid-17th century. As a city rich in Buddhist heritage, it features multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
Sacred Sites
Jokhang Temple
- Tibet’s most sacred temple
- A crucial pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists
- Houses the Jowo Rinpoche, a revered Buddha statue believed to be over 1,300 years old
Potala Palace
- Former winter residence of the Dalai Lama
- A striking example of Tibetan architecture, towering 117 meters above the Lhasa Valley
- Houses over 1,000 rooms, ancient murals, and Buddhist relics
Norbulingka
- Largest man-made garden in Tibet
- Spanning 36 hectares, it served as the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas
- Features beautiful pavilions, ponds, and lush greenery
Barkhor Street
The Barkhor area is the heart of Lhasa’s old town, known for its narrow streets filled with pilgrims, monks, and local vendors. Visitors can explore:
- Traditional Tibetan handicrafts
- Authentic Tibetan tea houses
- The ritual circumambulation path around Jokhang Temple
Best Ways to Travel from Nanjing to Lhasa
1. Flights
- One direct flight operates between Nanjing and Lhasa, with a layover in Dazhou or Guangyuan.
- Connecting flights are available via Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi’an, and Kunming.
- Tibet Airlines TV9830 departs at 10:40 AM and arrives at 4:40 PM, with a 50-minute layover in Guangyuan.
- The return flight is shorter at approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes.
2. Train
- A daily train operates from Shanghai to Lhasa, passing through Nanjing.
- Covers a distance of 4,373 kilometers in 44 hours and 30 minutes.
- Offers an immersive travel experience through China’s diverse landscapes.
- The gradual ascent helps travelers adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of sickness.
3. Plane and Train Combination
For those who want a balance between convenience and scenic travel:
- Fly from Shanghai to Xining (a city at 2,275 meters altitude)
- Take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway from Xining to Lhasa (21-hour journey)
- This allows for better altitude acclimatization and a chance to explore Xining
Train vs. Flight: Which is Better?
| Aspect | Flights | Train |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 6-8 hours | 44+ hours |
| Convenience | Faster, but layovers required | Direct, but long travel time |
| Cost | More expensive | More affordable |
| Scenery | Limited | Spectacular views of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau |
| Altitude Adjustment | Sudden change | Gradual, reducing altitude sickness risk |
Transportation Hubs in Nanjing
1. Nanjing Railway Station
- Located near Xuanwu Lake.
- A major transportation hub for regional and long-distance trains.
- Metro Lines 1 and 3 provide easy access.
- Features 15 platforms and 28 tracks.
2. Nanjing South Railway Station
- Located in Yuhuatai District.
- Largest high-speed railway station in Asia.
- Connected by Metro Lines 1, 3, S1, and S3.
3. Nanjing Lukou International Airport
- Located 35 km from the city center.
- Serves both domestic and international flights.
- Metro Line S1 connects it to downtown Nanjing.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Nanjing to Lhasa is an extraordinary journey that blends modern convenience with cultural adventure. Whether by plane or train, each route offers a unique experience. While flights are the quickest, the train ride provides an opportunity to witness China’s breathtaking landscapes and gradually acclimate to Lhasa’s high altitude.
Before planning your trip, ensure you have all the necessary permits and take precautions for altitude sickness. Whichever way you choose to travel, the journey from Nanjing to Lhasa promises an unforgettable experience, bridging two distinct yet deeply historic regions of China.