The Chongqing–Lhasa sleeper train Z223 departs Chongqing West Railway Station every other day at around 21:53–21:56, traverses approximately 3,030 km across Chongqing, Sichuan, Qinghai, and Tibet, and arrives in Lhasa at about 07:41 on the third morning after roughly 33 hours 45 minutes on board. Passengers choose between hard- and soft-sleeper berths, with fares near CNY 637.5 (USD 98) for hard sleepers and CNY 997.5 (USD 154) for soft sleepers. This journey not only offers spectacular plateau vistas—snow-draped mountains, turquoise lakes, rolling grasslands, and drifting prayer flags—but also allows gradual altitude acclimatization from ~200 m up to over 5,000 m at Tanggula Pass. Key travel documents include a valid passport, Chinese visa (or Group Visa when entering via Nepal), and the Tibet Travel Permit (original plus spare copies) for onboard checks.
Chongqing to Lhasa Train Schedule & Route
The Z223 service leaves Chongqing West Railway Station at 21:53 or 21:56 every other day, alternating with the Chengdu–Lhasa Z322 train. From departure to arrival in Lhasa, it takes 33 hours and 48 minutes. The return train Z224 departs at 19:00 and takes 35 hours and 19 minutes. Total distance covered is commonly quoted as 3,030 km, though some sources list up to 3,269 km depending on measurement methodology.
The train passes through major stations including Nanchong North, Guangyuan, Lanzhou, Xining, Delingha, Golmud, and Nagqu before descending into Lhasa. Station dwell times vary from 4 minutes (some smaller stops) to 28 minutes (at key junctions), allowing passengers to stretch legs and take early morning photos.
Train Accommodation and Fares from Chongqing to Lhasa
- Hard Sleeper: Six-berth open compartments with basic bunks; budget-friendly option. Approximately CNY 637.5 (USD 98).
- Soft Sleeper: Four-berth enclosed cabins offering privacy and extra comfort. Approximately CNY 997.5 (USD 154).
- Hard Seat: Not recommended for lengthy journeys due to limited reclining.
Scenic & Practical Benefits from Chongqing to Lhasa Train
Ascending from ~200 m in Chongqing to 3,650 m in Lhasa over 33+ hours helps mitigate acute mountain sickness compared to flying directly. Between Golmud and Lhasa, the train skirts high-altitude grasslands, crosses the Tanggula Pass at over 5,000 m, and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills and Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Nighttime departure maximizes daytime touring in Chongqing, and two nights on the train reduce hotel expenses and travel fatigue.
How to Get to Chongqing West Railway Station?
Chongqing West is located at No. 168 Fengzhong Road, Shapingba District, about 40 km from the airport, 20.9 km from North Station, and 15 km from Chongqing Railway Station.
Transfer Options
- From Jiangbei Airport:
- Subway (Line 10 → Line 4 → Loop): ~76 min, CNY 7.
- Airport Bus K06: ~70 min, CNY 20.
- Taxi: ~1.5 h, higher fare.
- From North Railway Station:
- Loop Line: ~53 min, CNY 5.
- High-speed intercity train: ~25 min, first class CNY 19.
- From Chongqing Station:
- Metro Line 1 → Line 5: ~42 min, CNY 4.
- Taxi: ~26 min, ~CNY 35.
Arrive at least one hour before departure to navigate the large station and complete security checks smoothly.
Ticketing & Permit Checklist from Chongqing to Lhasa Train
Ticket Purchase Methods
- Via Tour Agency (recommended): Provide passport copy ~15 days ahead; agency secures tickets and handles paperwork.
- Station Counter or Authorized Agent: Present original passport and Tibet Permit; tickets release 15–30 days in advance—sell-outs common if delayed.
- 12306 Official Website: Requires real-name registration and prior travel record or assistance from a local contact.
Required Documents
- Passport: Valid for at least six months.
- Chinese L-Visa (or China Group Visa if entering via Nepal).
- Tibet Travel Permit: Obtain 8–10 days before departure; carry original plus at least two copies for onboard checks.
Best Travel Seasons & Tips from Chongqing to Lhasa Train
- Optimal Months: May–June and September–October for stable weather and vivid skies.
- Avoid: July–August (monsoon landslides) and mid-winter (extreme cold, occasional route closures).
- Hydration & Rest: Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and get a full rest day in Lhasa before further travel.
- Altitude Medication: Consult a doctor about acetazolamide (Diamox) if prone to altitude sickness.
Experience the Every-Other-Day Chongqing–Lhasa Z223
Setting off aboard the Chongqing–Lhasa Z223 sleeper train transforms your Tibet bound trip into an immersive adventure—soaring through China’s mountain city nightscapes, hugging the Yangtze’s gorges, scaling the world’s highest railway, and unveiling the ethereal beauty of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Secure your passport, Chinese visa, and Tibet Travel Permit, choose your hard or soft sleeper, and arrive early at Chongqing West Railway Station to ensure a seamless departure. With Journey2Tibet’s expert guidance on permits, tickets, and tailored itineraries, you’ll not only reach the “Roof of the World” comfortably but also craft memories that last a lifetime.
