How far is it from Lhasa to Xining?
The distance from Lhasa to Xining is a hot topic that many self-driving enthusiasts and travelers pay attention to. With the arrival of the summer tourist season, transportation routes on the Tibetan Plateau have once again become a hot topic of discussion. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the distance from Lhasa to Xining, route options and scenic highlights along the way.
1. Distance from Lhasa to Xining
The straight-line distance from Lhasa to Xining is about 1,000 kilometers, but the actual driving distance will vary depending on the route chosen. Here are detailed data for three common routes:
| route | Via major cities | Total mileage (km) | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qinghai-Tibet Line (G109) | Naqu, Golmud | 1950 | 30-35 hours |
| Sichuan-Tibet Line + Qinghai-Tibet Line | Linzhi, Qamdo, Yushu | 2200 | 40-45 hours |
| Direct flight | None | 1000 (straight line) | 2 hours |
2. Highlights of scenery along the way
Travelers who choose land transportation can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Tibetan Plateau. The following are scenic spots not to be missed along the way:
| Attraction name | location | Features | Best viewing season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Namtso | North of Lhasa | One of the three holy lakes in Tibet | May-September |
| Hoh Xil | Central Qinghai-Tibet Line | wildlife sanctuary | June-August |
| Qinghai Lake | Near Xining | China's largest saltwater lake | July-August |
3. Travel precautions
1.Prevention of altitude sickness: Lhasa is 3,650 meters above sea level, Xining is 2,275 meters above sea level, and the Tanggula Pass, the highest point along the way, is 5,231 meters above sea level. It is necessary to adapt to the plateau in advance.
2.vehicle preparation: When traveling by car, make sure the vehicle is in good condition, especially the brake system and tires. It is recommended to carry a spare fuel tank and snow chains.
3.weather changes: The weather on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is changeable. July-August is the rainy season, so you need to pay attention to the real-time weather forecast.
4.Document preparation: A border defense permit is required to enter some areas of Tibet, and it is recommended to apply for it in advance.
4. Comparison of transportation modes
| Transportation | Advantages | Disadvantages | Suitable for the crowd |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self drive | High degree of freedom, you can park at any time | It takes longer and the risk is higher | Experienced self-driving enthusiasts |
| long distance bus | Affordable | Less comfortable | Travelers on a budget |
| airplane | Quick and convenient | Miss the scenery along the way | Business people who are pressed for time |
5. Latest traffic information (last 10 days)
According to the latest information released by the transportation department:
1. The Qinghai-Tibet Line G109 Nagqu to Golmud section is undergoing partial maintenance. The construction period is expected to last until the end of July, and daily traffic hours are limited.
2. Some sections of National Highway 318 on the Sichuan-Tibet Line suffered minor landslides due to rainfall and have been cleared, but it is recommended to drive with caution.
3. Train Z6801 from Xining to Lhasa is running normally, and ticket supply is tight. It is recommended to book in advance.
4. Lhasa Gonggar Airport has added a new direct flight to Xining, departing at 14:30 every day.
6. Travel Advice
1. Best travel time: June to September is the golden tourism season on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with suitable temperatures and high oxygen content.
2. Itinerary planning: It is recommended to divide the entire trip into 4-5 days, with no more than 8 hours of driving per day, leaving sufficient time to adapt to the plateau environment and appreciate the scenery.
3. Accommodation options: Major towns along the way, such as Nagqu and Golmud, have better accommodation conditions, but reservations are required in advance during peak seasons.
4. Photography equipment: The light on the plateau is strong, so it is recommended to bring a polarizer and a gradient gray filter. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography.
No matter which way you choose from Lhasa to Xining, this journey will become an unforgettable memory for you. Plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy the majestic scenery of the Tibetan Plateau!
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