How to Get to Burang County from Lhasa

This article introduces the transportation between Burang County and Lhasa. Burang County is called Purang in Tibetan, and the county capital is also known as Burang or Purang in Tibetan and Taklakot in Nepali. It is an administrative division of Ngari Prefecture in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Burang County (普兰县) is located in Ngari Prefecture in western Tibet, near the borders of Nepal, India, and China. It is one of the most remote and spiritually significant areas in Tibet, known for its proximity to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, both sacred sites for Tibetan Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains.

Getting to Burang County from Lhasa requires a bit of planning due to the remote location and challenging terrain. Below are the various ways to reach Burang County from Lhasa:

1. By Road (Driving)

Traveling by road is the most common and practical way to get to Burang County from Lhasa, though it is a long journey that requires multiple days of travel. The road trip takes you through Shigatse, Saga, and Ali (Ngari) before reaching Burang County.

Route Overview:

  • Distance: Approximately 1,500 km (930 miles) from Lhasa to Burang County.
  • Travel Duration: The journey by road typically takes around 4-6 days depending on weather, road conditions, and the number of stops made for sightseeing and acclimatization.

Recommended Route:

  • Lhasa → Shigatse → Lhatse → Saga → Ali (Ngari) → Burang County

Key Stops Along the Way:

  • Shigatse: The second-largest city in Tibet, which you will pass through. You can visit Tashilhunpo Monastery here.
  • Saga: A key stop before reaching Ali. Saga is a good place for a rest and to acclimatize to the high altitudes.
  • Ali (Ngari): The regional capital of Ngari Prefecture. It is a remote but important center for the Tibetan people and offers some basic amenities for travelers.

Road Conditions:

  • The route is generally paved, but some parts, especially in remote areas, may be rough. During certain seasons, roads can be difficult to navigate due to snow or rain. The altitude will also affect travel, so acclimatization is essential.
  • Some stretches of the road pass over high-altitude mountain passes, and it is important to take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.

Travel Tips for Road Trip:

  • Acclimatization: The journey takes you through high-altitude regions, so it’s crucial to allow time for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Fuel and Supplies: Gas stations are sparse along the route, so it’s essential to fill up whenever possible. You should also carry extra water, food, and medical supplies.
  • Travel Permits: To travel in Burang County, a Tibet Travel Permit is required, as well as special permits to visit sacred sites like Mount Kailash. These permits can be arranged by a travel agency or tour operator.

2. By Bus (Group Tour)

For those traveling with a group tour, buses are available that can take you from Lhasa to Burang County. Many Tibet tour operators offer group travel packages that include transportation, accommodation, and a guide to help you explore this remote region.

Bus Tour Details:

  • Duration: The bus journey can take 5-7 days depending on the itinerary and road conditions.
  • Itinerary: The group tours typically follow a similar route: Lhasa → Shigatse → Saga → Ali → Burang County. These tours often include stops at Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar as part of the package.
  • Accommodation: Accommodation along the way is basic but sufficient for travelers, especially in larger towns like Shigatse, Saga, and Ali.

There are some coaches departing from Lhasa Beijiao Coach Station to Burang. It costs about CNY 602.

Lhasa Beijiao Coach Station
Add: Chengguan Diatrict, Lhasa
Tel: 0891-6922104

Tips

  • The above information is for reference, if any change is based on actual information.
  • If you wan to rent private car please contact us. Email: contact@MysteriousTibet.com; Tel: +86-871-63511469.

3. By Private Car or Jeep

For a more personalized and comfortable experience, you can rent a private car or jeep from Lhasa. This offers flexibility, allowing you to stop at various scenic spots along the route, spend more time at key locations, and travel at your own pace. There is no direct bus to get to Burang County from Lhasa. You can chose to get there by private car rental. The whole distance is about 1264 km. It is a long way to go. You might spend 29 hours for driving.

Rental Options:

  • Private jeeps or 4×4 vehicles are commonly used for this journey, as they can handle the rougher terrains.
  • You can arrange for a driver and guide through a tour agency in Lhasa, and they will take care of the road conditions, permits, and accommodation along the way.

Travel Duration:

  • The journey typically takes 4-6 days to reach Burang, depending on the specific stops you choose and the route you take.

4. By Train and Road Combination

There is no direct train from Lhasa to Burang County, but you can combine the train and road to cover the journey:

1. Lhasa to Shigatse by Train:

  • Distance: Approximately 260 km (160 miles).
  • The Lhasa–Shigatse Railway is an easy, comfortable, and scenic way to travel from Lhasa to Shigatse.
  • Duration: About 4-5 hours by train.

2. Shigatse to Burang by Road:

  • After arriving in Shigatse, you will need to travel by road to reach Burang. This portion of the journey will take around 3-4 days.

5. Best Time to Travel to Burang County

The best time to travel to Burang County is from May to October, when the weather is relatively warmer and the roads are more passable. Winter (November to March) brings harsh weather conditions with snow and freezing temperatures, making travel difficult.

  • Summer (June to August): Best for a comfortable journey with more moderate temperatures, though it can be crowded due to peak tourist season.
  • Autumn (September to October): Also a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and clear skies, making it a good time for sightseeing.

Travel Tips:

  1. Altitude Sickness: Burang County and the surrounding areas are at high altitudes, and the journey involves crossing high passes. Take necessary precautions, acclimatize, and avoid overexerting yourself.
  2. Travel Permits: You will need a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Burang County. If you plan to visit Mount Kailash or Lake Manasarovar, you’ll need additional permits that your tour agency can help arrange.
  3. Bring Warm Clothing: Even in the summer, temperatures can drop, especially at night. Pack warm clothes, as well as plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
  4. Respect Local Customs: Burang is a spiritual region, especially around Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. Be respectful of local religious practices and customs.

Traveling from Lhasa to Burang County is an exciting adventure through Tibet’s remote and majestic landscapes. Whether you travel by private car, bus, or a combination of train and road, you’ll experience some of the most stunning scenery and sacred sites in Tibet, including Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. Prepare for high altitudes, difficult terrain, and spiritual landmarks, and ensure that your journey is well-planned for a safe and rewarding experience.