How to Get to Lhaze County from Lhasa City (Chengguan District)

Distance & Transportation Options

The distance between Lhasa (拉萨) and Lhaze County (拉孜县) is approximately 437 kilometers, with an estimated driving time of 6-7 hours.

Main transportation options include self-driving, long-distance buses, trains (with transfers), and cycling (bicycle/motorcycle). There are currently no direct flights between Lhasa and Lhaze County.

Comparison of Transportation Methods

• Self-Driving: The route is well-established, taking either G318 National Road (G318国道) or Yayeh Expressway (雅叶高速), with toll fees on certain sections.

• Long-Distance Bus: Buses depart from Lhasa Bus Station (拉萨汽车站) with a ticket price between 60-80 CNY. The buses are typically mid-sized or Santana vehicles, and the schedules are not fixed, so it’s advisable to confirm in advance.

• Train: You can take a train from Lhasa to Shigatse (日喀则) and then transfer to a bus. There is no direct train to Lhaze County.

• Cycling: The G318 National Road is suitable for cycling but requires attention to high altitude and changing weather conditions.

Travel Guide

1. Self-Driving Route

Route: From Lhasa city center, take Yayeh Expressway (雅叶高速), then follow G318 National Road (G318国道) to Lhaze County. The total distance is about 437 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 6-7 hours.

Cost:

• Fuel costs: around 300 CNY

• Toll fees: approximately 37 CNY (with some sections being free of charge).

Navigation Tips:

• Follow the Shigatse Airport Expressway (日喀则机场高速), and be mindful of speed limits and toll areas.

2. Long-Distance Bus Schedule

Departure Point: Buses depart from Lhasa Bus Station (拉萨汽车站), located north of Potala Palace Square (布达拉宫广场北侧).

Ticket Price: 60-80 CNY. It is recommended to arrive early to confirm the schedule, as buses do not depart on a fixed timetable.

3. Train/High-Speed Rail

Transfer Plan:

• Take a train from Lhasa to Shigatse (Train C799, 2.5 hours), then transfer to a bus for Lhaze County (approximately 2 hours).

Ticket Price:

• Train seat: around 50 CNY for hard seat.

• Bus fare: additional cost to be paid at the bus station.

4. Cycling Guide

Bicycle/Motorcycle:

• The G318 National Road is suitable for cycling, but be prepared for the challenges of high-altitude travel (average altitude of 4500 meters). It is essential to carry necessary supplies and high-altitude gear. The entire journey may take 2-3 days.

Important Notes:

• Avoid the rainy season, and ensure you are prepared for both cold and hot weather conditions.

Summary

Self-driving and long-distance buses are the most popular options for traveling from Lhasa to Lhaze County. Train travel requires a transfer at Shigatse, and cycling is best suited for experienced travelers. Plan your trip according to the season and physical condition.

Driving Route from Lhasa to Lhaze County

Route: Lhasa → Yayeh Expressway → G318 National Road → Lhaze County

Total Distance: 437 kilometers

Estimated Time: 6-7 hours

Fuel Cost: 300 CNY

Toll Fees: 37 CNY (some sections are free of charge)

Detailed Route

Start: From Lhasa city center, head west and drive 420 meters, then turn right onto Chaoyang Road (朝阳路).

Continue on Chaoyang Road for 260 meters, then turn left onto Jinzhu East Road (金珠东路).

Drive 1.2 kilometers along Jinzhu East Road, then continue straight onto Jinzhu Middle Road (金珠中路).

Continue for 1.3 kilometers, heading towards the Lhasa Railway Station (火车站方向), and turn right onto Luding South Road (鲁定南路).

Drive 1.8 kilometers, then turn right onto Century Avenue (世纪大道).

Continue on Century Avenue for 2.9 kilometers, heading towards the Airport Expressway (机场高速).

Continue on Airport Expressway for 24.7 kilometers, then stay left.

Drive 12.6 kilometers along Airport Expressway, then turn right.

Continue for 120 meters, then turn right onto Lhasa River Bridge (拉萨河大桥).

Continue across the bridge for 1.6 kilometers, then stay left.

Drive 290 meters, then continue straight onto Hu-Nie Line (沪聂线).

Continue on Hu-Nie Line for 11.1 kilometers, then continue straight onto Yanhé Road (沿河路).

Drive for 2.9 kilometers, then continue straight onto Hu-Nie Line.

Continue on Hu-Nie Line for 60.2 kilometers, then stay left.

Continue for 42.2 kilometers, then stay right.

Continue for 9.5 kilometers, then turn right.

Drive for 44.5 kilometers, then turn left.

Drive 40.4 kilometers, then turn left onto G318 National Road.

Continue for 22.0 kilometers on G318, then continue straight onto Hu-Nie Line.

Continue for 51.5 kilometers along Hu-Nie Line, then stay right onto G318.

Continue along G318 for 3.6 kilometers, then continue straight onto Hu-Nie Line.

Continue on Hu-Nie Line for 77.1 kilometers, then turn left onto Jiadin Road (嘉定路).

Continue on Jiadin Road for 1.1 kilometers, and you will reach your destination on the right side of the road.

This guide provides a detailed overview of how to travel from Lhasa to Lhaze County, covering self-driving, buses, train connections, and even cycling. Whether you’re exploring the scenic beauty by road or opting for public transport, plan your journey to suit your preferences and the season.