How to Get to Sagya County from Shigatse City (Samzhubze District)

Distance & Transportation Options

The distance between Shigatse (日喀则) and Sagya County (萨迦县) is approximately 156 kilometers, with a driving time of around 2 hours 42 minutes. The estimated fuel cost is about 62 CNY, with no toll fees.

Main transportation options include self-driving, long-distance buses, and chartered vehicles. There are currently no direct flights or trains to Sagya County.

Comparison of Transportation Methods

  • Self-Driving: A flexible option with a well-established route, mainly along G318 National Road (G318国道), passing through Lhatse County (拉孜县) and Angren County (昂仁县).

  • Long-Distance Bus: Buses operate daily, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours, and the fare is 27 CNY.

  • Chartered Vehicles: Private car or shared van options are available with varying costs depending on the vehicle type.

  • Cycling: The G318 and G349 National Roads (G349国道) are suitable for cycling, though high altitude and road conditions should be considered.

Travel Guide

1. Self-Driving Route

Route:

Starting from Shigatse city, drive along Qingdao East Road (青岛东路), then onto Qingdao West Road (青岛西路), Shandong North Road (山东北路), Mount Everest West Road (珠峰西路), Jijilangka Road (几吉郎卡路), Hu-Nie Line (沪聂线, G318), Sachu Line (萨初线), and finally, Deji Middle Road (德吉中路) to reach Sagya County. The total driving distance is approximately 156 kilometers.

Road Conditions: The majority of the route consists of asphalt roads, but there are a few bridges with vehicle restrictions, such as Pingcuolin Bridge (平措林大桥), which only allows small vehicles to pass.

Fuel Costs: Approximately 62 CNY, with no toll charges.

Important Notes:

  • Make sure to fill up on fuel before departing, as there are fuel stations in Shigatse and Lhatse.

  • The altitude in this region is generally above 4600 meters, so it’s advisable to carry oxygen tanks and cold-weather gear.

  • Be mindful of the weather conditions and road conditions, particularly in high-altitude areas.

2. Long-Distance Bus Schedule

Departure Point: Buses leave from Shigatse Bus Station (日喀则汽车总站) between 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM daily.

Ticket Price: The fare is approximately 27 CNY.

Journey Duration: The bus ride takes about 5 hours.

Return Bus: The return bus leaves Sagya Town (萨迦镇) the following day, and you can board it in front of the Sagya Guesthouse (萨迦镇招待所).

Other Options: You can also share a ride or hire a private vehicle (such as a minivan), with prices varying based on the vehicle type.

3. Train/High-Speed Rail and Cycling

Train: There is no direct train to Sagya County. You will need to take a train from Shigatse to Lhasa, then transfer to a bus to Sagya. The train ride from Shigatse to Lhasa takes about 2.5 hours, and costs around 64 CNY.

Cycling:

  • The G318 and G349 National Roads are suitable for cycling. However, due to the high altitude and road conditions, cycling in this area requires careful planning and preparation.

  • It is highly recommended to carry extra supplies, such as food and water, and to consider the effects of altitude sickness.

Summary

Self-driving is the most flexible option, while long-distance buses are an affordable choice for most travelers. Cycling is suitable for experienced travelers, but it’s crucial to assess your fitness and the weather conditions. Train travel requires a transfer at Lhasa, and a bus is necessary to reach Sagya County.

Driving Route from Shigatse to Sagya County

Route: Shigatse → Qingdao East Road (青岛东路) → Qingdao West Road (青岛西路) → Shandong North Road (山东北路) → Mount Everest West Road (珠峰西路) → Jijilangka Road (几吉郎卡路) → Hu-Nie Line (沪聂线, G318) → Sachu Line (萨初线) → Deji Middle Road (德吉中路) → Sagya County

Total Distance: 156 kilometers

Estimated Time: 2 hours 42 minutes

Fuel Costs: 62 CNY

Toll Fees: None

Detailed Route

Start: From Shigatse city, head south and drive 10 meters, then turn right onto Qingdao East Road (青岛东路).

Continue on Qingdao East Road for 380 meters, then continue straight onto Qingdao West Road (青岛西路).

Drive 220 meters along Qingdao West Road, then turn left onto Shandong North Road (山东北路).

Continue for 590 meters, then turn right onto Mount Everest West Road (珠峰西路).

Drive 720 meters along Mount Everest West Road, then turn right onto Jijilangka Road (几吉郎卡路).

Continue for 2.5 kilometers on Jijilangka Road, then continue straight onto Hu-Nie Line (沪聂线).

Drive 11.1 kilometers, then turn right onto Sachu Line (萨初线).

Continue for 20 kilometers on Sachu Line, then turn right.

Drive 1.4 kilometers, then turn left onto Deji Middle Road (德吉中路).

Continue on Deji Middle Road for 3.7 kilometers to your destination on the left side of the road.

This guide provides a comprehensive route for traveling from Shigatse to Sagya County, covering key travel options, road conditions, and travel times. Whether driving yourself, taking a bus, or cycling, be sure to plan according to the season and weather for a smooth journey.