Lhasa to Qamdo Transportation

Chamdo, officially Qamdo, and known in Chinese as Changdu, is a prefecture-level city in the eastern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, China. Its seat is the town of Chengguan in Karuo District. Chamdo is Tibet’s third largest city after Lhasa and Shigatse.

Qamdo (also spelled Chamdo) is a major city located in eastern Tibet, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It is an important gateway to Tibet from the eastern part of China. Traveling from Lhasa to Qamdo, which is about 1,000 kilometers away, can be done through a variety of transportation options, including long-distance buses, private cars, and flights.

1. By Long-Distance Bus

Overview:

Long-distance buses are a common and affordable way to travel from Lhasa to Qamdo. The bus journey takes you through some stunning Tibetan landscapes, offering an authentic travel experience. However, it’s important to be prepared for long travel times and possible road conditions that may affect the journey. There are only one long distance coach running from Lhasa Coach Station to Qamdu every five days. It costs CNY280.Lhasa Coach Station
Add: No.1 Minzu Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa
Tel: 0891-6831812

Route:

  • The distance between Lhasa and Qamdo is approximately 1,000 km.
  • Travel time can vary between 18 to 22 hours, depending on weather and road conditions.

Departure Points:

  • Long-distance buses from Lhasa to Qamdo typically depart from the Lhasa Bus Station (拉萨客运站) or Lhasa Liuwu Bus Station (拉萨刘五客运站).

Popular Routes:

  • Lhasa to Qamdo: Direct buses are available, which take you through various scenic spots in eastern Tibet. The route passes through places like Nyingchi, Bayi, and Bomi before reaching Qamdo.

Tickets and Booking:

  • Tickets for buses to Qamdo can be purchased at the bus stations or via local travel agencies.
  • It is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons (May to September).

Facilities:

  • Basic amenities are available on the buses, including air conditioning, but the ride can be long and uncomfortable.
  • Snacks and drinks may not be available on the bus, so it’s recommended to bring your own.

2. By Private Car or Taxi

Overview:

For a more comfortable and flexible option, you can hire a private car or taxi to travel from Lhasa to Qamdo. This method allows for a more personalized experience, as you can choose the departure time and make stops along the way.

Travel Time:

  • The journey by car from Lhasa to Qamdo typically takes about 16 to 18 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

Route:

  • The route from Lhasa to Qamdo generally follows the National Highway 318 (G318). The drive offers stunning views of Tibetan plateaus, valleys, and rivers, and takes you through small towns like Bayi, Nyingchi, and Bomi.

Cost:

  • Hiring a private car can be expensive, with prices ranging depending on the type of vehicle and whether you hire a driver or not.
  • It is advisable to agree on the price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

Pros:

  • Comfort and flexibility
  • Ability to stop and explore scenic spots along the way
  • Faster than taking a bus

Cons:

  • Higher cost than taking a bus
  • Requires a driver, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local roads

3. By Air (Lhasa to Qamdo Airport)

Overview:

The quickest way to travel from Lhasa to Qamdo is by flight. Qamdo Bangda Airport (昌都邦达机场) is the nearest airport to Qamdo, located about 80 kilometers from the city center.nThere are 3 flights departing from Lhasa to Qamdo. It costs  CNY 1510 for Economy Class Seat with 1 hours and 20 minutes journey. If you want to know more information about flight schedules and booking, please transfer to Lhasa-Qamdo Flights.

Flight Details:

  • Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
  • Airlines: Flights between Lhasa and Qamdo are operated by various Chinese airlines, including Tibet Airlines.
  • Frequency: Flights are not daily, so it’s important to check availability and book tickets in advance.

Departure Point:

  • Flights depart from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (拉萨贡嘎机场).

Airport to Qamdo City Center:

  • After arriving at Qamdo Bangda Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a transfer to the city center, which takes approximately 1-1.5 hours by car.

Cost:

  • Flights tend to be more expensive than bus travel, with prices ranging from CNY 500 to 1,500, depending on the airline and booking time.

4. By Train (via Nyingchi)

Overview:

Though there is no direct train from Lhasa to Qamdo, you can take a train from Lhasa to Nyingchi (the closest major station to Qamdo) and then continue your journey by bus or private car.

Route:

  • Lhasa to Nyingchi: The train journey between Lhasa and Nyingchi takes about 5–6 hours.
  • Nyingchi to Qamdo: After reaching Nyingchi, you will need to take a bus or private car to cover the remaining distance to Qamdo (around 300-400 km, approximately 7–9 hours by road).

Pros:

  • Scenic train route, especially on the Lhasa to Nyingchi leg
  • Comfortable train ride

Cons:

  • Additional travel time compared to direct buses or flights
  • Requires transfer from Nyingchi to Qamdo

Tips

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

Traveling from Lhasa to Qamdo offers a variety of options depending on your preferences for time, comfort, and budget. For those on a tight schedule, flying is the fastest and most efficient option. If you’re looking for an affordable yet adventurous option, long-distance buses provide a direct route with a chance to experience the Tibetan landscape. Hiring a private car offers flexibility and comfort, though it comes at a higher cost. Lastly, the train and bus combination via Nyingchi is a scenic but longer alternative. Regardless of your choice, each option will give you a unique perspective of Tibet’s stunning and diverse landscapes.