How to Get To Nyingchi?
- by Beatrice
- Last Updated: 2025-02-05
Nyingchi means the “Throne of the Sun” in the Tibetan language. It is a prefecture located in southeastern Tibet with a stunning mountainous landscape, crystal clear waterways and a warm climate. Nyingchi is a popular attraction destination for tourists, who visit and explore different places such as the vast Lulang Forest, world's largest canyon - Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, turquoise Baumtso Lake, and magnificent Namjagbarwa Peak.

How to Get to Nyingchi?
The main ways to reach Nyingchi are by airplane, land or train.
By Flight
Nyingchi is the prefecture with the lowest altitude in Tibet, at 3,100 meters. So, if you are concerned about altitude adaptation, Nyingchi is the better choice rather than Lhasa.
It usually takes about 2 hours to fly to Nyingchi from Chengdu, so traveling to Nyingchi by plane will save you a lot of time. Also, it is very convenient to travel from Nyingchi Mainling Airport (2,949m) because the airport is only 50km away from downtown.
Presently, you can take direct flights to Nyingchi from some major Chinese cities such as Chengdu, Beijing, Chongqing, Xi'an, and Guangzhou. Chengdu has the highest number of daily flights to Nyingchi (3 daily flights). Other cities usually operate 2-3 flights per week, which may increase during the peak seasons. For travelers who want to board flights from Beijing or Shanghai to Nyingchi, there are available daily connecting flights with layovers in Chengdu or Chongqing.
By Land
Driving from Lhasa to Nyingchi is another popular way to get to Nyingchi. Besides, some travelers choose to travel overland from Chengdu or Kunming to Nyingchi.
Lhasa – Nyingchi
Traveling by land from Lhasa to Nyingchi is a 391 km journey that takes about 4.5 hours via the Lhasa-Nyingchi expressway, you will ride along the Niyang River, a tributary of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. After a few hours, you will arrive at Bayi Town (Nyingchi City). Many hotels are located in Bayi Town. You can book a hotel room and rest before you tour Nyingchi.

Chengdu - Nyingchi
Traveling by land from Chengdu to Nyingchi is an approx 1,600km journey that takes 7 days if you do sightseeing along the way. From Chengdu to Nyingchi along the G318 National Highway - Southern Line is a good choice. This route not only allows you to appreciate Nyingchi's peach blossoms but also enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way.
√ 12 Days Sichuan Tibet Highway Tour
Kunming - Nyingchi
Traveling by land from Kunming to Nyingchi is around 1,600km journey that takes 8 days if you do sightseeing along the way. From Kunming to Nyingchi along the G214 & G318 National Highways, you will get through the plateau all the way, see snow-capped mountains, great canyons, tranquil lakes, which is very suitable for those who like natural scenery and cultural heritage.
√ 12 Days Yunnan Tibet Overland Tour
By Train
Traveling by train from Lhasa to Nyingchi is a good experience. You can see the magnificent scenery of the plateau desert, the Yarlung Zangbo River, the Qhighland barley field, the snow mountain, the grassland, the forest, the alpine canyon, and the Tibetan village. The train supply of the train throughout the process allows you to maintain full spirit during the journey.
How to Get Around Nyingchi?
Nyingchi boasts breathtaking natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for in-depth exploration. Here are some recommended travel routes and attractions in and around Nyingchi.
Bayi Town – Basumtso Lake
Basumtso Lake is a lake with crystal-clear water, surrounded by beautiful and picturesque scenery. You can also trek around Xintso Lake there, along deep trails in the primeval forest, gazing at distant snow-capped mountains and mysterious lakes. Basumtso Lake is located about 130 km away from Northwest Bayi Town and it takes about 2 hours to get there. You need to take a car to travel between Bayi Town and Basumtso Lake. You also can get to Bsumtso Lake on the way from Lhasa to Nyingchi.

Bayi Town - Sejila Mountain Pass - Lulang Forest - Yanni National Wetland Park
Sejila Mountain Pass (elevation 4,728m) is one of the best spots to view Namcha Barwa Peak. Lulang Forest is known as "Swiss Alps of the East." Departing from Bayi Town, you will travel 50km along winding mountain roads to Sejila Mountain Pass, and then you will arrive at Lulang Forest in 10 minutes. On the way back to Bayi Town, you can visit Yani Wetland Park, where the Niyang River meets the Yarlung Tsangpo River. The landscape is a blend of lakes, meadows, and wetlands, creating a rich and tranquil ecosystem.
Mainling Airport – Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon and Namjagbarwa Peak
After arriving at Mainling Airport, you can enjoy the scenic Niyang River along the way. Then, visit the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world. The landscape here is magnificent, featuring dense primeval forests, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs. Finally, you will reach Suosong Village, known as the best spot to view Namcha Barwa Peak. If you're lucky, you may see the majestic Namcha Barwa Peak here. In spring, this village transforms into a paradise of peach blossoms. Suosong Village is 92km away from Bayi Town and it takes 2 hours to go there. Currently Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is not available for international tourists.
Bayi Town – Sejila Mountain Pass - Lulang Forest – Bomi – Ranwu Lake
Traveling along the National Highway 318 to Bomi and see Ranwu Lake is 350km journey, which takes 7 hours. In the morning, departing from Bayi Town, along the way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Niyang River and the lush Lulang Forest. In the afternoon, arrive at Ranwu Lake, where you can admire its crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking snow-capped mountains.

Travel Tips
- Nyingchi, with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, is an ideal destination for first-time visitors to Tibet. During your journey, there are 8 things you should know.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to travel to Linzhi is from March to April and September to October. These two periods correspond to spring and autumn, each offering its own unique charm.
- Necessary Documents: All international travelers require Tibet travel permit and Alien’s travel permit to enter Nyingchi. Please contact a local Tibet travel agency to prepare all the entry documents for you prior.
- Altitude Sickness: As Nyingchi is located on the plateau, you may experience altitude sickness, such as headaches or nausea. Be prepared in advance and bring necessary medication.
- Unpredictable Weather: There are significant temperature differences between day and night in Nyingchi. It is essential to bring enough warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold.
- Respecting local customs and religious beliefs: When visiting temples or monasteries, it is important to remain quiet and behave respectfully.
- Culinary Exploration: Don't miss out on Nyingchi's local delicacies! Try Tibetan tsampa, butter tea, and highland barley wine—each offering a unique taste experience.
- Explore Cultural and Historical Sites: Beyond its stunning natural landscapes, Nyingchi is home to Tibetan architecture and monasteries. Exploring these sites will deepen your understanding of the region’s history and culture, making your journey even more enriching.
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