Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is the important transport hub in the southwest of China, while, Shigatse is the second largest city in Tibet and the seat of the Panchen Lama. So, a flight between the two cities has been operated from 2011.
Tibet Airlines runs one direct flight to Shigatse, and the flying frequency is varied due to different seasons. One more flight may be available in high season from Air China Airlines.
The special note is you’ll need a Tibet Travel Permit issued by Tibet Tourism in Lhasa to board the flight from any city in China to Tibet. Please feel free to contact us for more information on the Tibet Travel Permit.
Flight No. | Airport & Time | Duration & Stopover | Frequency | Plane Model | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
TV9843 Tibet Airlines |
CTU(06:00)-RKZ(08:35) | 2h35m Nonstop |
Everyday | Airbus A319 |
Flight No. | Airport & Time | Duration & Stopover | Frequency | Plane Model | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
TV9844 Tibet Airlines |
RKZ(09:15)-CTU(11:30) | 2h15m Nonstop |
Everyday | Airbus A319 |
Please note:
1. Check-in counter will be closed 45 minutes before departure.
2. Due to the seasonal difference, the flight schedules above are for reference only, please contact us for the latest details.
Flight Type: Nonstop flights
Flying Distance: 948 miles (1526km)
Altitude Difference: 500m (Chengdu) - 3800m (Shigatse)
Airport Information: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) - Shigatse Peace Airport (RKZ)
Shigatse lies in the southwest of Lhasa. It is 250km drive from Lhasa via the friendship highway. Considering the weather, the best time to fly to Shigatse will be from April to June and September to October since July and August are the flood season and it is very cold from November to March. Besides, there is only 1 flight between Chengdu and Shigatse in the peak season and it does not run in the lower season.
Yes, this is a good option if you plan to visit Lhasa and Shigatse area but you are short of time. Instead of driving 250km back to Lhasa and take your flight, you can fly from Shigatse airport directly. This will save you one day time.
Shigatse airport is on the way from Shigatse to Lhasa. Driving along the national road 318, it takes about 40 minutes to get there. If you take a private Tibet tour, our driver and guide will send you off according to your flight time. Should you join in the group tour, we can drop off you in the airport and then drive other group members back to Lhasa.
To get on the flight from Chengdu to Lhasa, you only need to show your passport, China Visa and Tibet Permit which we send to you before you take the flight. If you only travel in Shigatse city area and visit Tashilumpo Monastery, New Palace of Panchen, etc., there is no other travel permit needed. But if you like forward to Sakya, the Everest Base Camp or other region of Shigatse, the Aliens' Travel Permit (PSB permit) is required. That will be handled by your guide after your arrival in Shigatse.
Since foreigners should take escorted tour in Tibet, getting from Shigatse to Lhasa you can either use the van arranged by travel agency or take the train. The train journey just takes about 3 hours while the driving needs 4 to 5 hours.