Chengdu City, China Travel - Best 1 Gateway Lhasa Tibet Tour

China Tour Chengdu City - The Gateway to Lhasa, Tibet Tour

Chengdu City, China Travel - Best 1 Gateway Lhasa Tibet Tour! Chengdu is among China's most beautiful cities. It has a pace that's not too fast nor too slow, making it an ideal destination for travel within China. Additionally, it serves as an important hub for travelers planning a trip to Tibet, acting as a bridge between Lhasa and other regions.

Travel to Chengdu only needs a China visa. Travelers with a 30-day visa exemption can visit and stay up to 30 days. Chengdu is a welcoming city with friendly, laid-back locals. The green tea is very healthy, making it ideal for locals to enjoy a leisurely day. The article Photo: Chengdu Tai Koo Li near Chunxi Road. We welcome you to travel to China!

About 80 percent of travelers heading to Tibet spend a night in Chengdu to acclimate to the altitude and collect their Tibet travel permit, since taking a flight to Tibet from cities in China requires the original Tibet travel permit to board the plane. Certainly, Chengdu should be at the top of your China travel list of places to visit before heading to Tibet. With so many flights from Chengdu to Lhasa that only take two hours, it's an ideal stopover location during China travel. Also, Chengdu is so rich in culture that this article is just the beginning of our recommendations for exploring Chengdu in China travel adventures.

China travel: Chengdu's altitude is about 500 meters, while Lhasa stands at 3,650 meters. If travelers need help with their trip in Chengdu, contact us. Whether you've booked a China travel Chengdu tour through us or not, we're here to assist. Tibet Travelers Manager Tenzin has spent several years in Chengdu assisting with delivering the Tibet travel permits to hotels in Chengdu or Chengdu airport for connecting flights to Tibet, even on the same day, whether for international or domestic flights arriving in Chengdu that connect to Lhasa, ensuring smooth travel. Let's explore more!

Photo: Travelers from Europe to Tibet in August 2025 visited Chengdu Tai Koo Li.

1. Chengdu to Lhasa Flight Tickets

Regarding air China travel, the full fare from Chengdu to Lhasa is approximately 3000 RMB, although travelers often discover discounts ranging from 1000 to 1700 RMB. We also assist in acquiring discounted flight tickets for our Tibet travel clients traveling from Chengdu to Lhasa.

2. Chengdu 2 airports: Shuangliu and Tianfu

Shuangliu Airport is closer to the city, roughly 19 km away, and a 32-minute drive. To get to the city from Shuangliu airport, take subway line 10, after five stations, and arrive at Tai Ping Yuan station. From there, transfer to line 3, which is just 2 meters away, and travel through seven stations until you reach Chunxi Road station at the C gate exit. This will bring you to Chengdu's city center, near Chunxi Road and Tai Koo Li, with a total travel time of approximately 50 minutes from A Map. 

Tainfu Airport is very large. From the aircraft to the international arrival gate at Terminal 1, it takes about 10-15 minutes. Terminal two is designated for domestic flights. Tainfu Airport is approximately 65 km from the city and about a 55-minute drive via highway. To reach the city, take subway line 18, traveling ten stations to Huoche Nan station. From there, transfer to line 1, which is only 158 meters away, and ride through six stations to Tianfu Square. Switch to line 2, which is 110 meters away, and after one station, arrive at Chunxi Road station at the C gate exit. This route takes you to Chengdu's city center near Chunxi Road and Tai Koo Li, with a total travel time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from A Map.

Hotel near Chengdu Tianfu Airport, specifically at the 天府空港悦享酒店 (Joyhub Cheer Hotel), situated right at the airport. I took a nearly 1 hour and 30 minutes metro ride from central Chengdu to Tianfu airport, changing trains on lines 1 and 18, which connect to Tianfu airport. 

China Travel Telecom Office at Tianfu Airport

The China Travel Telecom office, located approximately 30 meters from the terminal on the right side near the currency exchange counter.  There are three options available for obtaining a SIM card at the China Telecom office: a 7-day, 15-day, and 30-day plan. The three different durations offer approximately 20, 30, and 60 GB of internet data, respectively. The cost ranges from approximately 10 to 30 USD and can be paid exclusively in Chinese RMB. 

Power Banks Triple CCC for flights

It was noted that power bank battery chargers are not permitted onboard the plane. The only power banks allowed are the triple CCC-rated 100W-2000W devices. Accordingly, we advise travelers not to bring large power bank batteries, as they must be left at the airport or mailed to Lhasa, a process that takes approximately 4-7 days. Therefore, we recommend refraining from bringing power banks on the China trip, given the reliable electricity supply available in Tibet. All hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer complimentary charging facilities with your charger. Additionally, travelers may purchase a power bank in Lhasa for approximately 10 USD. We are available to assist.

3. Chengdu to Lhasa Train Tickets

There are three train stations in Chengdu: Chengdu Dong Zhan (East Station), Chengdu Xi Zhan (West Station), and Chengdu Nan Zhan (South Station). Trains to Lhasa from Chengdu depart from Chengdu Dong Zhan and Chengdu Xi Zhan, the East and West stations. Train tickets are usually sold approximately 15 days before departure.  The train journey lasts approximately 34 hours. A soft sleeper ticket costs approximately 1200 RMB, while a hard sleeper is around 800 RMB. We levy service fees to facilitate these bookings for our clients during the China travel.

Today's article highlights the top attractions in Chengdu, places to stay, and good spots for food.

4. Panda Base Chengdu

There are two entrances to access the Panda Base: the South Gate and the West Gate. The West Gate is situated nearer to the Bolinghui Hotel and the city center. Ticket prices are 55 RMB at the West Gate and 50 RMB at the South Gate. During holidays, booking of tickets is required; on regular days, visitors may purchase tickets upon arrival by presenting a copy of their passport. 

Photo: August 7, 2025 - Panda Base view from West Gate, Chengdu, China Tour.

Pandas are the national symbol of China, and great care is taken to protect and nurture them. Their cuteness is truly astonishing, and at ages of around 3 to 4 years, pandas are comparable to teenagers of about 17 to 18 years in human years. Since pandas prefer solitude, most of them have their own spacious, air-conditioned enclosures. During our visit, we had the opportunity to see approximately 12 pandas, each with their unique personality.

A key attraction in China travel to Chengdu is the Panda Base, open from around 7:30 am to 5:00 pm. The entrance fee is 55RMB per person, with an optional vehicle service available for 30 RMB per person. The drive from Tainfu Airport to Panda Base takes about 1 hour and covers 69 kilometers. The taxi fare, including road fees, will be approximately 150-250 RMB. The drive from Shuangliu Airport to Panda Base takes about 1 hour and covers 34 kilometers. The taxi fare, including road fees, will be approximately 70-150 RMB.  Earlier, we also wrote an article about a Panda volunteering day trip in Chengdu, China Travel.

The Chengdu Panda Base is conveniently located approximately 3 kilometers from the Bolinghui hotel, making it easily accessible for our group. We traveled there comfortably via our China Tour Bus. During the summer months, when temperatures soar above 35°C, the pandas are typically kept indoors in climate-controlled rooms to ensure their comfort. Only when the weather cools below 26°C do the pandas venture outdoors, allowing visitors to observe these adorable creatures in their natural environment.

Near the western gate's exit, travelers can relax and enjoy tea at Panda Coffee, along with some noodles and rice for lunch at nearby restaurants.

5. Leshan Giant Buddha

Carved into the cliffs of Lingyun Mountain in Sichuan, China, the Leshan Giant Buddha is the world’s largest stone Buddha statue. Standing 71 meters (233 feet) tall, this majestic statue of Maitreya Buddha was constructed during the Tang Dynasty (713–803 AD) to mitigate the turbulent waters of the converging Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers.

A new scenic pathway now allows visitors to hike down to the base of the Leshan Giant Buddha's feet, a trek that takes roughly 30 minutes downward and about 1 to 2 hours to return up. Some travelers chose to descend and take photos at the foot of the statue, while others preferred to stay at the top to enjoy the breathtaking views of the three rivers converging near Leshan. Many visitors also take time to relax near the Leshan Giant Buddha temple, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Meticulously crafted with intricate details, the Buddha’s serene expression and imposing stature attract millions of visitors. Its drainage system, concealed within the hair and robes, has ensured its preservation for over 1,200 years. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the statue epitomizes ancient Chinese artistry and spiritual devotion.

The China travel adventure from Chengdu to the Leshan Giant Buddha covers approximately 137 kilometers and takes about 2 hours by car. Visitors may opt for a high-speed train from Shuangliu Airport or Chengdu East and South Railway Stations, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and a cost ranging from 44 to 54 RMB.

Another option for travelers is a Panda Base Volunteer day trip.

6. Bliss Qintai Tibetan Boutique Hotel

Shitsan Bliss Qintai Tibetan Boutique Hotel is situated in the Qingyang District, a famous ancient street of Qintai Ancient Path in the heart of Chengdu. It’s about a seven-minute walk to Kuanzhai Alley and approximately a five-minute drive to Chunxi Road and Tai Koo Li. The hotel is also just a two-minute walk from Exit A of Tonghuimen Station on Metro Line 2; downstairs, you'll find a coffee shop and a supermarket about a five-minute walk away.

Qintai Meisu Inn is situated close to Chengdu Culture Park (0.1 mi) and Qingyang Palace (Green Ram Temple) (0.3 mi). Guests can enjoy free wifi, and rooms come with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a sofa, and a corridor. Currently ranked 3rd on TripAdvisor among 93 guest houses in Chengdu.

The hotel's decor blends traditional style, using high-quality wood and handcrafted furniture. The rooms feature latex mattresses and international-standard bedding. The spacious lobby is perfect for friends visiting from afar to enjoy tea, chat, play board games, or watch movies at night, making your trip more enjoyable.

7. Bolinghui Hotel Chengdu Panda Base

The 4-star Diamond Bolinghui Hotel (Chengdu Panda Base West Gate Subway Station Store), established in 2022, offers a prestigious lodging option in Chengdu. 

It is about 10 km from Anjing Railway Station, 33 km from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, and approximately 76 km from Tianfu Airport, reachable by about an hour's drive, ensuring convenient transportation.

The subway Metro station is just 460 meters to the right of the hotel, near the hospital.  Its closeness to Chengdu Junqu General Hospital Metro Station allows easy access to the city. To get to Chengdu Central’s Chunxi Road from the hotel, we recommend taking Metro Line 3 from Junqu Zong Hospital station, Gate A. After nine stops, you will arrive at Chunxi Road in Chengdu Central. 

One of the main reasons to choose the Bolinghui 4-star Diamond Hotel is its proximity to Panda Base, only about 3 km away, with a 5-minute drive, allowing travelers more time to visit the pandas in Chengdu. The hotel provides a calm, relaxing atmosphere ideal for families.

Nearby attractions include VIP Room, Panda Tower, and Panda Theater, offering guests plenty of entertainment options. The hotel is located at No. 170 Tianhui Road, Jinniu District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

8. Tianfu Joyhub Cheer Hotel

If travelers heading to Tibet are making a connecting flight at Chengdu Tianfu Airport, we highly recommend staying at the Tianfu Airport 5-star Joyhub Cheer Hotel. Located conveniently inside the airport premises, this hotel offers unparalleled convenience for travelers, eliminating the hassle of transportation.

After check-in, guests can easily reach the heart of Chengdu by metro in approximately one and a half hours, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to explore the city. Alternatively, hiring a taxi is another option; it typically takes around one hour to reach downtown Chengdu and costs between 160 to 200 RMB one way, including highway fees.

Recent Tibet travel guests from Malaysia to Tibet and Singapore to Tibet have stayed at this hotel and highly recommend the Joyhub Cheer Hotel for its comfort and service. Overall, whether for a brief overnight stay or a short layover, the Joyhub Cheer Hotel provides a convenient and comfortable option for travelers transitioning through Chengdu. 

Photo: Tibet Travelers Manager Tenzin and travelers from Singapore to Tibet at the Joyhub Cheer Hotel lobby.

Conclusion

Starting in 2025, Chengdu is rapidly becoming one of China's fastest-growing cities. Our travel agency can arrange tours, hotels, and tickets in Chengdu for travelers.

At Tibet Travelers, we are committed to delivering the highest level of professional service to our clients. Our team is committed to ensuring that your Tibet travel experience is not only enjoyable but also hassle-free. With years of experience in the industry and 5-star reviews from previous travelers on TripAdvisor, we have the expertise and knowledge to create a memorable Tibet travel experience for you.

If you're planning a trip to Tibet, contact us via Instagram, Facebook, or message us on WhatsApp at + 86 199 3816 8184. You can also reach us by WeChat:travelers2025 or send an email to info@tibettravelers.com. We look forward to hearing from you.