The northern line of the Sichuan-Tibet railway begins in Chengdu and terminates in Lhasa. The entire course converges upon the No. 317, No. 213, No. 214, and No.109 National Roads. In comparison with the southern route, the territory that the northern line covers is more nomadically rural (for example the Nagqu Prefecture) and higher in elevation, with a scarce population and scenery that has much more untouched majesty. The highest crossing point along the route of the northern line is Chola Mountain, which stands at 4,916 meters above sea level.

The entire length of the northern line runs 2,320 kilometers:

Chengdu => 383km => Danba => 160km => Dawu => 72 => Trango => 97km => Garze => 95 => Manigego => 112km => Derge => 24km => Jinsha River Bridge => 85km => Jomda => 228km => Chamdo => 290 km => Tengchen => 196km => Bachen => 260km => Nagqu => 164km => Damshung => 153km => Lhasa.

The Best Times to Go

Late spring (May/June) or early fall (September/October)

Scenic Spots along the way

1) Wolong Village

2) The Jiaju Tibetan residence

3) The Dawu indigenous dwellings

4) Chola Mountain

5) Dragon Lantern Grasslands

6) The 99 bendings

7) The Grand Canyon of the Nujiang River

Food and Beverage Options

Although there are some Chinese food restaurants, the northern line gives priority to Tibetan cuisine. If you drive yourself, you can experience the taste of Tibetan food, but if you're worried about being too unused to Tibetan style cooking, you can always pack some chocolates, instant noodles, crackers or other items for yourself.

Notes:

The closer to Tibet one travels along the northern line, the more the temperature will drop. The temperature difference between day and night is large, so it is very necessary to bring along thick clothes. If traveling in winter time, woolen clothing and a down-feather jacket must be brought.