Introduction
For travelers exploring China’s stunning southwestern region, the journey from mystical Shangri-La to vibrant Chengdu offers multiple transportation options: train or flight.
1. By High-Speed Train
Direct Train (Recommended for Convenience)
The most straightforward rail option is the daily D240 train departing from Shangri-La Railway Station at 09:45 AM and arriving at Chengdu South Station by 8:18 PM. This 10.5-hour ride costs ¥439 (economy class) and provides a comfortable way to enjoy the dramatic landscapes of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces.
Check Live Train Schedule
Via Kunming (More Flexibility)
If the direct train is sold out, consider breaking your journey in Kunming. Multiple daily trains connect Shangri-La to Kunming, followed by frequent high-speed services from Kunming to Chengdu. While this adds transit time (total 11–14 hours), it offers flexibility and a chance to explore Kunming’s attractions like Dianchi Lake.
2. By Air (Fastest Option)
For those short on time, flights are ideal. Shangri-La Diqing Airport (DIG) operates 3 daily flights to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), with a flight time of 2 hours. Prices start around ¥800–¥1,200 depending on season and booking time. Major airlines like Sichuan Airlines and China Eastern serve this route.
Getting from Tianfu Airport to Chengdu City Center
Tianfu Airport is 50 km southeast of downtown. Options include:
- Airport Shuttle Bus: Direct buses to Chunxi Road (downtown hub) take ~1.5 hours (¥25).
- Subway: Line 18 to South Railway Station, transfer to Line 1 for Chunxi Road (~1 hour, ¥10).
- Taxi: A 45-minute ride costs ¥150–¥180.
For more details, check http://chinatrain12306.com/travel/chengdu-tianfu-airport-chunxi-road.htm.
3. How to Choose?
- For Scenery & Relaxation: Opt for the direct train. The route passes through mountain valleys and rural villages, offering a glimpse of rural China.
- For Speed: Fly. Despite airport transfers, total travel time (4–5 hours) beats the train.
- For Budget Travelers: While flights are pricier, trains offer better value if booked early. The Kunming transfer suits spontaneous travelers.
Trusted Online Ticket Agents:
Option 1: China Highlights is a reliable online agency for China train ticketing. They get positive reviews on TripAdvisor & Trustpilot. Sharon and her team help you buy tickets & plan rail routes even deliver tickets to your hotels with a service fee.
Option 2: Trip.com is an internatioal brand owned by Ctrip Group, China's largest online travel booking platform. Trip.com offers booking service for flight, train, hotel, activities, etc
