The distance between Chengdu and Lhasa varies significantly depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken. The straight-line or flight distance is approximately 1,261 to 1,263 kilometers (785 miles), with direct flights typically taking about 2 to 2.5 hours. For those traveling by train, the current route via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is much longer due to a major detour through Lanzhou and Xining, covering a total distance of approximately 3,016 to 3,360 kilometers (about 2,088 miles) and taking roughly 34 to 36 hours. Travelers choosing to go overland by road generally follow the Sichuan-Tibet Highway; the popular Southern Route (G318) spans approximately 2,149 kilometers (1,335 miles), while the more rugged Northern Route (G317) covers about 2,293 to 2,412 kilometers. Additionally, a new Sichuan-Tibet Railway currently under construction is expected to shorten the rail distance to approximately 2,100 kilometers once completed.