How to get to Tibet

Traveling to Tibet from China offers several convenient options, each with unique experiences:

• 1. By Train

  The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the most popular and scenic way to travel to Tibet from China.

  • Highlights: It is the highest railway in the world, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and serene lakes.
  • Departure Cities: Major cities with direct train connections to Lhasa include:
    • Beijing (journey time: ~40 hours)
    • Chengdu (journey time: ~36 hours)
    • Xining (journey time: ~22 hours) – the shortest and most scenic route.
  • Facilities: The trains are equipped with oxygen supply systems to help passengers acclimatize to the altitude. There are soft sleeper, hard sleeper, and seat options.

  2. By Air

  Flying to Tibet is the quickest and most straightforward method.

  • Major Airports Serving Lhasa:
    • Chengdu (flight time: ~2 hours)
    • Chongqing, Xi’an, Kunming, and Guangzhou also offer direct flights.
  • Views: Flying to Tibet offers incredible aerial views of the Himalayas, especially if you book a window seat.
  • Tips: Arrive in Tibet with at least a day to rest and acclimatize, as the sudden altitude change can be intense.

  3. By Road

  For adventurous travelers, overland journeys are also an option:

  • Routes: Roads from Chengdu or Xining to Lhasa offer a thrilling journey through winding mountain passes and picturesque landscapes.
  • Duration: Depending on the route, the journey can take several days.
  • Recommendation: Overland routes are best for those already acclimatized to higher altitudes

Nepal is the only international gateway to Tibet other than China, and it offers two main options for travel:

1.By Air

Flying from Kathmandu to Lhasa is one of the most spectacular flights in the world.

• Airline Options: Flights are operated by Air China and Sichuan Airlines.
• Flight Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
• Himalayan Views: On clear days, you can see Mount Everest and other towering peaks.
• Tips: Book your flight early, especially during peak seasons.

2. By Road

Travelers can also journey overland from Nepal to Tibet.

• • Route: The Friendship Highway connects Kathmandu to Lhasa, passing through the border at Gyirong Port.
  • Distance: Approximately 1,000 km (~621 miles).
  • Duration: 6-7 days, including stops at notable sights like Everest Base Camp and Shigatse.
  • Requirements:
    • A guided tour is mandatory for overland travel.
    • Private vehicles are not allowed; transport must be arranged through a tour agency.

Tibet has strict travel regulations to protect its culture and environment. Here’s what you need:

1. Tibet Travel Permit

This is the primary document required to enter Tibet.

• Who Needs It? All international travelers.
• How to Obtain It: Your travel agency must apply for this permit on your behalf, as individual applications are not accepted.
• Processing Time: At least 15-20 days in advance.
• Cost: Included in your tour package.

2. Aliens’ Travel Permit

Required for visiting restricted areas outside Lhasa, such as Shigatse, Mount Everest Base Camp, and Ngari.

• Where to Apply: Local Public Security Bureau (PSB) in Tibet.
• How to Obtain It: Arranged by your tour guide when needed.

3. Military Permit

Required for remote areas like Ngari, Nyingchi, and Chamdo, especially if visiting military-sensitive zones.

• How to Obtain It: Your travel agency will arrange this if necessary.

4. Group Visa (For Travelers from Nepal)

If entering Tibet from Nepal, you cannot use a regular Chinese visa. Instead, you’ll need a Group Visa:

• How to Apply: Issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, arranged through your travel agency.
• Validity: Valid for the duration of your Tibet trip only.

5. Additional Notes

• All permits are checked at various points, including airports, train stations, and road checkpoints.
• It is mandatory to join a guided tour, as independent travel in Tibet is not permitted.

Proper preparation with the required permits ensures a seamless and memorable journey into the mystique of Tibet.