To start your Lhasa tour, deciding on the best way to go can be challenging. You have options including flights, trains, and overland routes from mainland China or Nepal. This article introduces the top five ways to reach Lhasa, each offering distinct advantages and unique experiences. Read on to get fully informed and prepare for a pleasant and smooth journey to the plateau.

Go to Lhasa by Flight from Mainland China: The Fastest Way with Multiple Routes

Flying to Lhasa from mainland China is becoming the favored option for tourists due to the shorter travel time. Although flights may be more expensive than trains, they are faster and now more affordable than before. Additionally, there are more flights to Lhasa Gonggar Airport than ever.

Currently, more than 20 cities in mainland China operate direct flights to Lhasa, including popular destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Chongqing, Kunming, Xining, and Guangzhou. Flight times range from 2 to 7 hours, significantly shorter than train travel.

Among these cities, Chengdu is the most recommended departure point. It offers the most frequent flights to Lhasa, with over 20 departures daily, and one of the shortest flight durations. Flights from Chengdu to Lhasa take about 2.5 hours, and an economy flight typically costs around $250 to $285.

If time is of the essence, flying is the optimum choice. You can reach Lhasa quickly, giving you more time to acclimate before exploring the area. Additionally, during peak season, flights are more readily available than trains, which often sell out in advance.

Go to Lhasa by Flight from Kathmandu: The Only Non-stop International Flying Route

There is also the option of flying to Tibet from Kathmandu, Nepal, the only international location with non-stop flights to Lhasa. The shorter distance and faster flight time make it a popular choice for travelers from Nepal.

On average, flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa depart three times per week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. The flight takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes, with economy tickets starting at around $490. Since the flight crosses the Himalayas, you may get a clear view of the world's highest peak as you fly past.

Go to Lhasa by Train from Mainland China: The Scenic Way along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Several trains serve Lhasa from seven gateway cities in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Xining, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Chongqing, and Chengdu. Travel times range from 22 to 53 hours, each offering a unique and spectacular journey to enhance your Tibet tour.

All Tibet trains pass through Xining, the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the world's highest railway. It holds several world records, including the highest railway station, the highest railway tunnel, and the longest railway tunnel through permafrost.

The train journey from mainland China to Tibet offers breathtaking scenery. You'll pass by Qinghai Lake, the snow-capped Kunlun Mountains, Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve, the Tuotuo River, Tsonag Lake, and the vast Qiangtang Grassland, etc.

When choosing a seat class, the hard sleeper berth is highly recommended. It is more cost-effective than the soft sleeper and much more comfortable than the hard seat. Each hard sleeper cabin accommodates 6 berths, ensuring a comfortable sleep during your journey. Prices start as low as $69 from Xining, the shortest route, and $120 from Guangzhou, the longest route.

Go to Lhasa by Overland from Kathmandu: The Adventurous Way across the Himalayas

Traveling overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa is a popular route among tourists, offering an adventurous journey across the Himalayas with stunning plateau landscapes.

The road route spans approximately 943 kilometers, following the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. Starting from Kathmandu, you will travel 130 kilometers to Rasuwa Gadi, the Nepal-China border, on a bumpy yet breathtaking road. After crossing into Tibet via the Gyirong Border, you will continue on mostly well-paved roads, passing through Everest Base Camp, Shigatse, Yamdrok Lake, and other famous sites.

This route is the reverse of the typical journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu and serves as a scenic introduction to your Tibet tour. Before reaching Lhasa, you can explore many of Tibet’s highlights and then spend time discovering the holy city itself. If you plan to travel from Nepal to Tibet, this route is an excellent option.

Go to Lhasa by Overland from Mainland China: 4 Different Road Trips with Distinctive Scenery

For road trip enthusiasts, you can also travel overland to Lhasa from mainland China. There are four routes: from Chengdu, Kunming, Xining, and Urumqi. Each highway offers unique characteristics and stunning views, with the Sichuan-Tibet Highway and Qinghai-Tibet Highway being the most popular.

The Sichuan-Tibet Highway runs through the Hengduan Mountains from Chengdu to Lhasa, covering a distance of around 2,115 kilometers. Shortly after leaving Chengdu, the route climbs onto the Tibetan plateau, taking you through Nyingchi Prefecture, one of the most scenic areas of Tibet, often known as the Switzerland of Tibet. Taking the road trip from Chengdu to Lhasa, you can also explore Tibetan villages, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Tibetan culture.

The Qinghai-Tibet Highway, starting in Xining, follows a similar route to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It spans 1,947 kilometers, crossing the Kunlun and Tanggula Mountains, with over 1,200 kilometers at elevations above 4,000 meters. Passing through the Qiangtang grasslands and near holy Lake Namtso, this route is among the most stunning in the world.

Traveling overland to Tibet is a great option if you wish to see the landscapes and scenery up close, with the flexibility to stop almost anywhere for photos. However, it's important to choose the best time to go and avoid the rainy season for a smoother journey. Be sure to check the weather forecast in advance before your departure.

Getting Your Tibet Travel Permit in Advance Before Heading to Lhasa

No matter which mode of transportation you choose—flight, train, or overland—or whether you start your journey from mainland China or Nepal, you will need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet.

You cannot apply for the Tibet Travel Permit individually, but we can help you obtain it easily. Simply send us copies of your Chinese visa and valid passport, and we will handle the application on your behalf. Once the permit is issued, we will send it to you before you head to Lhasa.

Additionally, if you are entering Tibet from Nepal, you will need a Chinese Group Visa instead of a regular Chinese visa. In this case, we will help you arrange both your Tibet Travel Permit and Chinese Group Visa. Once both are secured, you can travel to Tibet by overland or flight from Kathmandu.

Conclusion

Getting to Lhasa can be done in several ways, and the choice depends on your own preferences and budget. Flying is the quickest option, ideal for those short on time, while the train provides a unique sky railway experience. For adventurous travelers, road trips to Lhasa are also an exciting choice. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us or book your tour with us now.