A Guide to Traveling to Tibet from Mainland China and Nepal

How to Travel to Tibet from Mainland China (Original Content)

Traveling to Tibet from mainland China is the easiest and most flexible way to reach the plateau. China offers multiple airports, railway stations, and overland routes that connect directly to Lhasa and other Tibetan cities. Here is a simple guide to help travelers understand how to plan the journey.

1. What Documents You Need

Foreign travelers must prepare two main documents:

• China Visa

You need a valid Chinese visa before entering China. Most travelers use a tourist (L) visa, but other types of visas also work.

• Tibet Travel Permit

This is required for all foreign passport holders traveling to Tibet.

You cannot apply on your own—a licensed Tibet travel agency must arrange it for you. The permit is checked before boarding flights or trains to Lhasa.

2. Ways to Get to Tibet from Mainland China

1. Flying to Lhasa

Flying is the fastest option. Many major Chinese cities have direct flights to Tibet, and more seasonal flights appear in summer.

Travelers commonly fly from:

• Chengdu

• Chongqing

• Xi’an

• Beijing

• Kunming

Flight time usually ranges from 3 to 6 hours depending on the departure city.

2. Taking the Qinghai–Tibet Train

The train route is famous for its high-altitude scenery. Once the train passes Golmud, you’ll see grasslands, snowy mountains, lakes, and wildlife.

Typical travel time:

• From Xining: about 22 hours

• From Chengdu/Chongqing: around 35–36 hours

• From Beijing/Shanghai: 40+ hours

Soft sleeper bunks are the most comfortable option.

3. Overland Routes from Sichuan, Yunnan, or Qinghai

China has several highways leading into Tibet. These routes pass through deep valleys, large rivers, and traditional Tibetan villages.

However, foreign travelers cannot self-drive independently inside Tibet.

A guide, driver, and travel agency arrangement are required once you enter Tibet.

3. When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Tibet is a year-round destination, but each season has a different feeling:

• April–June: clear weather and great for photography

• July–September: warmest months with green landscapes

• October: crisp air and golden views

• Winter: fewer tourists and peaceful monasteries

4. Useful Tips

• Spend your first day gently — let your body adjust to the altitude.

• Bring warm clothing even in summer, as nights are cool.

• Book your permit early during busy months (May–October).

How to Travel to Tibet from Nepal (Original Content)

Reaching Tibet from Nepal is a special experience because you cross the Himalayas directly. Many travelers combine Kathmandu with Lhasa or include an Everest region visit on the way.

1. Documents Needed

Traveling from Nepal to Tibet requires a different process than entering from China.

• Group Tourist Visa (from Nepal)

You do not use your regular China visa.

Instead, you apply for a Group Tourist Visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Your Tibet travel agency prepares the invitation letter needed for this visa.

• Tibet Travel Permit

Your agency also arranges your Tibet Travel Permit and other local permits depending on your route.

2. How to Enter Tibet from Nepal

1. Flight: Kathmandu → Lhasa

This is the quickest way. The flight crosses the Himalayas, and on clear days travelers can see stunning views of Mount Everest.

Flight time: about 1 hour.

2. Overland: Kathmandu → Gyirong Border → Lhasa

This route is popular with travelers who enjoy landscapes or want to visit the Everest region on the way.

Typical itinerary:

1. Drive from Kathmandu to the Gyirong border

2. Cross the border and meet your Tibetan guide

3. Travel through Gyirong, Tingri, Shigatse

4. Continue to Lhasa

This route gives visitors a chance to see villages, high passes, and monasteries at a relaxed pace.

3. Best Time to Travel

The border route is usually most comfortable from April to November, when weather conditions are stable. Winters can be icy at the border.

4. Tips for Travelers

• The Himalayan region can have winding roads — take motion sickness medication if needed.

• Even in summer, evenings in the mountains are cold — pack warm layers.

• Allow time in Lhasa to rest and acclimate to the altitude.