How to Pay During Your Tibet Tour: A Local Expert’s Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Tibet, one thing many travelers overlook is how to pay for things while you’re there. From monasteries in the mountains to teahouses in ancient towns, knowing what works (and what doesn’t) can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a local guide to help you prepare.

1. Cash is King — Especially Outside the Cities

Even though much of China has gone cashless, Tibet is different. Cash (in Chinese yuan/RMB) is still the most accepted and reliable method of payment — especially in small towns, remote areas, and local-run businesses.

When do you need cash?

• Monasteries (for donations or small entry fees)

• Rural restaurants, shops, and guesthouses

• Remote areas like Mount Kailash, Everest Base Camp, or the far western regions

Tip: Bring small bills and enough cash to last several days, especially when leaving Lhasa or Shigatse.

2. WeChat Pay — Useful in Cities and Tourist Areas

WeChat Pay is the most popular digital payment option in Tibet. In Lhasa, Shigatse, and other developed towns, many restaurants, hotels, and shops accept WeChat Pay. Some monasteries even have QR codes for donations.

To use WeChat Pay:

• You’ll need to link a Chinese bank card, or use WeChat’s service for foreign credit/debit cards (must be done before you arrive in Tibet).

• Make sure your phone has mobile data or Wi-Fi to complete transactions.

If you’re traveling with a local Tibetan guide or staying in Tibetan-run guesthouses, they’ll often accept WeChat Pay too.

3. Alipay — Less Common Than WeChat Pay

Alipay is accepted in a few places in Lhasa or at larger hotels and souvenir shops, but not widely used by locals in Tibet. If you already have it set up, it can be a helpful backup — but don’t rely on it as your main method.

4. Credit Cards — Rarely Accepted

International credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are not commonly used in Tibet. A few high-end hotels or larger souvenir stores in Lhasa may accept them, but most places won’t.

Tip: Don’t count on paying by card. Always have cash or WeChat Pay as your first option.

5. ATMs — Available, but Plan Ahead

You can find ATMs from Bank of China, ICBC, and Agricultural Bank in Lhasa and Shigatse. Some work with international cards, but not all.

What to know:

• It’s better to withdraw cash early in your trip, while you’re in bigger cities.

• ATMs in rural areas are rare and may not work with foreign cards.

Quick Answers

Can I use WeChat Pay in Tibet?

Yes, especially in cities and larger towns. Set it up before your trip.

Is Alipay accepted?

In some places, yes — but WeChat Pay is much more common.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in a few large hotels in Lhasa. Not reliable.

Should I carry cash?

Yes — always. It’s essential in many areas.

Final Advice from Tenzin

As a Tibetan guide, I always recommend travelers carry enough cash and have WeChat Pay ready for convenience. Don’t worry too much — just prepare well, and you’ll be able to focus on what really matters: enjoying the beauty, people, and culture of Tibet.

If you have more questions about traveling in Tibet, feel free to reach out — I’m happy to help!