How to Visit Tibet: Transportation & Tibet Permit

Transportation is an important factor to consider when traveling to Tibet. That's why we've prepared this article to explain the main modes of transportation in Tibet. Plus, we will introduce the Tibet Travel Permit - a required document for visiting Tibet.

Admire Mount Everest through airplane window

Travel to Tibet by Plane vs by Train

There are two main ways to travel to Tibet from other provinces: by plane or by train. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you can choose the one that best suits your budget and needs.

	Plane	Train
Pros	Low time cost (basically 2 to 3 hours)	Reasonable ticket price (usually costs around USD 120)
Cons	Higher ticket price (will cost more than USD 300 each flight)	High time cost (will take more than 20 hours)
Scenery along the way	Overlook the peaks of the Himalayas and see the stunning snow-covered landscape.	Admire the picturesque natural view: endless grassland, mountains wave up and down in a distance

By Plane

Visit Lhasa by airplane from major cities

Lhasa is home to the largest airport in Tibet and the region's only international airport. If you choose to fly to Tibet, chances are you'll land in Lhasa. There are currently many flights to Lhasa, with direct flights available from major tourist cities such as Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. While taking a train from another province to Lhasa can take 20 to 30 hours, a flight only takes about three to five hours.

However, since Tibet is located in the far west, ticket prices are relatively high, typically over 2,000 RMB. But flying can significantly reduce your travel time.

By Train

Visit Lhasa by train from major cities

Tibet's unique geography and climate mean that trains here aren't as fast as bullet trains. If you're taking a train to Lhasa from cities outside Tibet, like Chengdu or Beijing, it will take at least 20 hours. In this case, an overnight sleeper berth can be a great experience.

We recommend booking a first-class ticket. Each compartment has four berths and can be closed off for a bit of privacy. The beds are arranged in upper and lower bunks, and you can choose according to your physical condition and personal preference. The train is also equipped with hot water dispensers and sells simple meals, so you don't need to worry about bringing your own food for the long journey.

There are large windows on both sides of the train cabins, so during the day, you can sit by the window and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Tibet Travel Permit

The Potala Palace in Lhasa

A Tibet Travel Permit must be obtained through a local travel agency before entering Tibet. Additionally, you must travel with a local tour guide in Tibet, whether you're a solo traveler or visiting with family.

We can help you plan a private tour itinerary and take care of the Tibet Travel Permit for you. All you need to do is provide a clear scanned copy of your passport and China visa to us, or just a copy of your passport if you're from one of the 30-day visa-free countries. Also, please make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you enter Tibet.

Travel to Tibet Via Nepal

If you're from one of the 43 visa-free countries, you only need to bring your passport and Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet from Nepal. If you're from the U.S., Canada, Australia, or other countries that require a visa, you will need to get a China visa in addition to the passport and permit.

Don't worry. We'll handle all the documents for you, including the Tibet Travel Permit and China group visa if needed. Our guides in both Nepal and Tibet will accompany you throughout the entry process to ensure a smooth arrival.

For visiting Everest Base Camp, we recommend you travel overland via the Gyirong Port. To reach Lhasa directly from Nepal, taking a direct flight from Kathmandu will be more comfortable and save more time.

Can Taking a Train or Plane Prevent Altitude Sickness?

Lake Yamdrok in Tibet

Before you set off on your trip to Tibet, you might be wondering which transportation method can prevent or weaken altitude sickness: taking the train or flying? The answer varies from person to person. Since everyone's body reacts differently, you may not necessarily experience altitude sickness.

To have a smooth trip to Tibet, we recommend that you consult your doctor before coming to Tibet to find out which medications can help prevent or relieve symptoms of altitude sickness and take them before entering Tibet. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, it's recommended to consult your doctor before deciding to travel to Tibet.

After arriving in Tibet, if you feel unwell, you can buy small portable oxygen cans at convenience stores, pharmacies, or hotel front desks. You can also contact your tour guide, who can take you to the nearest clinic for oxygen therapy.

By the way, you might not feel any discomfort on the plane or train, as trains heading into Tibet are equipped with oxygen supply systems in the cabins, similar to the pressurized and oxygenated environment on airplanes during flight.

Travel to Tibet With Us

Tibet's stunning landscapes are waiting for you to explore. With our extensive experience in itinerary planning, we can arrange a dedicated local guide for you and provide one-stop solutions to all your needs. Feel free to contact us or send us an email to trip@odynovotours.com for a quote - our travel consultant will get back to you within one day.