Transportation and Road Conditions in Tibet

The road conditions in Tibet are better and better with the rapid development of Tibet's economy and the strong support of central government. A transport network centered around Lhasa has taken shape in Tibet, covering various areas of Tibet. Road conditions in Tibet have also been improved significantly in recent years, especially the roads in the cities and between big cities. Most of the famous sightseeing places have asphalt road, such as the Lhasa area, Tsetang, Nyingchi, Gyangtse town, Shigatse, Chamdo, and so forth. Common vehicles could run on these tarred roads. Only to those remote mountain areas far away from Lhasa land cruisers will be used for the smooth passing.
In Lhasa, the main means of transportation is by minibus. It is also very easy to hire a taxi. But hiring a pedicab or bike to tour around the city of Lhasa is a unique experience. There are now regular buses shuttling between Lhasa and major towns in Tibet.
Though getting to and around Lhasa is straightforward, transport to those remote mountain areas or other isolated tourist destinations far away from Lhasa, may not be so convenient. Public bus routes are not developed like those in other places on mainland of China. Sometimes, you have to pass through bumpy and dusty roads. In rainy seasons, it will be even much worse. If you are planning to those remote places, a good quality Land Cruiser is strongly recommended. The price is judged by day. The conditions of minor roads are only passable by jeeps. 4WD plays a main role for Everest Base Camp tour through the rough road from Tingri to Everest Base Camp.