How to Get to Tibet

Despite its remote location in the Himalayas, Tibet has become increasingly accessible over the years. There are various routes to get to Tibet, each offering a unique travel experience.

Direct flights to Lhasa are available from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and even from Kathmandu in Nepal. The Tibet trains run along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, offering a comfortable journey to the plateau. Additionally, overland routes following different highways present diverse landscapes across the Tibetan Plateau.

In this guide, we explore different ways to reach Tibet, providing detailed information about each option to help you make informed choices. Our goal is to ensure that your journey to Tibet is not merely a trip but a life-changing experience. Let's venture into the mystical land of Tibet and discover the routes that will take you there.

Travel from Mainland China to Tibet

There are three ways to get to Tibet from mainland China: by flights, trains, or overland routes. Flights offer the fastest option, while trains provide a scenic railway journey. For adventure enthusiasts, an overland drive is also a fantastic choice. You can select the one that best suits your schedule and preferences.

Flights to Tibet

Taking a flight to Tibet is the most convenient and time-saving way to reach the plateau. Non-stop flights depart daily from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing. The flight duration can be as short as 2 hours.

Trains to Tibet

Traveling by train to Tibet offers a breathtaking and leisurely journey. Specially designed trains run along the extraordinary Qinghai-Tibet Railway, equipped with onboard oxygen supply. The shortest train ride from Xining takes around 20 hours.

Overland Routes to Tibet

There are four overland routes leading to Lhasa from mainland China, each commencing from Sichuan, Yunnan, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. These routes traverse diverse landscapes on the way to the Tibetan plateau, offering travelers the opportunity to experience more than just the destination on a road trip to Tibet.

Travel from Nepal to Tibet

For getting to Tibet from Nepal, there are mainly two options. Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa provides the quickest route, whereas the road trip offers a more immersive journey through the Himalayas. No matter which way you choose, you're guaranteed a memorable trip between Tibet and Nepal.

Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa

The only international air route to Tibet, the Kathmandu to Lhasa flight takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes, with daily departures. It is operated by Sichuan Airlines and Air China, departing from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and arriving at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Besides, there are connecting flights with layovers in Chengdu or Kunming for those seeking alternative schedules.

Overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa

This world-class road trip spans roughly 1300 kilometers along the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway, typically taking around 8 days. It allows for a gradual ascent from lowlands of Kathmandu Valley to the breathtaking heights of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Everest and visit other enchanting Tibetan cities, including Shigatse, Gyantse, and Lhasa.

All Tibet and Nepal Tours

Travel to Tibet from Other Countries or Regions

It is convenient to travel to Tibet from various countries and regions around the world. Here we have compiled detailed travel guides tailored to different origins, including the United States, Germany, Australia, Japan, Vietnam, and more. Simply select your location below to get invaluable information for your once-in-a-lifetime journey to Tibet.

Most Popular Tibet Small Group Tour Packages

For a smooth and worry-free travel experience, join our most popular Tibet small tours which cover all the highlights of the plateau. Whether it's a 4-day Lhasa city sightseeing tour or the legendary 15-day Mount Kailash trek journey, you will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip in Tibet, with our quality one-stop services, including local Tibetan guides and Tibet Travel Permit application, and more.