Preparing for your long-awaited Tibet tour but still uncertain about how, when, and where to travel? Just take it easy. With over 20-year experience of professional Tibet tour guide, I handpick 10 best travel tips, covering all the aspects of Tibet tour, helping you prepare your dream journey.

1. In fact, Taking a Train to Tibet doesn't Prevent Altitude Sickness

At beginning, let me clarify one thing for you that Tibet train is famous for its unparalleled scenery views, but that’s all. One of the big misunderstandings is that taking train to Tibet could avoid altitude sickness. Actually it doesn’t, it might worsen the situation.

First, on the train route from Golmud to Lhasa, the average altitude rises to 4000 meters, peaking at nearly 5100 meters at Tanggula Mountain Station, often causing altitude sickness. Second, the cramped space, long journey, mixed odors, and noise on the train can cause discomfort. Motion sickness can further amplify this discomfort, leading to more severe symptoms.

However, Tibet train tour is definitely worth of trying. The scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is picturesque. It offers a complete glimpse of the vast and boundless beauty of the Tibetan Plateau. Due to its popularity, please contact us to ensure your ticket booking.

The Stunning View of Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

2. Flying into Tibet is a Smart Choice If Your Schedule is Limited

For many international tourists, flying to Tibet has become an increasingly popular choice. With advancements in air travel and infrastructure, accessing Tibet by air has become more convenient and efficient. From nearby cities, it takes just two hours to get to Tibet by flight.

Flying to Tibet also helps tourists manage altitude sickness. Direct flights to Tibet enable tourists to have enough rest and avoid fatigue caused by long overland journeys, lowering the risk of altitude-related health problems. Compared with train tour, you’ll have more time to rest and prepare yourself for the high altitude environment, especially when your travel time is tight.

Imagine this: in just two hours, you could be resting in a comfortable Tibetan hotel room, strolling through the Barkhor Street, or sitting under the blue sky and sipping sweet tea and tasting delicacies. Isn't that a delightful enjoyment?

The Beautiful Scenery Outside the Flight Window to Tibet.

3. Planning in Advance and Choosing the Tight Itinerary are Crucial

As the second largest province in China, Tibet spans a vast area of approximately 1.2 million square kilometers, offering beautiful scenic spots in every direction. Therefore, it is essential to plan and choose a suitable itinerary in advance. For instance, the journey from Lhasa to the Everest Base Camp is about 1,200 kilometers, requiring at least four days for a round trip.

Additionally, a Tibet Travel Permit must be arranged in advance, taking at least two weeks to process. Careful planning of the attractions is also necessary, as trying to visit too many sites can make the journey feel rushed. This can result in spending excessive time on the road and not enough time exploring the beautiful scenery and cultural sites of Tibet.

Opting for our Tibet small group tour is a smart and economical choice. Travelers can ease their budget by sharing costs with others while enjoying a marvelous journey through this mysterious land. Furthermore, our classic small group tours are available on different dates and cover all the essential attractions in Tibet, allowing you to choose according to your schedule.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa

Price from USD949 p.p

4. No Need to Carry Much Cash Since Mobile Payment is Very Convenient in Tibet

Nowadays, mobile payment has become mainstream in Tibet, used for both daily life and travel purposes. Many people like me haven’t used cash for years. It's really handy because you can quickly and safely pay with just your phone. It is also super easy for foreign tourists right now.

In major tourist destinations in Tibet, mobile payment is widely accepted, even at locations like Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. Only in some remote villages, particularly along hiking routes, poor signal reception may hinder the use of mobile payment.

Check the details of how do foreign tourists use mobile payment in China

To ensure a seamless journey, you can prepare small amount of cash before traveling to the remote areas. Also, you can tip the guide with cash along the way and donate to the monasteries in Tibet for good fortune.

6 Days Central Tibet Culture Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse- Lhasa

Price from USD799 p.p

5. For Your Comfort, don't Hesitate to Use Oxygen Whenever Necessary

Everyone knows that altitude sickness in Tibet is quite common, even we locals could experience it sometimes. Using oxygen can alleviate its symptoms and help you acclimate to the environment quickly. For your comfort, don't hesitate to use oxygen whenever necessary.

Some people advise against frequent oxygen use due to concerns about dependency, but I disagree with this view. Most of our Tibet tours last about seven or eight days, with the longest being around twenty days, so dependency is not an issue. Using oxygen can quickly relieve the discomfort caused by altitude sickness.

To guarantee a safe and comfortable trip for our guest, we have oxygen available in the vehicles all the time, and the hotels our tourists stay at offer additional support services. Our guides also provide professional 24-hour support, ensuring you can enjoy your trip to Tibet without worries.

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Gyirong - Kathmandu

Price from USD989 p.p

6. Sunglasses and Sunscreen are Essential for Your Journey to Tibet

As your tour guide, I can't stress enough the importance of bringing sunglasses and sunscreen for your journey to Tibet. The high altitude means thinner air, which allows more intense sunlight to reach the surface. This increased UV exposure can be harmful to your skin and eyes.

Sunglasses with UV protection will shield your eyes from the glaring sun and prevent conditions like snow blindness, while a good sunscreen will protect your skin from sunburn and long-term damage. Trust me, you'll be grateful for these simple items when you're exploring the breathtaking landscapes under Tibet's clear, bright skies.

Similarly, applying sunscreen regularly will help you avoid the pain and irritation of sunburn, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the adventure without worrying about skin issues. Remember, a well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler, and these essentials will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience in Tibet.

Our Beloved Guests were Exploring Tibet with Sunglasses and Hats.

7. When Trekking in Tibet, Pack Versatile Clothing and Dress in Layers

Trekking tour in Tibet is a unique experience, allowing you to explore snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and observe wild animals. During the peak trekking season in Tibet, the weather is pleasant, but there's a significant temperature difference between day and night.

I suggest wearing layers of clothing. Start with sports shirts as your base layer, add warm wool sweaters in the middle, and finish with waterproof jackets as your outer layer. This way, you can adjust your clothing based on the temperature, ensuring you stay comfortable and well-prepared for any weather conditions.

It's also crucial to have the right hiking shoes, as you'll encounter various terrains and ground conditions. For comfort, choose shoes slightly larger than your usual size to accommodate swollen feet, which can be quite painful during hikes. Additionally, consider bringing trekking poles and rain gear for added support and protection.

Two Tourists were Enjoying Trekking in Tibet

8. Mt. Everest Might be Hidden, so it's Best to Avoid Visiting on Rainy Days

Mount Everest attracts numerous tourists from around the world annually, with visiting the EBC being a must-do for many. If Everest holds special significance for you, consider avoiding July and August, which mark Tibet's rainy season.

While rains on the plateau are fleeting, there's a chance clouds could obscure Everest, making it invisible. Our Tibet Winter Tour proves an excellent choice for Everest visitors; flights and accommodations are notably cheaper, and many attractions are free. The off-season means popular spots are queue-free, allowing travelers to savor their journey at a more relaxed pace.

Winter seldom sees rain, enhancing opportunities for tourists to witness the sunrise over Everest. Additionally, staying overnight in Zaxizong offers a chance to experience life in this delightful Everest town, renowned for its high happiness quotient.

Our Guests were Having Fun in front of Mountain Everest.

9. For Pilgrims, There is One Special Itinerary to Touch the Mount Kailash

The Saga Dawa Festival holds tremendous religious significance in our mind, marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. Throughout the entire region, celebrations unfold over a month. Each year, I guide numerous tourists to explore Mt. Kailash during this auspicious period.

One of the festival's most profound rituals is the Kora around Mount Kailash, occurring on the 15th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar. People across the globe, including Hindu and Buddhist followers, gather at Mount Kailash. They adorn the southern slope with vast prayer flags, offering blessings to all beings.

For the 2025/2026 Saga Dawa Festival, we've crafted a special journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. This itinerary includes a 4-day Kora around Mount Kailash, where you'll walk alongside devotees encircling the peak. The highlight of this trip is a unique opportunity to touch the sacred mountain, perfect for pilgrims and trekking enthusiast.

15 Days Kailash and Manasarovar Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - E.B.C - Saga - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Lake Manasarovar - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Lhasa

Price from USD2069 p.p

10. Currently, Self-driving Overland Trips are Open to Foreign Tourists in Tibet

This is a good news for overland enthusiast who seek thrill and excitement. These days, self-driven journeys to explore Tibet have become accessible to foreign tourists. For travelers yearning for an immersive experience through self-driving, their dreams have come true.

In the past, foreign tourists encountered obstacles such as limited car choices and a complex verification process. Now, the process has been streamlined, offering a diverse selection of vehicles to choose from. All you need is your valid international driver's license, and we'll handle everything else for you seamlessly.

10 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Self Drive Road Trip

Tour Route: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Gyantse - Shigatse - Tingri - Everest Base Camp - Sakya - Shigatse - Lhasa

Price from USD1,660 p.p

Conclusion

In conclusion, a journey to Tibet is a dream come true for many travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience in this mystical land. Whether you choose to explore Tibet by train, plane, or through adventurous self-driving tours, careful planning and preparation are essential to ensure a smooth and memorable trip.

This is Lotse, your Tibetan local tour guide from Tibet Vista. We have been specializing in Tibet tourism for 20 years. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us via email or leaving a comment below. I am looking forward to serving you in the future.