Tibet, a dreamland of sacred mountains, holy lakes, endless grasslands, beautiful monasteries, and devout Buddhists, is always on the top of many people’s travel lists.

Before you start the plan to travel to Tibet, we would like to share with you some important facts you have to know about Tibet tourism, helping you better understand the facts of Tibet and get some ideas of how to visit Tibet.

1. Have to know that you need a Tibet Travel Permit

To visit Tibet, all foreign tourists need a Tibet Travel Permit, in addition to a Chinese Visa. The Tibet Travel Permit can be only applied through a local travel agency after booking a Tibet tour. Individual application of the Tibet Travel Permit is not accepted by the Tourist Bureau.

Only with the Tibet Travel Permit can you board a flight or train to Tibet. It will also be checked when you travel outside the city of Lhasa. After you arrive in Tibet, your tour guide will keep it for you.

Generally, the process of the Tibet Travel Permit takes 8 to 9 working days. Therefore, you need to book your Tibet tour in advance to ensure you receive your permit on time.

The Tibet Travel Permit is a must for your trip to Tibet.

2. Have to Know that the Visa-free Stay in China makes traveling to Tibet easier

As China implements a visa-free policy for more countries, an increasing number of foreign tourists can enjoy visa-free travel to China. This also makes traveling to Tibet more convenient.

If you hold a passport from a visa-free country, you can simply apply for a Tibet Travel Permit by providing a scanned copy of your passport after booking your Tibet tour.

Please notice that your entire trip in the Tibet Autonomous Region, as well as the mainland of China, falls within the visa-free duration.

This 12-day Chengdu to Tibet tour is popular among tourists seeking visa-free travel in China.

3. Have to know that individual travel to Tibet is still not available

Although it is becoming increasingly convenient to travel to Tibet, independent travel to Tibet is still not allowed. You need to travel with a pre-arranged tour, whether a join-in group tour or a customized private tour, and need to be accompanied by a local tour guide during your trip in Tibet.

For those who prefer to explore Tibet more freely, the best solution is to tailor your Tibet tour with us. During the tailor-made private tour in Tibet, you visit Tibet at your own pace with just your guide. However, the price will be higher, as you won’t be sharing expenses with other travelers.

Join our Everest Base Camp small group tour and enjoy stunning Himalayan views with fellow travelers from around the world.

4. Have to know that summer is the peak season of Tibet tourism

The peak season of Tibetan tourism is summer (July and August), during which many domestic tourists come to Tibet, making these the most crowded months in Tibet. With the arrival of the Golden Week Holiday for the National Day in early October, another peak tourism season for Tibet is from late September to early October.

During the peak seasons of Tibet tourism, flights and trains to Tibet are at their most expensive prices, and so are hotels in Tibet. Therefore, the cost of Tibet tours is at its highest.

If you plan to visit Tibet during the peak season, it is recommended to book your Tibet tour as early as possible to secure your preferred hotels and flights at better rates.

Tibet train tickets tend to sell out quickly during the peak season, so in addition to making an early reservation, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case you’re unable to get the train ticket you originally hoped for.

Plan early for a hassle-free visit to the stunning Lake Namtso in summer!

5. Have to know that Apr., May, Sept., and Oct. are the best time to visit Tibet

Surprisingly, the best time to visit Tibet is not the peak season. Because summer is the rainy season in Tibet, which brings many clouds, especially in mountain areas. The overland roads to Tibet sometimes may be damaged in summer, like the road from Kathmandu to the Gyirong border in Tibet.

The best time to visit Everest Base Camp in Tibet is from April to May and September to October during which you can get a clear view of the world’s highest peak as well as the panoramic Himalayas. Winter is also a good season for clear views of Mount Everest, regardless of the cold weather and strong wind.

Spring and Autumn are also the best seasons to visit Mount Kailash and nearly every region of Tibet, as the weather is pleasant and offers clear views of the stunning landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau.

Join our best Everest Base Camp tour to witness the peak of the world in the best seasons.

6. Have to know that the cheapest Tibet tours are in winter

Winter is the low season of Tibet tourism. With fewer tourists, Tibet in winter offers a more tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

Every winter, normally from November to next April, there are great winter discounts offered by the local Tourist Bureau. During the promotion months, you can enjoy free entrances to some of the popular attractions, such as the Potala Palace, Yamdrok Lake, and Everest Base Camp.

Moreover, you can get the cheapest prices of Tibet hotels and flights to Tibet in the winter months. So, if you are looking for a budget trip to Tibet, don’t miss out on a Tibet winter tour.

Winter in Tibet is not as cold as you think. The average daytime temperature in Lhasa is around 7°C to 9°C with great sunshine. Even the Everest Base Camp, over 5,000 meters, can be visited during winter months.

Get a Free entry to the Potala Palace in winter.

7. Have to know that Tibet is also a destination for luxury tours

Although Tibet is located on the highest plateau in the world, it is no longer an isolated and underdeveloped place for tourism. You can experience high-end accommodations, including international boutique hotels and 5-star luxury hotels with breathtaking views of the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

With a private tour guide, an experienced local driver, a private vehicle, and a tailor-made itinerary, you can experience the utmost comfort and a personalized luxury tour in Tibet.

Enjoy high quality customized luxury tour in Tibet with us.

8. Have to know that Lhasa has been an international city

As the spiritual, political, and economic center of Tibet, Lhasa draws a large number of international tourists and pilgrims every year. And over the years, Lhasa has become an international city.

Many international hotel brands have entered and stationed in Lhasa, for example, the Shangri-La Hotel, St. Regis Lhasa Resort, InterContinental Lhasa Paradise, Holiday Inn Express Lhasa Potala Palace, etc. These makes the accommodation in Lhasa modern and comfort.

Moreover, various diet options are available in Lhasa, ranging from Tibetan food to traditional Chinese cuisine, western food, Nepal and Indian dishes, etc, which can satisfy different tastes of visitors from all directions.

Nowadays, more and more luxury international hotels can be found in Lhasa.

9. Have to know that road conditions in Tibet have improved greatly

Road conditions in Tibet have improved significantly in recent years, making travel in Tibet more convenient and pleasant. The upgrade of roads from Lhasa to major areas and attractions in Tibet has made overland travel more convenient and safer in Tibet.

For example, all sections of the road from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp are well-paved asphalt roads. New expressways have also been built and opened to traffic, and improvements to major routes such as the Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway and the G318 National Highway have also improved the safety and comfort of the Tibet Overland tour.

The well-paved asphalt road to Everest Base Camp in Tibet.

10. Have to know that there’s road speed control, so you will have a low and long drive

However, even though road conditions in Tibet have improved greatly, there is still road speed control in Tibet. The fastest speed on the road is 60 kph (40 mph). When driving through villages, the speed has to be less than 30 kph (20 mph).

Therefore, you need to be prepared to overcome the slow and long ride while getting around Tibet. For example, it takes about 4 hours to drive the distance of 270 kilometers between Shigatse to Lhasa.

The winding roads to Everest Base Camp in Tibet require careful and slow driving.

11. Have to know that Both Nepal and Singapore offer direct flights to Tibet (New for 2025!)

Starting from December 20, 2024, there is a new international flight route to Tibet, from Singapore to Lhasa. For visiting Tibet in 2025, this provides an additional convenient flight option to Tibet, besides Nepal.

Singapore to Lhasa flights depart from Singapore Changi International Airport every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 04:55. The whole journey takes around 10.5 hours with a stopover in Chongqing. The returning flight departs at 17:40 from Lhasa Gonggar Airport and arrives at Singapore Changi International Airport at 03:55. The Lhasa to Singapore flight also departs three times a week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Recently, the Singapore Lhasa flight is only arranged by West Air.

Flight Route	Flight Number	Dep.	Arr.	Duration	Frequency
Singapore to Lhasa	PN6426	04:55 (GMT+8)	15:20 (GMT+8)	10 hrs 25 mins	Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Lhasa to Singapore	PN6425	17:40 (GMT+8)	03:55 (GMT+8)	10 hrs 15 mins	Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

This small group tour is favored by our Singapore guests, showcasing the best of Lhasa and nearby Yamdrok Lake.

The Kathmandu to Lhasa flight was once the only international flight to Tibet, operating daily and serving as the most convenient way to travel between Nepal and Tibet. However, now the Kathmandu Lhasa flight operates only three times a week, and the reduction in flights has made this once-popular route quite scarce. Therefore, if you plan to take a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, or vice versa, it is essential to book your tickets in advance.

Flight Route	Flight Number	Dep.	Arr.	Duration	Frequency
Kathmandu to Lhasa	H9774	08:00 (GMT+5:45)	12:15 (GMT+8)	2 hrs	Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Lhasa to Kathmandu	H9775	13:00 (GMT+8)	12:25 (GMT+5:45)	1 hr 40 mins	Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Notice: The times in the schedule above are all local time and the schedules are for reference only. Please search for the exact flight schedule on your preferred date.

Enjoy the flight from Kathmand to Lhasa over the Himalayas.

This round trip takes you from Kathmandu to explore Tibet, with an overland return to Kathmandu.

12. Have to know that self-drive tour in Tibet is available in 2025

In 2025, you have a more adventurous way to explore Tibet, which is self-driving. In fact, self-driving in Tibet has been open for international tourists for nearly a year, but many tourists still don’t know it.

At present, you can rent a car from a local regular car dealer after arriving in Tibet, start a self-driving tour accompanied by your tour guide, or drive your own car to Tibet for a road trip.

In addition to a basic Chinese Visa, the Tibet Travel Permit, and other related local travel documents, you also need to apply for an international driver’s license in advance. If you drive your own car, you also need to go through the relevant procedures for your vehicle.

To ensure a smooth self-driving experience in Tibet, we provide hassle-free Tibet self-drive tour packages. From the permit application to car rentals in Tibet, and from itinerary design to knowledgeable tour guides, we take care of every aspect of your journey in Tibet.

Enjoy a lifetime self-driving journey along the most popular route from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp in Tibet!

13. Have to know that you’re going to the high altitude place

With an average elevation of over 4,500 meters, Tibet is a place of high elevation and altitude sickness is common for tourists who visit Tibet from lower places. The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to avoid rapid ascents to high altitudes.

Taking a train to Tibet from Xining is a good choice. Since the altitude of Xining is around 2,260 meters above sea level, you can acclimatize to the high altitude in Xining before heading to Lhasa at over 3,650 meters.

No matter whether you arrive in Lhasa directly by flight or take a train to Tibet, after arrival, we advise you to have a good rest at the hotel on the first day. If you fly into Lhasa, relax for at least three days.

For tourists who have problems with heart, cerebral, or lung issues, it is best to consult your doctor about whether it is safe for you to visit Tibet.

Enjoy the scenic train ride to Tibet while acclimatizing to the altitude from Xining.

14. Have to know that it’s easy to get oxygen in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Nyingchi

Don’t worry too much about the altitude sickness in Tibet. Nowadays, most hotels in major cities in Tibet, like Lhasa, Shigatse, and Nyingchi, are equipped with oxygen supply systems, and some luxury hotels in Tibet also have diffuse oxygen supply rooms. If you feel any discomfort in the hotel, you can contact the front desk and use the oxygen supply equipment.

In addition, portable oxygen bottles can be easily purchased at local pharmacies. If you are going to Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash, or other high-altitude areas, you can buy some in advance in case of emergency.

If your discomfort is more serious, please contact your tour guide in time and go to the local hospital for medical treatment. Especially in Lhasa, the hospital has rich experience in dealing with altitude sickness, so don't worry too much.

It is easy to buy oxygen bottles when travel to Tibet Everest Base Camp.

15. Have to know that local conditions of toilets and hotels are different from where you’re from

In Tibet, you can’t expect the same sanitary condition as that in Western countries. Usually, the starred hotels in major cities like Lhasa and Shigatse offer considerate services, comfortable beds, and private bathrooms with western-style toilets. This may make you feel at home.

In remote areas of Tibet, there are only Tibetan-style hotels and guest houses. No private bathrooms are provided and you need to get used to the squat toilets. But we promise to always select the hotels and guesthouses that can offer better conditions.

When out of hotels or guest houses, you need to use the local public toilets. With the continuous upgrading of infrastructure construction in Tibet, the sanitary conditions of public toilets in highway service areas and major scenic spots have been greatly improved. However, in remote areas and mountainous areas, the sanitary conditions of public toilets still need to be improved.

It is recommended to bring some wet wipes, especially when traveling to remote areas where access to clean water and sanitation facilities may be limited.

Western-style toilets at The St. Regis Lhasa Resort.

16. Have to know that Tibetan monasteries are always on your itinerary (which to visit and which to skip)

A Buddhist monastery is the primary seat for the preservation and inheritance of Tibetan Culture. Each region in Tibet has its own important monasteries, and different schools of Tibetan Buddhism also have different representative monasteries.

The iconic sites like the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa are always must-see monasteries in Tibet. It is a rare chance to see monks debating in Sera Monastery in Lhasa. And when you visit the Everest Base Camp in Tibet, don’t miss the chance to explore the Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world at 5,145 meters above sea level.

In addition, there are some featured monasteries, such as the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, the residence of the Panchen Lama, the Palkor Monastery with its famous pagoda, the Drigung Ti Monastery, a famous sky burial site near Lhasa, and the Ganden Monastery suitable for hiking, etc.

You can explore more Tibet monastery tours and find the best routes to the monasteries that interests you, and enjoy a deeper cultural and spiritual experience in Tibet.

This off-the-beaten-path trip to Drak Yerpa Monastery near Lhasa offers a great meditation experience.

17. Have to know that there is no age limit to visit Tibet

Basically, there is no age limit for visiting Tibet. We have successfully arranged Tibet tours for a family with a baby at 1 year old and a trip for a guest to visit Everest Base Camp at the age of 89.

For adults, as long as they are healthy enough to adapt to high-altitude travel, they can come to Tibet, no matter how old they are. For families who plan to travel to Tibet with kids, we recommend that children at least be able to clearly express their physical feelings, so that if they experience altitude sickness, they can clearly express their discomfort and take timely measures to ensure their safety.

It is suggested that before departure, consult your family doctor that whether your body is suitable for the unique climate and altitude in Tibet. Upon arrival, make sure you all get enough rest to acclimate to the high altitude and then start your adventure in Tibet.

We helped our guest fulfill his dream of reaching Mount Everest and Mount Kailash at the age of 82.

18. Have to know that some areas are still closed for a visit (Consult a professional for your trip)

Pay much attention that not all attractions are open to foreign tourists, such as Yadong County in Shigatse, Pangong Lake in Ngari, Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, and Nanyi Valley in Nyingchi, Tsonag County and Lhamo La-tso in Shannan, and most region of Qamdo.

When you inquiry about a Tibet tour, our local travel expert will help you determine whether your preferred destinations are visitable.

This is an epic journey that takes you from the heart of Tibet to the far west Ngari region.

Conclusion

Hope the above-mentioned 18 facts about Tibet tourism can be helpful for you to get a better acquaintance with Tibet.

If you have any further questions about Tibet, please feel free to tell us. We have been engaged in tourism of Tibet for many years and we know every corner of Tibet. Come on and travel with Tibet Vista!