Short and easy guide to plan your perfect tour in Tibet
On this page, you will find easy-to-follow short answers to help you get started.
Too long to read? Contact us and we will help you design your perfect tour:
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Can I visit Tibet
Yes! you can visit Tibet. There are a few exceptions: journalists and diplomats must follow different rules, and everyone else can visit Tibet. Hundreds of people visit Tibet every year with us and we can help you plan your visit!
Are foreigners welcome in Tibet
Yes! You will certainly feel welcome when traveling in Tibet. In large cities, people are accustomed to seeing tourists, although you might catch a few curious looks from pilgrims visiting Lhasa from more remote areas. If you are traveling to remote areas, you might become the center of attention, especially with local kids.
Do I have to travel with a group
No, private tours are very popular in Tibet too. Tours can be arranged for single visitors, as well as for groups of travelers.
All visitors need to travel with a local licensed guide and in a tourist car. We can arrange tours even for one person, however, many people travel with groups to lower overall tour costs and meet new people.
So, you can travel in Tibet by yourself with a guide and driver, but you cannot travel independently.
What documents do I need
To visit Tibet, travelers need a Chinese visa and a Tibet travel permit. Citizens of many countries can travel without a Chinese visa and the list is growing! In 2024, rules changed to allow citizens of many European countries to travel visa-free for up to 15 days.
Citizens of countries that can travel to Tibet visa-free:
Americas (30 days): Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Bahamas, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Dominica, Ecuador, Grenada, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay
Europe (30 days unless noted): Albania (90 days), Andorra, Armenia (90 days), Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina (90 days), Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino (90 days), Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan
Asia-Pacific & Pacific Islands: Australia, Brunei, Fiji, Japan, Malaysia (90 days), Maldives, Mauritius (60 days), Mongolia, New Zealand, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Thailand, Tonga
Middle East: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
Citizens of all other countries must apply for a visa before traveling to China.
While citizens of the United States have to apply for Chinese visas, they can enjoy more relaxed requirements. For US citizens only, it is not necessary to submit airline tickets or proof of itinerary, making planning your trip more flexible and the application process easier.
Citizens of the USA and many other countries can now submit their application online for review before visiting the Embassy. Once this review process is complete, you will only need to submit your passport to the Chinese Embassy, making the entire process more streamlined.
Before entering China, all foreigners, with or without a visa, can now submit their entry registration (arrival card) information online. If you won’t complete it online before arrival, you will still be able to use the paper version handed out on your flight to China. Fill it out:
- Online on your laptop
- On your smartphone
- On the NIA 12367 mobile app
- Through mini-programs on WeChat and Alipay
The online arrival card service is free of charge. You should only use official NIA channels and avoid fake websites charging fees.
With copies of your passport and visa (only for citizens of countries who need visas), we apply for your permits at least 15 days before your tour starts. You only need to send us your documents on time, we will do everything necessary for you. When the permit is ready, we send it to you. You will need this permit to board a plane or train to Tibet. Only local travel agencies can apply for Tibet travel permits.
How to reach Tibet
You can reach Tibet from all major cities in China by flight or by train.
The most significant advantage of flying to Tibet is the speed and convenience it offers. Direct flights from several major Chinese cities can transport you to the heart of Tibet, Lhasa, in just a few hours. On a clear day, you will also get a glimpse of the breathtaking aerial view of the Tibetan Plateau.
The easiest way to reach Tibet is by flying to Lhasa airport (LXA). Lhasa is the capital of Tibet and you will find many flights and trains arriving in Lhasa every day.
Chengdu is the closest city to Lhasa. Chengdu has 2 international airports: Shuangliu airport (CTU) and the newer Tianfu International Airport (TFU) and many daily non-stop flights to Lhasa are about 2 hours and 20 minutes long.
Other cities with easy flight connections are Beijing, Chongqing, Kunming, Xian, Xining, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.
Opting for the train journey offers a unique and memorable experience, with the Qinghai-Tibet railway being one of the most scenic routes in the world. The journey showcases the unparalleled beauty of the Tibetan Plateau, passing through mountain passes, vast grasslands, and remote villages, offering glimpses of wildlife and nomadic life.
Xining is the closest city in China with a railroad connection to Lhasa. The train ride is about 20-21 hours long and the train takes you through the high mountain passes and remote areas with nice views along the way. There is a system pumping supplemental oxygen on all trains going to Tibet.
Other cities with railroad connections and approximate travel times are Beijing (40 hours), Shanghai (47 hours), Xian (31 hours), Chengdu (36 hours), Guangzhou ( 53 hours), Lanzhou (24 hours).
Traveling by train is usually cheaper than buying air tickets, but during the high season tickets are very hard to get. We usually use special agents that can reserve guaranteed tickets in advance and they charge an extra fee for the booking. Online booking systems reserve but don’t guarantee your tickets.
Traveling to Tibet overland is a great way to visit off-the-beaten-path places, explore remote areas, meet people with different cultures and traditions, and enjoy incredible landscape views along the way.
The two most popular cities in China where you can start your overland adventure are Chengdu and Xining. You can travel from Chengdu to Lhasa via G318 (Southern Route), which takes about 7 days. Along the way, you will see alpine lakes, glaciers, mountains, and even forests.
Another option is to travel from Chengdu or Xining via the G317 (Northern Route). This road will take you through the Eastern Tibetan province of Amdo where you can visit important monastery centers, printing houses, lakes, glaciers, and vast grasslands.
Another option is to travel from Nepal via the Gyirong border entry and further to Everest and Lhasa or Mount Kailash region in the West.
Can I travel from Nepal
Yes, you can travel to Tibet from Nepal, but the rules are slightly different. Below are a few things you need to know:
Is it safe to travel in Tibet
Traveling to Tibet is safe for tourists. Culturally, Tibet is a welcoming place with a deep respect for visitors.
In addition, the government requires all foreign visitors to Tibet to arrange their visit through a registered travel agency, which includes travel permits, arranging traveling in a tourist car, with a licensed local tour guide, and a driver. This regulation ensures that tourists have knowledgeable local guidance, further enhancing safety and ease of travel.
When traveling to mountain areas in Tibet, you will be driving through zigzagging roads and it is important to have an experienced driver. All our drivers are locals with years of experience on the mountain roads in Tibet.
The primary concern for travelers is not related to security issues but rather the challenges associated with high altitude. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, due to Tibet’s average elevation exceeding 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). When visiting Tibet, it is important to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and pay attention to high-altitude sickness symptoms.
“The biggest plus that Wonders of Tibet is very safe and reliable agency. As 2 traveling alone girls we felt ourselves very secure.
Thanks for amazing experience”
“Our driver Ngodrup kept us safe and sound on thousands of kilometers of windy Tibetan highways, not to mention helping me on our trek when I became ill from the altitude.”
What about high-altitude
With an average altitude of 4,500 meters / 14,760 ft, the Tibetan Plateau is the highest plateau on the planet. When traveling in Tibet, you will likely travel through some high-altitude areas.
To avoid altitude sickness
Altitude sickness is a common concern for travelers to high-altitude destinations like Tibet. The key to minimizing the risk is gradual acclimatization. Start by spending a few days at an intermediate altitude before ascending to higher elevations. That’s why most of our tours start in Lhasa, where you can spend the first few days acclimatizing to the altitude before venturing to higher places like Everest Base Camp.
It’s crucial to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol that can cause dehydration, and eat light, high-carbohydrate meals to maintain energy, get plenty of rest and sleep, and avoid exercising in the first few days. Diamox (Acetazolamide) can be taken as a preventative measure, but you need to consult with a healthcare provider before your trip.
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, dizziness, or shortness of breath, don’t ascend further until they have resolved, and tell your guide about these symptoms. Your guide will also provide oxygen if it is needed.
When is the best time to visit
In short, for better views visit in spring or fall, for warmer temperatures visit in summer, for a more authentic and less touristy experience visit in winter.
Festivals in Tibet
Plan your visit around local festivals for an in-depth cultural experience. While the sites of celebrations can be a lot more crowded than usual, you can experience local culture firsthand.
Cultural considerations and etiquette
Visiting Tibetan monasteries and interacting with monks and local Tibetans is essential to experiencing Tibet’s cultural and spiritual richness. These are a few suggestions:
Food in Tibet and what to try
Tibet’s cuisine offers a unique experience, deeply influenced by its high-altitude climate and Buddhist culture.
In large cities, you can find a wide variety of options, including Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, Nepalese, and Western cuisines. You also have a choice of restaurants and local Tibetan tea houses serving local staples.
You can always find vegetarian options, there are plenty of dishes with vegetables.
Hotels and guesthouses in Tibet
Accommodations in Tibet range from traditional Tibetan guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets.
In larger cities, such as Lhasa and Shigatse, travelers can find a selection of accommodations, including luxury 5-star hotels (Shangri La and St. Regis in Lhasa, Hilton in Shigatse). But even more modest 3-star hotels offer modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, and heating, ensuring a comfortable stay.
As you venture into more remote areas, accommodations may become simpler, with only basic guesthouses available at the Everest Base Camp and on the Mount Kailash trek, offering a rustic experience closer to nature.
Regardless of where you stay, the warmth and hospitality of the Tibetan people are sure to make your visit memorable.
How many days do I need to see Tibet
Of course, there are plenty of tour options in Tibet. We arranged tours from 1 day long to 25 days long and everything in between. We will cover more information about the must-see places in Tibet below. Talk to our guides to choose the right adventure for you.
If you are short on time, a 4-day tour in Lhasa allows you to see the main highlights of the capital and get a glimpse of the life of local Tibetans.
The most popular option is to spend 8 days traveling from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp. On this route, you explore religious, cultural, and historical sites, as well as some of the most stunning landscapes, including gorgeous lakes, glaciers, rivers, valleys, and breathtaking Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
For a more special experience, we recommend a 15-day tour, covering all highlights of Central Tibet, and Mount Everest region and taking you to the Western part of Tibet to trek around Mount Kailash. This immersive experience allows you to explore remote areas, where even nowadays we can often see wildlife roaming on the vast valleys of the sparsely inhabited Western Region.
For an ultimate experience in Tibet, visit for a 21-day tour that includes off-the-beaten-path destinations in Northern Tibet. Witness numerous incredible lakes, vast grasslands, and likely wildlife sightings in the huge Changtang National Preserve territory.
What are the must-see places in Tibet
Lhasa is the capital of Tibet and most travelers start their journey here. Explore Lhasa Old Town to see the busy streets lined with numerous stores, restaurants, and tea houses, and join crowds of tourists, pilgrims, and city residents walking around the famous Barkhor street.
Lhasa, the capital of Tibet
The perfect place to start your visit
Most travelers arrive in Lhasa first and spend here 2-3 days exploring the capital and acclimatizing to high-altitude
The top places to visit in Lhasa.
Enjoy your time in Lhasa exploring the most famous historic and religious sites, while also enjoying some of the best hotels and restaurants in Tibet.
Spend time exploring the winding streets of Lhasa Olw Town or take a stroll in the evening to see the lit-up Potala Palace.
Potala Palace
The magnificent winter residence of the Dalai Lamas.
Jokhang Temple
The 7th-century temple housing the 2500-year-old Buddha Statue.
Drepung
One of the largest and most impressive monasteries in Tibet.
Sera Monastery
We visit to witness monks’ debates as they study Buddhism.
Norbulingka
The summer palace of Dalai Lamas. Visit if you have extra time.
Barkhor Street
Walk around Jokhang Temple following this busy street.
Everest Base Camp
Enjoy the magnificent view of Everest without any trekking
Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Tibet can be easily reached by car. The mountain road is in very good condition, and you will enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and their top peaks along the way. You will see the North Face of Everest and its unobstructed view.
Facilities in the Base Camp are still simple, but regularly improving, and you will have plenty of time to enjoy the view and visit Rongbuk – the highest monastery on the planet.
Mount Kailash and Manasarovar Lake
The unclimbed mountain sacred to 4 religions and the sacred lake.
For a more in-depth experience of Tibet, venture into the Western Region, traveling through vast valleys where wildlife is still often seen to the sacred Mount Kailash.
We join pilgrims to complete the trekking route around Kailash taking 3 days and allowing us to see all 4 faces of this gorgeous mountain.
Stunning landscapes in Tibet
From majestic Himalayan peaks to alpine lakes, glaciers, dense forests, and grasslands – Tibet has it all.
While traveling in Tibet, you will see many of these amazing destinations along the way. Plan if you want to see something in particular.
Monasteries and religious sites in Tibet
The majority of Tibetans are Buddhist.
You will see many monasteries and religious sites while traveling in Tibet.
Below we list the most famous and interesting religious sites. There are, of course, a lot more exciting places to visit in Tibet if you have time to explore.
Ganden Monastery
Established by Lama Tsongkhapa in 1409 Ganden remains one of the main religious centers in Tibet.
Drak Yerpa
It is a complex of temples, monasteries, and meditation caves nested on the mountain.
Kumbum Stupa
Kumbum means 100,000 images in Tibetan. There are nine levels, 108 cells, and 75 chapels.
Samye Monastery
The first monastery in Tibet built in the shape of a mandala representing the Buddhist Universe.
Yumbulakhang
Originally the first fortress in Tibet, Yumbulagang is also the first palace in Tibet.
Tashi Lhunpo Monastery
Famous for its largest gilded statue in the world. The Future Buddha statue is 26 meters tall.
What are the tour prices
With private tours, you have more flexibility and can choose itinerary and starting dates. The price depends on the number of people traveling together and the season.
For group tours prices are fixed as well as departure dates. Below are our most popular group tours.
How to travel to Tibet on a budget
The best ways to keep the tour prices reasonable:
How to get a premium experience
There are many opportunities to have a more elevated experience in Tibet:
Contact us to arrange your unforgettable journey
Why travel with us
why choose us?
“I travelled with Wonders of Tibet on the 15 Days Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour. Every member of the team that I met delivers high standards of service as mentioned by other clients in their reviews.”
Review on TripAdvisor
“The trip was enjoyable and interesting. It was a pilgrimage for me. I met with many interesting characters along the way. All of us in the group were above 70 years old. The journey was based on trust.”
Review on TripAdvisor
“I joined Wonders of Tibet for a 15-day Mt. Kailash tour in August 2023 and am very impressed with the high standard of organization. Very clear and prompt communication long before our arrival in Tibet and well designed itinerary to ensure we are fully acclimatised”
Review on TripAdvisor
Our local Tibetan guides will help you plan a once-in-a-lifetime journey
Ethical travel in Tibet
Ethical travel in Tibet means respecting the local culture, environment, and local Tibetans.
By prioritizing ethical practices, we can all contribute positively to the sustainability and well-being of Tibetan communities, ensuring that the beauty and richness of Tibetan culture and land are preserved for the future.
