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Apply for Travel Permits to Travel to Tibet from Mainland China
To travel from mainland China to Tibet, international visitors must obtain the following permits. Additionally, you cannot travel independently in Tibet—you must join group tours or opt for customized trips. Choose Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to visit Tibet with local guides.
- Chinese Visa - Check the latest visa-free policy for China to see if you need one.
- Tibet Travel Permit - Required to enter Tibet and visit Lhasa.
- Aliens’ Travel Permit - Required for Tibet destinations outside Lhasa.
- Military Travel Permit - Required for travel to other regions like Ngari and Nyingchi.
- Frontier Pass - Required for overland tour between Tibet of China and Nepal or Bhutan, including destinations like Mt. Everest and Kailash.
For more details, check our Tibet Travel Permit Page >>
Where Is Tibet in China?
Tibet, or Xizang, is in the southwestern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, located in China's southwest. It shares borders with Xinjiang and Qinghai to the north, Yunnan and Sichuan to the east and southeast, and Myanmar, India, Bhutan, and Nepal to the south and west.
Check Tibet location on the Tibet Tourist Map >>
1. Flights from Mainland China to Tibet: How to Travel to Tibet from China by Air?
Flying is the most convenient and comfortable way to reach Tibet, especially for those with limited time.
Fly to Lhasa Gongga International Airport
Lhasa Gongga International Airport is Tibet's only international airport and the primary aviation hub for flights to and from the region.
- Location: Jiazhulin Town, Gonggar County, Shannan City, about 65 km from Lhasa city center.
- Altitude: Approximately 3,600 meters, one of the world's highest airports.
- Transportation: Options include private cars, taxis, and buses, with travel times to Lhasa ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours.
Cities with Nonstop Flights to Lhasa
Non-stop flights to Lhasa are available from cities like Chengdu, Beijing, Xian, Xining, Kunming, and Chongqing. Upon arrival in Lhasa, avoid strenuous activities or bathing immediately to reduce the risk of altitude sickness!
Tips: Chengdu is the most convenient gateway to fly to Tibet, being closer to Lhasa and offering shorter flight durations.
| Departure City | Flight Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Chengdu | 2.5-3 hours | Daily |
| Chongqing | 3 hours | Daily |
| Xining | 2.5 hours | Daily |
| Xian | 3-3.5 hours | Daily |
| Kunming | 3 hours | Daily |
| Beijing | 4.5 hours | Daily |
Note: Flight schedules may vary due to seasonal and weather conditions. Confirm up-to-date information on airline websites or travel platforms before booking.
Cities with Stopover Flights to Lhasa
Cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou offer stopover flights. Flights from Shanghai usually stop in Chengdu or Xian, while flights from Guangzhou typically stop in Diqing.
| Departure City | Flight Time | Stopover City | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou | 6.5 hours | Diqing | Daily |
| Shanghai | 7-8.5 hours | Chengdu / Xian | Daily |
Note: Check updated flight details before booking, as schedules may change.
2. Mainland China to Tibet Train: How to Go to Tibet from China by Train?
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the world’s highest railway and offers a scenic journey, perfect for travelers with more time. It allows gradual acclimatization to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
The Trains Arrive at Lhasa Railway Station
Lhasa Train Station The largest railway station in Tibet and the final stop of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
- Location: Tongzhan Road, Liuwu New Area, Lhasa city, about 10 km southwest of Lhasa city center.
- Altitude: Over 3,600 meters.
- Transportation: Public buses, taxis, and private cars connect the station to the city, with travel times of 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Major Cities with Direct Trains to Lhasa
Direct trains to Lhasa depart from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xian, and Xining.
Tips: Xining is the best starting point for a train journey to Tibet, thanks to its proximity to the northeastern edge of Tibet and shorter travel time.
| Departure City | Train Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Xining | 21-22 hours | Daily |
| Chengdu | 34-35 hours | Every other day |
| Chongqing | 33-34 hours | Every other day |
| Xian | 30-31 hours | Daily |
| Beijing | 40-41 hours | Daily |
| Shanghai | 44-45 hours | Daily |
| Guangzhou | 53-54 hours | Daily |
Note: Train schedules may vary due to weather, seasonal factors, or speed adjustments. Check for the latest updates when booking.
3. Road to Tibet: How to Travel to Tibet from China by Overland?
Driving to Tibet offers flexible routes and the opportunity to stop and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, it allows gradual acclimatization to altitude, minimizing altitude sickness risks.
Drive to Tibet from China Main Cities
You can drive to Tibet from various cities in China, depending on the route you choose. Below are some common starting points and overland routes to Tibet.
| Departure City | Route | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chengdu | Southern Sichuan-Tibet Highway (G318) | 2140 km | 7-10 days |
| Chengdu | Northern Sichuan-Tibet Highway (G317) | 2400 km | 8-12 days |
| Xining | Qinghai-Tibet Highway (G109) | 1930 km | 5-7 days |
| Kunming | Yunnan-Tibet Highway (G214) | 2300 km | 8-12 days |
| Yecheng | Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (G219) | 2340 km | 9-13 days |
Top 5 Overland Routes to Tibet from China
- From Chengdu: Sichuan-Tibet Southern Route (G318)
Route:
Chengdu → Ya’an → Kangding → Xinduqiao → Litang → Daocheng → Shangri-La → Mangkang → Zuogong → Bangda → Baxoi → Ranwu → Bomi → Lulang → Nyingchi → Lhasa
Highlights:
Known as the “National Scenic Avenue,” this route offers diverse landscapes, from plains to high mountain valleys, forests, grasslands, glaciers, and snow-capped peaks. Key attractions include the Maoya Grasslands in Litang and the serene Ranwu Lake.
- From Chengdu: Sichuan-Tibet Northern Route (G317)
Route:
Chengdu → Dujiangyan → Wenchuan → Maerkang → Ganzi → Dege → Jiangda → Qamdo → Leiwuqi → Dingqing → Baqing → Nagqu → Lhasa
Highlights:
Compared to the Southern Route, the Northern Route is more remote and less traveled. It features Tibetan villages, religious sites, and pristine landscapes, such as Mount Siguniang and Serthar Buddhist Institute.
- From Xining: Qinghai-Tibet Highway (G109)
Route:
Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka → Dulan → Golmud → Tanggula Pass → Amdo → Nagqu → Damxung → Yangpachen → Lhasa
Highlights:
The Qinghai-Tibet Highway is one of the shortest and best-maintained roads to Tibet. Travelers can enjoy the vast Qinghai Lake, the pure Chaka Salt Lake, and the majestic Tanggula Pass. Its gradual altitude increase makes it ideal for acclimatizing to high altitudes.
- From Kunming: Yunnan-Tibet Highway (G214)
Route:
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Shangri-La → Deqin → Mangkang → Zuogong → Bangda → Baxoi → Ranwu → Bomi → Lulang → Nyingchi → Lhasa
Highlights:
This route connects Yunnan and Tibet, passing through picturesque towns like Lijiang and Shangri-La. Key attractions include Meili Snow Mountain in Deqin and the ancient salt fields in Yanjing, showcasing the harmony between natural and cultural heritage.
- From Yecheng, Xinjiang: Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (G219)
Route:
Yecheng → Kudi → San Shili Yingfang → Sweetwater Sea → Hongliutan → Domar → Rutog → Shiquanhe → Namru → Mount Kailash → Hor → Zhongba → Saga → Lazi → Shigatse → Lhasa
Highlights:
The Xinjiang-Tibet Highway is the most challenging route, traversing numerous 5,000-meter-high mountains, remote wilderness, and the Changtang Plateau. It offers breathtaking, untouched natural beauty for experienced adventurers.
How to Go to Tibet from China Popular Tourist Cities
Travel to Tibet from Beijing
- By Air: Direct flights from Beijing Capital or Daxing International Airport to Lhasa Gonggar Airport take about 4.5 hours. It's much faster than a train!
- By Train: A daily train from Beijing West Railway Station takes about 40 hours, passing through Xining and Golmud with scenic views of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Travel to Tibet from Shanghai
- By Air: Direct flights from Pudong or Hongqiao International Airport to Lhasa take 7–8.5 hours. Flying is the best option and saves more time.
- By Train: A daily train from Shanghai Hongqiao Station takes about 44–45 hours, stopping at Xian, Lanzhou, and Xining.
Travel to Tibet from Guangzhou
- By Air: Direct flights from Baiyun International Airport to Lhasa take about 6.5 hours. Planes are the best choice, save time and are suitable for travelers who are pressed for time.
- By Train: A daily train from Guangzhou South Station takes around 53–54 hours, passing through Chongqing, Chengdu, and Xining.
Travel to Tibet from Chengdu - Best Gateway to Fly/Drive to Tibet
- By Air: Flights from Chengdu Shuangliu or Tianfu International Airport to Lhasa take 2.5–3 hours. Chengdu is the most convenient city for flights to Tibet.
- By Train: A train from Chengdu West Station takes about 34–35 hours, passing through Golmud.
- By Road: As a common starting point for overland routes to Tibet, driving via the Sichuan-Tibet Highway (2,100 km) takes 3–5 days and offers stunning views but poses significant challenges.
Travel to Tibet from Chongqing
- By Air: Flights from Jiangbei International Airport to Lhasa take about 3 hours.
- By Train: A direct train from Chongqing West Station takes about 33–34 hours, passing through Chengdu and Golmud.
Travel to Tibet from Xian
- By Air: Direct flights from Xian Xianyang International Airport to Lhasa take about 3–3.5 hours.
- By Train: A daily train from Xian Station takes about 30–31 hours, passing through Lanzhou and Xining.
Travel to Tibet from Xining - Best Gateway for a Train Tour to Tibet
- By Air: Direct flights from Xining Caojiabao International Airport to Lhasa take about 2.5 hours.
- By Train: Xining is the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, with several daily trains to Lhasa (about 21–22 hours). Scenic views of the plateau are a major highlight.
- By Road: The overland route via the Qinghai-Tibet Highway (about 1,900 km) takes 2–3 days and is one of the favorite routes for road trip enthusiasts.
How to Plan a Trip to Tibet from Mainland China?
Planning a trip to Tibet depends on your choice of gateway city. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xining, and Xi’an are excellent options. You can opt for air travel for speed, train travel for scenic views, or road trips for adventure.
This is how you can plan your time.
Tibet (5-16 Days)
A short 5-day Tibet tour allows you to experience the essence of Tibet, including a city tour of Lhasa and the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake.
A classic 8-day Tibet tour follows: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Shigatse - Mt. Everest Base Camp (EBC) - Lhasa. You can take your dream trip to the Everest Base Camp for a view of Mt. Everest (8,848m), the highest mountain in the world.
A 16-day trip to Tibet offers a panoramic view of Xizang and takes you to Ngari, the hidden gem of Tibet. You can do a 3-day trek around the holy mountain - Mt. Kailash.
Combined Tours of Tibet and Other Chinese Cities
- Beijing and Tibet: 8–13 Days
Beijing (2-4 Days): Spend 2–4 days in Beijing to immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the Forbidden City (故宫), Temple of Heaven (天坛), and Summer Palace (颐和园). No trip to Beijing is complete without visiting the Great Wall of China, a world-renowned landmark.
A combined tour of Beijing and Tibet (Xizang) takes 8-13 days.
- Shanghai and Tibet: 6–14 Days
Shanghai (1-3 Days): Dedicate 1–3 days to exploring Shanghai’s modern and historical attractions. Visit iconic sites such as The Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, The Bund, Yu Garden (豫园), the French Concession, and Xintiandi.
A journey combining Shanghai and Tibet (Xizang) typically spans 6–14 days.
- Guangzhou and Tibet: 7–12 Days
Guangzhou (1-3 days): A 1–3 day visit to Guangzhou allows you to experience its vibrant culture and landmarks. Key attractions include Yuexiu Park (越秀公园), Guangzhou City God Temple (广州市都城隍庙), Giant Buddhist Temple (大佛寺), Canton Tower (广州塔), Pearl River (珠江), Chen Clan Ancestral Hall (陈家祠), and Shamian Island (沙面岛).
A 7–12 day itinerary covers both Guangzhou and Tibet (Xizang) for a comprehensive experience.
- Chengdu and Tibet: 6–10 Days
Chengdu (2-4 Days): Allocate 2–4 days in Chengdu. A 2-day city tour can cover highlights like the Giant Panda Base, People’s Park (人民公园), Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子), Wuhou Temple (武侯祠), and Jinli Street (锦里).
For a longer stay, consider an additional 2 days to explore nearby attractions such as the Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛) or Mount Qingcheng (青城山), ideal for history buffs and nature enthusiasts.
Exploring Chengdu and Tibet (Xizang) together takes approximately 6–10 days.
- Chongqing and Tibet: 6–11 Days
Chongqing (1 Day): A single day is enough to explore Chongqing’s main attractions. Visit landmarks like Hongya Caves (洪崖洞), Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口), and the Three Gorges Museum. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the city’s famous hot pot and scenic river views.
A combined visit to Chongqing and Tibet (Xizang) usually lasts 6–11 days.
- Xian and Tibet: 7–12 Days
Xian (2-3 Days): Spend 2–3 days discovering Xian’s historic charm. Must-see attractions include the Terracotta Army (兵马俑), Ancient City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔), and the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City (大唐不夜城). Be sure to try the delicious street food in the Muslim Quarter.
A dual-city tour of Xian and Tibet (Xizang) requires 7–12 days to complete.
- Xining and Tibet: 8–13 Days
Xining (3 Days): A 3-day trip offers ample time to explore Xining and nearby Qinghai attractions. Key highlights include Xining Ta’er Monastery, Qinghai Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake.
Traveling to Xining and Tibet (Xizang) as part of one trip takes between 8 and 13 days.
Travel to Tibet from Mainland China with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) Now
When planning how to go to Tibet from China, Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) is your trusted partner. We provide local guides, tailored tours, and handle all travel permits for a hassle-free experience.
Whether you prefer the convenience of flying, the scenic charm of a Tibet train journey, or the adventurous spirit of an overland road trip, AOT has tailored itineraries to meet your needs.
Leave the hassle of permits and logistics to us, and focus on the journey of a lifetime. Start your dream trip to Tibet with Asia Odyssey Travel today!
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