trip to tibet from india

Amazing Holidays to Tibet

Tibet tour packages.

  • Tour Packages

Well known for its culture, tradition and scenic beauty, Tibet will let you explore the major tourist attractions, religious sites amidst tranquil surroundings. With our Tibet Tourism & holiday Packages, you will get to visit some of the enchanting tourist destinations of Tibet including Lhasa, Shigatse, Ngari, Tsedang and more. In addition to this, a trip to Tibet will also let you come across the not to miss prime tourist attractions including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Mount Kailash, Tashilhunpo Monastery etc.

Popular Tibet Holiday Packages

image

03 Nights/ 04 Days

Tibet Tour Fly In Fly Out

image

04 Nights / 05 Days

Tibet Cultural Tour

image

07 Nights / 08 Days

Sublime Tibet Tour

Book your custom tour with us, packages by interest.

image

Why Book Tibet Tours with Us?

Stunning monasteries, breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountains, thrilling high-altitude walks and the most likeable cultures is what makes Tibet one of the top tourism destinations in the world. We at Tour My India offer you the best of this scenic holy city of Himalayas and guarantee the best ever travel experience. Why book Tibet Tourism Package with us? Because we value your money and with this, we provide you with the best in the budget. As the quality and services must go hand in hand, we offer the services with top-notch quality. Client satisfaction being our prime focus, we believe in taking personal care of the travellers and assist at every step while you are on your trip to Tibet. Right from the day you choose us as your travel partner for Tibet Tour Packages till the time you return back home, our tour representatives will be your personal steward.

Whether you are travelling to Tibet with family, friends or solo, you can rely on us for your safety. Not only this, Tibet is also one of the best honeymoon destinations where you can plan your romantic escapade. Also, we customize the trip and help you explore the pristine lakes, splendid monasteries, the popular Barkhor Street, where you can enjoy every bit of your trip with your loved ones. We also deal in customising the best family holiday packages where you can let your kids witness centuries-old traditions, mysterious religious culture and untouched pure natural scenery of Tibet at its best.

From seeking blessings at the monasteries and temples to walking on the Barkhor Street, from trekking to the highest mountains to witnessing some of the interesting festivals, we aim at introducing Tibet at its best to the travellers. We also help one discover some of the offbeat travel destinations in Tibet where tourists can learn about their beliefs, culture and tradition of the locals. Surrounded beautifully by high, Tibet also offers the best adventurous activities for the tourists and we handpick the best ones. Our tour representatives have complete knowledge about Tibet and will always be there whenever you need any assistance while exploring the beautiful tourist destination. If you are looking forward to plan a trip to this heavenly place, our Tibet Travel Guide will cover you with all that you will get to experience including the rich history, architecture and mesmerising beauty of the region.

trip to tibet from india

Top Places and Tourist Attractions to Visit in Tibet

trip to tibet from india

The capital of Tibet region, Lhasa will let you marvel at the rich culture and heritage of the destination. As you enter the holy city, you get to witness the dominating red and white Potala Palace. Tourists can even indulge in taking a walk on the Barkhor Street and seek blessings at the Jokhang Temple which is the spiritual centre of Tibet.

trip to tibet from india

Also named as Xigatse, Shigatse has a number of tourist attractions that are composed of great natural sites and grand monasteries. On visiting Shigatse, you will get to learn about the history of the place and witness the status of Buddhism in the lives of the people. In addition to the cultural relics, Shigatse has a high-plateau land with impressive natural beauty.

trip to tibet from india

Dotted with pristine lakes and rivers, splendid mountains and glaciers, vast grasslands, spectacular snow mountains, Ngari gives the tourists a wonderful opportunity to indulge in a sightseeing tour. Not only this, the destination will give wildlife lovers a chance to witness the animals including yaks and Tibetan antelopes. Tourists can even explore the famous natural and historical sites, including the ruins of Guge Kingdom, the holy Mt. Kailash and the sacred Lake Manasarovar.

trip to tibet from india

Blessed with beautiful lakes, deep gorges, vast forests, azalea-filled meadows and more, Nyingchi is sure to delight the nature lovers. The tourist attractions in Nyingchi is no less than a heaven in the world that will give the tourists an opportunity to spend leisure time while exploring and enjoying the incomparable beauty of nature.

trip to tibet from india

Home to nomadic culture and splendid, Nagqu is an important tourist destination that tourists should visit when on a trip to Tibet. As Nagqu never fails to draw the tourist’s attention by its charm, one can head to visit Lake Tangra Yumco, Purog Kangri Glacier, Zandan Monastery and Siling Tso Lake.

trip to tibet from india

Holding a great significance in the history and spiritual life, Tsedang is an ancient capital of Tibet. Other than indulging in a sightseeing tour here, tourists shouldn’t miss out on visiting the prime tourist attractions of the region including Yung Balakang, Samye Monastery, and Traduk Temple.

trip to tibet from india

Situated at the strategic river junction of the Dza-chu and the Ngon-chu, Chambo is a worth visiting place which showcases beautiful landscapes. Dominated by hilltop Galden Jampaling Monastery, the pleasant town will let you spend quality time amidst the picturesque beauty. When in Chamdo, tourists can head to visit Chambaling Monastery, Karma Temple, Riwoche Monastery, Tsedrug Temple, Carnot Ruins and Rawok Lake.

trip to tibet from india

Potala Palace

Being the most iconic architecture and top UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tibet, Potala Palace is regarded as the landmark and symbol of Tibet. The beautiful red and white great giant palace consists of houses, towers and chapels. Because of its spectacular architecture style, Potala Palace is honoured as one of the most beautiful architectural building in the world.  A visit to Potala Palace will give you an opportunity to learn about the precious arts and learn Tibetan culture and history.

trip to tibet from india

Barkhor Street

Situated in the old area of the Lhasa city, Barkhor Street is popular among the tourists. As you visit the place you will find the place to be an ancient round street that surrounds the Jokhang Temple. Being the symbol of Lhasa, a visit to Barkhor Street is a must that will let you shop Thangka (a Tibetan scroll painting) which is a unique art of Tibet depicting religion, history, literature, science and customs.

trip to tibet from india

Jokhang Temple

Nestled at the heart of the old town of Lhasa and surrounded by the Barkhor Street, Jokhang Temple is the popular holiest destination for all Tibetan pilgrims. The four-storeyed building is covered with gilded bronze tiles which demonstrates a combination of the architectural style of Han, Tibetan, India and Nepal. On visiting the Jokhang Temple you will get to discover the mysterious and sacred land, you can get close to the religious part of Tibet and experience the devotion of Tibetans.

trip to tibet from india

Ganden Monastery

Being one of the earliest and largest Buddhist Monasteries in Tibet, Ganden Monastery is three times as large as Potala. On being here you will get the opportunity to witness the stupendous views of the surrounding Kyi-Chu valley and mesmerising scenery. Comprising of fifty structures in total the main halls in the temple include the Coqen Hall, Zhacangs, Khangtsens, and Myicuns.

trip to tibet from india

Namtso Lake

Namtso Lake meaning ‘the holy lake’ in the Tibetan language is no less than a fairyland. The beauty of the place offers a visual feast where the lake and the sky seem to be one and undivided. For tourists seeking peace and tranquillity, a visit to Namtso Lake will give the best ever experience. In addition to this, the incredible views of the place offer a good opportunity for photography.

trip to tibet from india

Mount Kailash

Tibet is never short on holy peaks and of all the recognised mountains, Mount Kailash is revered as the holiest destination. The awe-inspiring surrounding area fills the heart of the visitors with a palpable sense of holiness. The inexplicably divine experience of the place is unmatched anywhere else which offers a spiritual journey like never before.

trip to tibet from india

Lake Manasarovar

Situated near Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar inculcates immensely pristine water accompanied with extreme divinity. Considered to be one of the three holiest lakes of Tibet, the invincible lake offers spiritual satisfaction to the pilgrims coming from across the globe. In addition to this, Lake Mansarovar is the source of four great rivers of Asia including Brahmaputra, Ghaghara, Sindhu and Sutlej.

trip to tibet from india

Sera Monastery

Surrounded by a very beautiful setting with cobbled alleyways, temples and colleges, Sera Monastery is one of the great three Gelukpa university monasteries of Tibet. Dedicated to the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat Sect, a branch of Tibetan Buddhism, the prime highlights of the monastery stands out to be the monks debating inside the shady courtyard behind the main temple. Also, a visit to the three colleges is a must including Sera Me, Sera Ngapa and Sera Je.

trip to tibet from india

Everest Base Camp

Travel to the Everest Base Camp, one of the popular tourist destination for trips in the Himalayan region. Being one of the most desirable and most reachable places for tourists, Everest Base Camp offers a sweeping and breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Everest- the highest peak in the world.

trip to tibet from india

Yamdrok Lake

Surrounded by the flanks of dull grey and green mountains, Yamdrok Lake glows with various colours which appear to be truly mesmerising on a bright sunny day. Considered to be a sacred lake, Yamdrok is believed to be able to let the tourists find the reincarnated soul of the Dalai Lama. Offering stunning scenery, Yamdrok gives the tourists an opportunity of bird watching especially during autumn and winter season.

trip to tibet from india

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Founded by the first Dalai Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery is important in Tibetan history and culture. Being one of the largest monasteries in Shigatse, Tashilhunpo Monastery holds much treasure including the priceless Future Buddha Statue, precious Buddha Stupas and a lot of Buddhist texts and murals. Other than this, the annual Thangka Ceremony is yet another not to miss attraction in Tashilhunpo Monastery.

trip to tibet from india

Palkhor Monastery

An interesting religious center, Palkhor Monastery has multiple sects of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery complex includes the Tsuklakhang Monastery, the main temple, and its Kumbum Stupa. The beautiful architecture of the Palkhor Monastery dates back to the 15th century with each floors having well-preserved murals and images. Being here one can experience a unique and relaxed atmosphere that will fill one’s heart with peace and holiness.

trip to tibet from india

Kumbum Stupa

The Kumbum Stupa in the Palkhor Monastery is the most symbolic architecture. The Kumbum Stupa is composed of approx 77 temple halls with over 10,000 Buddha statues in halls, niches and on murals. From the staircases of the Kumbum Stupa, you will get a spectacular view of the town and the famous Gyantse fort.

trip to tibet from india

Samye Monastery

Founded in 775, Samye Monastery is the first monastery in Tibet which is not just famous for its pivotal history but for its unique mandala design. Renowned for its splendid structure, the monastery features the Tibetan, Chinese and Indian, architectural style. Not only this, Samye Monastery symbolizes the center of the universe letting the pilgrims explore the ancient heart of Tibetan Buddhist world.

Frequently Asked Questions For Traveling to Tibet

Do indian travellers need a travel permit to visit tibet.

For Indian citizens, the first priority is to get a Tibet Visa or Tibet Travel Permit. However, tourists planning to visit the unopened areas including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kailash and more, additional permits are required which is to be approved by several government departments. Tourists planning to enter Tibet from Kathmandu has to apply for travel permit through the Chinese Embassy at Kathmandu. For those travelling to Tibet from China, you still have to get the Tibet Travel Permit from China.

Do Foreign Travellers Need a Travel Permit to Visit Tibet?

The foreign tourists except Hong Kong and Macau citizens are required to have a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) before planning to travel in and around Tibet. An additional permit is required if planning to visit the best tourism places of Tibet including Mt. Everest, Mt.Kailash. Foreign tourists planning to travel to Tibet from Nepal can avail the Tibet Visa or Tibet Travel Permit from the Chinese Embassy at Kathmandu or can also get it from China. Other than this, diplomats, journalists and certain professional media photographers are not permitted to enter on a TTP and must apply through the diplomatic channels of their respective countries or media companies.

How Long Does It Take to Obtain the Tibet Travel Permit?

Processing a Tibet Travel Permit usually takes up to two weeks. In theory, it can be completed within 3-4 days but often takes longer. Tourists planning to travel to Tibet must book a tour in advance by partnering with a registered travel agency who can aid you in obtaining an original Tibet Travel Permit (not a copy) before you board your flight or train to Tibet.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tibet?

The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is pleasant for Tibet Tour with family, friends, kids and elderly. During Tibetan New Year which takes place either in February or March, the Chinese Government periodically restricts the issuance of visas. So check with your travel agency if you are planning a trip during this time.

How to Get Flight for Tibet?

The popular route to enter Tibet is from Kathmandu and Indian travellers require a passport to cross through this highway route as it can be crossed either by a bus (not so recommendable as it is quite a long route) or flight. However, Indians, Nepalese and Tibetans prefer travelling by air. Tibet houses only one international airport which is at Lhasa and is well-connected to Kathmandu Airport in Nepal. For Indian travellers, it is easier to catch a flight back to India through the major cities including Delhi , Mumbai or Kolkata from Kathmandu.

Note: There are no direct flights available from Lhasa to anywhere in India. Travellers need to go to Kathmandu first and from there board a flight to Lhasa.

What Medical Precautions are to be Taken for Travelling to Tibet?

High altitude sickness is common when travelling to popular tourism places in Tibet. It is mandatory to consult your doctor before leaving for Tibet. It is a good idea to carry a well-supplied first-aid kit that has all the basic and important medicines like Diamox for altitude sickness, Paracetamol or Ibuprofen for pain, fever or inflammation, Cold and flu tablets, throat lozenges and prescribed nasal decongestant.

What are the Things You Need to Pack For Tibet?

It is important to carry essential things when travelling to any place. When it is about travelling to Tibet here are few things that you shouldn’t miss packing.

  • Warm clothes like sweaters and fleeces which are needed during the summer months as well as the day-night temperature drop is big. Also, a thick down coat is mandatory if you plan to visit Everest.
  • If you happen to visit Tibet during the low season, make sure to carry mountain winter clothes like a thick down coat.
  • Bring sunglasses and sunscreen that will protect you from strong sunlight.
  • Lip cream protect your lips from dryness.
  • Comfortable walking shoes as most of the places have steep steps to climb.
  • Light Snacks for long road trips or in case if you don’t want to have the local food.

Can We Plan a Visit to Tibet With Children?

Travelling to Tibet with children can be difficult as there can be health risks in young children at high altitude as their lungs, brains and hearts are still developing. It is recommended to wait for your child to turn at least 5 years old before planning a visit to Tibet.

What are the Minimum Number of Days Required to Visit Tibet?

At least 4 days are required to visit Lhasa. Remember that the altitude in Lhasa is around 3600 meter for which you need to take it easy on day 1 in order to let your body get accustomed to the altitude. It will take at least 2 days to explore Lhasa. On day 4 you can return to respective countries. In addition to this, if you wish to visit Everest Base camp then you should consider a ten-day trip to Tibet.

Is Indian Food Available in Tibet?

Tibet is dominated by the local Tibetan as well as Chinese cuisines. However, the region isn’t going to disappoint the discerning traveller who likes a little spice in their food. There are small restaurants in Tibet that offer decent Indian-style meals (both veg and non-veg) at a very affordable price.

What are the Local Delicacies Found in Tibet?

Holidaying in Tibet you will get the opportunity to try the local delicacies including Tsampa, Yak Meat, Tibetan Noodle, Momo, Milk Curd and more. Besides these, there are more cuisines brought into Tibet that are a must try including Sichuan Cuisine, Western Food, Nepali food and many other Chinese cuisines. In Lhasa, tourists will have a wide range of choice in Lhasa, while limited options in remote towns and areas.

What Currency is Used in Tibet?

The currency used in Tibet in Chinese Yuan (CNY) which is otherwise known as Renminbi (RMB). Only Bank of China offers foreign exchange services and facilities to the visiting travellers.

What are the Accommodation Options in Tibet?

Hotels in Tibet offers the tourists a wide range of options to the tourists. Right from luxury 5-star hotels to comfortable 4-star hotels, from to economic to Tibetan style guesthouses and hostels, tourists can choose the accommodation option in Tibet according to their budget and preference.

What Can be the Best Holiday Deals on Tibet Tour?

Partnering with Tour My India can assist you in planning a perfect trip with the best Tibet holiday packages. We also deal in tailor-made travel packages that suit the need and preference of our clients. We not only offer tour packages from India but also best travel packages from Nepal to Tibet. Book your tours with us to experience a hassle-free trip to Tibet.

International Tourism

Our latest travel blog.

image

08 Nov, 2023

Thailand is renowned for its world-class beaches, each of which offers its taste of tropical paradis

image

03 Nov, 2023

Great news for Indian travelers planning a holiday in Sri Lanka! In an effort to boost its tourism s

image

Thailand is all set to welcome Indian tourists with its new tourism policy which will waive visa res

Flights at lowest airfare

Let us find you the right flight for the right price.

https://www.tourmyindia.com/international/wp-content/themes/tmi-international/images

Copyright © 2024 Tour My India. All Rights Reserved.

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy

icon

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Tibet Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Tibet. We've got 67 trips going to Tibet, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 25 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.

67 Tibet tour packages with 77 reviews

Tibet: Beijing to Kathmandu Overland Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Tibet: Beijing to Kathmandu Overland

This trip takes you from the hustle and bustle of Beijing to the serene beauty of the Tibetan Plateau! So much variety, the train ride was a highlight, getting to talk to locals and share stories and snacks was a truly incredible experience. Breathing the fresh mountain air and taking in the scenery, I will never forget it. Our Tibetan leader was the best part of our trip, wildly knowledgeable and funny to boot. I would do this trip again in an heartbeat.

Budget Tibet Overland Tour Fix Departure Tour

  • Sightseeing
  • Christmas & New Year

Budget Tibet Overland Tour Fix Departure

Outshine adventures and their partners in Tibet were superb. Asmita and Gokul in Nepal were excellent and Tarkye and Tsedun in Tibet were superb. The trip by its nature is challenging but we could not have wished for a more organised company

Overland Tibet with EBC Tour 8 days Tour

Overland Tibet with EBC Tour 8 days

The guide and driver provided the seven persons on the tour, which included me, with excellent service and information about Llasa and the southernTibet sites we viewed. I particularly enjoyed the Mount Everest Tibet basecamp visit and our tour of a Bhudist nunnery.. The accommodations were first class. While the roads in Nepal are unpaved and rocky, the driver and 4by4's shocks and suspension took us through the jolting terrain.

Glimpses of Nepal and Tibet Tour 13 Days Tour

Glimpses of Nepal and Tibet Tour 13 Days

We are a group of 6 people recently visited Nepal and Tibet on a wonderful 13-day tour organized by Peregrine Tours & Treks. Everything went smoothly! We were particularly impressed by the professionalism demonstrated by the tour guides and drivers who always looked after us making us feel both welcomed and secure. We only brought back very fond memories of the fascinating Nepalese and Tibetan cultures as well as of the astonishing views of the Himalayan range. Many thanks to Pradip and his entire team for giving us such a wonderful experience. Highly recommended Peregrine Treks and Tours for Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan tour as well

Forbidden Lhasa and Everest Base Camp - 9 Days Tour

Forbidden Lhasa and Everest Base Camp - 9 Days

everything about this tour was more than we could have hoped for. From the moment we were met at Kathmandu airport by Mr. Rana we were completely taken care of. Our permit for Tibet was ready the three days later needed by the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu. We were transferred for our flight to Lhasa and met at hotel in KTM upon our overland return from Tibet. The tour of TIbet with driver and guide followed faithfully our itinerary, the highlight of course being an unobstructed sunrise of the north face of Everest. Our guide was very solicitous of us all the way, always being sure the altitude was OK for us. Both he and the driver were always on time, we travelled many kms. But not tiring. This was the trip of a lifetime, you indeed feel you are at the top on the world in these beautiful mountain valleys surrounded by unforgettable peaks. Unless you want to include Mount Kailish, this 9 day trip was the perfect amount of time, Staying in Lhasa for three nights helped the acclimatization to the altitude, although Everest Base Camp is a bit of a stretch. But the alternative to staying at a hotel two hours away outweighed the discomfort (we did not take diamox and were OK). Overland to Kathmandu from Tibetan border was an experience, but not to be missed. If I was to decide to do this over again, this would be the itinerary, and Adventure Himalayan Travels out of Kathmandu would be the agent. To start in Lhasa and end in KTM is much the best direction, you need to have a week to acclimatize to 5200 m. At Everest, plus the view is better from the north side. This tour rates 100% for organization, facilitation, and the kindness of the people of Kathmandu and Tibet

08 days Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and drive to Kathmandu via Kerung Tour

08 days Tour from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and drive to Kathmandu via Kerung

I have toured twice with this company in 2010 and 2016 and most important the guides are always concerned about your well being and health. I was never left alone and this is important when dealing with issues such as high altitude and felt comfortable with the guides. I have recommended this tour company to friends

4 Days Lhasa City Essential Group Tour Tour

4 Days Lhasa City Essential Group Tour

I’m very glad to talk about my 4-day Tibet trip. This is my first-time travel to Tibet. My travel consultant Lily is professional, she handled everything for me. When I arrived in Lhasa, I was deeply shocked by the rich Buddhist atmosphere here. we visited many monasteries in the next two days, our guide is extremely knowledgable, he shares a lot of stories with us. Let me have a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhism. Besides, our driver was very hospitable and make sure our ride is safe and comfortable. Although I only had a four-day journey, I had a perfect vacation. So I would like to thank you all for your excellent service to make our trip.

15 Days Mt.everest & Mt Kailash Kora Pilgrimage Group Tour Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

15 Days Mt.everest & Mt Kailash Kora Pilgrimage Group Tour

I would say it's my most unforgettable experience after a 15-day fascinating adventure especially trekking at Mt.Kailash. Representing my family of 3 people, I appreciate our guide Pingyang who is an expert about Tibet culture, particularly Buddism, I learned so much from him. You agency have considerately arranged this tour so that we have few worries to prepare our documents, flights, etc. Your service can be so efficient while keeping the tour cost down, which makes you deserve a word of praise.

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: marvel at Mt.Everest real close Tour

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour: marvel at Mt.Everest real close

Starting from the beginning, I was told by Tibet Vista agent, Leon, that they would be able to send my Tibet Visa to my hotel in Beijing as I was in transit there. I checked with Leon a month before the trip to ensure that the visa was all settled and Leon assured me that everything is going smoothly. However, just a day before my departure to Lhasa, Leon told me that the hotel did not accept the visa parcel. Leon was not apologetic at all and in his words: "Your hotel did not accept.", in which pushes the blame on me for booking a hotel that did not accept the visa parcel. As a reputable company such as Tibet Vista, having many customers for years, I would have been certain that they would check with the hotel beforehand that a visa parcel would be delivered to them. In the end, I had to pay extra USD$50 for Tibet Vista to send their staff to pass me the visa. This felt like it was all planned for. As for the trip, it was mediocre in terms of guide service. We were not told about what to prepare for, both in terms of weather and itinerary, as some of us had surprisingly different itineraries that were given to us. The guide explained about the place in-depth, but under the hot sun instead of moving us to any shade to do this. The guide did not tell that everyone was given a can of oxygen and thus, I only got mine at Mount Everest Base Camp itself! Thankfully, I did not have altitude sickness. We did not go to the cultural show or the tea house as planned in the itinerary. At Shigatse, I almost had to share a room with another solo traveller, both of us actually paid extra USD$150 for single room supplement. Thankfully, we were persistent in getting our own rooms, and were given single rooms after scuffling. At the Everest Base Camp, we were told by the tour guide that if we arrived first, we would be able to stay in the guesthouse instead of tents. However, we were put into the tents and another group that arrived much later got the guesthouse. I am not too sure because another of a fellow traveller in my group said that she paid extra supplement to get to stay in the guesthouse instead of the tents. The guide service was really basic and it sort of spoiled the rather pleasant trip.

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tour Tour

  • Overland Truck

7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Small Group Tour

Superb guide, committed staff. Guaranteed the Tibet permit and followed through. Made this an adventure of a lifetime.

Classic Tibet 8 Days: Lhasa, Gyangtse, Shigatse, Sakya, Everest Base Camp Tour

Classic Tibet 8 Days: Lhasa, Gyangtse, Shigatse, Sakya, Everest Base Camp

Tibet Mandala Tour Tour

  • Local Living

Tibet Mandala Tour

Tibet Tour Fixed Depature Tour

Tibet Tour Fixed Depature

Beijing to Kathmandu | 19 Days Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Beijing to Kathmandu | 19 Days

Tibet Overland Tour Combined Everest Base Camp Adventure Tour

Tibet Overland Tour Combined Everest Base Camp Adventure

What people love about tibet tours.

Thank you Asmita & the whole team of Outshine Adventure for making this great tour possible. We've been in safe hands with a very sympathic guide and driver that conveyed us a lot of knowledge about the fascinating culture in Tibet. Highly recommended, Haiko & Manuela from Germany.
The guide and driver provided the seven persons on the tour, which included me, with excellent service and information about Llasa and the southernTibet sites we viewed. I particularly enjoyed the Mount Everest Tibet basecamp visit and our tour of a Bhudist nunnery.. The accommodations were first class. While the roads in Nepal are unpaved and rocky, the driver and 4by4's shocks and suspension took us through the jolting terrain.
Nepal and Tibet Overland Tour with Peregrine Treks and Tours was an experience of a lifetime. The rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu, the natural splendor of Pokhara, and the spiritual grandeur of Potala Palace in Tibet were profoundly captivating. Walking through Barkhor Street and exploring the ancient monasteries like Drepung and Sera offered a deep dive into Tibetan culture. The awe-inspiring visit to Everest Base Camp was the highlight, offering breathtaking views and a sense of unparalleled achievement. Throughout, the expertise and hospitality of Pradip Karki and his team elevated the entire journey, making it unforgettable.

Tibet Tours starting in:

  • Kathmandu (21)
  • Family (43)
  • Partially Guided (36)
  • Personalized (32)
  • In-depth Cultural (31)
  • Fully Guided (30)
  • Active (21)
  • Explorer (21)
  • Hiking & Trekking (10)
  • Private (6)
  • Small Group (38)
  • 7 Day Tours (20)
  • 10 Day Tours (22)
  • 2 Week Tours (6)
  • 3 Week Tours (12)
  • Spring 2024 (52)
  • Summer 2024 (58)
  • Fall / Autumn 2024 (57)
  • Winter 2024 / 2025 (39)
  • Spring 2025 (21)
  • Summer 2025 (22)
  • Fall / Autumn 2025 (22)
  • Winter 2025 / 2026 (18)
  • May 2024 (54)
  • June 2024 (55)
  • July 2024 (55)
  • August 2024 (53)
  • September 2024 (56)
  • October 2024 (52)
  • November 2024 (44)
  • December 2024 (39)
  • January 2025 (20)
  • February 2025 (18)
  • March 2025 (15)
  • April 2025 (21)
  • May 2025 (24)
  • June 2025 (22)
  • July 2025 (20)
  • August 2025 (20)
  • September 2025 (22)
  • October 2025 (20)
  • November 2025 (19)
  • December 2025 (18)

Other Regions in China

  • Western China (158)
  • Southern China (141)
  • Northern China (37)
  • Sichuan (26)
  • Yunnan (20)
  • Xinjiang (18)
  • Guangxi (16)
  • Yamdrok Lake (12)
  • Guangdong (6)
  • Huangshan (5)
  • Guizhou (5)
  • Zhejiang (5)
  • Jiangsu (5)

Travel Styles

  • Budget (14)
  • Singles and Solo (36)
  • For Couples (6)
  • Seniors (27)

thrillophilia-logo

Tibet Tour Packages | Upto 50% Off April Mega SALE

Tibet Trip Packages: Browse through a wide range of Tibet packages with exciting offers at Thrillophilia. Book customized Tibet trip packages with exciting deals & offers. Tibet Tour Packages are available all year around bringing travelers to traverse to this place. An autonomous Chinese region, Tibet endows a great feel of culture, distinction to the tourist. Offering splendid and breathtaking monasteries, stunning overviews, captivating high altitude trekking, one of the globe’s highest mountains and the most amiable and affable natives, Tibet stands out as an amazing place to visit. For most of the people, the major highlights of the place Tibet is a spiritual encapsulation catering magnificent and spectacular monasteries, halls for praying, chapels for the old monks to chant and minor remote Cliffside recoil. The pilgrims in Tibet is highly scented and strewn with heavy aroma and scent of juniper and yak butter. Mt. Kailash is an essential and appealing part of Tibet, capturing the attention of the travelers at large. A level of faith and devotion is well represented through the place – Tibet. The place is fascinatingly inspiring and completely photogenic. Other colossal draws and attractive spots of Tibet are the elemental beauty delineated by the highest plateau in the globe. Your Tibet tour will take you through various gripping destination locations representing the turquoise lakes, nomadic tents, over high passes strewed with relishing prayer flags. Here, to witness the scope of adventure is limited to one’s ability to get felicitous permission for the same. No one can get away from politics from this place. Whether you view the place Tibet as an occupied, oppressed nation or an insufficiently developed Chinese province, the general rules and regulations of the Chinese travel aren't same for Tibet. The travel restrictions passed by the Tibetan Government quarries on the fact that the travelers require getting a pre-arranged tour with a professional guide and relevant transportation from their trip in Tibet. Moreover, now the new airports, paved roads, and boutique hotels proffer a considerable level of ease and comfort which was unheard few years back. Therefore, if your plans to visit Tibet had made you dissuade in the past, now is the felicitous time to rethink or reconsider. Avail Tibet tour packages to explore Tibet.

Tibet Tourism

Popular tibet attractions.

Mt. Kailash Pilgrimage (Kora) Trekking

More Tibet Attractions

Popular related destinations.

Nepal

Why Choose Thrillophilia

Tibet travel guides, best domestic packages, best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

India Overview

Chinese Name : English IPA : Location : Population (city) : Language : Zip code : Tel code : Time zone :

Plan your Tibet Trip from India? Read our India to Tibet travel guide about when and where to visit, India to Tibet Lhasa, Shigatse, Nagqu, Ngari, Nyingchi, Chamdo, Shannan, Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, The Potala Palace and Namtso Lake Tours, China Visa and Tibet Travel Permits, India to Tibet Transportation (By Air, flights, Cruise and Ship, Bus, Train, High Speed Train, Railway, Road), India – Tibet travel tour packages.

4 Days Lhasa City Highlights Small Group Tour

4 Days Lhasa City Highlights Small Group Tour

  • 4 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary
  • Chengguan District
  • The Potala Palace
  • Tibet Small Group Tour Packages

6 Days Lhasa and Lake Namtso Small Group Tour

6 Days Lhasa and Lake Namtso Small Group Tour

6-Day Lhasa and Lake Namtso tour is not only a Buddhism culture experience tour, but also an enjoyable landscape sightseeing tour by combining both Lhasa and Namtso Lake into...

  • 6 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary
  • Damxung County
  • Namtso Lake

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Everest / Lhasa

  • 8 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary
  • Gyangze County
  • Lhasa - Shigatse - Mount Everest Tours
  • Lhasa - Shigatse Tours
  • Lhaze County
  • Mount Everest
  • Mount Everest Base Camp Tours
  • Tingri County

8 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour via Mount Everest Base Camp

8 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour via Mount Everest Base Camp

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Mount Everest / Gyirong / Kathmandu

  • Gyirong County
  • Lhasa - Shigatse - Mount Kailash Tours

10 Days China Classic Tour with Tibet

10 Days China Classic Tour with Tibet

Beijing/Xian/Lhasa/Shanghai

  • 10 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary

13 Days China Classic Tour with Yangtze River Cruise and Tibet Discovery

13 Days China Classic Tour with Yangtze River Cruise and Tibet Discovery

Beijing - Xi’an - Lhasa - Chengdu - Yangtze - Shanghai - Hangzhou - Guilin

  • 13 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary

14 Days Classic China Tour with Tibet Train and Sichuan Panda

14 Days Classic China Tour with Tibet Train and Sichuan Panda

Shanghai - Huangshan - Guilin - Jiuzhaigou - Lhasa - Shigatse - Mt. Everest - Xining

  • 14 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary

19 Days China Small Group Tour with Yunnan and Tibet Impression

19 Days China Small Group Tour with Yunnan and Tibet Impression

Beijing-Xian-Lhasa-Shigatse-Mt Everest-Lhasa-Kunming-Dali-Lijiang-Shangrila-Shanghai

  • 19 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary

23 Days Best China Small Group Tour with Yunnan and Tibet Mount Everest Adventure

23 Days Best China Small Group Tour with Yunnan and Tibet Mount Everest Adventure

23 Days Best China Small Group Tour with Yunnan and Tibet Mount Everest Discovery will take you to explore the most beautiful parts of China including the mysterious Yunnan...

  • 23 Days Tibet Travel Itinerary

8 Days Qinghai Yuzhu Peak (Sob Gangri) Climbing Tour

You Might Like

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

India Travel Guide

Theme tours guide.

  • Amdo Tibetan Tours
  • Best Tibet Tours
  • Central Tibet Tours
  • China Tibet Tours
  • Eastern Tibet Tours
  • Gansu Tibetan Tours
  • Kham Tibetan Tours
  • Lhasa Tours
  • Mount Everest Base Camp Tour
  • Mount Kailash Trekking Tours
  • Qinghai Tibetan Tours
  • Qinghai-Sichuan Tours
  • Shangrila Tibetan Discovery
  • Sichuan Tibetan Tours
  • Sichuan-Yunnan Tours
  • Sichuan-Yunnan-Tibet Tours
  • Tibet Culture Tours
  • Tibet Cycling Tours
  • Tibet Festival Tours
  • Tibet Hiking Tours
  • Tibet Motorbike Tours
  • Tibet Mountain Climbing Tours
  • Tibet Photograph Tours
  • Tibet Small Group Tours
  • Tibet Train Tours
  • Tibet Winter Tours
  • Tibet-Nepal Tours
  • Tibet-Qinghai Tours
  • Tibet-Qinghai-Sichuan Tours
  • Tibet-Sichuan Tours
  • Tibet-Xinjiang Tours
  • Tibet-Yunnan Tours
  • Yunnan-Sichuan-Qinghai Tours
  • Yunnan-Tibet-Qinghai Tours

trip to tibet from india

Tips Before Travel

Bring copies of your passport.

Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.

Register with your embassy

For your safety, please register with the Embassy.

Always have local cash

Exchange some local currency for your trip

Ada Yang

Customize a Trip

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once enquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

trip to tibet from india

Why Travel with Us

  • Tips Before Traveling to Tibet
  • Best Time to Visit Tibet
  • Everest Base Camp Travel Tips
  • How to Get to Tibet
  • Keep Healthy in Tibet
  • Photography in Tibet
  • Visa & Travel Documents
  • What Our Customers Say?
  • Tibet Travel Blog
  • Voyages Yunnan
  • Ethinic Minorities in Tibet
  • Tibet Travel Permits
  • Tibet Culture
  • Tibet Trains
  • Tibet Travel Tips
  • Tibet Tours From
  • Tibet Guide
  • Tibet Intangible Cultural Heritages
  • Tibet Traditional Villages
  • Transportation in Tibet
  • Tibet Festivals
  • Tibet Hotels

Latest News

How to Plan Your Tibet Tours

How to Plan Your Tibet Tours

Tsomujiri Lake in Nyingchi

Tsomujiri Lake in Nyingchi

Tibet Jiangbai Tibetan Cultural Experience Hall in Lhasa

Tibet Jiangbai Tibetan Cultural Experience Hall in Lhasa

Qomolangma Museum in Shigatse, Tibet

Qomolangma Museum in Shigatse, Tibet

Ngari Museum in Tibet

Ngari Museum in Tibet

Contact info.

59 Jiangsu Road, Chengguan District, Chengguan, Lhasa, China Tel/WhatsApp: 0086-18088243690 Wechat: 908400838 Email: [email protected]

Tel: 0086-18088243690 [email protected]

Daily: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Copyright © 2015-2018 WordPress Leaf. All rights reserved

Terms & Conditions  |  Privacy & Policy

59 Jiangsu Road, Chengguan District, Chengguan, Lhasa, China Tel/WhatsApp: 0086-18088243690 Wechat: 908400838 Email: [email protected] Tel: 0086-18088243690 [email protected]

trip to tibet from india

trip to tibet from india

Tibet is a scenic holy city in the the Himalayas. It is an independent nation with its own history, cultural heritage and identity. It is the abode of the Holy Dalai Lama. It is surrounded beautifully by high mountains, Karakoram on West, Himalayas on south and Kunlun on North. It's a paradise for tourists and a trekker's delight. The valley is also adorned by some rivers adding onto the beauty of this place. The Tibet tour is an extensive tour of this Kingdom to explore the mesemerising beauty and rich history. Some of the places to visit include the Potala Place, Jokhang Temple, the Tashilunpo Monastery by the Tibetian railway. This railway tour gives you the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful landscapes of Lhasa. There are many monasteries to visit. As it is an independent nation, a visa is required.

The Architecture of the buildings in Tibet reflect an Indian as well as Chinese influence. Some rivers too originate from Tibet. The weather is normally warm summers and cold winters. Some places are comparatively colder even in summers so don't forget to carry some warm clothes. The main city and the capital of Tibet is Lhasa. This is where you can do the sightseeing of various monasteries and temples. The Sera Monastery is the world heritage UNESCO site. The Potala Palace is apparently the residence of the Dalai Lama. You can also visit the Norbulingka, Ramoche and Jokhang temple. You can visit the nearby places too like Nepal and Bhutan .

4 Itinerary Found Select Destination Kathmandu

4 Days Tibet Tour Packages - Lhasa City Sightseeing

4 Days - Tibet Lhasa City Tour

trip to tibet from india

  • Visit Potala Palace and Jokhang Monastery
  • Explore Drak Yerpa - spiritual axis’s of Lhasa
  • See Drepung Monastery - biggest Buddhist College
  • Explore Ramoche Temple, Norbulingka, Nuchung
  • Stroll around the local market of Lhasa
  • See the lifestyle of locals

7 Nights 8 Days Tibet Tour Packages from Lhasa - Itinerary, Sightseeing

8 Days - Tibet Tour From Lhasa

Lahasa - Gandan - Drigung – Reting - Namtso – Lhasa

  • See the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple
  • Enjoy the shopping at Barkhor Street
  • Visit Drepung and Sera Monastery
  • Explore Gandan and Drigung Monastry
  • Visit Namtso Lake and Yampecheng Hot Spring

8 Days Tibet Tour From Nepal Via Everest Base Camp

8 Days - Tibet Tour From Nepal Via Everest Base Camp

Kathmandu – Zhangmu - Old Tigri Base Camp - EBC – Shigatse - Gyantse – Lhasa

  • Visit Mt. Shishapangma and get glimpse of the sunset
  • Enjoy the difference in living lifestyle of people
  • See the Palcho Monastery
  • Explore Yamdrok Lake
  • Visit Potala Palace, Tibetan Museum and Drak Yerpa
  • Explore Sera Monastery, Ramoche Temple and Nechung

16 Days Tibet Tour Packages from Nepal to Mount Kailash

16 Days - Tibet Tour From Nepal Via Everest Base Camp

Kathmandu - Zhangmu - Nyelam - Saga - Manasarovar - Zhada - Mt. Kailash - Saga - Shigatse - Lhasa

  • Visit Mt. Shishapangma and beautiful Pekusto Lake
  • Explore historical Chinese Monastery
  • Enjoy the trekking at Mt. Kailash
  • Enjoy the back riding of yak at Mt. Kailash
  • Visit Tashilumpo Monastery and seat of Panchen Lama

Best Time to Visit Tibet

Currency and card in tibet, how to reach tibet, permits and visa in tibet, places to visit in tibet, shopping in tibet, tibet travel guide, what to eat in tibet, frequently asked questions, q. what is the best time to visit in tibet.

The best time to visit Tibet is April and May or September and October. This is the spring and autumn of the region. Monsoon is the worst time to visit. Monsoon starts in June and ends by August.

Q. Which are the best places to visit in Tibet?

Top places to visit in Tibet are Mount Kailash, Norbulingka, Everest Base Camp, Yamdrok Lake, Nam Tso, Guge Kingdom, Gyantse, Lhasa, Lulang Forest, Samye Monastery, Lake Manasarovar, Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, and others.

Q. Is it safe to travel to Tibet?

Crime rates are low and thus the place is safe. The only element of danger here is the altitude and physical environment. Stick to the allowed destinations and follow the instructions to be safe.

Q. What is the average temperature in Tibet?

In south-east Tibet, the average temperature is 8 degrees C . In Western Tibet, the average temperature runs below zero degrees C. The central Tibet has an average temperature of 29 degrees C.

Q. Why is Tibet famous?

Tibet is home to Himalayas and some of the magnificent natural beauties like lakes, canyons, and more. The Buddhism culture of the land gives interesting festivals, colorful monasteries, and an exotic beauty. Tibet is also famous for the hospitality and the challenging environment.

Q. What is the best month to visit Tibet?

The best month to visit Tibet is April to May. This is the time for adventure activities, exploration, ascending the Mount Everest, photography, and enjoying the culture.

Q. What is special about Tibet?

The challenging landscape has kept the country away from commercialization. Thus, the raw nature and the untouched culture are the special elements of Tibet.

Q. What is the religion of Tibet?

The ancient religion of Tibet is Bon. Today, most of the people follow Tibetan Buddhism. This is a collaboration of Bajrayana and Mahayana. It is a type of Buddhism culture derived from the northern parts of India. There are minority groups of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians too.

Q. What is the famous food of Tibet?

Beef, mutton, and yak meat are very common. Top dishes to try are thenthuk, tsampa, momos, thukpa, gundain, gyaho, chexo, sepen, and others. Top beverages to try are butter tea, raksi, ara, and chhaang. Butter tea made with yak milk is the national beverage of Tibet. Complete Info .

Q. Is it easier to climb Everest from Tibet or Nepal?

As per experts, the route from northeast ridge in Tibet is more challenging than the South Col of Nepal. The Nepal route has less steeper ascend and the climate is also comparatively accommodating. However, both are very challenging routes.

Q. What is the culture of Tibet?

Tibetan culture revolves around the tantric form of Buddhism formed by Vajrayana and Mahayana. This belief includes spells, exorcism, and spirits. The literature, art, music, and lifestyle of the locals revolve around religion.

Q. What are the 3 main beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism?

The three beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism are Anitya – everything changes and nothing will last forever, Dukkha – no one can avoid suffering or pain, and Anatma – there is no soul; there is no next birth.

Q. How many days do you need in Tibet?

If you are planning a trekking vacation, 10-16 days would be a good choice. If you are looking for a complete sightseeing tour, 5-8 days is the common choice.

Q. Is Tibet worth visiting?

Tibet is a mystic and lively nature for outdoor lovers. If you love to experience exotic beauty and challenge yourself to explore extreme regions, Tibet is a wonderful place to visit.

Q. How long does it take to get Tibet permit?

In general, it takes 21 days for permit processing. You cannot visit Tibet as a single tourist or a family. You need to visit as a part of any travel agency. If you are planning to cover Mount Kailash as a part of your tour, it would take four weeks for permit processing .

Q. Is Tibet a country or part of China?

Although China believes that Tibet has been a part of their nation since more than 800 years ago, Tibet is an independent state and is not a part of China.

  • North India
  • Uttarakhand
  • South India
  • Andhra Pradesh
  • Central India
  • North East India
  • Arunachal Pradesh
  • Other Destinations
  • Jammu & Kashmir
  • Andaman & Nicobar
  • First Timers
  • Family Holidays
  • Golden Triangle
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Lakshadweep
  • Jammu Kashmir
  • Andaman Nicobar
  • First Timer Tours
  • Wildlife Tour
  • Honeymoon Tours
  • Heritage & Culture
  • Adventure Tours
  • Spa & Ayurveda
  • Taj Mahal Tour
  • Luxury Train
  • Beaches Tours
  • Hill Station Tours
  • Pilgrimage Tours
  • Chardham Yatra

Luxury Trains

  • Palace on Wheels
  • Maharajas' Express
  • Deccan Odyssey
  • Golden Chariot
  • 1 to 5 Days
  • 6 to 10 Days
  • 11 to 15 Days
  • 16 to 20 Days

Help Center

trip to tibet from india

  • Countries visited: 115
  • Currently in : Singapore 🇸🇬
  • Partner with us
  • SOLO FEMALE TRAVELERS COMMUNITY

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here . Never leave without travel insurance .

Travel to Tibet – Everything you need to know and more

Travel to Tibet feature

This article is written in partnership with GoToTibet , experts in arranging travel to Tibet. As always, all opinions are honest and based on our experience across Tibet.

The Autonomous Region of Tibet is a province of China that has fascinated visitors for decades. However, travel to Tibet is more complex than your average trip to China , or elsewhere. With the help of this guide you can learn all you need to know.

Learning more about Tibet

Tibetan women in Old Lhasa

Tibet is a very unique place and before visiting you must acquaint yourself with the realities on the ground, the region’s history and its current status within China, as well as with its difficult geography and harsh weather.

Unlike other places, a visit to Tibet requires proper planning and preparation, you can’t just book a flight and turn up, you need a permit and a specific itinerary. You also need to book a trip with an official agency like GoToTibet who will escort you throughout the country. Moreover, some parts of Tibet require additional permits and road controls are frequent.

So let’s take a look at all the things you need to know before traveling to Tibet.

Brief history of Tibet

Buddhist monks studying in Tibet

The Kingdom of Tibet was formed during the 7th century when Songtsen Gampo , the 33rd Tibetan King, started to unify various Tibetan tribes into the Tibetan Empire. 

The Mongols of Genghis Khan conquered Tibet in the 13th century and annexed it to their growing empire. In the 16th century, the Mongol King Altan Khan used the title of Dalai Lama, meaning Oceans of Wisdom, for the first time, although Yellow Hat ( Gelugpa ) Buddhism, which the Dalai Lama represents, was founded at the end of the 15th century by Je Tsongkhapa. 

European explorers first arrived in Tibet in 1624 in the shape of a group of Portuguese missionaries who came to build a church. They stayed for a bit over a century but were expelled in 1757 at the request of the Dalai Lama, who was then the head of the Political and Religious power at the time. 

Parts of Tibet were first annexed to China in 1724 when the Qing Dynasty was in power. From then on, China had a Commissioner that supervised the Dalai Lama’s administration.

At that time, the British Empire was strong in India and the British East India Company visited Tibet to assess possibilities for trade. 

To protect itself from Russian and British invasions and battles for control in Central Asia in The Great Game , Tibet closed its borders in the 1850s but that didn’t deter the British troops who eventually forced Tibet to sign a trading agreement in 1904. 

In 1907 both Britain and Russia agreed to Chinese suzerainty over Tibet, that is, China controls all foreign and military policy of Tibet but the state is left to manage internal affairs independently. In 1937, today’s Dalai Lama, was declared the reincarnation of the 13 previous Dalai Lamas at the age of two.

Tibetan landscapes

Mao Zedong founded The Republic of China in 1949 and the Dalai Lama became the Head of State in Tibet in 1951 at the age of 15. The Tibetan Autonomous Region was created in 1965. 

Tibet’s hard to reach geographical position had kept it isolated until the opening of the railway link to Lhasa in 2006. The train increased the number of arrivals to 4 million just after its opening. Today, about 8 million people visit Tibet every year, albeit the majority are local Chinese. 

The Dalai Lama retired from government in 2011 and Lobsang Sangay was chosen as his replacement, also in exile. 

Why travel to Tibet

Tibetan prayer flags ready for sale

Tibet is one of the most fascinating places I have ever visited. It has the majestic landscapes of Namibia , the culturally-rich landmarks of Bhutan and the complex history of other unrecognised countries .

Despite the millions of Chinese tourists that visit Tibet, few Westerners make the trip, so you can be one of the few to have seen it with your own eyes. If you like culture or nature, Tibet will keep you enthralled.

Things you need to know

Glacier and prayer flags in Tibet

Like in Turkmenistan, travel to Tibet is restricted and controlled. 

That means you cannot travel independently and must do so escorted by a guide and driver from an accredited agency such as GoToTibet who will help you obtain a Tibet travel permit. 

Your every move will be tracked and you must make sure not to deviate from the itinerary. Road controls are common and your permits will be checked every time. 

In Lhasa, you are free to move at your own will but will typically need to have a few hours of sightseeing on a tour with your guide.

Locals prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple

Here are some more things you need to know before traveling to Tibet.

  • Tibet is relatively developed and has good roads and facilities. Since becoming part of China, infrastructure has become key to the country’s mining efforts and you can drive all the way to Base Camp on a well paved road
  • Toilets are the worst I have ever seen. A hole in the floor, dirty, without water, soap or paper, and without doors or separation between holes, you are best off using the bush.
  • Images of the Dalai Lama or the Tibetan flag are forbidden, you will not see them anywhere and bringing them in is not allowed.
  • Tibet is the highest place on the planet by average elevation, the Roof of the World. That means, altitude sickness , as mentioned further down, is a real and serious issue so be prepared.
  • The weather is extreme . Incredibly dry, cold and windy at times with some of the strongest sun rays. The dryness can cause issues for many so pack accordingly (see packing section further down).
  • Permits are your passport into Tibet and are checked at multiple points, several parts of the country, such as Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash among others, require additional permits. Every overnight stay requires you to register with the local authority. The tour guide will do that for you.
  • Tourist vehicles are monitored via GPS and have a radio system that sends regular updates about road safety, weather, closures and reminders. 
  • Some parts of Tibet (eg. Chamdo & Yarlung Zangbo Valley) are closed to tourists , however, most of the beautiful sights are accessible and can be included as part of your itinerary.
  • Almost every landmark will require you to pay for a photography and/or videography with a fee if you wish to take photos. Sometimes, a donation is required instead. Fees at some of the larger monasteries are per hall. This can add up.
  • Speed limits on the roads can be as low as 35km/h and many roads are winding so it can take hours to cover 100km.
  • Tibetans are devout Buddhists and praying, offerings, lighting candles and prostrations are common across the country.

Pre-trip planning for travel to Tibet

Tibetan prayer wheel

Tibet travel is not as straightforward as other destinations and independent travel is not allowed hence the only way to visit is on an organised and escorted tour with the proper permits.

Getting a permit to travel to Tibet

Winding road on the way to Everest base camp

As mentioned above, travel to Tibet is controlled and requires a permit. For most nationalities, this means obtaining a Chinese visa first, then a Tibet permit. 

Getting a Chinese visa

European Union nationals can obtain a Chinese visa relatively easy. You will need an itinerary, flight and hotel bookings for the duration of your trip, a color copy of your passport, a passport photo and the payment of a fee. 

Processing time depends on the embassy in each country and on whether you need to mail your documents or can go there in person. 

In Singapore where I live, this is 3 working days and the payment of 110 Singapore dollars. In Spain , my family had to make an appointment at the consulate in Barcelona and then got it within two weeks.

It is wise not to mention you intend to visit Tibet when applying for the Chinese visa in case this raises any eyebrows with the immigration officers, making the overall process more complex. 

Not mentioning your intention to visit Tibet means you need to come up with an alternative itinerary in China plus hotel and flight bookings because this is a requirement of the visa. 

To get around this, you can book refundable hotels and plane tickets and come up with a fictitious itinerary, sticking to the main cities helps.

Many hotel booking sites like Booking.com, allow you to cancel without penalty so you can then book a hotel this way and cancel the booking once you get the visa. If you are concerned that your visa or permit may be rejected, you should also book refundable plane tickets. Business Class fares usually allow for this. 

Alternatively, some airlines, like Thai Airways, allow you to make a flight booking which you can opt to pay in person at one of their offices. 

You will get a tentative booking confirmation which is as good as a paid one in the eyes of the visa officer. In 72h the booking will automatically cancel itself out if unpaid.

There is one caveat. If you plan to travel from Nepal into Tibet, you need not apply for the Chinese visa as this will be done by the agency directly as a group visa from Kathmandu and only takes 3 days. Your Tibet agency should be able to help with that.

Make sure you understand this last caveat as it is very important. A group visa means that you can only visit China with the rest of the members of the group and enter and depart together. The group visas are only for a maximum of 15 days. You cannot use a regular Chinese visa to enter from Nepal so bear that in mind when planning your trip.

Tibet travel permit

Once your Chinese visa is approved, your chosen Tibetan travel agency, for example, GoToTibet , will help you obtain the permit for Tibet by applying in Tibet for you, no documentation is required other than your Chinese visa and passport plus the itinerary details. 

It is important to bear in mind that permits are not obtained at the Chinese embassy and you do not apply for them yourself, this can only be done by the local Tibetan agencies.

The application for the Tibet travel permit should be submitted ideally a month in advance of your trip as it usually takes 15 days but can take up to a month if you plan to visit some of the more remote parts of the region like Mount Kailash.

Your travel permit is issued by the Tibetan Tourism Bureau and is a piece of paper. It does not leave any marks on your passport and it does not require any stamps. The piece of paper will be kept by your guide and shown at the necessary check-points.

However, you will need to show the physical permit to board the plane or train to Lhasa. For security purposes, the permits are only mailed within China. 

In practise, this means that you need to spend a night in China on your way to Lhasa so it can get delivered to your hotel or be given to you in person at the airport when in transit.

Last but not least, there are other travel permits required to visit some parts of the country that are deemed strategic or sensitive. Your local tour company will apply for those for you. These are required for Mount Kailash, Everest Base Camp and other parts closer to the border with India.

While the above may seem complicated, it will all be handled by the local agency without your knowledge or involvement. As soon as your itinerary is closed, all the permits will be applied for on your behalf. I only realised I needed some of the above once we were there and noticed the guide was presenting paperwork at some checkpoints.

Best time to Visit Tibet

Clear days in May in Lhasa

Traveling to Tibet is technically possible all year round except for the month of March when the region is closed off to foreigners since 2008 , although there is hope that things may change soon with the first travelers coming in March in 2019.

However, climate and geography differentiate between three main seasons: dry and warm(er) season, rainy and warm season and winter. 

In my opinion, the best time to travel to Tibet is during the warmer dry season , from April to the beginning of June and from September to October when temperatures are more comfortable and the weather is dry. 

This guarantees you will be able to see Everest, which is shrouded in clouds otherwise. As it is the shoulder season, prices should be more affordable too and the crowds won’t have arrived.

From the second half of June to the end of August, Tibet gets a bit warmer and enters the high season for this reason, but it also experiences rain which makes camping impossible and the usually clear skies cloudy. However, temperatures warm up a bit and rain is usually at night.

From November to the first half of April temperatures dip well below zero Celsius making travel very difficult for visitors. Because of its high altitude and desert-like climate, snow is not very common in Tibet but the wind and the dry weather makes winters particularly harsh.

There are two other considerations for travelers to Tibet. Mt. Kailash and Namtso Lake cannot be visited from November to March because the road there might be blocked by heavy snow. 

Additionally, travel in China during the first half of October should be avoided at all costs because of the crowds. This is Golden Week and millions of Chinese take holidays.

How to get to Tibet

Tibet is connected by road, train and air to other cities in China. The only international connection to Tibet is by road and air to the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. That means that to reach Tibet you will need to get to China or Kathmandu first.

Many travelers combine Tibet and Nepal for that reason, exploring two sides of a similar yet distinct culture in an affordable manner. When I visited Tibet my sister went on to Nepal after our trip.

I would recommend taking the train to Lhasa and departing by plane. Read on to find out why.

Arriving in Tibet by train

The train to Lhasa

One of the most scenic and interesting ways to get to Tibet is by railway onboard the high-altitude train to Lhasa which can be boarded in Beijing (40hours), Xi’an (31hours), Chengdu (36hours), Chongqing (36hours), Guangzhou (53hours), Lanzhou (24hours) as well as other smaller cities like Xining.

The train is an engineering feat and can travel at high altitudes and over frozen rail tracks. At its highest point it is well over 4,000m and equipped with oxygen to limit altitude sickness.

I would recommend a maximum of 24 hours onboard as the facilities on the train are limited (and there are no showers), or to plan to make stops along the way. There are several trains a day during the high tourist season.

I took the train to Lhasa from Xining and booked an entire cabin in the highest category which came with four bunk beds for me and my partner so we would have more space and privacy. The journey from Xining takes 24 hours.

Your Tibet agency can help you buy train tickets as these are not easily purchased independently (you need to show the permit) and in any case they are tied to the permit and overall itinerary. You should buy them ahead of time if you plan to travel in the peak season as this is the preferred way for locals to arrive and tickets sell out fast.

If you are considering taking the train to Lhasa, make sure to read my article above on the train journey so that you time your departure time to the landscapes you want to see during the day.

Arriving to Tibet by air

Flying over the Himalayas to Lhasa

Lhasa is connected to several Chinese cities including Chengdu, Chongqing, Shanghai and Beijing. Depending on where you are coming from you will find some connections better than others. 

The most flights originate from Chengdu and that was also the connection that worked best for me flying from Singapore, but my sister traveled via Chongqing from Barcelona and my best friend came via Shanghai from Dubai . 

The advantage of arriving by air is that the views from the wing over the Himalayas are incredible. Much like when you fly into Bhutan , Landing in Tibet means seeing the majestic mountains below.

Arriving in Tibet by road

As mentioned, you can also drive to Tibet both from other parts of China as well as from Nepal. This should also be well organised by your local Tibetan agency so that you can ensure you have all the paperwork. 

Once you cross over to Tibet, the agency is responsible for you so they need to meet you at the border. 

Visiting Tibet: What to see

Tibetan girl at Jokhang Temple

Before arriving in Tibet you will have to define a list of places you want to see as well as an itinerary which your permit will rely on. Changes to the itinerary are not allowed so you must make sure to think about what you want to see and do in advance.

Best places to visit in Tibet

There are lots of places to visit in Tibet but below is a list of the most famous, interesting and popular ones. 

Further down you can also find some proposed itineraries depending on what you like and how long you can spend in Tibet.

Potala Palace

Lhasa is the capital of Tibet and all travelers need to arrive via the historic city and, in fact, many visitors to Tibet stay in the capital and don’t venture out.

Lhasa is home to the most famous landmark in Tibet, the 17th century Potala Palace . The palace was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama and was built in an auspicious location, up on a hill 300m above the rest of Lhasa.

A visit to the Potala Palace is a must and you should allow for half a day to explore all its halls and details. Come back at night to see it majestically lit up. 

Budget some time to wander pedestrian Old Lhasa, home to the Jokhang Temple, considered the holiest temple in Tibet because of a statue of young Buddha that is 2,500 years old. Tibetans prostrate for hours in front of the temple and go on koras around the streets surrounding it.

Sera Monastery

Sand mandala

This stunning monastery is possibly the second most relevant place in Tibet after the Potala Palace. Built in the 15th century, this is also where most of the monks that were exiled from Tibet with the current Dalai Lama hailed from.

Sera is known for two things: sand mandalas and the debate sessions that take place every afternoon between monks and their teachers and which visitors can observe.

Ganden Monastery

Ganden Monastery

Located up on a hill and spread over the side of a mountain, Ganden Monastery has an enviable location and houses the Golden Tomb of Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of the yellow-hat monastic sect that is the most followed in Tibet.

Gyantse, Palkhor Monastery, Kumba Stupa

The city of Gyantse is home to the 14th century Palkhor Monastery and its large stupa, Kumbum, which contains 108 chapels spread of nine floors. The structure is also known as the Ten thousand Buddha pagoda because there are as many images of Buddha.

The city still preserves the fortress of the same time located on the hills above the monastery and city.

Xigatse and Tashilumpo Monastery

Monks studying at Tashilumpo Monastery

Xigatse is the second most important city in Tibet and is home to Tashilumpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama and the largest functioning religious institution in Tibet. 

This ornate golden and burgundy monastery has the tallest golden statue of the Future Buddha measuring 26m in height and relics of two Panchen Lamas which were saved from the destruction of the Cultural Revolution.

Xigatse is a great place to buy Buddhist paraphernalia and Tibetan souvenirs as there are many shops along the main street.

Yamdrok Lake

Yamdrok Lake

This turquoise holy lake near Lhasa has some stunning views and makes for a nice escape into the wild. Locals go on kora pilgrimages around the lake and you will find many photo ops, including with yaks and their owners and with the famous Tibetan Mastiff dogs.

Everest Base Camp

Star trails above Everest from the Tibetan based camp

Tibet and Nepal share ownership of the world’s tallest mountain which lays at the border between the two. That means that you can climb the mountain from both sides, although Nepal tends to be much more popular, easier and also more developed as a tourist destination.

There are also two Everest Base Camps , one in each country. While the one in Nepal can only be reached by trekking from Lukla Airport or on a helicopter tour , the 5,150m high Tibetan Everest Base Camp can be reached by road.

Mount Kailash

This 6,200m high sacred mountain in Tibet is hard to get to (the journey from Lhasa can take 3 days) but it is a lifelong pilgrimage dream of many Hindus, Jain, Buddhist and Bon who come here to find their final resting place.

The mountain is believed to be the place where Shiva and his consort Parvati live. Bon consider it the seat of the Sky Goddess Sipaimen. Buddhists consider Kailash the home to Demchog, a tantric meditation deity, and his consort Dorje Phagmo. 

Typical Tibet itineraries 

Local Tibetans on their daily kora in Lhasa

Your length of stay in Tibet will typically determine how far from Lhasa you can go. Below are some ideas for itineraries depending on duration provided by GoToTibet .

If you would like to visit Mount Kailash, you should consider a 15 days trip which starts with the 8 day trip plus six days for the round trip to Kailash including the circular kora along the 52km path.

Accommodation options

The views of Potala Palace from Shangri-la Lhasa Hotel

Accommodation options in Lhasa are vast with a few high-end hotels like the Shangri-la Lhasa and the St. Regis Lhasa topping the list followed by several more local alternatives and a list of affordable options.

I stayed at and reviewed the Shangri-la Lhasa . The hotel was very good and the St. Regis gets even better (if slightly) reviews. There are restaurants, an oxygen room, a spa, indoor pools and lovely views of the Potala Palace.

Outside the capital, accommodation can often times be basic and your choice will be determined by your itinerary. As roads are winding and driving can take long, you will be sleeping where it is convenient based on where you are going.

At the bottom of the list are the basic camping options at Everest Base Camp or at some of the monasteries. Here, coming at the right time of the year is critical because heating can be nonexistent. 

If you are picky and prefer to favor comfort over convenience, make sure to discuss this with your agent so that they can help you tailor the itinerary accordingly.

Food in Tibet

Thali set in Nepal

As would be expected, food in Tibet is based on what grows at high altitudes and what can be obtained in such a remote place.

This means that your diet can become quickly repetitive and if you are a picky eater or have a sensitive stomach you might want to consider bringing snacks and energy bars. 

Vegans might struggle because meat and yak butter are staple ingredients in most meals and fresh fruit and vegetables can be hard to come by. However, vegetarians should be able to get by with Nepalese thali sets, commonly available.

In general, food staples include anything that can be obtained from yaks and barley, the two most commonly available sources of food. 

Barley is used to make Tibetan’s typical breakfast item: tsampa, which is made by mixing raw barley flour with yak butter, sugar and spices and it is eaten with butter tea, the official drink in Tibet, made with a generous amount of yak butter in what is almost impossible to stomach for a foreigner, but worth a try. 

Yak steak with noodles in Tibet

Yak meat, leaner and lighter than beef, is widely available and it is the most common item on any menu. It is usually eaten grilled, in a curry or stir fried. Barley is also used to make barley wine, a drink similar in taste to cider with a low alcohol percentage and which is made at home by many families.

Chinese-style noodles are pervasive and eaten either in soup or stir fried. As for vegetables, potatoes, bok choy, carrots and peppers are easy to find. Most of the food has generous amounts of chilli and fat, either yak butter or oil, so it can be very greasy.

My favorite Tibetan dish is momos or dumplings which are either pan fried (like Japanese gyoza ), steamed (like Korean mandu ) or served in soup (like the Chinese wonton soup) and are usually stuffed with delicious yak meat or potatoes. 

Tibetan momo dumplings

This type of dumpling, usually made with a thicker pasta sheet than traditional Chinese dumplings, are found across Central and North Asia, and are part of the list of foods in Japan , Korea , China, Macau , all the ancient Silk Road countries of Central Asia and even Azerbaijan . If you eat meat, they can be a lifesaver as they are tasty and commonly available.

Maintaining a light diet in Tibet is almost impossible but it would also be foolish as the high altitudes and the cold are likely going to make your body consume more calories than usual. I managed to lose weight despite the heavy meals and hearty breakfasts.

Indian favourites like chicken tikka, tandoori and curries are available country-wide, as is naan bread and rice dishes, steamed or fried.

If you get tired of yak, chicken and lamb are usually an option but beware of the bones and animal parts you may not be used to eating, particularly with chicken which is usually chopped into pieces whole (bones, skin and cartilage) and hard to eat with chopsticks. 

Tibetans eat with chopsticks but forks and spoons are usually available, knives are not. Tissues are not provided, so carry wet wipes and tissue paper. Tea is always a good idea because it is made with boiled water which reduces the risk of disease. 

Simple water is served hot, boiled for safety and to keep warm. Local Lhasa beer is a light version of the drink. 

Preparing for Tibet travel

Oxygen bottles for sale at the Potala Palace

If you have read the article until this point you probably realised that traveling to Tibet is not like traveling elsewhere and that you need to be well prepared for it. 

Below are a few additional considerations to prepare for your trip, physically and mentally. 

High altitude travel and sickness

Stela at Everest base camp in Tibet - Photo courtesy of GoToTIbet

Tibet is a high altitude destination and even Lhasa is 3,600m above sea level, so you need to be prepared for the worse should you be hit by altitude sickness.

At the very least, you should do your best to facilitate acclimatisation and to make sure you can get used to the altitude in the best way possible. Should all else fail, you can take medication intended to reduce the effect of altitude sickness and most guides will carry oxygen with them.

I wrote all about altitude sickness and as you will read, it can affect anyone, anytime. Even the sherpa working in Everest can suffer from altitude sickness unexpectedly. It is also hard to predict because it does not correlate with physical readiness or health.

In our group of five, the two healthiest and most fit of us were the ones to suffer the most. The most fit was the one hit hardest while my sister, who was arguably the least fit with a largely sedentary life, was the one feeling the best.

Come prepared, altitude sickness kills and at the very least, it will ruin your trip.

Packing list for Tibet

The road that covers the last 150m to Base Camp

Perhaps the most important thing to bear in mind when traveling to Tibet is packing what you will need according to your itinerary and the expected weather conditions. 

Not being prepared for the temperatures can break you, quite literally, and ruin the trip so make sure to bring what you need and dress appropriately. Generally speaking, the farther you go from Lhasa and the higher you climb the colder it becomes.

I put together a very detailed packing list for Tibet but below is a summary of the most important things to bring. 

  • A windproof, waterproof really warm jacket. I am huge fan of Arctix and this jacket for men and this 3 in 1 one for women are great options. The male one comes with hand extensions to keep you warm even without gloves on. This is essential if you visit in the rainy summer months
  • Boots. You don’t really need trekking boots for the journey as you will be sitting in a car or walking on flat surfaces most of the time. Even the trek to Base Camp, if you have the energy despite the altitude , is on a well marked gravel road. But the boots are useful to keep warm. For men, the Solomon Speedcross waterproof are a sure winner that I keep seeing on more and more people. They also make them for women but I would much prefer the higher boots.
  • A scarf is essential unless your jacket goes all the way up. It will be useful to wrap yourself around and also to protect your throat and nose from the dryness.
  • Sunglasses that truly protect from the sun, not to make a fashion statement. Altitude and weather make the sun particularly punishing, dryness will only aggravate it. I love Oakley for anything that is heavy duty and outdoorsy. 
  • Sun screen is a must. I am a huge fan of Biore Face Milk because it is silky and dry and you will not know you are wearing it. 
  • Lip balm, again, the weather is uber dry and cold.
  • Tissues and wet wipes, lots and lots of them. To wash your hands before and after meals, and to use the toilet. Hand sanitiser is essential too.
  • Bring tubes not aerosols of anything, they could explode with the altitude.
  • Bring all the prescription drugs and cosmetics you need, outside of Lhasa these may be really hard to find.
  • Pack nuts or energy bars or buy them in Lhasa. Sometimes you will drive for hours without a place to eat.
  • Consult your doctor on altitude sickness and consider bringing Diamox, the most commonly used drug to treat and prevent altitude sickness.
  • If you are going to Base Camp, camping or planning to sleep in basic accommodation, bring a powerful power bank. A great one that can even charge your laptop is the MAXOAK Laptop Power Bank one which comes with two USB ports and a quick charge one but beware that the Chinese airport officials may make you check it in.

Sleeping tent at Tibet’s Base Camp

The below packing list is particularly relevant if you are visiting Base Camp or traveling to Tibet in winter. Lhasa and surroundings do not get as cold.

  • Thermal underwear , trust me, you will thank me for this when you go to sleep at the Base Camp tourist tents or Rombuk Monastery without any heating and the thermometer hits -10, plus the wind chill factor. You would wrap yourself around with a blanket outside if you could. Male underwear here .
  • A thick hat. Laugh all you want but the Russian style hats that they wear in Siberia saved my life at night when the temperatures (mid May) were well below -10 and I was trying to keep warm under 5 thick blankets.
  • Heavy duty gloves or forget about taking any photos. If you want, the thinner but effective Timberland gloves can be used with your phone, that is if your phone works in the cold, both my Nexus and my iPhone shut down.
  • Thermal socks because the feet are the hardest part to keep warm.
  • Heat packs, these small one time use warmers can be a real lifesaver. Shake them and they’ll warm up quickly giving you hours of warmth on hands and feet. 

Safety in Tibet

Like China as a whole, Tibet is a very safe place and theft or any violence is almost unheard of. It helps that there is police and checkpoints across the region. 

However, you must be aware of the traveling restrictions and abide by them to avoid any issues. Also make sure that you don’t bring any Tibetan flag or picture or book about the Dalai Lama or other contentious text about Tibet and China.

Cost of travel to Tibet

Souvenir shop in Old Lhasa

In the itinerary section I listed the costs of the proposed trips based on the duration. These are prices for group tours with accommodation at 3 star hotels.

Prices for these start at USD500 per person sharing for the 3 days in Lhasa tour to the more expensive two weeks trip to Mount Kailash which can up to USD2,100 per person sharing. If you travel alone, you should consider the cost of a single supplement.

Alternatively, you can also organise a private tour for your party like I did. The cost will be higher but the flexibility and comfort should also be much better. Prices will very much depend on how many you are and where you want to stay. 

Aside from the tour cost, you should consider additional cash for photography at each monastery and landmark which can vary between $2 and $10, sometimes this needs to be paid per hall within a monastery not for the entire premises. If you plan to film, costs can be significantly higher and run up to $350.

Souvenirs are relatively affordable and alcoholic drinks, mostly beer, is too. Bring cash as credit cards will only be accepted in Lhasa.

This article is brought to you by GoToTibet experts in arranging travel to Tibet. As always, all opinions are honest and based on our experience traveling in Tibet.

This would make a great addition to your Tibet Travel board!

Travel to Tibet

  • Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
  • Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
  • I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
  • Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
  • I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
  • Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
  • Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
  • Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

You may also like

Which everest base camp is best: tibet or..., where to stay in macau, best hotels and..., where to stay in barcelona – best areas..., where to stay in bali – the ultimate..., what to expect at high altitudes in tibet, what to do in yap, the complete guide..., what to do in chuuk, the complete guide..., what to do if you only have 1..., tuvalu: all you need to know, travel to el salvador – things to do,....

Great Tibet Tour Logo

  • 0086-891-6679450
  • Everest Base Camp Tour Mount Kailash Tour Lhasa Tour Top 7 Tibet Tours Tibet Private Tour
  • 4 Days Lhasa City Essential Group Tour from USD490 8 Days Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Group Tour from USD930 9 Days Lhasa Shigatse Mt.Everest Namtso Tour from USD1230 15 Days Mt.Everest & Mt Kailash Group Tour from USD1990
  • 7 Days Lhasa Mt. Everest Kathmandu Overland Group Tour from USD980 12 Days Lhasa Mt Everest & Mt Kailash Kathmandu Group Tour from USD1990 13 Days Classic Tibet Nepal Bhutan Group Tour from USD2706 13 Days Tibet Nepal Nature Scenery Tour from USD2810
  • Beijing and Tibet Tours Shanghai and Tibet Tours Chengdu and Tibet Tours Xian and Tibet Tours Guangzhou and Tibet Tours
  • 6 Days Xining Lhasa Train Tour from USD880 6 Days Chengdu Lhasa Train Tour from USD785 7 Days Beijing Lhasa Train Tour from USD1040 8 Days Shanghai Tibet Train Tour from USD1235 Trains to Tibet
  • Flights to Tibet
  • Tibet Attractions
  • Tibet Hotels
  • Tibet Weather
  • Tibet Permit
  • When to Travel
  • Plan a Trip
  • How to Get to Tibet
  • Travel Tips
  • Tibetan New Year Tibetan Festivals Customs and Traditions Tibetan Food Tibetan Buddhism
  • Bhutan Nepal Tibet Tours Nepal Tours Bhutan Tours Lhasa to Kathmandu India to Tibet
  • Tibet Travel Tips

How to Plan a Trip to Tibet?

  • Tibet Travel Guide
  • Introduction to Tibet
  • Reasons to Visit Tibet
  • Top Things to Do
  • Tibet Tour Packages
  • Attractions
  • Tibet Travel Permit
  • Weather & Climate
  • Things to Know Before Going
  • Plan a Trip to Tibet
  • How to Visit Tibet
  • Best Time to Visit Tibet
  • Avoid Altitude Sickness
  • Packing List
  • Tibet Landscape
  • Tibetan Culture
  • Tibetan Festivals
  • Tibetan Buddhism
  • Tibetan People
  • Tibet Currency
  • Shopping in Tibet
  • Tibetan Food
  • Etiquette and Taboos

Tibet Small Group Tour

  • Last Updated: 2023-10-03

Tibet, a pearl on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau, has attracted a lot of followers from all over the world. It has a unique landscape, snow-towering mountains, holy lakes, mysterious Tibetan Buddhism, magnificent monasteries, colorful prayer flags, and many other fantastic things for you to explore.

However, it’s not as easy as other places in China for foreigners to travel due to its special geographic and political situations. Hence, here we list the step-by-step tips for foreigners traveling to Tibet based on our experience. Now, let’s get started…

Content Preview

Is it safe to travel to tibet, what’s the best time to visit tibet, where to go, how long to stay in tibet, how much would a trip to tibet cost, book your tibet tour in advance, what documents needed, flights and trains to tibet, know money and currency in tibet, accommodation in tibet, buy yourself travel insurance, start packing, during your trip to tibet, taboos of tibet travel, our picks of the best experience tours.

Safety in Tibet is a common question and a precursor to making a decision before traveling here. As a local travel agency in Tibet, regarding the security in Tibet, we can say that traveling in Tibet is very safe for you. China is rated as one of the safest and most suitable countries for female tourists in the world. The security in Tibet is even better than that of many major cities in mainland China. In Lhasa city, it's common to see armed policemen everywhere, as well as many security posts, which provide security services 24 hours a day. So there's no hint of instability or violence.

Besides, most Tibetans in Tibet are devout Buddhists. They are humble and kind, and their belief abstains them from stealing and killing. You can feel the truth and goodness of human nature when you communicate with them. If you visit them, their hospitality makes you feel at home.

Tibet is a place you can visit all year round, except for mid-February to March when Tibet will close for foreigners due to the Chinese and Tibetan New Year. You can choose the rest of the year to make your Tibet trip.

The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October, during which, the weather is the best, neither too hot, nor too cold. You can get a clear view of the most tourist attractions in Tibet. Besides, the oxygen content of the air is higher than at other times, which is helpful indeed in reducing the risk of getting altitude sickness. July, August and September are the peak tourist season, so the price is relatively higher. It’s advised to avoid the Chinese National Holiday(Oct 1 st to 7 th ) when millions of Chinese people head to Tibet and you have to enjoy the scenic spots with a lot of people.

Best time to visit Tibet is from April to October.

As a big highlight of Tibet tours, Everest Base Camp attracts 60% of the travelers during their Tibet trip. The best time to visit Mt. Everest is from late April to May and late September to October. Another 20% of travelers would visit Mt.Kailash. The best time to have an Mt. Kailash pilgrim trekking tour is between September and October when the weather is moderate and the scenery is the best of the year. It’s better to avoid the monsoon season from late June to August. Only 20% of the travelers would only pay a visit to Lhasa and surrounding areas.

Top Tibet Attractions

For first-timers, it is recommended to stay for 8~15 days in Tibet. By visiting the main attractions, you are able to see the unique cultural landscape and natural scenery of Tibet: the magnificent Potala Palace, the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, the spectacular Everest peak even sacred Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar in remote Ngari Prefecture. You can take your 8 Days Lhasa Gyantse Shigatse Mt. Everest Group Tour or 15 Days Mt.Everest & Mt.Kailash Kora Pilgrimage Group Tour with us to truly appreciate Tibet.

Knowing what you expect to see or do in Tibet will help determine how long you should stay. The more you want to experience, the more time you will need to take.

Visiting Everest Base Camp

It’s also a frequently asked question. Have a quick look at the costs below:

  • International Airfare

You can only reach Tibet from mainland China or Kathmandu, Nepal. If you are from Europe, you can fly to Kathmandu first. If you are from the US, you are suggested to fly to mainland China for a shorter flight duration and cheaper cost. The cost is similar, about USD800 to USD1200 for a round trip. By the way, summer is always the most expensive travel time.

  • Traveling from Kathmandu/mainland China to Tibet

You can take an overland tour or fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa. The overland tour costs USD1200 p.p. if you join a group tour, however, it includes the tour fee along the way, so it’s a cost-effective one. For round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa, the cost is about USD600 to USD800.

Flying from major entry cities to Tibet, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc. The round-trip flight fare would be USD700 or USD800. Meanwhile, you can take a train as one way to save the cost. The train journey cost is about USD300.

Please note that Tibet is not a budget-friendly destination. In addition, the tour cost also depends on the factors below,

  • The number of travelers
  • The duration to stay and the month you come
  • The specific regions planned to be visited
  • The type of accommodation
  • Whether you consider private tours or group tours

Here is a list of join-in group tours vs. private tours in ordinary seasons, from which you can tell the rough cost of a Tibet tour. In peak tourist seasons(July, August, and September), the price would rise up 10~20%. In low tourist seasons(November to next March), the price would lower accordingly.

  • Tibet Group Tours
  • Tibet Private Tours

On Friendship Highway.

Sometimes people may buy an immediate air ticket to some tourist attractions on a whim. But for Tibet, it never happens. Unlike other tourist destinations in the world, foreigners must book the Tibet tour 20 days prior.

According to the regulations, foreigners are not allowed to travel to Tibet alone but must be accompanied by a travel-licensed guide & vehicle with the prearranged time & route. That means you should join an organized tour with a Tibet travel agency. After you finally engage with a Tibet travel agency, your agency will help you obtain your Tibet Travel Permit.

Well, a Tibet Travel Permit is an essential paper document issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. You will be checked with your Tibet travel permit when you board a train/plane to Tibet. If you are going to certain areas such as Ngari, you will be required multiple travel permits such as Aline’s Travel Permit and Military Permit. As mentioned above, your travel agency will help you handle all your Tibet Travel Permits after you confirm the booking.

To get your Tibet Travel Permit, scans of your China Visa and Passport are required. If you choose Kathmandu as your entry to Tibet, you need to apply for your China Group Visa with the assistance of your Tibet travel agency. In this way, you don’t have to apply for a China Visa. Starting from May 1, 2023, a China group visa in Kathmandu requires 4 participants so if there are fewer than 4 people, you still can't achieve a China Group Visa.

  • Chinese Visa
  • China Group Visa

Tibet Travel Permit

If you have a tight schedule and like to travel comfortably, you can get to Tibet by plane. However, if you have enough time and want to see the scenery along the way, you may consider going to Tibet by train.

There are numerous daily non-stop flights to the gateway cities in China, like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou from all over the world. You can fly to one of those gateway cities first, then take a train/flight to Tibet. In addition, there are some connecting flights between Nepal and Tibet. Expedia.com is a good choice for international flight booking. We provide a domestic air/train ticket booking service.

Trains to Tibet

When traveling in/out of Tibet, the train is a very popular method to get to view stunning scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet railway and adapt yourself gradually to the higher altitude in a comfortable way. The train ticket is issued to sell on the internet only 15 days before departure but it's very hard to purchase the tickets. Therefore, ask your Chinese friends or our trip consultant to reserve the tickets for you in advance.

  • Tibet Train

Qinghai-Tibet railway

The official currency of Tibet is the Ren Min Bi, often called RMB or CNY (Chinese Yuan), and is used throughout mainland China. It is commonly referred to as kuai (pronounced kwai) by locals.

Use a Credit/Debit Card

Hotels, standard restaurants, and large shopping malls in Lhasa and Shigatse accept credit/debit cards. But please be aware that small shops or stalls only accept Chinese Yuan in cash.

Prepare Chinese Cash

You will need cash for small purchases in Tibet: souvenirs, meals, personal use, etc. You can exchange money in Lhasa. For a small amount, you can exchange it with your tour guide. For the big one, the guide will lead you to an ATM or Bank of China, which is the only bank in Tibet providing the exchange service of foreign currency. The reception desk of some five-star hotels also offers money exchange, but only for the hotel guests.

Alipay/WeChat

Alipay/WeChat is acceptable in Lhasa, which is a very practical and convenient App. This is a good option if you get an account.

  • Money and Currency in Tibet

Chinese currency

As a remote area, Tibet's accommodation conditions are not very superior. But with the repaid development of tourism, accommodation conditions have been greatly improved.

In general, the overall level of accommodation in Tibet is lower than in other cities in China. In Tibet’s big cities such as Lhasa, Shigatse, Lhoka and Nyingchi, you can find star-rated hotels; but in small cities and remote areas, only basic accommodation is available. Specifically, in Lhasa, Shigatse and Nyingchi, accommodation options range from cheap hotels to luxurious five-star hotels. Whereas, in Lhoka, the highest standard is four stars. In other small or remote areas, the highest standard is three or two stars. In remote places, unless you bring a tent, a guesthouse might be your only choice.

Usually, the accommodation is included in the tour package. The hotels we arrange for our clients have good locations and services. If you want to book your own hotel, Trip.com and Booking.com are not bad. One thing to remind you, some remote areas like Everest Base Camp or Mt. Kailash are not likely for you to book the hotel or guesthouse online. So, our professional service can save you lots of time.

Tips: From our customers' feedback, the most frequently mentioned problem is about hotels, especially in some remote areas such as Ngari and EBC. What we can do for you is to provide the most comfortable and clean hotels in that area.

  • Recommended Tibet Hotels
  • Tibet Hotel List

Travel insurance will make you a worry-free trip, not only for medical emergencies, but also for providing assistance with lost baggage, trip delays, trip cancellations, or interruptions due to snowstorms, heavy rains, and unexpected accidents.

We suggest you do not take too much stuff, just take some simple and essential items, such as comfortable shoes, T-shirts, long pants, a jacket, a down/outdoor jacket, a scarf, sunglasses, skin creams, sunscreen, a hat, etc.

  • What to Pack
  • How to Avoid Altitude Sickness

Stay Connected

Please be aware of the difference in electrical sockets between China and your country. Your phone or laptop can access the internet but you might need an adapter, a converter or both to charge batteries. By the way, the network speed is a little bit slow in Tibet.

Is Tibetan food safe and tasty?

Yes, you may have a try in some reputable restaurants. Fried dumplings filled with potato and yark meat and Roast Mutton Chops are recommended. Please avoid street stalls or eateries for hygienic issues. Here are three typical Tibetan foods.

Tsampa: Stir-fry the barley or peas and grind them into flour, mix it with butter tea when eating, and knead it into a dough with your hands. You can also mix it with salted tea, yogurt or chhaang. Although highland barley and tsampa are the staple food of Tibetans, they are still a special Tibetan delicacy for tourists.

Tibetan yogurt: Tibetan yogurt tastes a little bit sour, but it feels very thick, sticky, and has a strong milk flavor. If you see it while wandering at Barkhor Street, you may taste this special drink.

Butter tea: Butter tea tastes salty, sweet, mellow and delicious. It can not only be used as a usual drink but also can allay hunger. Drinking butter tea has a certain effect on alleviating altitude sickness. If you drink it for the first time, you may not get used to it. If you have it with Tampa, you will feel much better.

  • Tibetan Food and Cuisine
  • Recommended Restaurants in Lhasa

Roast mutton chops

Can I drink running water?

No. Tap water needs boiling before drinking. Also, we will provide mineral water for free.

Get a Deeper Cultural Experience

Learn Tibetan Buddhism

Paint Tibetan Tangka

Visit a Tibetan Family

Plan your tour during Tibetan Festivals like Saga Dawa and Shoton Festival.

Due to Tibet's special geographical location and strong religious culture, there are some taboos to pay attention to when traveling in Tibet such as natural climate, customs, etc. Here are things to know before your Tibet travel, which can help you reduce a lot of unnecessary troubles.

1. The first one is common sense - do not go to Tibet after catching a cold, it is very prone to altitude sickness.

2. It's not recommended to take a bath in the first three days of arriving in Tibetan areas to avoid catching a cold. And taking a bath is likely to cause altitude sickness.

3. Do not touch the hair and hats of Tibetans, because they think it's a sacred gesture. The top of a person's head, especially a child's head, can only be touched by his parents and the living Buddha who is responsible for blessing activities in the temples.

4. If a local Tibetan sticks out his tongue at you, please don't be angry. It's not to ridicule you, instead, it is to welcome and respect you.

5. Do not walk counterclockwise at the prayer wheels and temples.

6. Remember to take off your hat and sunglasses before entering the temples in Tibet. It is okay to look at the items in the temple, but you should not touch Buddha statues, scriptures, thangkas, and murals with your hands. Photography and smoking are also prohibited. Do not wear short sleeves, short pants, short skirts, or slippers, otherwise, one will be blocked from entry.

Gratuities for guide and driver are not mandatory, but it’s expected. You can tip them on the last day of the tour as your gratitude for their caring during the tour. You are suggested to tip each of them 5~10 USD/day in total.

Tipping for guide and driver is not mandatory but it's expected.

All of the itineraries on our website can be hand-picked by us from various options and can be tailored further to fit your needs. Please do not hesitate to tell us a few things about what your perfect Tibet trip looks like and our team are here to make it happen.

Here are our most popular tour packages,

  • 4-day Lhasa City Essential Group Tour
  • 8-day Lhasa Gyantse Mt. Everest Group Tour
  • 15-day Mt. Everest & Mt. Kailash Kora Pilgrimage Group Tour

Related Articles

What to Pack for Mount Kailash Trekking Tour? What to pack for your Mt.Kailash trekking tour? You don't have to carry all the items for the 3-day Kailash trek. Here's the list you might need.

Is It Okay for the Elderly to Travel to Tibet? The answer is definitely YES as plenty of people above 70 years of age have been to Tibet. There are caveats and preparations that you should take heed of.

Travel to Tibet from United States For US citizens, you can travel to Tibet via mainland China or Nepal. You need to apply for China Visa or China Group Visa and obtain your Tibet visa prior.

How to Travel to Tibet From Australia? If you are from Australia and traveling to Tibet, you can either fly to a mainland city of China or fly to Kathmandu of Nepal and then get to Lhasa.

Best Tibet Hotels Popular hotels in Tibet include Luxury hotels, comfortable hotels and economic hotels. Here's the list of best Tibet hotels for your consultation and booking.

15 Little-known Mount Kailash Facts & Mysteries Little-known mysteries and facts about Mount Kailash might amaze you. It's a holy place of many sects including Buddhism, Bon, Hinduism, and Jainism.

Travel to Tibet from Singapore Singapore citizens are recommended to fly to Chengdu and then take a flight or train to Lhasa. Tibet Travel Permit is still an indispensable document for you.

Travel to Tibet from Japan Getting to Tibet from Japan is easy now. You are recommended to travel to Tibet via mainland China, then take a train or flight to Lhasa.

How to Travel to Tibet from Malaysia? Malaysian travelers who want to visit Tibet must be on an organized tour. You can choose to get to Tibet via mainland China or via Kathmandu, Nepal.

How to Go to Kailash Mansarovar from Delhi? For travelers from New Delhi, there're two easiest ways to go to Kailash Mansarovar. The most popular way is to travel overland via Kathmandu.

Travel to Tibet from India From India to Tibet is relatively easy now. You can fly or travel overland from India to Kathmandu, then take a flight or a land trip to Tibet.

Email response within 0.5~24 hours.

Typically Asked Questions from Our Clients

Asked by Sash***

Hi, I'm interested in a private tour for me and a friend, both of us from the USA. We plan to take the train from Chengdu leaving in the evening on October 20th and arriving in Lhasa in the morning on October 22nd. We'd like to explore sites in Lhasa on October 22. For October 23 and October 24 we'd like to leave Lhasa to see the natural beauty of Tibet (animals, glaciers, lakes or mountains). We'd like to be back in Lhasa on October 24th night. On October 25 we'd like to explore more of Lhasa city and then fly out of Lhasa either that night or the following morning (October 26). Do you have a tour option which would accommodate this itinerary?

Jennie

Dear Sash****,

Thank you for sending us an inquiry!

We can arrange a private tour for you. You have a specific schedule, that's good. We also can help you book the soft-sleeper train tickets.

I suggest you stay in Lhasa for 2 days first to acclimatize to the high altitudes. Here's the recommended itinerary. If you agree, I can quote you in the next email. If I fail to get it exactly right the first time around, I'll happily tweak it until your satisfaction.

Please let me know without hesitation if you have any further questions or doubts.

Asked by PHIL***

Tashi delek, I plan to come at the end of September for the Kora at Mount Kailash. I am attempting to reset my life, so I am looking for a simple trip, more pilgrimage than trekking adventure. I have been practicing the Bön way with Geshe Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche. The process of visas appeared a bit complicated, so I am seeking your assistance. What would be the price for joining a tour of Mount Kailash? What is the first step, the plane ticket, Chinese visa, or tour commitment? Do I need a sleeping bag?

Merry

Dear Phili***, 

As per your request, I recommend 15 days Mt.Everest & Mt.Kailash Kora Pilgrimage  group t our with 3 trekking days for you. For this group tour, we have a confirmed departure date starting on 21 September. If you won't want 3 days trekking, you can take an eco bus to Kailash with other guests then ride a horse to Dirapuk then walk back to Darchen. You will have extra 2 nights in Darchen. What's your idea?

Here are the steps to plan a trip to Tibet.

  • Apply for China visa. You can book with us and confirm the tour date. We'll provide docs for your China visa application.
  • Book the flight/train to Lhasa after you get your China visa.
  • We'll apply for your Tibet permit with your China visa.
  • We'll send Tibet permit to your hotel in China by Express before you board the flight to Tibet.

If you have any further questions or doubts, please let me know without hesitation. It is my pleasure to work with you at any time.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Asked by Losh***

Me and my mother are planning to visit Tibet on 24/5/2024 to 30/5/2024. Would appreciate if you can get in touch with us. Below are the preferable places that we would like to go. Please do advise us and let us know what’s best. Thank you. a. 南迦巴瓦峰 b. 冈仁波齐峰 c. 纳木错 d. 珠穆朗玛峰 base camp e. 布达拉宫 f. 雅鲁藏布大峡谷 g. 羌塘大草原 h. 米堆冰川 I. 扎达土林 j. 古格王朝 k. 来古冰川

Dear Loshi***, 

We can arrange a Tibet tour for you in May 2024, but we can't arrange all the attractions on your list as the 7 days tour is not enough for all the attractions.

We can arrange 7 days private tour starting on 24 May 2024 for you.

Sign up for our newsletter below. It's a great way to stay in touch with us and receive great news when we have them ready for you.

Great Tibet Tour logo

Great Tibet Tour is a local tour company based in Lhasa, Tibet. It was founded in 2005 and recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the best reputed local Tibet travel agencies.

With the great responsibility, professional know-how and passion for innovation, Great Tibet Tour endeavors to provide you with enjoyable, thoughtful service, and authentic culture discovery.

Ultimate Tibet Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend

Tibet is on many travelers' bucket list and is one of those dreamed-of destinations. Regarded as "the roof of the world", Tibet has countless snow-capped peaks, topped by awesome Mt. Everest, and more than 1,000 lakes, which dot the vast highland plateau like blue or green jewels. So where should you start your planning your Tibet trip? How many days are needed to explore Tibet's beauty? This article will help you plan a perfect trip to Tibet.

Content Preview

How many days to spend in tibet.

  • 1. A Classic 8-Day with Everest Base Camp

2. A 4-Day Tibet Essence Tour Itinerary

  • 3. A 7-Day Tibet Train Tour Itinerary
  • 4. A 7-Day Tibet Trekking Tour Itinerary

5. An 11-Day Tibet and Nepal Itinerary

  • 6. A 3-Week Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Itinerary

7. An 18-Day Tibet, Nepal, and India Itinerary

The number of days to spend in Tibet depends on places you want to see and experience. Generally speaking, we recommend spending at least a week to explore Tibet for a deeper experience. if you want to go on a more adventurous trip such as trekking or mountain biking, consider spending 10–14 days in Tibet.

If you have limited time, a 4–5 days trip to Lhasa would allow you to visit some of the major cultural and historical sites, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.

Many people combine Tibet with a trip to Nepal, which would take you 10–12 days. If you want to connect with more neighboring countries, like Bhutan or India, it would need 2 to 3 weeks. The following are some of the tour options from Tibet.

  • Nepal: Spend 4 days to explore Kathmandu's historical and cultural sites. See more on How to Plan a Trip to China and Nepal
  • Bhutan: Take 5 days to explore the top destinations in Bhutan, including Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro.
  • India: Spend 7 days to visit top destinations, including Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi.

1. A Classic 8-Day Tibet Tour Itinerary with Everest Base Camp (Most Chosen)

In this classic itinerary, we have included cultural heritage sites, a holy lake, a glacier, and awesome snow-capped mountains on your way to Everest Base Camp. By joining our special village tour, you can interact with local people, which would enrich your knowledge of Tibetan life and culture.

Days 1–3: Lhasa

In Lhasa (after a day of acclimatization), our guide would take you to visit the top attractions, including the Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, and Sera Monastery. To help you get a better understanding of Buddhist culture and find the best angles to take photos, our guides choose the best ways to explore the Potala Palace.

On day 3, have a walking tour in Barkhor Street, including its local market, where you can admire traditional Tibetan architecture, see pilgrims doing their prostrating obeisance and Buddhists making a kora (sacred circuit) by turning the prayer wheels. Then, not far away, have afternoon tea in peaceful Ani Tsangkung Nunnery.

Days 4–6: Shigatse

On the way to Shigatse via Gyantse, you would visit Lake Yamdrok, where you could enjoy a lakeside picnic if the weather is good. If you are interested in local farmers' life, we would arrange a short visit to a local Tibetan's house and a chance to help them with their farm work. You could try their daily food, like yak butter tea, momos (Tibetan dumplings), and tsampa (roasted barley flour).

If you visit Shigatse in July or August, you could experience their traditional festivals — Shoton Festival and Horse Racing Festival, which are celebrated with traditional music, food, and dancing as well as horse races and other contests.

Days 7–8: Tingri

Once in Tingri, visiting Mt. Everest Base Camp is the usual travel goal. You can get stunning views of the world's highest peak from there. Explore the highest monastery in the world: Rongbuk Monastery, which is located a few kilometers from Everest Base Camp.

The monastery is renowned for its austerely-Tibetan architectural style. If you have more time, then pay a visit to Tingri County Town, which is the main hub of the area and has a rich history, ancient temples, and some of the best Tibetan cuisine.

Our service is personalized to your needs, interests, travel length, and other requirements. Here are more Tibet itinerary ideas:

  • 8-Day Tibet Classic Tour
  • 7-Day Tibet Train Tour
  • 5-Day Tibet Highlight Tour
  • 4-Day Lhasa Tour
  • 14-Day Tibet Tour with Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar

If you only have 3–4 days in Tibet, you could still cover the highlights of Lhasa and visit a nearby village.

Days 1–2: Lhasa

Discover the unique construction technology of the Potala Palace with our local guide, who would lead you through the white palace and red palace introducing their exquisite murals, decorated statues, and antiques. With the assistance of our guide, you would view and (photo) the palace from four selected angles, which will allow you to fully enjoy the Potala's beauties.

We can arrange a walking tour visiting Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and exploring the local markets. Take afternoon tea in peaceful Ani Tsangkhung Nunnery to learn more about the history of Lhasa and its people's daily life.

Days 3–4: A Remote Tibetan Village

To help you get a better understanding of Tibetan life and culture, we would arrange a hiking tour to a nomad village, where Tibetans winter or have their summer pasture. You would try some rustic Tibetan food and live as a Tibetan nomad in their tents (in the summer). There you could try interesting activities, like horse riding, milking yaks, making butter, and printing prayer flags.

3. A 7-Day Tibet Train Tour Itinerary (Good for Train Tour Lovers)

If you would like to travel to Tibet by train, then this itinerary would be good for you. You would take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, highest and longest plateau railway in the world, to enter Tibet.

  • Days 1–2: Xining, Qinghai (Explore, Board the Train)
  • Days 3–4: Xining to Lhasa Train
  • Days 5–7: Lhasa

In Xining, you would visit Tibetan-Buddhist Ta'er Monastery, where you could appreciate its splendid architecture and artwork, including murals, butter sculptures, and embroideries.

And then our guide would help you board the train on the world's highest railway to Lhasa , which would take 22 hours.

In Lhasa , the Potala Palace is a must. Our guide would help you discover this architectural marvel and cultural treasure house: view the palace from four expertly-chosen angles to fully enjoy its beauty. Walk the less touristy corners of Barkhor Street to experience Tibetan daily life.

4. A 7-Day Tibet Trekking Tour Itinerary (Good for Trekking or Camping Lovers)

If trekking and camping is your favorite things, then this itinerary would be good for you . Our guide would help you take an adventure into an undeveloped land of nomads and yaks without the usual multi-day trekking toil and a heavy pack (protecting you from over exertion and altitude sickness). It would truly bring you in touch with authentic and quintessential Tibetan life.

  • Days 1–3: Lhasa (as above, visit the Potala Palace, Barkhor Street, and other top attractions)
  • Days 4: Lake Yamdrok
  • Days 5–7: Galie Village (short hike, nomad family visit)

At Lake Yamdrok, you would view the lake from the popular platform, and get down to the lake side to enjoy a picnic there before returning to Lhasa. From Galie village, you would walk around its beautiful valley, say hello to the villagers, and visit a local Tibetan household to discover the real life of Tibetan people.

Then hike about 2 hours up to a hillside pasture and visit the nomadic family there. You would cook and enjoy a dinner with the Tibetan family. Sleep in a tent right by the nomads' tent.

5., 6., 7. Extended-Trip Itineraries from Tibet to Nepal and/or Bhutan and India

If you have a longer holiday, you could expand your Tibet tour to include a nearby country or two, such as the most popular options: Nepal, Bhutan, and India. Below are some of the tour options from Tibet.

This itinerary combines Tibet and Nepal to help you explore deeply into these places cultures and the Himalayan Mountain Range in between.

  • Days 1–4: Lhasa (as above, visit the Potala Place, Barkhor Street, and other top attractions)
  • Days 5–6: Shigatse (as above)
  • Days 7–8: Tingri (as above)
  • Days 9–11: Nepal (Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur)

In Kathmandu , walk around Kathmandu Durbar Square and explore old temples and palaces as they come into view one by one. Visit the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, Pashupatinath Temple and the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple).

In Patan (south Kathmandu), you would visit magnificent Durbar Square and the exquisite pool for the king in Sundari Chowk, and discover religious artworks in Patan Museum.

In Bhaktapur , which is another city in the Kathmandu Valley, you would visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Its Golden Gate and Nyatapola Temple are the sights you cannot miss.

6. A 3-Week Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Itinerary (Good for Adventurers)

This is an ideal tour itinerary for adventurers who would like to travel from the roof of the world, to Nepal's jungle national parks, and to Bhutan's hidden-away world to experience Himalayan cultural and Tibetan Buddhist culture.

  • Days 1–4: Lhasa (as above, visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, and explore local markets)
  • Days 5–6: Shigatse (as above, visit Lake Yamdrok and a local farmer's house)
  • Days 7–8: Tingri (as above, visit Mt. Everest Base Camp and Rongbuk Monastery)
  • Days 9–11: Kathmandu, Nepal (as above)
  • Days 12–13: Chitwan National Park, Nepal
  • Days 14–15: Pokara, Nepal
  • Days 16–17: Paro, Bhutan
  • Days 18–19: Punakha, Bhutan
  • Days 20–21: Thimphu, Bhutan

On the way to the Chitwan National Park , you would visit Tharu Village and see the ethnic people of this area or enjoy Tharu Cultural Dances . Then ride a jeep through the wilderness to discover the local wildlife. You would observe flowers and wildlife, like the one-horned rhinoceros, countless species of deer, and if lucky, even the royal Bengal tiger.

In Pokara , visit Davis Falls, where you would see meltwater from the mountains plunge into its underground plunge pool and have a delightful boat ride on Phewa Lake.

In Paro, Bhutan , you would visit its top attractions including, Ta Dzong, Paro Dzong, the Buddha Dordenma, and the Memorial Chorten. Both of these large Tibetan-style chortens are places where local people perform their daily worship.

On the way to Punakha , you would have a chance to enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan Mountain range at Dochula Pass on a clear day. Then explore the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan — Punakha Dzong.

In Thimphu , the heart of Bhutan, you would visit Bhutan's most important dzong, Tashichho Dzong, and the Folk Heritage Museum to discover Bhutanese folk heritage and its rural history.

Lastly, make some stamps with your own photos and put them on postcards for your family and friends in Bhutan Post Office Headquarters.

  • A 3-Week Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour

If India is on your bucket list for a Himalayan region trip, then this itinerary would be good for you. You would experience the highlights of Tibet, Nepal, and India comfortably, while encountering lifestyles and faiths seen nowhere else!

  • Days 1–3: Lhasa (as above, visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, and explore local markets)
  • Days 4–5: Shigatse (as above, visit Lake Yamdrok, see a local farmer's house and daily life)
  • Days 6–7: Tingri (as above, visit Mt. Everest Base Camp and Rongbuk Monastery)
  • Days 8–10: Kathmandu, Nepal (as above)
  • Days 11–12: Delhi, India
  • Days 13–14: Agra, India
  • Days 15–16: Jaipur, India
  • Days 17–18: Varanasi, India

In Delhi , you would visit Jama Masjid, a historical and large mosque, and walk down sandstone steps into Old Delhi's bustling streets, where you would take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk Market.

In Agra , a visit to the Taj Mahal is a must. Then head for Agra Fort, a red sandstone rampart situated on the west bank of the Yamuna River. We would arrange a sunset afternoon tea/coffee with cookies at a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Taj Mahal.

In Jaipur , your tour would start with Amber Fort, 11 km from the city center on a hilltop. Then explore the central area of "the Pink City", taking in Hawa Mahal ('Winds Palace'). Visit nearby Jantar Mantar Observatory. Marvel at the wisdom of medieval Indian astronomy. In the City Palace, you would learn about India's rich history through local art.

In Varanasi , you would take a Ganges boat ride to explore Varanasi Old City, where you would see local people going about their daily activities — washing clothes, performing yoga, and giving offerings of flowers. Also visit the Sarnath, an impressive pillar stupa.

  • An 18-Day Tibet, Nepal, and India

Tour China With Us

All our tours are customized to your needs, interests, travel length, and other requirements. Our private tours are designed to be the most convenient and fulfilling option for your trip to Tibet. We would create an itinerary according to your flight times, interests, and anything else you might need.

  • 2-Week Private China Tour: Beijing–Xi'an–Lhasa-Shanghai
  • 12-Day China Silk Road Tour from Xi'an to Kashgar
  • 11-Day China Classic Tour
  • 14-Day China Natural Wonders Discovery
  • 15 Best Places to Visit in China (2024)
  • Best (& Worst) Times to Visit China, Travel Tips (2024/2025)
  • How to Plan a 10-Day Itinerary in China (Best 5 Options)
  • 8 Days in China: Top 15 Tours and Itineraries (2024/2025)
  • China Weather in January 2024: Enjoy Less-Crowded Traveling
  • China Weather in February 2024: Places to Go, Costs, and Crowds
  • China Weather in March 2024: Destinations, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in April 2024: Where to Go (Smart Pre-Season Pick)
  • China Weather in May 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in June 2024: How to Benefit from the Rainy Season
  • China Weather in July 2024: How to Avoid Heat and Crowds
  • China Weather in August 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
  • China Weather in September 2024: Weather Tips & Where to Go
  • China Weather in October 2024: Where to Go, Crowds, and Costs
  • China Weather in November 2024: Places to Go & Crowds
  • China Weather in December 2024: Places to Go and Crowds

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why China Highlights

Where can we take you today.

  • Southeast Asia
  • Japan, South Korea
  • India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
  • Central Asia
  • Middle East
  • African Safari
  • Travel Agents
  • Loyalty & Referral Program
  • Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

[email protected]

  • 86-28-85227275 / 85223672
  • 86-19138970032 (6 p.m. to 9 a.m. GMT+8)

trip to tibet from india

  • Private Tours
  • Group Tours
  • Lhasa & Surrounding Tours
  • Mount Everest Tours
  • Mount Kailash Tours

Tibet Train Tours

Tibet Hiking Tours

  • Tibet Family Tours
  • All Tibet Tours
  • Beijing + Tibet Tours
  • Chengdu + Tibet Tours
  • Shanghai + Tibet Tours
  • Xian + Tibet Tours
  • All China tours

trip to tibet from india

Tibet Tours 2024/2025 - Top 16 Tibet Vacation Packages

Latest Tibet Travel News (updated on May 25, 2022):

⑴. Lhasa-Nyingchi High-speed Railway is under operation now, making the journey between Lhasa and Nyingchi as short as 3.5 hours. Check detailed Lhasa to Nyingchi Train Schedule >>

⑵.Thanks to the successful control of the COVID-19 pandemic in Tibet and other regions of China, Tibet has opened to expats living in China since May. Now it’s safe and convenient to travel to Tibet with our firsthand travel information and worry-free tour packages.

● Places Opened: Lhasa and surrounding areas (Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Namtso Lake...); Gyantse (Palcho Monastery, Gyantse Dzong); Shigatse (Tashilumpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery); Mount Everest , Mount Kailash, etc.

● Requirements: Your passport and Chinese visa, proofs of work and you haven’t been out of China since you entered China for more than 90 days from your company, screenshot of local healthy green code, Nucleic acid test within 7 days (you need to provide one when apply for the permit and another one when you enter), Tibet Travel Permit (we will obtain for you).

The holy land Tibet is waiting for you! Contact us to start your Tibet tour now ! Early birds get better price!!

Having been isolated from outside world for centuries, Tibet is full of a deep sense of spirituality and mysticism. Once upon a time, only travelers with the strongest mind to conquer the jagged peaks and turbulent river by foot can witness the unparalleled beauty of Tibet, but now Tibet is just a click way, with the improvement of tourism facilities plus Tibet Discovery’s expertise guide. You can easily travel to this “Holy Land” by flight from many popular cities in China by direct flights and trains, or from its neighboring Nepal either by overlanding driving or plane. Once stepping on the land of Tibet, you can magnify your dream as big and high as the plateau is. Soak in the smoke, incense and chatting of the devout pilgrims in the temples and climb up on to the roof of the grandiose Potala Place to look down upon the holy city; Drive cross high passes and deep valleys to encounter with a mysterious heavenly lake; Challenge yourself in the memorable trekking to get close to the sacred snow mountains including Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, etc.; Discover the contemporary changes of local Tibetan lives in a local park of Lhasa or in a rural village near Yamdrok Lake. There are so many things to do and to explore.

As a Tibetan local based agency, Tibet Discovery is your best assist and companion to enjoy your adventure in Tibet. We provide you authentic, tailor-made and valuable Tibet tour packages, including valuable private tours and budget small group tours, and take care of your trip from travel permit, transfer, dinning, and accommodation to sightseeing with great flexibility of your own.

What Are the Advantages of Our Tibet Tours

  • Tibet Travel Permit and other required documents guaranteed.
  • One-of-a-kind experience full of remarkable sights and unparalleled insights.
  • Fully escorted and worry-free tour packages including tour guide, transportation, meals, hotels...

img

  • 8 Best Tibet Private Tours
  • Top 8 Tibet Group Tours

What is a private tour? You will have your own private local tour guide, vehicle and driver who only serve for you, and enjoy the flexibility to arrange the tour activities accordingly, such as changing the visiting order of attractions or extending the visiting time of certain place. You can also stop on the road if you want to take a rest or take photos.

Exploring Tibet with Your Whole Family

4 Days Lhasa City Private Tour - Heart of Tibet

This is one of our most popular tour packages in Tibet - visit the best landmarks in Lhasa and learn about authentic Tibetan culture. Airport / train station pick up.

Beautiful Mount Everest in Autumn

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Everest / Lhasa

8 Days Lhasa to Mount Everest Private Tour

Tibet tour wouldn't be complete without a visit to Mount Everest. This tour offers you a complete Tibet tour and weaves together Tibet's most classic sights into a package.

Tashilumpo Monastery

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Lhasa

6 Days Lhasa Gyantse Shigatse Private Tour

Present you the landscape of Golden Triangle Cities of Tibet - Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse. Dig into Tibetan culture and enjoy beautiful Yamdrok Lake en route.

Yamdrok Lake

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Mount Everest / Gyirong

7 Days Lhasa to Gyirong Overland Tour via Mount Everest

This overland tour is a deep exploration into exotic Tibet. Enjoy the very essence of Tibet - Lhasa, Shigatse, Mount Everest, then travel from Gyirong Port

Tibetan Yak by the side of Namtso Lake

Lhasa / Shigatse / Mount Everest / Namtso Lake / Lhasa

9 Days Tibet Discovery Tour plus Everest and Namtso Expedition

Tibet Discovery Tour - follow popular destinations from Lhasa to Gyantse, Shigatse, Mount Everest and Namtso Lake. Must-see places for first-timers.

Beautiful Namtso Lake

Lhasa / Namtso / Lhasa

5 Days Lhasa Highlights & Holy Lake Namtso Tour

Experience Tibet the way it is meant to be experienced. Ideal for those with limited time but want to see the major attractions in Tibet and be a bit adventurous.

Yamdrok Lake

Lhasa / Yamdrok Lake / Lhasa

5 Days Best of Lhasa & Beautiful Yamdrok Lake Tour

Explore landmarks in Lhasa, take a side trip to stunning Yamdrok Lake. Compared with Namtso Lake, Yamdrok Lake is easier to reach and lower in altitudes.

What is a group tour? Our group tours take you to visit the most visited places - Lhasa, Namtso, Shigatse, Everest, etc. All tour packages have been successfully operated for many years and created loads of amazing experiences for our customers. They are featured in budget price and fixed departure dates with maximum size of 12 members.

Mt. Everest

8 Days Tibet Highlights Group Tour with Mt. Everest

This is once in a lifetime memorable journey to discover the heart and essence of Tibet and magnificent Everest.

4 Days Holy City Lhasa Group Tour

4 Days Best of Holy City Lhasa Group Tour

Classic Lhasa itinerary, covering the best highlights of the holy city, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung...

6 Days Lhasa Gyangtze Shigatse Classic Tour

Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse

6 Days Lhasa Gyantze Shigatse Classic Tour

In brief 6 days to explore the most representative sites to touch deep into Tibetan culture.

Tibetan Stone Marks beside Yamdrok Lake in Gyantse

Lhasa / Yamdrok / Lhasa

5 Days Lhasa Group Tour with Sidetrip to Yamdrok Lake

Want a budget tour with Lhasa highlights as well as a glimpse of beautiful nature of Tibet? This is the best offer.

White Pagoda of Palcho Monastery

Kathmandu - Gyirong - Tingri - Mount Everest - Shigatse - Gyantse - Lhasa

8 Days Tibet Group Tour from Kathmandu

Classic route of traveling from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Gyirong Port. Full of attractions!

Tibet Tours on the Focus

Does a particular aspect of Tibet fascinates you? Tibet Discovery Tours is specialized in finding unique experience of Tibet, and leading you to explore what interests you most. Our Private Tibet Tours will take you to explore deep into the Holy Land, with loads of options, freedom & flexibility. You can choose from the following themes or let us help design your own trip.

Tibet Tours 2024

China Tours including Tibet - Strongly Recommended

Generally speaking, more than 80% of our traveler traveled to Tibet from China due to flexible choices of flights and trains. Many of them chose to travel Tibet with other famous and popular destinations in China, such as Beijing (Great Wall, Forbidden City), Chengdu (Giant Panda), Shanghai (the Bund), Xian (Terracotta Warriors), etc. Tibet Discovery has designed many China Tours including Tibet with different length and themes. Feel free to request a quotation or let us customize a tour of your own.

The Bund - The Museum of International Aichitecture

12 Days Best China Highlights Discovery Tour

Destinations : Beijing / Xian / Lhasa / Shanghai

This tour is strongly recommended for visit-time China visitors covering top destinations in China. It is all about bringing China's history and culture to life.

Terra-Cotta Warriors - Eighth Wonder of the World

13 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Kathmandu Adventure Tour

Destinations : Beijing / Xian / Lhasa / Shigatse / Gyantse / Mount Everest / Gyirong / Kathmandu

Start your adventure from Beijing and finish at Nepal Tibet border so that you don't have to return to Lhasa or other cities in China. Full of diverse experiences.

Panoramic view of the Forbidden City

13 Days China Highlights Tour with Panda Visit and Tibet Discovery

Destinations : Shanghai / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Beijing

Amazing diversity tour - exploring Chinese history and culture in Beijing, Shanghai and Xian, encounter with Giant Pandas, experiencing authentic Tibetan culture.

Fishinman of Li River

15 Days Essential China Odyssey Tour with Guilin Paradise Vacation

Destinations : Shanghai / Guilin / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Beijing

The best highlights and all expected impressions of China are included - most beautiful place in China - Guilin, ancient capital city - Xian, meeting adorable Giant Pandas, mysterious Tibet...

Relaxing Yangtze River Cruise

17 Days Best China Tour with Tibet and Yangtze River Cruise

Destinations : Beijing / Xian / Lhasa / Chengdu / Chongqing / Yangtze River / Shanghai

Encompassed China Highlights - explore China with a relaxing Yangtze Cruise, Asian best gastronomy city - Chengdu, Great Wall hiking, wonder of Terracotta Warriors, grandiose Potala Palace...

Zhangjiajie National Park

15 Days China Tibet Diverse Tour with Zhangjiajie Avator Exploration

Destinations : Beijing / Chengdu / Lhasa / Xian / Zhangjiajie / Shanghai

You will not only learn about the Chinese culture and history, but also enjoy the top landscapes in China - historical word heritage sites, modern metropolis, adorable pandas. The most exciting part is to visit the Avatar world in Zhangjiajie.

Tibet Tours from China Gateways

You can travel to Tibet from many cities in China. Among all gateway cities, Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xining, Shangri-la (Yunnan) are most popular with travelers. You can either travel to Tibet by flight or train.

  • Tibet Tours from Beijing
  • Tibet Tours from Chengdu
  • Tibet Tours from Hong Kong
  • Tibet Tours from Xian
  • Tibet Tours from Xining
  • Tibet Tours from Shanghai
  • Tibet Tours from Yunnan (Kunming/Shangri-la)

Nepal Tibet Tours - Himalayan Treasures Discovery

The mysterious Himalaya is full of treasures, and Tibet possesses only a small part of the treasures. Traveling southward from Tibet to Nepal , you will encounter with more historical and natural wonders. All located in Himalayan Range, Nepal and Tibet share some in common, such as Buddhism, Himalayan mountains, but the differences and contrasts are bigger. Generally speaking, Nepal is more lively and Tibet is more spiritual. Take one of our Nepal Tibet Tours to start your once in a lifetime Himalayan adventure now!

Recommended Nepal Tibet Private Tours

Walking Around on Mount Everest

7 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Private Tour via Mount Everest

Kathmandu - Gyirong - Everest - Shigatse - Gyantse - Lhasa

This tour is specially designed for those who want to travel to Tibet from Nepal. It starts from the capital city of Nepal - Kathmandu, then goes northeastward to Lhasa. Highlights come along the way from beginning to the end.

Yamdrok Lake

8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa with Mount Everest Adventure by Flight

Kathmandu / Lhasa / Gyantse / Shigatse / Everest / Gyirong / Kathmandu

Lhasa, Shigatse, Mount Everest Base Camp Tour from Kathmandu covers the Tibetan culture, spiritual nature and exciting adventure, which will leave you a forever-lasting memory...

Recommended Nepal Tibet Group Tours

White Pagoda of Palcho Monastery

8 Important Things You Should Know Before Tibet Tours

After operating Tibet tours for over 10 years, we have already achieved a deep understanding about What Tibet has to offer, what our customers want to see and experience most, what are the major concerns during our customers’ trip. Here we list out the most frequently asked questions that our former customers about tour planning, travel documents, itinerary, hotel, booking, dinning. You are also welcomed to submit your question to us, our travel experts are always ready to help.

Tibet Tourism Bureau stipulates that all foreign tourists, including Taiwanese, are not allowed to travel Tibet independently. You are only permitted to travel to Tibet with a China travel agency which will arrange travel services for you, including creating itinerary, tour guide, driver and vehicle, permit application, etc. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a free and relaxing trip in Tibet. Actually, most areas in Tibet are open for foreign travelers, and can be visited with a tour, private tour or group tour, with China travel agency.

To travel in Tibet, all Non-Chinese passport holders need to have a Tibet Travel Permit which can only be applied for by China travel agencies like Tibet Discovery with Tibet Tourism Bureau in Lhasa. You must obtain it before your tour starting. The permit will be checked when you board your flight/train to Tibet.

Traveling with Tibet Discovery, you don't have to worry about the complicated procedures of Tibet Travel Permit application. All you have to do is to confirm a tour package with us and send us your passport and Chinese via copies at least 15~20 days in advance before your tour, we will take care of all the rest things. Once the permit is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau, we will deliver to you at the appointed address in China's other cities, such as your hotel, local travel agency, etc. Besides Tibet Travel Permit, you also need to have a Chinese visa and valid passport to support your Tibet trip.

Generally speaking, months from May to October are recommended. Other months are usually very cold, and possible have heavy snow. During November to April of next year, Namtso Lake is mostly frozen, and not suitable for travel. If you only visit Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse and other cities with lower altitude, you can take a trip all year around.

Having an average altitude of about 4500 meters (14,750 ft), Tibet is the highest land in the world. The altitude of the capital city Lhasa is 3650m (12,000 ft). Most of attractions in Tibet are located over 3700 meters above the sea level. The elevations of some higher places, such as EBC, Namtso Lake, Yamdrok Lake, Mount Kailash (trek) may reach to more than 4500 meters between 5700 meters.

You may suffer a bit from High Altitude Sickness in the beginning days of your Tibet trip if you haven’t had rich high plateau travel experience. But don’t worry too much, the high altitude can be acclimatized usually in 2~3 days. Our suggestion is to take a physical examination and get suggestions from your doctor, and also bring some medicines to prevent from High Altitude Sickness before your trip. While in Tibet, you should keep warm all the time, avoid strenuous activities, drink more water and eat more vegetables and carbohydrates. You’d better not take showers during the first two days after your arrival at Tibet. If you don’t feel well, get help from your tour guide or go to the hospital without any delay.

Currently common tourist can only get to Tibet from China cities or Nepal (Indian passports pilgrims can enter Tibet from specific border ports).

Travel from China Cities to Tibet

Take a domestic flight from other cities like Chengdu, Beijing, Xian, Xining, Kunming, etc. or an international flight from Kathmandu, or take a train from China's other cities, like Chengdu, Xian, Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xining, Lanzhou, etc.

Travel from Nepal to Tibet

Take a flight from Kathmandu Tribuvan International Airport to Lhasa, or enter Tibet from Gyirong Port at Nepal-China border. This port is about 89km from Kathmandu, about 820km from Lhasa, and about 360km from Mount Everest (Tibet Side). To travel from Nepal to Tibet, you have to apply for a Group Visa in Kathmandu.

A large backpack and a smaller one are recommended (the smaller one can be used for daily activities). Also bring the necessary medicine you need. Other stuffs like sunglasses, snow glasses, hats, lip balm, sun block are recommended.

As for wearing, you are suggested to dress in layers (both thin and thick jackets). Down jacket is necessary in Spring (Feb~May) and Autumn (Sept~Nov). A pair of durable and comfortable shoes is necessary.

1) You are not allowed to take photos inside the chapels of the monasteries, but photography of the architecture is allowed; 2) You should take off your hat and sunglasses to show respect when you entering a monastery. Wearing shorts and exposing shoulders are disrespectful; 3) Try to walk and talk quietly to not disturb the living and study of the monks in the monasteries.

We offer both private customizable Tibet tours and fix-departure group tours. What are the differences?

Private tours - firstly, you have the flexibility to arrange the group activities according to your personal interests; secondly, you can also travel at a slower and comfortable pace; thirdly, you will have your own private local tour guide, private vehicle and private driver for your group.

Group tours - traveling with a group tour, you will join other people in a fixed-departure date, and share the itinerary, vehicle and tour guide, which will greatly cut down your expense. To ensuring high quality service, we limit the group size to a maximum of 12 people.

Ask A Question

86-28-85223685

Prefer to tailor a trip that totally suits your requirements and interests? Our 20+ professional, helpful and friendly travel experts are ready to help! Tell us your needs, and one of our experts will get to you with trip details within 0.5~23.5 hrs. You can also call us at 86-28-85227275 / 86-28-85223672.

email

"Amazing time in Lhasa"

"Excellent organization and very memorable trip"

"Fabulous trip through China and Tibet"

Tibet Tours

Tibet Group Tours

Tibet Private Tours

Lhasa City Tours

Tibet Everest Tours

Mt. Kailash Tours

China Tibet Tours

Beijing Tibet Tours

Chengdu Tibet Tours

Xining Tibet Tours

Shanghai Tibet Tours

Yunnan Tibet Tours

Xian Tibet Tours

Hong Kong Tibet Tours

Travel Advices

How to Plan Tibet tour

9 Things to Know

How to Get to Tibet

Tibet Travel Permit

Top Tibet Attractions

Best Time to Visit

High Altitude Sickness

Tibet Accommodation

Destinations Guide

Mount Everest

trip to tibet from india

Any questions, please email us at: [email protected] or call us at: +86-28-85227275 / 86-28-85223672 (Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. GMT+8) 86-19138970032 (6 p.m. to 9 a.m. daily GMT+8) Copyright © 2011-2024. All rights reserved.

  • Responsible Travel
  • Our Service
  • Payment Guide
  • Testimonial
  • Terms & Condition
  • Privacy Policy

arrowleft

  • Tibet Train Book
  • Beijing to Lhasa
  • Shanghai to Lhasa
  • Chengdu to Lhasa
  • Xining to Lhasa
  • Guangzhou to Lhasa
  • Hong Kong to Lhasa
  • Chongqing to Lhasa
  • Xian to Lhasa
  • Lanzhou to Lhasa
  • Xining to Shigatse
  • Golmud to Lhasa
  • Lhasa to Shigatse
  • Tibet Train Tour
  • Tibet Train Small Group Tour
  • Beijing Tibet Train Tour
  • Shanghai Tibet Train Tour
  • Chengdu Tibet Train Tour
  • Xining Tibet Train Tour
  • Guangzhou Tibet Train Tour
  • Hong Kong Tibet Train Tour
  • Xian Tibet Train Tour
  • Tibet Train Ticket Class
  • Soft Sleeper
  • Hard Sleeper
  • Life Onboard
  • Oxygen Supply System
  • Dining Car onboard
  • Luggage Restrictions
  • Medical Service onboard
  • Safety and Security
  • Lhasa Express Train
  • Qinghai-Tibet Railway
  • Tibet Train FAQs
  • Tibet Travel Permit
  • China Visa for Tibet Tour
  • Mount Everest Travel Permits
  • Mount Kailash Travel Permits
  • Apply Tibet Permits from China
  • Apply Tibet Permits from Nepal
  • Tibet Small Group Tour 2022
  • Lhasa and Surrounding Tour
  • Everest Base Camp Tour
  • Mount Kailash Tour
  • Tibet Trekking Tour
  • Tibet Overland Tour
  • Tibet Cycling Tour
  • China Tibet Tour
  • Beijing Tibet Tour
  • Shanghai Tibet Tour
  • Chengdu Tibet Tour
  • Guangzhou Tibet Tour
  • Hong Kong Tibet Tour
  • Tibet Nepal Tour
  • Tibet Nepal Bhutan Tour
  • Tibet Nepal India Tour
  • India Nepal Bhutan Tibet Tour
  • Beijing Tibet Nepal Tour
  • China Tibet Nepal Tour
  • Enquire Now

trip to tibet from india

  • Travelogues
  • Travel Blog

trip to tibet from india

Is it Possible to Travel from India to Tibet by Road?

Last updated: August,18 2018

Tibet is a place where people go to lose themselves so that they can rediscover who they are. A dazzling and mystical land full of promise and enchantment, it is one of the holy places for Hindus and Buddhists from around the world. None more so than India, whose Hindu people regularly travel from their home country to the heights of the Tibetan plateau to worship at the sacred sites in Tibet. For many thousands of years, Indians have held Tibet in high regard, a place of retreat from the world and everyday life, and a place in which to collect one’s thoughts, and become more spiritual in the process.

Whether it is for the holy pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar or a visit to the Tibetan capital of Lhasa, for many Indian people it is the journey of a lifetime. Yet, despite the number of Indians that come to Tibet every year and the shared border between Tibet and India, there are no proper border crossings between India and Tibet for Indian tourists.

This means that they must travel through either Nepal or mainland China in order to get to the plateau, and are required to have many of the same documents as everyone else. There are, of course, other options for Indians traveling to Tibet as pilgrims, although they will also need certain documents, but some of the rules are different if you are traveling on a pilgrimage.

Tourists Can Only Get to Tibet from India via Nepal by Road

For tourists from India entering Tibet they can travel through Nepal, which has an agreement for the freedom of movement between the two countries, which does not require a visa or even a passport as long as you have valid identification. Indians can also reside permanently in Nepal with no restriction, which makes the country a preferable entry point into Tibet.

Highway from Nepal to Lhasa

Once, Indian passport holders could only travel into Tibet from Nepal by road, but after the earthquake of 2015 that closed the Sino-Nepal border crossing at Zhangmu, the only tourist crossing point, Indians were permitted to use the Tribhuvan International Airport, and fly to Lhasa to get to Tibet . Since the border crossing was reopened at Gyirong Port in August 2017, Indians have once again been able to cross from Nepal to Tibet overland, and the option of flying to Lhasa has remained open for Indian tourists.

This now means that there are two overland routes to Tibet, depending on your preference for travel and where you are going, as well as the option to fly into Lhasa.

How to Get to Tibet from Nepal by Road

From Nepal, there are two routes into Tibet from Nepal for Indian passport holders, and while both can be used for those intending to visit the Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar area in Ngari Prefecture, only one route can be used for those not intending to visit Mount Kailash .

The first, and primary, route for travelers into Tibet overland is to pass across the Sino-Nepal border at Gyirong Port. The border crossing is around 120 kilometers nosrth of Kathmandu, and can be easily reached by public bus or private car rental. The trip takes around six hours, as the roads are not in very good condition, and are narrow and winding, especially where they head up into the Himalayas towards the crossing point.

Gyirong Port

On the Nepal side, the crossing point is known as Rasuwagadhi Fort, and it lies at the western end of the Resuo Bridge, which spans the Trishuli River Gorge. On the Tibetan Side, the checkpoint is known as Gyirong Port, and the only way across is to walk across the bridge from the drop-off point of the bus or private vehicle. Once across the bridge and through immigration, you will be met by your guide and driver, and transported to the nearest town, Gyirong Town, often for the first night on the plateau, to allow some acclimatization.

For those heading to Lhasa, the tour will normally start the next day, and your guide and driver will be with you the entire time, as individual travel in Tibet is not permitted for non-Chinese passport holders. Your tour will take you all the way to Lhasa, from where you will make your way out of Tibet at the end of your tour.

For those traveling to Mount Kailash, the route is very different, and instead of heading east after Gyirong Town, you head northwest and into Ngari Prefecture, where the holy mountain is located. The route to Darchen, the closest town to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, takes around four days from Kathmandu, and you will be able to stay in Darchen before heading to the holy mountain the following day.

The second route to Tibet is through Nepal to Simikot and then on to Hilsa, a border town in northeast Nepal that crosses direct into Ngari Prefecture. This is a popular route for those tourists from India traveling direct to Mount Kailash, and the standard overland route includes a trek along the Limi Valley to Hilsa, where you will cross the river bridge into Tibet. Once on the other side of the bridge, you will be met by your guide and driver, and driven to Burang, the nearest town, from there, it is just a single day’s drive to Darchen and Mount Kailash.

Alternative Way to Go - India to Mainland China and then Get to Tibet

Another alternative is to fly to mainland China, and then make your way to Tibet from there. The flights can be taken from several of the major Indian airports, including Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, and other places. Flights from India land at Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Chongqing, and from there a flight to Tibet can be booked. Flights to Tibet vary depending on the departure location, but can cost from as little as around 17,000 INR for a one-way economy flight. Flights from Beijing and Shanghai are more costly than those from Chongqing and Chengdu.

The other popular option is to travel to Tibet by train . Trains to Tibet leave from the seven gateway cities across China, many of which coincide with incoming flights from India, such as Chengdu, Chongqing, Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as Lanzhou and Xining. The trains are all fully fitted with three classes of tickets, soft sleeper berths, which are the first-class option, hard sleeper berths, the second-class option, and the hard seats, though these are not recommended due to the long travel time. Travel time varies from city to city, with the shortest time being 22 hours and the longest being 53 hours. Prices also vary, with Xining being the cheapest and Guangzhou the most costly.

Take a Train to Tibet

There is also the option of traveling by road from China to Tibet , and while it is an amazing adventure, it is not for the faint hearted. Travel times along the Sichuan Tibet Highway or the Qinghai Tibet Highway can be as much as 10-12 days, depending on your speed and how far traveled each day. You will also need to book the driving tour through a tour operator such as Tibet Vista as independent travel is not permitted in Tibet, and only Chinese driving license holders are permitted to drive in China.

How to Get Tibet Travel Permit for Indian

Getting the Tibet Travel Permit , which is needed to enter and move around in Tibet, depends on the reason for travel. There are two kinds of permit for travelers from India, for tourists and for pilgrims, although both are the same Tibet Travel Permit.

For Indian Tourists who will not go to Mount Kailash

For tourists, usually those not intending to do a pilgrimage kora around Mount Kailash, the standard procedure applies, and the permit must be obtained through a registered tour operator such as Tibet Vista. Once you have booked your tour, the tour operator will require a copy of your passport and Chinese Entry Visa (is entering through China), and will make the application on your behalf. The processing time is around 15-20 days, so it is best to book your tour early so there is plenty of time to obtain the permit.

For those entering through Nepal, a Group Tourist Visa will be issued instead of the normal Chinese Entry Visa once you reach Kathmandu, and takes around three working days to process. You will need to be in Kathmandu at least five working days prior to your departure date, and will need to provide your original passport to the tour agent.

The Tibet Travel Permit will be provided to you at your hotel in China, if traveling that way, or will be handed to you along with your Group Tourist Visa in Kathmandu before you leave for Tibet. The permit is essential to your travel, and should be kept on your person in a safe place, as it will be needed for hotels and police checkpoints across the region.

For Indian Pilgrims who will go to Mount Kailash

The Tibet Travel Permit is also required for those traveling to Mount Kailash on a pilgrimage, although these permits are normally verified and confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Department for the Tibet Autonomous Region. They will also be attested by the Department of Public Security, the Tibet Military Office, and the Armed Police Tibet Frontier Corps.

The permits are authorized by both the Foreign Affairs office and the Tibet-India Pilgrim Reception Center, a non-government office that helps to ensure all pilgrimage tours to Mount Kailash are presented with free tours, accommodations, guides, yaks (if required), and itineraries. Pilgrimage tours are only done through the Tibet-India Pilgrim Reception Center and cannot be handled by independent tour operators.

Related Readings:

Is It Possible to Travel from Beijing to Kathmandu by Road

Traveling overland from Beijing to Kathmandu will be possible if you drive via National Highway 109 and Sino-Nepal Highway.

How Many High Roads to Tibet

There are totally 5 highways to get to Lhasa, namely Qinghai-Tibet highway, Sichuan-Tibet highway, Yunnan-Tibet highway, Xinjiang-Tibet highway, Sino-Nepal friendship highway.

Travel to Tibet from Nepal or Mainland China

Travel to Tibet from Nepal or Mainland China? Here we offer you the detailed travel information about how to travel to Tibet from China and from Nepal to help you make the best choice to start your Tibet tour.

What is the Cheapest Way to Visit Tibet?

Travelling to Tibet can be done by train, flight or bike, but the cheapest way to Tibet may be not what you early supposed. Check this passage to know true fact about how to cut down your Tibet tour cost.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Tibet?

This article will introduce you the cheapest way of traveling to Tibet and how much does it really cost ,including tour guide, food, transportation, accommodation and etc.

Why You Should Travel to Tibet Once in Your Lifetime

Why to travel Tibet? Tibetan Buddhist culture, pilgrimage sites, stunning natural landscape, magnificent monasteries and palaces, and unique experience on Tibet train must be your reasons to go to Tibet.

Is It Safe to Travel to Tibet in 2024? FAQs about Safety in Tibet

Is it safe to travel to Tibet? Check FAQs about safety in Tibet including Tibet altitude sickness, Tibet solo travel, Tibet tour with kids and elderly, train to Tibet, etc.

Can I Travel to Tibet Alone?

Foreign tourists should travel with a local guide and driver when touring Tibet, either in a private tour or a group tour.

Have a Question? Ask below or call + 86-28-81754631

Question Summary *

Please fill in your contact information, we will send you the answer by email

Country * :

SUBMIT Cancel

0 Comment ON "Is it Possible to Travel from India to Tibet by Road?"

Your Full Name:

Your Email Address:

Train Route From:

Tell us more about your trip:

trip to tibet from india

  • Travel Advice
  • (86)28-8175 4631

[email protected]

n-head-logo

  • 4 Days Lhasa City Small Group Tour From USD509
  • 5 Days Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour From USD689
  • 7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD979
  • 8 Days Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour From USD939
  • 8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour From USD1069
  • 10 Days Lhasa EBC and Namtso Small Group Tour From USD1289
  • 15 Days Lhasa to Mount Kailash Group Tour From USD2059
  • Lhasa Tours
  • Everest Base Camp Tours
  • Mount Kailash Tours
  • Tibet Trekking Tours
  • Tibet Bike Tours

Tibet Train Tours

  • Tibet Winter Tours
  • Tibet Festival Tours
  • Tibet Family Tours
  • Tibet Culture Tours
  • Tibet Photography Tours
  • Lhasa Chengdu Overland Tours
  • 10 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Shanghai Small Group Tour From USD1072
  • 10 Days Chengdu to Lhasa Overland Tour via G318 National Highway From USD1990
  • 12 Days Chengdu Tibet Railway Lhasa Namtso Shigatse Small Group Tour From USD1575
  • 13 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Yangtse River Shanghai Small Group Tour From USD1725
  • 14 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Shigatse EBC Chengdu Small Group Tour From USD1603
  • 15 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Chengdu Guilin Shanghai Small Group Tour From USD1787
  • 7 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD960
  • 8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Adventure Tour From USD1000
  • 13 Days Lhasa Everest Mount Kailash and Kathmandu Adventure Tour From USD2026
  • 15 Days Beijing Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD2242
  • 10 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD1276
  • 12 Days Beijing Lhasa Shigatse EBC Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD1712
  • 15 Days Beijing Lhasa Shigatse EBC Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD2014
  • 17 Days Kathmandu to Beijing Overland Small Group Tour From USD2283
  • Beijing Lhasa Train
  • Shanghai Lhasa Train
  • Guangzhou Lhasa Train
  • Chengdu Lhasa Train
  • Chongqing Lhasa Train
  • Xian Lhasa Train
  • Xining Lhasa Train
  • Lanzhou Lhasa Train
  • Tibet Visa from Nepal
  • Tibet Visa for Indian
  • Permit for Everest Base Camp Tour
  • Permit for Mount Kailash Tour
  • Aliens Travel Permit
  • How to Visit Tibet in 2024
  • Best Time to Visit Tibet
  • Best Places to Visit in Tibet
  • How Many Days to Tour Tibet
  • How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Tibet
  • How to Get to Tibet
  • How to Keep Safe in Tibet
  • FAQs about Altitude Sickness in Tibet
  • Things to Know before Choosing Hotels in Tibet
  • How to Enjoy a Budget Tibet Tour
  • How to Reach Lhasa from Kathmandu
  • Guide on Mount Kailash Kora Trek
  • Top 6 Classic Trekking Routes in Tibet
  • 3 Different Ways to Travel from Chengdu to Lhasa

trip to tibet from india

All Tibet Group Tour

All Tibet Tours

Tibet Group Tour

  • Lhasa and Surrounding Tour
  • Everest Base Camp Tour
  • Mount Kailash Tour

Lhasa to Kathmandu Tour

  • Nepal & Tibet Tour
  • China & Tibet Tour

Kathmandu to Lhasa Tour

  • Trekking Tour

Central Tibet Tour

Eastern Tibet Tour

  • Biking Tour
  • Cultural Tour
  • Family with Kids Tour
  • Photography Tour

Festival Tour

All China Tibet Tour

All Nepal Tibet Tours

  • 7 Days Kathmandu & Lhasa Tour By Flight
  • 9 Days Kathmandu & Tibet Golden Triangle Tour
  • 14 Days Nepal & Tibet Highlights Tour

10 Days Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya

13 Days Classic Tibet Nepal and Bhutan Tour

14 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour from Beijing

14 Days Journey to the Himalayan Kingdoms

17 Days An Epic Journey through India, Nepal & Tibet

  • 11 Days Himalaya Overland Tour from Lhasa to Kathmandu
  • 18 Days Travel through Silk Road to Tibet and Exotic Nepal

All China Tibet Nepal Tour

  • 15 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa Shigatse EBC Kathmandu Small Group Tour From USD2242
  • 20 Days Beijing Xian Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Pokhara Chitwan Small Group Tour From USD2799

Tibet Train

  • Beijing to Lhasa Train
  • Shanghai to Lhasa Train
  • Xining to Lhasa Train
  • Chengdu to Lhasa Train
  • Guangzhou to Lhasa Train
  • Xian to Lhasa Train
  • Lanzhou to Lhasa Train
  • Chongqing to Lhasa Train
  • Tibet Travel Permit FOR FREE
  • Get a Tour Quote
  • Tibet Budget Group Tour

By Destinations

  • About Tibettour.org

img

Tour Route: Delhi - Jaipur - Agra - Varanasi - Kathmandu - Gyirong - Everest Base Camp - Shigatse - Lhasa

Trip Overview:

This is a unique and exciting south Asian Adventure trip that we specially designed for those travelers who want to explore India , Nepal and Tibet at once.

This adventure begins from Delhi , India where you will see Agra (Taj Mahal) and Varanasi (Ganges). Then to Kathmandu Valley and Nagarkot in Nepal where you will then take a classic Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour to Lhasa (Tibet) driving on one of the world's most beautiful, picturesque highways. This will save you time and money as well as fulfill the dream to visit these 3 beautiful destinations in one go! You will also have the option to ride the highest train in the world from Lhasa to Beijing or Shanghai. This tour is reasonably priced and run by a professional team that you will always give it a personal touch.

Tour Code: TTO-NT-INT17

Trip Level:

Tour Type: Private tour with private guide and vehicle

Time to Visit:

Highlights:

  • India classic golden triangle tour to Varanasi.
  • Kathmandu to Lhasa overland tour via EBC.
  • Travel across Nepal to explore the Buddhist culture.
  • Enjoy the magnificent Himalayan at the best viewpoint in Nagarkot.
  • Discover Lhasa city with all its best, including the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Street.
  • Reach to the Everest Base Camp to enjoy the marvelous view of the top of the world.

17 Days India Nepal Tibet Tour Map

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

The prelude of your exciting tour starts when you meet our professional local guide at Indira Gandhi International Airport after reclaiming your luggage and clearing the customs.

The guide will accompany you in a comfortable vehicle to the hotel and help you with the check-in procedure. The rest of the day is left for you to have a good rest or to become familiar with the capital city of India by yourself. 

Stay overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Full day in Delhi

We start our discoveries this morning in Delhi by visiting Old Delhi. Even when Bombay and Madras were mere trading posts and Calcutta a village of mud huts, Delhi had been the seat of an empire for 500 years. Through the centuries, eight cities have been built on this site, by Hindu, Mughal and British rulers—with each adding their own flavor.In the old part of Delhi, we visit Raj Ghat , a beautifully serene monument. This is where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated, and we will see an impressive shrine to India's best-known statesman.

Next, after visiting the Jama Masjid , the largest mosque in India, we take a short ride by rickshaw through the crowded lanes of the Chandni Chowk bazaar.

After lunch we head out to see the highlights of New Delhi . The British laid out the broad, tree-lined avenues and neat street grid of New Delhi (in contrast to the narrow alleyways of the old part of the city). Today the former " Imperial City " continues as the center of government for the world's largest democracy, and we see the buildings of India's Parliament and (from the outside) the residence of India's President, a palatial building called Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Nearby we see the India Gate , where a popular park surrounds a memorial to Indian soldiers who served Great Britain in World War I and Britain's 19th-century war in Afghanistan. We also visit Qutab Minar , a spectacular example of Indo-Islamic architecture topped by a 234-foot-high tower. Begun in the twelfth century, this is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and the symbol of New Delhi.

Day 3: Drive Delhi to Jaipur

After breakfast leave Delhi, drive about 5 hours to Jaipur , a nice Old Indian city also known as the "Pink City" for the rosy hue of its sandstone buildings. We'll explore Jaipur's Amber (pronounced "am-er," with a silent "b") Fort-Palace. The Fort is a stunning and well-preserved 16th-century structure, built on four levels. Among its many splendors is the Sheesh Mahal, a small room whose ceiling, covered with tiny mirrors, looks like a sky filled with brilliant stars. Here, in Rajput times, a dancing girl held candles during a dance of love for her Maharaja.

In the afternoon of turn to Jaipur visit the Jantar Mantar , a remarkable astronomical and astrological observatory built in the 18th century. The giant sundials here are still accurate to two-tenths of a second. Then we go on to the City Palace Museum filled with an array of textiles, arms, carpets, paintings and manuscripts. You'll complete your tour with an optional visit to a fabric block-printing center to learn more about the textiles that are so representative of this area.

Stay overnight in Jaipur.

Day 4: Drive Jaipur to Agra

We begin today's discoveries with a view of the exterior of Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). This is actually not a palace, but rather a façade of 956 delicate, honeycombed sandstone windows used by the ladies of the palace to watch the outside world without being seen.

Then we continue our journey, experience the vast rural countryside of India as we ride toward Agra. We break up today's long drive with a stop at Abhaneri to view an ancient baolis, essentially a step-well or waterway built to provide a constant water supply to local inhabitants.

Upon arrival, you could join an optional tour to take in the view of the Taj Mahal from the Mehtab Bagh (“Moonlight Garden”) across the Yamuna River.

Stay overnight in Agra.

Day 5: Agra Sightseeing 

Today we rise early to view a sight unlike any other in the entire world: sunrise at the Taj Mahal . Taj Mahal of India - "the epitome of love", "a monument of immeasurable beauty". The beauty of this magnificent monument is such that it is beyond the scope of words.The thoughts that come into the mind while watching the Taj Mahal of Agra is not just its phenomenal beauty, but the immense love which was the reason behind its construction.

Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, with whom he fell in love at the first sight. Ironically, the very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance, also leaves visitors mesmerized and perpetually enthralled. The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used and its picturesque location, all make a visit to the Taj Mahal gain a place amongst the most sought-after tours in the world.

Then we visit the sprawling Agra Fort on the bank of the Yamuna River. This immense fort and palace were the seat of power for four generations of Mughal emperors; they ruled all of northern India from the early 16th century until the consolidation by British colonial rule in the early 1800s. Agra Fort's architecture is an almost perfect fusion between military might and lavish beauty.

Day 6: from Agra to Varanasi by plane

Varanasi : the Holy city of Vishwnatha, City of Shiva, City of Saints. Benares: the corrupted English form of the original Pali - Varanasi--the city of sannyasins and sages or Kashi, the city of light and liberation.

Stay overnignt in Varanasi.

Day 7: from Varanasi to Kathmandu by air  

Early morning Boat ride on the holy Ganges, see people taking bath at river with the sound of bells and oil lamps. See the Ghats where Hindu death body is cremated. We return to the hotel and we have breakfast and fly to Kathmandu, be picked up and transfer to the hotel.

Then we will visit the  Katmandu Durbar square , where there are multitude of temples and monuments, as the old Real Palace, guarded by the king monkey Hanuman, The Kumari Bhal or the virgin goddess Kumari´s house (Living goddess), the Kasthamandap (wood´s house) made with the trunk of a single tree...

Stay overnight in Katmandu.

Day 8: Kathmandu Sightseeing then drive to Nagarkot

Today we go to Pashupatinath , one of the four Hinduist Temples more important of the subcontinent. To the banks of the river Bagmati can contemplate the incinerations in the Ghats. We visit the immense stupa of Boudhanath and then visit to Bodanath .

After sightseeing, drive up to Nagarkot , a beautiful hill station, which provides magnificent Mountain panorama , from Everest in the east to Annapurna in the west, eight of the world's tallest Mountain in a peaceful rural settings.

Stay overnight in Nagarkot.

Day 9: Drive back to Katmandu

Drive back to Kathmandu in the morning. Then you continue the tour with a visit to the Swayambhunath Pagoda , which is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Nepal. Swayambhunath is a huge golden stupa festooned with prayer flags that flutter in the breeze. It's located on a hill. You can overlook the entire city above.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the last place to visit for the day, with its pagoda and shikhara temples strewn around the royal palace. The square really highlights the ancient building arts of Nepal.The rest of the day is free for you to explore Katmandu at your leisure.

Day 10: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi

In the morning, our driver will pick you up in your hotel and drive to China Tibet border. There is a distance about 160km from Katmandu to Gyirong Border which usually takes about 7-9 hours on the way. So we will live in the Syabrubesi adjacent to Gyirong for a night before crossing the border in the second day morning.

On the way, will pass Mt. Himalaya , where you can see the deep gorges, snow-capped mountain. We will also drive across the  LuangTang National Park , one of the well- preserved national parks in Nepal.

Stay overnight in village guest house in Syabrubesi.

Day 11: Syabrubesi to Kyirong

After breakfast, we will drive 15km away to the Nepal-China border. Our guide will meet you at the  Gyirong Border  in Tibet side. Then transfer to Gyirong county, a small town built on the side of Himalayas. It would be nice to see the Himalayan mountains and vibrant forest from there. We need to spend one night for a good acclimation for next days’ ascent to EBC.

In the afternoon, you will visit  Padmasambava cave  and trek 2 hours to  Kepu village .

Stay overnight in Gyriong.

Day 12: Snake up to Rongbuk

An early start today, continue drive to Rongbuk Monastery ,the highest monastery in the world, at 5,000 meters above sea level. It is part of the Nyingmapa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, and is unique in that both monks and nuns live together in the same monastery.

On the way, we will stop at one of Milarepa's caves . It was on the side of a mountain looking down a fertile valley toward snow-capped mountains. A river runs through the valley.

Stay overnight in the guesthouse of Rongbuk Monastery.

Day 13: Rongbuk Monastery to Shigatse

Open your eyes, and wake up to the first sunlight shining over the pyramid-shaped summit of imposing Mt. Everest . Grab your camera for an epic shot and stroll to the Rongbuk Monastery, exploring this world’s highest Buddhist compound. If you wish, you can do the meditation and experience the unparalleled tranquility and harmony there. Or you can interact with monks and nuns with the help of guide to learn more of their unique spiritual life.

The temperature can get bitterly cold in the early morning. Do wear enough cloths like your down jacket, scarf and mittens to protect the extreme coldness.

Then in the afternoon drive further to Shigatse (3880m), the second largest city with 40,000 inhabitants in Tibet and the traditional capital of the Tsang . On the road the drive is full of magnificent scenery and cross some extremely high passes including Gyatsola (5248m). If it is in clear weather, you can have a glimpse of 4 mountains which is 8000m high or more, such as: Mt. Lhotse (8516m), Mt. Everest (8848m), Mt. Qowowuyag (8201m),Mt Mayalu (8463m).

Stay overnight in Shigatse.

Day 14: Drive to Lhasa

This morning you’ll have an opportunity to explore the Tashilumpo Monastery , the holy seat of the Panchen Lama, which is essentially a walled town with cobbled and twisting lanes that revolve around a magnificent monastery.

Then continue drive to Gyantse , visit Pelkor Monastery as well as the splendid Kumbum Stupa (100-Thousand-Buddha Pagoda) nearby, both of them built in the15th century and situated in the northwestern edge of Gyantse.

Afterwards pass by the 5,010m high Karo-la and the Simi La to Lhasa. You will have a chance to get lost in the endless Tibetan landscape while you take a short hike along the turquoise waters of Lake Yamdrok , one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. This dazzling lake is normally first seen from the summit of the Kamba-la (4700m). The lake lies several hundred metres below the road, and it is shaped like a coiling scorpion. Far in the distance is the huge massif of Mt. Nojin Kangstsang (7191m).

Stay overnight in Lhasa.

Day 15: Lhasa highlights escorted tour

After breakfast, we go to the Potala Palace , a golden feather upon the roof of the world, which Tibetans proudly claim to be the prime miracle since the creation of this world. It is visible from any distance, with the golden roof shinning in the sun, spend one hour wondering around the inside of this magnificent building exploring the rooms previously used by the Dalai Lama and the many Buddhist icons within.

In the afternoon we go inside of the Jokhang . The Jokhang, like most of the larger temple structures have numerous individual temples within it dedicated to specific enlightened beings, protectors, high lamas, or saints. Images, both sculpted and painted, are everywhere. Every inch of wall and ceiling is brightly painted with images of clouds, beings, mandalas, or decorative patterns. Colorful silk banners, three stories high, hang in various places. Color, pattern, and images crowd in around you. The central image inside the building is a 30-foot high gilded image of Maitreya Buddha. Then stroll around the back alleys of the Barkhor area of Old Lhasa. The streets smelled of yak butter and incense while hordes of pilgrims shuffled along the main Kora (circumambulations) around Jokhang Temple. If someone just walked at a normal pace, one kora would take about 15-20 minutes.

Day 16: Drepung and Sera Monastery

In the morning have a tour for Drepung , the ever largest monastery with more than 10 thousand monks, Buddhist debates often occur there. Seen from afar, its grand, white construction gives the monastery the appearance of a heap of rice. As such, it was given its name which, in the Tibetan language, means Monastery of Collecting-Rice. Learn about the lives of Tibetan monks there.

The afternoon is spent touring Sera Monastery , have a little hike for the beautiful valley scenery nearby and picnic there, in the afternoon, visit Sera monastery, which was created in 1419 and has always been an important Buddhist seminary. As rose are planted everywhere in the monastery, it is also called “the court of wild rose”. Today still 200 lamas live in there. Catch the famous debate session of the monks before returning back to Lhasa.

Day 17: Finish this unforgettable tour

Free time at your disposal this morning, explore the bustling markets of the Barkhor to buy some souvenirs for your families and friends.

After lunch, departure transfer to see off, tour services end and Tibet welcome you back forever.

What’s included?

1.Tibet Entry Permit

2. Comfortable, clean and safe vehicle depending on your group size with reliable local driver;

3. Admission fees of tourist sites listed in the itinerary;

4. Professional English speaking tour guide;

5. Accommodations depend on your preference. Please tell us your preferred accommodation class when submitting the enquiry, and we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.

6.All measl listed in the itinerary;

7.Tourist Accident/Casualty Insurance

What’s not included?

1. International flight to and out of China;

2. Chinese Visa

3. Domestic flight / train not listed in the itinerary (If you need ticket booking service, please leave your requirements in the Online Inruiry form.)

4.Meals not specified in the itinerary;

5.Tips to driver and tour guide, Tip as you wish

6.Personal expenses, such as laundry, phone call, optional tour activities and so on.

1. How to Get the Tibet Travel Permit?

The Tibet Travel Permit is essential for any Tibet tour. We help to obtain this permit free of charge when you book your Tibet tour through us. Simply send us copies of your passport and China visa at least 20 days in advance. Once we receive your documents, we will promptly process the permit application with the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After obtaining your permit, we will notify you and send it to your hotel in mainland China.

In exceptional cases, our staff can personally deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station. With years of experience in handling Tibet Travel Permit, we assure you a smooth visit to Tibet by ensuring the acquisition of your permit.

2. Where to Stay in Tibet?

Accommodation facilities and services in Tibet might not match those found in the coastal and central parts of China. However, there's a diverse range of hotel options available. However, you can choose from a wide range of hotel options. In big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, from cheap and clean youth hostels to distinct Tibetan-style 3-star and international 5-star luxury hotels, you will find one that suits your interests and budget.

As you travel to remote areas of Tibet, such as EBC and the Mount Kailash region, the accommodations tend to be more basic. Some may have air-conditioning in the hotel, while others may only offer electric blankets in the guesthouses. Nonetheless, we always handpick cozy and safe accommodations for you along your itinerary in Tibet, ensuring a pleasant night's stay for your Tibet tour.

3. How about the Guiding and Tipping in Tibet?

Our English-speaking guides are natives of Tibet with good knowledge of Tibetan culture, history, and Buddhism. Most are trained to offer Western-standard service. Throughout your stay in Tibet, we will monitor your health and provide prompt assistance to you. If you encounter any trouble, please do not hesitate to contact them or our customer service manager.

Travelers' tipping to Tibetan guides and drivers is seen as extra gratitude for their excellent service, much like what you do in the West. Normally, a tipping amount of 7 USD per day is acceptable. The basic principle is rewarding good service with fair pay.

4. How are the Toilets in Tibet?

Undoubtedly, for many Western tourists, using toilets in Tibet can be a challenging experience. Therefore, it's advisable to moderate your expectations. If you travel to Lhasa by Tibet train, both western-style and squat toilets are available onboard. Staying in hotels rated above 3 stars in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse ensures access to standard Western flush toilets, eliminating any discomfort.

However, when visiting attractions like Yamdrok or Namtso or outdoor sites like EBC, you're likely to encounter smelly and unclean pit toilets. It's recommended to carry sufficient toilet paper for such occasions.

5. How is the Weather in Tibet? What to Pack for Visiting Tibet?

One of the notable weather features on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is the significant temperature fluctuation between day and night. In Lhasa, the annual temperatures range from -2℃ to 12℃ (spring), 9℃ to 22℃ (summer), 7℃ to 19℃ (fall), and -7℃ to 9℃ (winter). Ensure proper clothing, such as thermal tops, a fleece jacket, breathable underwear, a down jacket, jeans, a beanie, and other essentials.

Moreover, essentials like sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses are crucial to shield yourself from the intense, blinding sunlight of the plateau. Staying hydrated by drinking more water and including vegetables in your diet is advisable to prevent dehydration during your travels in Tibet.

6. How to Prevent from Altitude Sickness in Tibet?

For first-time visitors to Tibet, whether arriving by flight or train, allowing ample rest is crucial for quick acclimation to the high altitude in Lhasa. Avoid rushing to explore the streets or attractions independently. Walk at a slower pace and refrain from exerting yourself by running or jumping. Spending at least two days in Lhasa before venturing to places like Shigatse or Namtso allows for better acclimatization. If you experience any discomfort, inform your guide, and they will assist you.

7. Are There some Dos and Don'ts while Touring Tibet?

Photography is generally prohibited in monasteries. If you wish to capture images of Tibetan pilgrims, kindly seek their permission or maintain a considerable distance while taking photos. Swimming and fishing are prohibited in the sacred lakes of Tibet. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. According to policy, international tourists are not permitted to travel alone in Tibet.

While navigating Barkhor Street, adhere to the custom of walking clockwise. Refrain from exploring unfamiliar trails. Take proactive steps to preserve Tibet's delicate ecosystem.

Given that Tibetan Buddhism profoundly influences the lives of Tibetans, always show reverence and respect for their unique customs. If uncertain about any practice, it's advisable to seek guidance from your tour guide before proceeding.

  • Trip Overview
  • Detailed Itinerary
  • Book This Tour Now

Quick Inquiry

We'll get back to you within 24 hrs FOR FREE.

trip to tibet from india

You can also contact us with our Wechat.

Why Choose Us?

We're all about keeping you safe and comfortable. When you arrive in Lhasa, we're ready to support you for a smooth and enjoyable trip across Tibet. Choose us for a pleasant and hassle-free tour in Tibet!

Our customer service manager

Personalized Care with Our Award-Wining Service Manager

Meet Mr. Kunga, our awesome customer service manager! He's here to help everyone, whether you've booked with us or not. With over 30 years of experience and having won the "National Golden Tour Guide" award in Tibet, he ensures that every client has a fulfilling trip.

Our Tibetan guides

Elite Team: 40 Top Tibetan Guides at Your Service

Since 1984, we've been a local Tibet travel agency, and we now have an amazing team of 40 top Tibetan guides. They'll make your Tibet trip super enjoyable and comfortable, promising unmatched happiness and satisfaction!

Safe drive in our vehicle

Experienced Drivers for Safe and Scenic Routes

Our skilled drivers make sure your journey is safe and fun, going through different routes like winding mountains and wide grasslands. Get ready for an amazing adventure exploring Tibet's beautiful landscapes with us! And don't worry—we always have oxygen and bottled water in our vehicles for your safety and comfort.

Our small group at Jokhang Temple

Pioneers in Small Group Tours with Varied Itineraries

We're the top Tibetan tour operator, focusing on small group tours—our specialty! Our trips offer classic experiences with lots of choices and often leave at great prices. No shopping pressure, just budget-friendly fun! Our groups stay small, maxing out at 12 people, and we get over 5,000 clients every year.

Guaranteed service by us

Guaranteed Tibet Permit and Complimentary Service

With 30+ years of experience, we provide you with a free Tibet Permit! Count on us to handle all your travel needs smoothly, ensuring your trip to explore stunning Tibet is stress-free. Your permit is our promise for an amazing adventure in the Himalayas!

Local Tibetan restaurant

Supporting Local Communities through Tibetan-Owned Businesses

We only pick Tibetan-owned restaurants and hotels to help our community. Your trip with us directly helps the Tibetan community by supporting local businesses. Come embrace real Tibet and make a positive impact while exploring with us!

Explore Mount Kailash

Authentic Exploration of Tibet's Rich Culture

Discover the real Tibet with us! We're dedicated to showing its true spirit and exploring its lively culture. Our aim is to give you an authentic experience, sharing the beauty and richness of Tibetan traditions. Come along for a journey deep into the heart of Tibet!

Leisurely explore Lake Yamdrok

Unhurried Exploration of Every Destination

We never hurry on our tours, so you can enjoy every spot fully. We promise a relaxed pace, letting you take in each place on our list. Journey with us for a truly satisfying experience!

Photo with Mount Everest

24/7 Support & Daily Communication with Guide

Feel safe with our 24/7 local support! Your safety and comfort matter most to us. We talk to our guides every day to keep your trip smooth. Count on us for ongoing help, making your journey hassle-free and fun. Relax knowing we're here for you throughout your adventure!

Pleasant trip in Tibet

Constant Optimization for Superior Travel Experiences

Join us for amazing travel adventures! We keep making our trips better every year, improving quality wherever we go. We're dedicated to giving you the best service possible. Come with us on unforgettable journeys where every detail shows how much we care about making you happy!

icon

What Our Customers Say

If you go to tibet you will never forget.

This trip was one of the most amazing I have ever taken! I experienced the most unique way to learn about Tibetan culture and people. And nature is just mind blowing. No words can describe beauty of Tibetan nature, you must see yourself to believe it... More reviews

Amazing experience

Amazing experience, thankfully to our guide the young Kunga, whose knowledge is amazing! Superb experience, highly recommended... More reviews

Best Tibet trip ever

Such an amazing trip! Having the opportunity to visit this lovely part of the world is very eye-opening:) our guide, Tenzin, was very knowledgeble and kind. A 10/10 experience... More reviews

Truly memorable experience

We did a private trip actually, after a thorough research of numerous agencies we decided to go with Tibet Vista as they seem very experienced in Tibet tours and they are also very responsive. It was well-made decision, we loved our tour and our guide Kungga was excellent, he was attentive and accomodating to us... More reviews

Once in a life time

14 days from Beijing to Tibet and Nepal. The reality was beyond my expectations. A trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. The trip was arranged in an exceptional way! Laura Tang did an amazing job! She responded to all my questions immediately, she supported and solved any problems very quickly. The hotels she arranged for me were amazing!! ... More reviews

Nice view in winter!

The view was magnificent. got to see snow and snow capped mountains. Thanks to Gemma Wei for helping with all the planning. Also thanks to Kunchok and Tsering for going accomodating to my needs as i was not used to the altitude. They also helped alot with the trek up the hills! ... More reviews

Tibet is beautiful

The tour was great! We visited amazing places and could feel the sacred atmosphere in all the temples. The nature is breathtaking with beautiful mountain and lake views. Our guide Jingme told us all about the history and showed us great places. All the hotels were much better than what I expected... More reviews

Unforgettable Experience

The 8-day trip with Tibet Vista was remarkable, combining cultural depth with stunning Tibetan landscapes. Our guide Jig Me was really knowledgable, the journey well-organized, and each destination, especially Everest Base Camp, was a highlight. Great value; highly recommended... More reviews

Visiting Tibet with Tibet Visa agency is a once in a life time experience! They take care of everything and you just need to enjoy! Our tour guide was AMAZING... More reviews

Exploring Tibetan culture

Tibet vista made the entry process into Tibet super easy. Jing mei our guide had a wealth of knowledge about all the locations we visited and happily answered questions we had. Also organising a birthday cake for one of the guests showed how thoughtful he was... More reviews

Similar Trips

10 Days Tibet and Nepal: Journey to the Highest Himalaya

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

13 Days Classic Tibet Nepal and Bhutan Tour

Tour Route: Lhasa - Gyangtse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Kathmandu - Paro - Thimpu - Punakha - Paro - Kathmandu

14 Days Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour from Beijing

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

14 Days Journey to the Himalayan Kingdoms

Tour Route: Kathmandu - Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everst Base Camp - Kathmandu - Paro - Thimpu - Punakha - Paro - Kathmandu

Inquiry on - 17 Days An Epic Journey through India, Nepal & Tibet

Start planning your Tibet tour by filling out the form! Our travel counselors will reply you within 24 hours.

  • Top 5 star hotel
  • Standard 5 star hotel
  • Comfortable 4 star hotel
  • Economic/budget 3 star hotel
  • Budget Guesthouse
  • Video appointment

Budget Tibet Group Tours

  • > 4 Days Lhasa Tour
  • > 5 Days Lhasa & Ganden Monastery Tour
  • > 6 Days Central Tibet Tour
  • > 8 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
  • > 15 Days Mount Kailash Tour

Our Best Tours

  • > Tibet Small Group Tours
  • > Tibet Nepal Tours
  • > Tibet China Tours
  • > Tibet Nepal China Tours
  • > Tibet Train Tours

Office Address : Room 8102 (first floor) of Lhasa Gang Gyan hotel, Beijing East Road, Chengguan district, Lhasa.

News & Updates

Sign up to receive our newsletter for great articles, stunning photos, and special deals.

Featured On:

Escapades_Logo.png

+91 9535551157

Tibet Bike Trip   (New Delhi - Kathmandu - Lhasa )

21 Days/20 Nights

India and Tibet are two of the most fascinating destinations in the world, both known for their unique cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes. And what better way to explore these two countries than by embarking on a thrilling motorcycle tour through the scenic and rugged terrain of Nepal.  

Motorcycle Escapades is a well-known adventure tour company that offers an unforgettable journey from India to Tibet via Nepal, providing travelers with the opportunity to experience the best of these three countries. The tour takes riders through some of the most spectacular and remote regions of the Himalayas.  

With its diverse terrain and vibrant culture, India is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, India offers a range of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Meanwhile, Tibet is a unique and spiritual destination, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and deeply rooted Buddhist culture.  Together, India and Tibet offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is perfect for those seeking a truly immersive travel experience. With Motorcycle Escapades, you can explore these destinations on a thrilling and unforgettable motorcycle tour that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the Himalayas.

Image by Raimond Klavins

Important Information about the expedition:

Total distance covered during this tour – 2750 km., regions covered - india, nepal and tibet., highest altitude - 5300 meters in tibet., average attitude in tibet side - 4000 meters., road condition - 90% tarmac & 10% gravel., experienced required - moderate (who has done long-distance motorcycle before)., language - hindi/english in india, nepali/english in nepal and tibetan/basic english in tibet., fascinating facts about tibet:, it is the highest region on earth, with an average elevation of 4500 meters. no wonder tibet is often called the “roof of the world” and the “third pole”., mount everest, the highest mountain on the planet rising 8,848 meters above sea level is located in tibet, on the border between tibet and nepal., tibet was closed to foreign visitors for a long time. only starting in 1985 did it become possible for tourists to travel to tibet., tibet has the highest number of buddhist monasteries in the world: over 7,000., almost 90% of the tibetan population believe in tibetan buddhism., about 46% of the world’s population depends on the water from rivers originating in tibet, the himalayas have the third-largest number of glaciers, ice, and snow in the world following the antarctic and the arctic., weather conditions during the tour:.

India Side: May is the peak summer season in the Northern Part of India and the temperature may go up to 40 degrees in some parts.

Nepal Side: Humid and warm weather in the lower altitude of Nepal, pleasant weather in Hilly regions like Kathmandu. Expect some interim rains in the valley.

Tibet: Average daytime temperatures up here on the roof of the world vary from 5°C to 19°C across the country, with Lhasa really earning its reputation as 'the sunlit city'.

Indian, Nepali and Tibetan cuisines will be served based on the region we are traveling to.

Glimpse of destination

trip to tibet from india

DETAILED   ITINERARY

Day 1 - arrival at new delhi.

Upon arrival, you will be picked up from New Delhi International Airport and dropped you at the hotel. After checking into the hotel and getting some rest, we will meet again in the evening for the Briefing session and documentation related to the Tour, followed by dinner. Dinner is included.

Day 2 - Explore Delhi

Kilometers - 60.

After breakfast, we will set out to explore this beautiful capital city of India. New Delhi, Delhi has an ancient history for its own culture and historical places. We will visit Qutub Minar, and Red Fort, and explore old Delhi on a luxury car or minibus. By evening we will back to our hotel. After reaching the hotel we will introduce our Motorcycles. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 3 - New Delhi to Agra

Kilometers - 225.

After an early breakfast we will start our first day of the ride towards Agra, Located on the banks of Yamuna, Agra is best known for the iconic Taj Mahal. However, the appeal of this historic city is not limited to this magnificent monument alone. There's a lot to explore and experience, from monuments and mausoleums to parks and bazaars. Evening we will also visit the world-famous Taj Mahal which was built during the 16th Century. Breakfast and dinner Included.

Day 4 -  Agra to Lucknow

Kilometers - 335.

After exploring the ancient town of Agra, we will start our further journey towards Lucknow. This bustling city, famed for its Nawabi era finesse and amazing food, is a unique mix of the ancient and the modern. It is home to extraordinary monuments depicting a fascinating blend of ancient, colonial, and oriental architecture. It will take at least 8 hours to reach Lucknow, there is not much sightseeing for the day, but we will enjoy our riding on the highways of Northern India.

Breakfast and dinner included

Day 5 -  Lucknow to Gorakhpur

Kilometers - 270.

Today we will be riding almost the northern-most part of Uttar Pradesh state of India. We will be riding through the country roads of the state and witnessing the rural lifestyle of India. By early evening we will reach Gorakhpur, which is the last biggest town in India, before we enter Nepal. With a lot of memories keeping in mind, we will retire for the day.

Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 6 -  Gorakhpur to Lumbini

Kilometers - 90.

After an early breakfast, we will start our ride towards Indo – Nepal International border. Within an hour we will reach Sanauli town which is the border town. After reaching we will visit Indian Customs and Immigration for clearance, post that we will cross the border and enter the Nepal side, we will visit Customs & Immigration for the entry process, the whole process of exit and entry will take 3-4 hours based on the crowd. Once we get the clearance from both the Nations, we will ride towards Lumbini, which is just 30Kms from the border. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 7 - Lumbini to Kathmandu

Kilometers - 285.

It will be one of the longest-riding days during this expedition, we will start early after breakfast and ride towards Kathmandu. We will ride from the Terrai region to the hilly region of Kathmandu Valley. It will take at least 8-10 hrs of riding, so we will be able to reach Kathmandu by evening.  Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 8 -  Kathmandu Rest Day

After breakfast we will visit the Chinese embassy to apply for a Tibet Visa and other permits, after finishing the process, you can enjoy roaming around the city of Kathmandu on your own. It will be a free day at your leisure. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 9 -  Kathmandu to Bandipur

Kilometers - 150.

After exploring Kathmandu we will ride down from the valley and ride towards Bandipur. The Newari town of Bandipur is one of central Nepal's hidden gems. It combines traditional village architecture, epic Himalayan views, and lovely countryside walks. It is also one of the main centers during the ancient Silk route from Nepal to China.

Day 10 -  Bandipur to Gurkha

Kilometers - 70.

Today will be a short ride to the Gorkha village, which is referred to as the land of valiant warriors, Gorkha is a hill that is historically linked to the formation of modern Nepal. It has traditionally been renowned as the land of valiant warriors and the birthplace of Nepal's unifier, King Prithvi Narayan Shah Evening we will meet for dinner and collect our passport & and permits for Tibet. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 11 -  Gorkha to Rasuwagadi

Kilometers - 190.

After exploring Gurkha, we will start our journey towards the Nepal – Tibet border, we will descend from the valley and enter the off-road section, most of the roads for today will be offroad with a lot of dust and narrow roads, after crossing multiple army and custom check post, we will reach Rasuwa, which is the last hamlet from Nepal Side before we enter Mainland China.

Breakfast & and dinner included.

Day 12 -  Rasuwa Border (1800M) - Kyirong Town (2800M)

After breakfast, we will visit Nepal customs and immigration for exit formalities, after that our Chinese Guide will meet us at Kyirong Border, China side. After finishing all the customs documents, will drive to Kyirong Town, 40km away from the borderline. Rest in the afternoon, clients can hike around to acclimatize.  Altitude: 2800m. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 13 - Ride from Kyirong Town (2800m) - K yirong Country (4200m) - Kongtang Lhamo Pass (5236m) - Old Tingri (4340m)  

Kilometers - 300.

In the morning, drive upward to the real Plateau of Tibet, on the way you will see one of the highest passes of over 5000m, then the magnificent Mt. Shixiabangma and blue diamond-like Pekutso lade. As well as the Himalayas ranges with snow-capped mountains. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 14 - Old Tingri (4300m) - Gyawula Pass (5200m) - EBC (5200m)

Kilometers - 250.

Morning we drive 150km from Old Tingri to EBC by the Zigzag road and enjoy the highest Peak of the earth. On the way, have a spectacular view of the Himalayan ranges with more than 5 peaks that are over 8000m, including Mt. Everest. After exploring the EBC Area, drive 100 km to Shegar and overnight here. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 15 - Shegar   (4300m) - Gyatsola Pass (5200m) - Sakya (4310m) - Tsola Pass (4500m) - Shigatse (3800m)  

The morning after breakfast, drive to Sakya, a very famous monastery and Buddhist sect that used to play an important role in Tibet's history. On the way, we will pass Gyatsola Pass with over 5000m, where there is one of the best points to view the Himalayan Ranges. Then drive to Shigatse and rest in this second-largest city in Tibet. Breakfast and dinner included

Day 16 - Shigatse for Driving License and Bike License

Full Application License. We need to apply for a temporary driving license and permits for motorcycles to proceed further, it will take a whole day to process the documents. Stay overnight at the Standard Hotel on a BB basis in Shigatse.  Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 17 - Shigatse (3800m) - Gyantse (3940m)

In the morning after breakfast, continue to apply for the license if the license is not finished the previous day. Then a short ride just 90km from Shigatse to Gyantse, which boasts a variety of important cultural and historical sites – Khumbum, Palkhor Chode Monastery and Gyantse old street.  Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 18 - Gyantse   (3900m) - Simi La Pass (4352m) - Nyichen Kangsang Glacier - Karo La Pass (5039m) - Yamdrok Lake (4440m) - Khampa La Pass (4760m) - Lhasa (3650m)

Kilometers - 265.

After breakfast ride 265km to Lhasa, as you pass Manak Dam Lake, you may hang the prayer flag at Simila Mountain Pass; Next, come the close view of Korola Glacier on the roadside; Then, you will pass the Khamba La Pass (4990m) to view turquoise Yamdrok Lake and snow-capped Mount Nyichen Khangsa. Finally, you will also cross the Brahmaputra River and finally reach Lhasa. Stay overnight in hotels in Lhasa. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 19 - Sightseeing In Lhasa

Attractions; Potala palace, Jokhang temple & bustling Bakhor Street. Today we will visit the famous Potala Palace, the cardinal landmark of Tibet and the masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Jokhang temple is one of the most sacred temples in Tibet and it has always bustling with earnest local pilgrims since from early days. After that, you have time to walk around Bakhor Street which is one of the most devotional circuits as well as the crowded central market of Lhasa. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 20 - Sightseeing In Lhasa

Attractions; Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastey. Today we will visit the famous Drepung Monastery, the biggest monastery in Tibet and used by the Dalai Lama to study before moving to Potala Palace. Sera monastery in the afternoon, which is famous for its monk debating. These two monasteries are most important in Lhasa city for the Gulapa sect. Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 21 - Departure from Lhasa

Attractions; Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastey. After breakfast, we will drop you at the airport for your onward journey. After exploring some of the world's best adventure routes, from India to Nepal and Tibet, we will finally bid goodbye with the hope of riding again together on the road less traveled. End of the tour. Breakfast included.

What is included?

Royal Enfield 411cc Himalayan Motorcycles with fuel as per the itinerary accommodation on a twin/double sharing room basis in standard category hotels.

Breakfast & dinner (Starts with Dinner on day 1 at New Delhi and ends with Breakfast on day 21 at Lhasa-Tibet).

Support vehicle to carry all the luggage, supplies, and spare parts for the tour.

English-speaking tour leader with an additional Motorcycle to lead the group.

One certified Royal Enfield Mechanic for the whole tour as per the itinerary.

Water bottles during the riding days.

Nepal Entry Visa fees (One Time).

Custom fees and permits for all the Motorcycles from India to Nepal and Nepal to India.

Tibet Travel permits worth USD 200 per person.

All inner line permits for Tibet side(Motorcycle + Riders).

Emergency oxygen cylinders during travel in Tibet side Airport Transfers in New Delhi & Lhasa.

One day of local sightseeing in New Delhi with a luxury AC coach Two days of sightseeing in Lhasa with a Luxury AC coach.

All sightseeing fees, tolls, and parking.

GST @18% is included.

What is excluded?

All your international and domestic flight tickets.

Visa charges for India.

Medical or travel insurance.

Alcohol, tips, room service, or anything that is not mentioned in the above inclusions.

Lunch and any other meals which are not included in the inclusions.

Package Cost

For customization or group booking contact us as +91-9535551157.

Logo

24-year-old’s great escape from Tibet to India

Namkyi

DHARAMSHALA : A year ago, Namkyi left her home in Charo village, Tibet, embarking on a ten-day journey with her aunt Tsering Kyi, traversing both day and night until they crossed into Nepal and eventually reached India. Now 24 years old, Namkyi recounts her harrowing experience of being imprisoned for a year by Chinese authorities.

They had apprehended her and her sister while peacefully protesting against the denial of their religious practices. She was a mere 15 years old at the time and endured over a year in solitary confinement.

“I left my family behind to tell the world about the harsh realities we face in Tibet. Human rights violations occur with impunity, and we are constantly viewed with suspicion and disdain. The memories of my days in jail haunt me; at 15, we were subjected to physical abuse by uniformed men, given meagre leftovers for sustenance, and slept in the cold with thin blankets, with no one to turn to for help. Though I was eventually released after a trial, it was under the shadow of threats and warnings,” said a tearful Namkyi in an interview with this newspaper.

Both Namkyi and her sister were detained in Tashi Gyalkaling County on charges of “separatist acts against the nation” and supporting the “Dalai clique.”

“While in prison, we were forced to undergo military training and study the Chinese constitution. Additionally, we were assigned to labour camps where we manufactured copper wires, cigarette boxes, and watches. Even after serving our prison terms, we were held at a police station in Pema Lhathang, Ngaba County, for a week. My family has been under constant scrutiny ever since,” she added, expressing fears of their potential torture. Namkyi arrived in India in June 2023 and has since been attending a transit school to learn the local language, as her dialect differs from that spoken by Tibetan exiles in India.

Shortly after reaching Dharamshala, she was granted an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, an experience she describes as immensely healing. “His Holiness emphasized the importance of preserving our culture and traditions,” she remarked.

While Namkyi has endured significant hardship, her story mirrors that of thousands of Tibetan refugees who have risked perilous journeys to flee Tibet. She hopes to travel the world and raise awareness of the severe human rights violations in China, holding onto the belief that justice will one day prevail.

‘Forced to undergo military training’

Both Namkyi and her sister were detained in Tashi Gyalkaling County on charges of “separatist acts against the nation” and supporting the “Dalai clique.” “While in prison, we were forced to undergo military training and study the Chinese constitution. Additionally, we were assigned to labour camps where we manufactured copper wires, cigarette boxes, and watches. Even after serving our prison terms, we were held at a police station in Pema Lhathang, Ngaba County, for a week,” she said.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp  

Download the TNIE app to stay with us and follow the latest

Related Stories

trip to tibet from india

Joan Wakelin Bursary Prize at 20 – in pictures

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share via Email

A look back at a selection of some of the remarkable work enabled by the Joan Wakelin bursary, administered by the Guardian and the Royal Photographic Society, which offers photographers £2,000 and the opportunity to have their work published in the Guardian, as it approaches its 20 th year

  • Entries are welcome for this year’s bursary, which is free and open to photographers of any age and nationality. Please apply online here by 6 June 2024

Mon 29 Apr 2024 07.00 BST

Antonio wearing his Traje De Luces and practising with his Muleta, within in the Malaga bullring, 2 March 2023

Photograph: Owen Harvey/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Antonio wearing his Traje De Luces and practising with his Muleta, within in the Malaga bullring, 2 March 2023

Adriano Pina performs for tourists at Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto, Lisbon, 2020

Photograph: Henri Kisielewski/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Adriano Pina performs for tourists at Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto, Lisbon, 2020

Gerson with his friends and cousin at the rooftop of their home late in El Valle Caracas, 2019

Photograph: Silvana Trevale/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Gerson with his friends and cousin at the rooftop of their home late in El Valle Caracas, 2019

Khanyi and her friend, Azasakhe Manxeba attend the Matric dance, January 2018

Photograph: Alice Mann

Khanyi and her friend, Azasakhe Manxeba attend the Matric dance, January 2018

Ekua Ketsewa, 76, with her family in her new room in the village she was born in, November 2016

Photograph: Matilda Temperley/The Guardian/RPS

Ekua Ketsewa, 76, with her family in her new room in the village she was born in, November 2016

Vanessa Morgado and her father are amongst the activists fighting for the islanders against Polis, April 2016

Photograph: John Gallo/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Vanessa Morgado and her father are amongst the activists fighting for the islanders against Polis, April 2016

Alejandra Ramirez, 23, model and diet pill seller, Medellín, Colombia, 2015

Photograph: Manuela Henao/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Alejandra Ramirez, 23, model and diet pill seller, Medellín, Colombia, 2015

Nicolas Prado of the Universidad Catolica, Santiago at the Alto Patache fog Oasis near Iquique in Northern Chile, 2012

Photograph: Neil Hall/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Nicolas Prado of the Universidad Catolica, Santiago at the Alto Patache fog Oasis near Iquique in Northern Chile, 2012

Year 9 Cossack Cadets (15- 16 years old), during lunch in the canteen of Ataman Platov Cossack Cadet school in Belaya Kalitva, Southern Russia, August 2010

Photograph: Anastasia Taylor-Lind/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Year 9 Cossack Cadets (15- 16 years old), during lunch in the canteen of Ataman Platov Cossack Cadet school in Belaya Kalitva, Southern Russia, August 2010

Faraja (8) and Pishon Mhewa (10) with their baby brother Jeminus (6 months). Their parents were both black skinned but carriers of the recessive albinism gene, Tanzania, 2008

Photograph: Jackie Dewe Mathews/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Faraja (8) and Pishon Mhewa (10) with their baby brother Jeminus (6 months). Their parents were both black skinned but carriers of the recessive albinism gene, Tanzania, 2008

Waste collector Rajeev Kumar, 20, and his cart in an affluent suburb of Delhi, 2008

Photograph: Brijesh Patel/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Waste collector Rajeev Kumar, 20, and his cart in an affluent suburb of Delhi, 2008

Beijing West, 13 February 2007

Photograph: Charles Stewart/Joan Wakelin Bursary

Beijing West, 13 February 2007

A family in Takeo province, Cambodia, April 2006

Photograph: Michael Nott/Joan Wakelin Bursary

A family in Takeo province, Cambodia, April 2006

  • The Joan Wakelin bursary
  • Photography

More galleries

Most popular.

trip to tibet from india

  • Travelogues
  • Travel Agent Cooperation

Tibet Vista Travel

  • How to Travel from India to Tibet by Train?

Getting to Tibet from India is an exciting journey of discovery, traveling along the railways and bus routes to get from India to Nepal, and then on into Tibet from Nepal. With no direct route by train from India to Tibet, you will need to make various stops and transfers to get into Tibet. The railways in Tibet do not yet extend as far as the border with Nepal, although this is planned for the future. Similarly, there are very few railways in Nepal, with actually only two railway lines in operation, both of which are near the border with India.

Getting into Nepal from India can be done relatively easily, using the massive Indian railway network as well as some local buses. Traveling through Nepal is normally done by bus, as the railways do not extend to the Nepali capital of Kathmandu. Once in Kathmandu, you can travel overland to Tibet or take a flight to Lhasa. With three main routes through which to enter Nepal from India, the choice is yours, and often depends on the starting location of the travelers.

So, there are basically two ways of getting from India to Tibet by train. Both of them include combining railway and some other means of transport, such as an airplane or car. You can travel from India to Nepal by train and there catch some other connection or take a flight to China and board a train to Tibet from there. Given the alternatives, there are two standard routes for getting between India and Tibet. One includes traveling from major Indian cities (Delhi, Kolkata, and others) by train to the Nepali border crossings of Sunauli, Raxaul or Panitanki. From Kathmandu, you can proceed the journey by plane, car or bus. The other option involves flying to major cities of China (Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai among others) and boarding a Tibet train there.

Option One: India to Nepal by Train and then Travel to Tibet

Step 1: take train from india to nepal.

Taking the train from India to Nepal can be done with relative ease, thanks to the huge rail network within India. Train travel in India is one of the main ways to get around this massive country and is well maintained with regular trains in service that can take you to almost any place in the country. For travelers to Nepal from India, there are three main routes to take, which end at one of the major border crossing points between India and Nepal.

india to nepal route map

Delhi in the west and Kolkata in the east are main railway hubs where you can catch a train traveling to Nepal. Whatever your outbound destination is, you are likely to travel between 10 and 15 hours to arrive in Sunauli (from Delhi), Raxaul or Panitanki (from Kolkata). The journey from Varanasi to Sunauli is significantly shorter.

Enter Nepal via Sunauli

The main route from India to Nepal, the border crossing at Sunauli is the most important border crossing point for both commercial transport and travelers. Getting to Sunauli from New Delhi can be done by train direct to Gorakhpur, and there is a choice of trains that run this route, including one Superfast Express.

The journey covers a total of around 800 kilometers and can take from 11-14 hours to travel by train. The route has ten stops at local stations along the way, as well as a major stop at Lucknow, where you will change trains for Gorakhpur. There are more than 30 trains that run to Gorakhpur from New Delhi or Varanasi every day, and some can be found for under two dollars if you are prepared to travel with transit waiting times.

Sleeper Berths

Trains in India have as many as seven classes of seats or sleeper berths, with the “2S” code being the cheapest, as they are simple padded seats. “SL” or sleeper cars are the most popular and are normally open berths in three layers, or you can opt for the higher-class options of “1A”, “2A”, and “3A”, which are air-conditioned cabins and carriages.

If you can manage the padded seats, then the cost of the trip to Gorakhpur is just US$ 3.61, but if you want the sleeper, it is as high as US$ 6.34. The most expensive seats on the route are the “1A” first-class air-conditioned cabins, which will set you back around 40 dollars per person.

Traveling from Varanasi is a little cheaper than from New Delhi, costing just US$ 2.95 for the sleeper berth, or as much as US$ 16.95 for the first class 1A cabin. The trip from Varanasi takes around 4-5 hours and is much easier to get tickets. Most people travel from Delhi to Nepal, so it is the busiest route.

From Gorakhpur, there are buses that run 13 times a day, with only one bus being non-AC. There is a sleeper bus that runs through the night, leaving around 1:30am and getting into Sunauli at around 3:30am. This route is much faster due to the low volume of traffic experienced at night, but is not worth waiting around all day for, since the fare for the buses starts at just US$ 1.67 per ticket.

While you are on the Indian side, people selling bus tickets may approach you. Note that purchasing tickets are more reasonable on the other side of the border, in Nepal. Journey by bus from Sunauli to Kathmandu takes around 7 hours and costs around $6 on average.

Enter Nepal via Panitanki

Traveling to Nepal via the Kakarbhitta border crossing is easy for those traveling from Kolkata, as it is the shortest route to Nepal. Trains leave several times a day for the border town of Siliguri in West Bengal, with a travel time of around 9-11 hours, depending on the train. The Shatabdi Express is the fastest option, at less than nine hours, which leaves every 90 minutes throughout the day and night. Prices for sleepers are around five dollars, and are the cheapest tickets for these trains, as there are no padded seat tickets on most of the services.

However, the trains are not direct, and you need to change at Howrah to continue the journey to New Jalpaiguri. You will also need to change at New Jalpaiguri, as the train does not go direct to Siliguri. From New Jalpaiguri, the connecting trains take around 20 minutes to get to Siliguri, at a cost of around two dollars.

Regular Bus

From Siliguri to Kakarbhitta on the Nepali side of the border, there are regular buses that leave from the Tenzing Norgay bus station to the small town of Panitanki, on the border. These cost around 40 cents and take around an hour to get to the border town. However, if you do not want to walk the 1.5 kilometers across the Mechi River from Panitanki to the Immigration Office in Kakarbhitta, then you can get one of the jeeps that run all the way to Nepali immigration. The jeeps leave from outside the bus station, and only leave when full, so you may have to wait. However, they are faster than the public bus, and take just 35 minutes to get to Kakarbhitta at a cost of just US$ 1.84.

If you are unsure in which direction the border lies when in Panitanki, all you need to do is approach a local and say "Nepal" to find out where to go. In case you don’t take a bus to cross the border, you can go to the crossing on foot or by a rickshaw. Since you probably travel with baggage and a zone for pedestrians isn't available along the road, taking a rickshaw is a more favorable option. Opening hours of the border on both sides are from 6 am to 10 pm.

Traveling onwards to Kathmandu from Kakarbhitta is the longest leg of the journey, taking around 17 hours by public bus. The buses leave several times a day, once full, and cost around 19 dollars per ticket. And this is where it shows that travel in Nepal, while still relatively cheap, is much costlier than in India. If bus travel is not your idea of fun, then you can get the flights from Bhadrapur Airport to Nepal, around 20 kilometers south of Kakarbhitta, which leave regularly for Kathmandu at a cost of around US$ 185.

Enter Nepal via Raxaul

One of the other popular entry points to Nepal from India is at Raxaul, which crosses over to Birgunj in Nepal. Trains from Kolkata leave every 45 minutes both day and night and cost from around US$ 5.37 for a single ticket. The trains leave from Sealdah Railway Station in Kolkata, and arrive in Raxaul Junction Station, taking around 15-19 hours to travel the 729 kilometers of the trip.

From Kolkata, travelers rely on three express trains to take them to Raxaul. Of these, Purvanchal Express has the best ratings regarding the service and speed (12:30 hours), but departs only on Friday afternoons and travels to Sagauli Junction, around 30km from Raxaul. It arrives at 3 am. Mithila Express departs daily at mid-afternoon and arrives in Raxaul around 9 am. Finally, Howrah-Raxaul Express leaves Kolkata around 11 pm on Wednesday and Thursday and arrives in Raxaul around 4 pm on the next day. All three lines dispose of II, SL, 3A and 2A classes.

However, Raxaul is not the border crossing point for Nepal, although many sites say that it is. The customs office and border crossing point are actually in Haraiya, around 4 kilometers from Raxaul Junction Station. There is no bus that runs from the station to the Indian customs office, and a taxi, of which there are plenty around, will set you back around a dollar fifty. However, there are many cycle rickshaws that will take you to the border crossing point for around ten rupees, which is about 15 cents.

Bus from Birgunj to Kathmandu

Crossing the border is normally done on foot here, as it is just around 30 yards. Processing takes around 15-20 minutes if you are applying for your visa on arrival, and just a few minutes if you already have it. From the immigration office, it is around three kilometers to the town of Birgunj, where you can get the bus for Kathmandu. Rickshaws and thangas, small horse-drawn carriages, run the route for around 100 rupees, or about a dollar fifty.

You should be at the border between 7:00am and 6:00pm, despite the signs saying the border is open from 06:00 to 22:00 daily. Visas are only issued up to 6:00pm daily, and the staff do not normally open for transit until seven in the morning.

Tickets to Kathmandu from Birgunj Central Bus Station cost around 8 dollars for a normal bus and around 12 dollars for the deluxe air-conditioned bus. It is advisable to get the deluxe bus, as the regular bus takes much longer and is always overcrowded. Buses run throughout the day, though it is best to leave as early as possible. While the trip should take around 8-9 hours, delays on the roads can make it a lot longer.

Step 2: Travel from Nepal to Tibet

From Kathmandu, getting to Tibet requires all tourists to be traveling on a pre-booked tour with reliable Tibet tour operator like us, Tibet Vista . Independent travel in Tibet is not permitted, and all tourists must be on organized tours, whether private or group tours. Your visa and permits to enter and travel in Tibet are all organized by the tour operator, so you do not need to get the Chinese Entry Visa when entering from Nepal.

Travel Documents You Need

The Tibet Travel Permit , which is required for all tourists traveling in Tibet, is obtained on your behalf by us, using scanned copies of your passport, and takes around 20 days to process. You should book your Tibet tour well in advance to accommodate this, and once your tour is booked, we will make the application for you.

Tibet Travel Permit and China Group Visa

The China Group Visa , for entering China from Nepal, is obtained once you arrive in Kathmandu by our representative, using your original passport and the Tibet Travel Permit. Processing can only be done by a representative of our travel agency, and personal applications are not entertained by the Embassy. Processing takes around 3 working days, so you should be in Kathmandu at least five working days before your expected departure date.

Enjoy the Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour to Tibet

One of the more popular tours now is to travel overland to Lhasa from Kathmandu , crossing the Sino-Nepal border at the newly-opened border crossing point at Gyirong Port. The route from Kathmandu runs west then north to the border crossing checkpoint and takes around six hours by public bus.

Once across the border, your tour guide will meet you and transfer you to Gyirong Town, where you will be able to acclimatize to the increasing elevation. After a day of acclimatizing, you will then start the tour to Lhasa, traveling along the famous Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. For those taking in Everest Base Camp (EBC), a detour will be taken to get to Rongbuk Monastery, from where you can take the short trip to the world’s highest mountain. On average, the tour takes around eight days, including acclimatization to the higher altitude in Gyirong Town, and ends with the delights of the Tibetan capital of Lhasa.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa

If flying is your preferred method of travel to Lhasa, then you are in luck, as Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport is the only airport in the world with international flights to Lhasa. Flights leave daily for the Tibetan capital and take around 90 minutes to cover the 1,000-kilometer distance between the two capitals. - Check the flight schedule from Kathmandu to Lhasa

While this can be a little costly for some, with flights starting from around 300 dollars, it is one of the most amazing flights you will ever take. Not only do you get to see some of Tibet’s awesome scenery and landscapes from the air, but the standard flight path takes you directly over the summit of Mount Everest, and on clear, right days you get a great view of the mountain as the plane passes above it just a few hundred feet from the peak.

Option Two: India to Mainland China by Flight and then Take Train to Tibet

The second option of traveling from India to Tibet is via China. The most efficient way of getting to Lhasa from India this way is flying to one of China's major cities and taking Tibet train there.

Step 1: Travel from India to Mainland China by Flight

For the most convenient connection to Lhasa, Tibet, fly to Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou. Direct flights to the three metropolises are available from Delhi year-round, while there is also a direct connection to Beijing from Mumbai. Flights to Beijing or Shanghai place you closer to Lhasa, and you will spend less than 50 hours traveling there by train. In addition, flight fares to Shanghai are usually lower than to Guangzhou. If getting sooner to Tibet is your objective, book a flight ticket to Beijing.

Average flight fares from Delhi to Beijing or Shanghai cost around $440, but the exact price largely depends on the season and how far in advance you book the ticket. One-way flight deals from Delhi to Guangzhou are around $500 and over most often. Flight times from Delhi to Beijing are around 5:45 hours, while the duration of the flight to Shanghai and Guangzhou is 5:20 and 4:40 hours respectively.

Step 2: Travel from Mainland China to Tibet by Train

To be eligible to enter Tibet, you need to possess the Tibet Travel Permit and the China Visa. You need to obtain the visa on your own while for acquiring the permit you need to hire a Tibet travel agency. Only by booking a group or individual tour through Tibetan agency you are eligible for obtaining the travel permit. Once the Tibet Tourism Bureau approves you the permit, it is the agency's responsibility to deliver the document to you once you arrive in China.

Enjoy the Tibet Train Journey to Lhasa from Mainland China

Journey by Tibet train to Lhasa takes you through scenic landscapes and untamed wilderness abounding with wildlife. As you draw near to Lhasa, Tibet, mountains replace deserts, forests, and lakes along one of the most picturesque routes in the world. If you make stops along the way, in Xining in particular, you will be able to accommodate yourself to the altitude difference. The distance between Beijing and Lhasa is nearly 3760 km, while trains need to cover 4370 km when traveling from Shanghai.

A train journey from Beijing gives you a chance to admire Tibetan plateau for half a day. The train departs the capital of China at 8 pm and arrives in Lhasa at 12:40 pm on the third day. As for the train journey from Shanghai, it typically departs at 8:10 pm and arrives in Lhasa at 7:30 pm on the third day, allowing you even more time to admire the plateau.

Tibet Train Journey to Lhasa from Mainland China

The price of train tickets fluctuates depending on the season and the type of compartment. Soft-sleepers usually cost between $200 and $250, while the price of hard-sleepers ranges from $120 to $175. July and August are the months when Tibet train fares increase significantly, rising up to around $300 for hard- and $380 for soft-sleepers. Fares are similar for traveling to Lhasa from Beijing and Shanghai.

Join an India Nepal Tibet Bhutan Tour

For an even more spectacular experience, consider booking a grand Himalaya tour of India, Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. Tibet Vista is an experienced tour operator that offers tailor-made tours suitable for travelers with different interests and available time. Besides applying for the Tibet Travel Permit for you, we specialize in planning cost-effective transportation, accommodation, dining, and other necessary arrangements on your behalf.

As for the India Nepal Tibet Bhutan tours , you can rely upon Tibet Vista's professional and friendly guides to help you have the time of your life as you explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, Mount Everest in Nepal, fortress-like temples of Bhutan, and the Potala Palace in Tibet among other attractions.

Traveling to Tibet from India via Nepal or China is sure to be one of the most adventurous experiences you ever had. To make the most of your trip, plan at least a few weeks to allow yourself enough time to adapt to the high altitude and tour places of invaluable cultural importance. Also, make sure to hire Tibet Vista or some other reputable Tibetan travel agency to organize your Tibet tour for the premium experience.

Lobsang Tsering

About the Author - Lobsang Tsering

I am a tour guide in Tibet an was Born in Kham Tibet, I am the father of 2 little girls, bachelor's degree. I have more than 7-years experience of being a tour guide in Tibet. I am a warm, friendly, knowledgeable and attractive guy.

Email me about your travel idea

https://plus.google.com/+LobsangTsering-TibetVista

Read all my articles about Tibet travel

Related Articles & Posts

  • Getting to Tibet: Best Tibet-Entry Cities You Need to Know

Here, you can learn the detailed Tibet train, flight, and overland tour routes from the best Tibet-entry cities, includi ...

  • Trips to Mongolia and Tibet: how to plan a Mongolia and Tibet trip

Mongolia Tibet tour can be done by flight and train. Here you will know how to plan the tour, including the detailed iti ...

  • Travel to Tibet by Train, by Flight, by Road, by Cycling or Trekking

How to travel to Tibet? Actually, you can go to Tibet by train, air, road, cycling or even trekking. ...

  • Drive to Tibet: what are the top 5 overland routes to Tibet?

Can you drive to Tibet? The answer is definitely yes. Currently, there are five major routes to drive to Tibet, like the ...

  • Luggage Allowance on Tibet Train and Flight

Allowed baggage for Tibet Tour by flight and train. What baggage size, weight can be bought to plane or train to Tibet, ...

Direct train to Lhasa is not your only way to Tibet

During the peak tourism season of Tibet, it is hard to get a ticket for sleeper train to Lhasa from Shanghai, Chengdu, B ...

Have a Question? Ask below or call +86 28 81754631

Question Summary *

Please fill in your contact information, we will send you the answer by email

Country * : United States India Australia Malaysia United Kingdom Singapore Canada Germany China France Indonesia Hong Kong, China Netherlands Spain Italy New Zealand Brazil Mexico Thailand Switzerland Japan South Africa Nepal Philippines Russia Sweden Belgium Argentina Austria Ireland Israel Chile Vietnam Denmark Bangladesh Poland Portugal Sri Lanka South Korea Oman Romania Pakistan Other Colombia Hungary Taiwan, China Finland Greece Turkey Norway Mongolia Bhutan Bulgaria Costa Rica Myanmar Saudi Arabia Slovenia Ukraine Lithuania Egypt Qatar Mauritius Serbia Ecuador Uruguay Iran Niger Venezuela Cyprus Lebanon Nigeria Honduras Latvia Peru Guatemala Belarus Cambodia Estonia Kenya Macau, China Malta Tunisia Albania Bahrain Jordan Luxembourg Andorra Azerbaijan Georgia Guinea Kuwait Panama El Salvador French Guiana Iceland Kazakhstan Macedonia Micronesia Montenegro Morocco Paraguay Tanzania Uzbekistan Zimbabwe Anguilla Armenia Belize Benin Bolivia Botswana Dominica Eritrea Ethiopia Fiji Laos Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Moldova Monaco Namibia Norfolk Island Reunion Island Somalia Swaziland Tajikistan Turkmenistan Tuvalu Yemen Zambia Afghanistan Algeria Angola Antarctica Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Chad Comoros Djibouti East Timor French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Ghana Gibraltar Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guernsey Guyana Haiti Iraq Jamaica Jersey Kiribati Kosovo Lesotho Liechtenstein Madagascar Maldives Martinique Mauritania Mayotte Island Montserrat Mozambique Nauru New Caledonia Nicaragua Niue Palau Pitcairn Island Puerto Rico Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Lucia San Marino Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Suriname Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Islands Uganda Vanuatu Vatican City Western Sahara Western Samoa Costarica Croatia Czech Korea

SUBMIT Cancel

0 Comment ON "How to Travel from India to Tibet by Train?"

Check All Tibet Travel FAQs Here

  • Articles about How to Get to Tibet
  • Direct Train to Lhasa is not the only way
  • Different Tibet train experience in Summer and Winter
  • How to get to Tibet by train, All Trains to Tibet
  • Fly to Tibet
  • 15 FAQs on How to Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa
  • How to solve the unexpected troubles on the train?
  • What is the Best Way to Travel to Tibet? 5 Optimal Routes to Choose for Different Needs
  • Which Way to Choose? Lhasa to Kathmandu by Overland, Flight or Bike?
  • Taking a Train to Tibet vs. Taking a Flight to Tibet
  • How to Travel by Flight from US to Tibet
  • Ultimate Guide to How to Travel to Tibet from India
  • Train to Tibet
  • Flight to Tibet
  • Overland to Tibet

Tibet Small Group Tour

Ask a Quick Question

Your Full Name:

Your Email Adress:

More about Your Travel Plan:

trip to tibet from india

IMAGES

  1. Three Must-See Sites When Traveling to Tibet

    trip to tibet from india

  2. Potala Palace Visit, Tibet

    trip to tibet from india

  3. About Tibet

    trip to tibet from india

  4. Breathtaking Ladakh

    trip to tibet from india

  5. 10 Best Tibet Tours & Trips 2023/2024

    trip to tibet from india

  6. Tibet Travel Guide and Travel Information

    trip to tibet from india

VIDEO

  1. India vs China vs Tibet

  2. तिब्बत के ऊपर से क्या दिखता है| Why Don't Airlines Fly Over Tibet?Why Do Planes Not Fly Over Tibet

  3. NathuLa Pass budget Travel

  4. Chitkul Last Village Of India Indo-Tibet Border

  5. How did China annex Tibet? चीन ने तिब्बत को कैसे हड़प लिया था?

  6. Rongbuk Monastery beneath EBC #tibet

COMMENTS

  1. Ultimate Guide to How to Travel to Tibet from India

    With 11 daily direct flights from New Delhi, taking just 1 hour 30 minutes to reach the Nepali airport, this is normally the best option for most travelers from India. Non-stop flights are also available from Varanasi and Mumbai.

  2. Tibet Tour Packages from India; How to Travel to Lhasa from Delhi;

    By train. Departing at 11:45am daily, the train from Guangzhou takes over 53 hours to get to Tibet, making it the longest of all the train journeys to Lhasa. Covering almost 5,000 kilometers, the train arrives in the Tibetan capital at around 5:05pm on the third day. From Chengdu to Lhasa. By flight.

  3. Tibet Permits for Indians

    Does a Indian Need Visa for Tibet? Tibet is one of the most attractive and popular travel destinations for Indians, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Ngari especially is a lifetime holy dream trip for many Indian pilgrims. According to official regulation, Indians need to get required visa and permits to visit Tibet. Exact visas and permits needed depend on different factors, such as which kinds ...

  4. How to Visit Tibet Safely, Easily and Ethically [2024]— YoWangdu Tibet

    YoWangdu's General Recommendation on the Best Time of Year to Visit Tibet. Fall and winter: Mid-October through mid-January. The fall season in Tibet has fewer crowds and generally clear, relatively mild weather. (You need to avoid the Chinese national holidays in the first week of October.)

  5. Tibet Tour Packages

    With our Tibet Tourism & holiday Packages, you will get to visit some of the enchanting tourist destinations of Tibet including Lhasa, Shigatse, Ngari, Tsedang and more. In addition to this, a trip to Tibet will also let you come across the not to miss prime tourist attractions including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Mount Kailash, Tashilhunpo ...

  6. 10 Best Tibet Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Overland Tibet with EBC Tour 8 days. Amy Brisbane 2 Nov, 2023. 5. Nepal and Tibet Overland Tour with Peregrine Treks and Tours was an experience of a lifetime. The rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu, the natural splendor of Pokhara, and the spiritual grandeur of Potala Palace in Tibet were profoundly captivating.

  7. Upto 50% Off

    Book customized Tibet trip packages with exciting deals & offers. Tibet Tour Packages are available all year around bringing travelers to traverse to this place. An autonomous Chinese region, Tibet endows a great feel of culture, distinction to the tourist. Offering splendid and breathtaking monasteries, stunning overviews, captivating high ...

  8. How to Visit Tibet: follow the 9 easy steps

    1. It is suggested to apply for your Tibet permit at least 20 days before your Tibet tour starts. 2. If you have more than one passport, please make sure you visit Tibet with the same one you used for your Tibet Travel Permit. Or you will be denied entry into Tibet. 3.

  9. India to Tibet

    The cheapest way to get from India to Tibet costs only ¥435, and the quickest way takes just 7¼ hours. Find the travel option that best suits you. ... Find all the transport options for your trip from India to Tibet right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport ...

  10. India to Tibet Travel, Tibet Tours from India, How to Plan Tibet Lhasa

    India Overview. Chinese Name: English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone: . Plan your Tibet Trip from India? Read our India to Tibet travel guide about when and where to visit, India to Tibet Lhasa, Shigatse, Nagqu, Ngari, Nyingchi, Chamdo, Shannan, Mount Everest, Mount Kailash, The Potala Palace and Namtso Lake Tours, China Visa and Tibet Travel Permits ...

  11. Tibet Tour: Visit the Best of Tibet with Tibetan Local Guides

    We have dedicated ourselves to offer the best value Tibet tours since 1984. Tibettour.org is set to help you find first-hand information on Tibet culture, transportation, weather, permit, and accommodation more conveniently. ... 17 Days An Epic Journey through India, Nepal & Tibet; 11 Days Himalaya Overland Tour from Lhasa to Kathmandu; 18 Days ...

  12. Tibet Tour Packages

    8 Days - Tibet Tour From Nepal Via Everest Base Camp. Kathmandu - Zhangmu - Old Tigri Base Camp - EBC - Shigatse - Gyantse - Lhasa. 8 Days | 7 Nights. Trip Highlights. Price On Request. View Details Enquire Now. Visit Mt. Shishapangma and get glimpse of the sunset. Enjoy the difference in living lifestyle of people.

  13. How to Travel to Tibet from India?

    Delhi-Nepal bus starts from Delhi's Dr Ambedkar Stadium Bus terminal, Delhi Gate at 10 am in the morning and then takes Delhi-Agra-Kanpur-Lucknow route. The bus trip takes about 27 hours and the cost is 2,800 INR as one-way fare. You need to reserve in advance. >> See more methods to travel from India to Nepal.

  14. Travel to Tibet

    The Kingdom of Tibet was formed during the 7th century when Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd Tibetan King, started to unify various Tibetan tribes into the Tibetan Empire.. The Mongols of Genghis Khan conquered Tibet in the 13th century and annexed it to their growing empire. In the 16th century, the Mongol King Altan Khan used the title of Dalai Lama, meaning Oceans of Wisdom, for the first time ...

  15. How to Plan a Trip to Tibet?

    Travel to Tibet from India From India to Tibet is relatively easy now. You can fly or travel overland from India to Kathmandu, then take a flight or a land trip to Tibet. Nepal Bhutan Tibet Travel Map Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet are distributed on the south and north sides of the Himalayas, sharing the beautiful scenery. Here're detailed travel maps.

  16. Ultimate Tibet Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend

    A 7-Day Tibet Train Tour Itinerary (Good for Train Tour Lovers) If you would like to travel to Tibet by train, then this itinerary would be good for you. You would take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, highest and longest plateau railway in the world, to enter Tibet. Days 1-2: Xining, Qinghai (Explore, Board the Train) Days 3-4: Xining to Lhasa ...

  17. Top 8 Tibet Vacation Packages

    4 Days Lhasa City Private Tour - Heart of Tibet. This is one of our most popular tour packages in Tibet - visit the best landmarks in Lhasa and learn about authentic Tibetan culture. Airport / train station pick up. $475 / Details.

  18. Tibet Tours: Small group and private Tibet tour packages

    View Details. 5 Days Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour: Take a 360° Tour and Visit the Loneliest Temple in the World. Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa. From USD689 p.p. View Details. 4 Days Lhasa Impression Small Group Tour: Explore the Heart of Tibet and Mingle with the Locals. Lhasa. From USD509 p.p. View Details.

  19. Travel from India to Tibet by Road

    Ask below or call + 86-28-81754631. There are 2 ways for indian to travel from India to Tibet, the first one is travel overland via Nepal, the second is fly to China Mainland first and go to Tibet later.

  20. 17 Days An Epic Journey through India, Nepal & Tibet

    Trip Overview: This is a unique and exciting south Asian Adventure trip that we specially designed for those travelers who want to explore India, Nepal and Tibet at once. This adventure begins from Delhi, India where you will see Agra (Taj Mahal) and Varanasi (Ganges). Then to Kathmandu Valley and Nagarkot in Nepal where you will then take a ...

  21. Tibet Motorcycle Trip

    Tibet Bike Trip(New Delhi - Kathmandu - Lhasa) Tibet Bike Trip. 21 Days/20 Nights. Enquire Now. India and Tibet are two of the most fascinating destinations in the world, both known for their unique cultures, rich history, and stunning landscapes. And what better way to explore these two countries than by embarking on a thrilling motorcycle ...

  22. 24-year-old's great escape from Tibet to India

    DHARAMSHALA : A year ago, Namkyi left her home in Charo village, Tibet, embarking on a ten-day journey with her aunt Tsering Kyi, traversing both day and night until they crossed into Nepal and ...

  23. Kailash Mansarovar Tour/Yatra: 2024 Available Dates & Costs

    This epic overland trip is specially designed for tourists starting from Lhasa, and finishing in Kathmandu, enriching the Kailash experience to the fullest. 2024 Available Dates & Price: 2024-05-16 $2059 12 Guests Booked Book. 37 Clients've Booked for 2024 View Details.

  24. Joan Wakelin Bursary Prize at 20

    Beijing West, 13 February 2007 The most recent extension to China's vast railway network is the 1,142km stretch that links the province of Qinghai with Tibet.

  25. Tibet

    Government regulations on the travel of international visitors to the TAR were uniquely strict compared with other areas of China. The government required all international visitors to apply for a Tibet travel permit to visit the TAR and regularly denied requests by international journalists, diplomats, and other officials for official travel.

  26. How to Travel from India to Tibet by Train?

    The second option of traveling from India to Tibet is via China. The most efficient way of getting to Lhasa from India this way is flying to one of China's major cities and taking Tibet train there. Step 1: Travel from India to Mainland China by Flight. For the most convenient connection to Lhasa, Tibet, fly to Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou.