Imagine stepping off a plane, the air crisp and thin, the sky so blue it feels infinite. Prayer flags ripple in the wind, snow-capped peaks gleam on the horizon, and a quiet calm settles in your heart. Welcome to Tibet, the legendary Roof of the World — a place where earth and heaven meet in stunning harmony.
As someone who has lived and worked in Tibet’s travel industry for nearly two decades, I’ve guided thousands of travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, and Italy — all seeking something deeper than a simple vacation. Tibet does that to people: it stirs your spirit, challenges your body, and rewards you with moments of peace and perspective you’ll remember forever.
This Tibet travel guide is designed to help you plan your journey like a pro. You’ll learn when to go, how to get the mandatory Tibet Travel Permit, what to pack, and which Tibet tour itinerary (9–10 days) offers the perfect mix of culture, scenery, and comfort. Whether you dream of exploring Lhasa’s Potala Palace, standing at the foot of Mount Everest, or gazing across the turquoise mirror of Yamdrok Lake, you’ll find all the essential information here.
So, grab your curiosity and your camera — and let’s explore one of the most mysterious and moving destinations on earth: Tibet.
Tibet isn’t just another stop on your travel bucket list — it’s an awakening.
When travelers ask me why Tibet should be on their list, I tell them this:
“You don’t simply see Tibet; you feel it.”
Here are a few reasons why this land of high mountains and deep faith captures the hearts of travelers worldwide.
From the endless plateau plains to the towering Himalayas, Tibet’s landscapes redefine scale and silence. You’ll see glittering high-altitude lakes like Yamdrok, Namtso, and Manasarovar, and pass through mountain passes above 5,000 meters where the air hums with stillness.
If you love photography, hiking, or just wide-open spaces, this is paradise.
Tibet’s heartbeat is Buddhism.
You’ll see it in the spinning of prayer wheels, the chanting monks, and the devotion etched into every pilgrim’s face. The Jokhang Temple and Sera Monastery in Lhasa aren’t just monuments — they’re alive with ritual and emotion.
Standing among worshippers who have walked for months to reach these sacred sites is a humbling experience.
Tibetans are warm, resilient, and deeply connected to their land. Despite living in one of the harshest environments on earth, their smiles come easily, and hospitality runs deep. Sharing a cup of salty yak-butter tea with a local family or joining monks in quiet prayer often becomes the most memorable part of any Tibet tour.
At altitudes between 3,500 and 5,000 meters, life in Tibet moves at a slower rhythm — and that’s the beauty of it. The air forces you to breathe consciously, move deliberately, and appreciate each moment. Travelers often tell me Tibet changed their perspective on pace, patience, and gratitude.
Tibet feels untouched by time. While the modern world races ahead, here you can still hear wind over the prayer flags, bells echoing from distant monasteries, and yak herders calling across valleys. It’s a place to disconnect — and reconnect with yourself.
In the next section, we’ll dive into the best time to visit Tibet, how weather and altitude affect your travel plans, and how to choose the perfect season for your adventure.
When planning your Tibet tour, timing is everything. Because of its high altitude and unique plateau climate, Tibet’s weather can change dramatically from one month to another — even from morning to evening! Choosing the right season ensures you’ll see the Himalayas at their best and travel safely and comfortably.
Let’s break it down by seasons:
Spring is when Tibet begins to awaken from its long winter. The snow slowly melts, rivers start to flow again, and wildflowers color the valleys around Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyantse. Temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) to 16°C (60°F) — cool but pleasant.
It’s a great time for sightseeing, especially in central Tibet, before the summer crowds arrive.
You’ll enjoy crystal-clear skies — perfect for photographing Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Yamdrok Lake — without having to compete for space.
Pros: Excellent visibility, fewer tourists, great for photographers.
Cons: Some high passes near Everest Base Camp (EBC) might still have snow or wind.
Summer is Tibet’s high tourist season, with the warmest temperatures of the year (10°C to 22°C / 50°F–72°F). This is the time when pilgrims and local travelers flood Lhasa, and colorful festivals fill the calendar — especially the Shoton Festival, when monks unroll massive Thangka paintings and locals picnic with yak yogurt.
The landscapes are at their greenest, and the lakes shimmer under a bright sun. Though it’s technically the “rainy season,” most rain falls at night, and daytime travel is rarely affected.
Pros: Warm weather, festivals, energetic atmosphere, rich colors for photos.
Cons: Busier sites and slightly higher hotel prices.
If you ask me for the single best time to visit Tibet, I’ll say September — hands down. The air is clean and crisp, the sky turns a deep, surreal blue, and the peaks of the Himalayas look sharper than ever. The monsoon is gone, the roads are dry, and temperatures are comfortable during the day.
It’s perfect for Everest Base Camp tours, Namtso Lake trips, or trekking near Mount Kailash.
This is also the season when farmers harvest barley and the fields glow gold — a photographer’s dream.
Pros: Clear skies, fewer tourists, excellent road conditions.
Cons: Nights can get cold — pack warm clothes.
Winter in Tibet is not for everyone — but for some, it’s the most authentic season of all. While temperatures drop below freezing at night, days are surprisingly sunny. Major attractions remain open, and this is when Tibetan pilgrims from remote regions make their way to Lhasa for spiritual worship.
If you seek solitude and a deeper cultural connection, winter is pure magic. You’ll see monks lighting butter lamps in Jokhang Temple and locals walking the Barkhor circuit wrapped in sheepskin coats, murmuring prayers under clouds of incense.
Pros: Lowest prices, peaceful atmosphere, best for cultural immersion.
Cons: Some high passes and remote roads may close due to snow.
For most travelers, the best time to visit Tibet is April to June and September to October.
You’ll enjoy comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery.
And remember: Tibet’s charm isn’t tied to perfect weather — it’s about experiencing something real and rare. Even a cold morning by Everest Base Camp can warm your soul forever.
Because of its remote geography and political sensitivity, getting to Tibet takes a bit more planning than a regular domestic trip in China. But with the right guidance (and your Tibet permit in hand), it’s straightforward and safe.
Here’s how to reach Lhasa, Tibet’s capital — the gateway to all journeys across the plateau.
Most travelers fly into Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA), which lies about 62 km (38 miles) south of the city.
There are daily direct flights from:
Chengdu (2 hrs)
Chongqing (2.5 hrs)
Xi’an (3 hrs)
Beijing (4.5 hrs)
Shanghai (5 hrs)
Kunming (3.5 hrs)
Your Tibet Travel Permit is required to board any flight to Lhasa. Your travel agency will send it to your hotel in China before departure.
You can also fly directly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (1.5 hrs). This route offers a spectacular view of the Himalayas from above, including a rare aerial glimpse of Mount Everest.
⚠️ Note: If you enter Tibet from Nepal, you’ll need a Group Visa issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu — not a regular Chinese visa. Your agency will help coordinate this.
For those who love slow travel, the Qinghai–Tibet Railway is an unforgettable experience. It’s the highest railway in the world, connecting Xining in Qinghai Province to Lhasa over 1,956 km of stunning landscapes — snow mountains, grasslands, and herds of yaks.
Beijing → Lhasa (40 hrs)
Shanghai → Lhasa (47 hrs)
Chengdu / Chongqing → Lhasa (36 hrs)
Xining → Lhasa (21 hrs, best choice for altitude adjustment)
Each train is equipped with oxygen outlets, soft sleepers, and panoramic windows.
This is one of the world’s great train journeys — a slow ascent that lets your body gradually adapt to altitude.
If you crave adventure and freedom, consider the overland journey to Tibet — one of Asia’s greatest road trips. There are several routes:
Sichuan–Tibet Highway (Chengdu → Lhasa, 2,000 km) – Wild landscapes, remote monasteries, and dramatic gorges.
Qinghai–Tibet Highway (Xining → Lhasa, 1,947 km) – The smoothest and safest route.
Yunnan–Tibet Highway (Kunming → Lhasa) – Cultural diversity, from tropical forests to alpine plateaus.
Kathmandu–Gyirong–Lhasa (via Nepal) – Cross the Himalayas overland! A breathtaking but challenging route.
Each requires a Tibet permit and experienced local guides. Roads are long but scenic — a true expedition through the “roof of the world.”
When applying for your Tibet Entry Permit, you must state your entry city (Beijing, Chengdu, Kathmandu, etc.). You can’t board your flight or train without it.
So plan your arrival city carefully — your Tibet agency will guide you.
A Journey Through Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest, and Namtso
If you’ve ever dreamed of a trip that blends history, culture, and the awe of standing before the highest mountain on earth — this 9 to 10-day Tibet tour is exactly what you’re looking for.
It’s the route I’ve recommended to hundreds of travelers over the years, combining sacred monasteries, high-altitude lakes, and unforgettable Himalayan panoramas — all at a comfortable, well-paced rhythm.
Your journey begins as your flight descends over the snow-capped Himalayas. Even from the plane window, Tibet feels extraordinary — endless blue skies, winding rivers, and mountains that seem to touch heaven.
After landing at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you’ll be greeted by your local guide and transferred to your hotel in the city.
Travel Tip: Take it slow. Altitude sickness is real, even for fit travelers. Spend the first day relaxing, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding alcohol or heavy meals.
If you’re feeling up for it, take a light evening stroll around Barkhor Street, the bustling old town where pilgrims walk clockwise around the Jokhang Temple, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras. The scent of burning juniper fills the air — your first introduction to Lhasa’s living spirituality.
Wake early and get ready for one of the highlights of your Tibet tour — the Potala Palace, Tibet’s most iconic landmark. Rising 13 stories high with more than 1,000 rooms, it was once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama.
Inside, you’ll see ancient murals, golden stupas, and priceless relics that tell centuries of Tibetan history.
Next, visit the Jokhang Temple, the holiest site in Tibet. The temple’s golden roof glistens under the sun, and inside, the scent of yak butter lamps and the soft chanting of monks create an atmosphere of deep serenity.
Finish your day with a walk around Barkhor Street — a circular pilgrimage path lined with prayer wheels, shops, and street stalls selling everything from turquoise jewelry to handmade thangkas. Don’t forget to try a cup of yak butter tea in one of the local cafés.
Insider’s Note: Barkhor Street is one of my favorite places to observe local life — monks debating philosophy, pilgrims prostrating, and tourists blending into the rhythm of devotion.
Today, dive deeper into Tibetan Buddhism with visits to two of its most important monasteries.
Drepung Monastery – Once the world’s largest monastery, housing 10,000 monks. Its whitewashed buildings cascade down a hillside, offering panoramic views over Lhasa.
Sera Monastery – Famous for its daily monk debates, a lively tradition where young monks discuss Buddhist philosophy using animated gestures. Watching this ritual — a mix of intellect, rhythm, and energy — is an unforgettable cultural experience.
Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a traditional Tibetan dinner with local music and dance.
Leave Lhasa behind and set out on the scenic drive to Gyantse, crossing the Kamba La Pass (4,794 m).
From here, you’ll see the dazzling Yamdrok Lake (Yamdrok Yumtso) — one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, shimmering in brilliant shades of turquoise and sapphire. The view is so stunning it almost feels surreal.
Locals believe that Yamdrok is the embodiment of a goddess and that its waters bring prosperity.
After plenty of photo stops, continue through valleys dotted with yaks and barley fields before arriving in Gyantse, a small but historically rich town.
Highlights in Gyantse:
Gyantse Kumbum – The largest stupa in Tibet, filled with chapels and murals.
Gyantse Fortress (Dzong) – Offers sweeping views of the valley.
Overnight in Gyantse (3,950 m). The altitude is higher, so keep hydrating and rest well.
A short drive brings you to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city and home to the magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.
This monastery is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture — its golden rooftops shining against deep blue skies. Inside stands the 26-meter-tall statue of the Future Buddha (Maitreya), one of the largest gilded statues in the world. The sight of hundreds of pilgrims walking clockwise around the monastery’s perimeter, murmuring prayers, is deeply moving.
After exploring, you’ll have time to wander through Shigatse’s local market — a great place to see daily Tibetan life and perhaps try some yak meat momos (dumplings) or buy traditional handicrafts.
Overnight in Shigatse (3,900 m).
Today’s journey takes you along the famous Friendship Highway, through landscapes that seem sculpted by the gods. You’ll cross high passes with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the distant peaks of the Himalayas begin to appear — Makalu, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, and finally the mighty Mount Everest (Qomolangma).
By afternoon, you’ll reach Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, perched against the backdrop of Everest’s north face.
Standing here, with the mountain rising before you, is a moment beyond words — humbling, exhilarating, spiritual all at once.
Experience of a Lifetime: Sunset over Mount Everest paints the sky in shades of gold and crimson. At night, the Milky Way stretches over your head — a sight you’ll never forget.
Stay overnight near Everest Base Camp (EBC) or in the guesthouse beside Rongbuk Monastery. It’s basic but cozy, often warmed by yak-dung stoves.
Rise before dawn to watch the first sunlight touch Everest’s summit — the mountain glows pink, then golden. It’s one of those rare moments that stays with you forever.
After breakfast, begin your return drive toward Shigatse, retracing the Friendship Highway. The day is long but scenic, and the memories of Everest linger with every mountain curve.
Overnight in Shigatse.
Today you’ll journey back to Lhasa, following the course of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. Along the way, you’ll pass villages, monasteries, and fields of barley — glimpses of Tibetan rural life unfolding under vast skies.
Arrive in Lhasa by late afternoon. Enjoy a final evening stroll, savoring the rhythm of the city, perhaps visiting a teahouse or watching locals circle Jokhang Temple at dusk.
No Tibet trip is complete without seeing Namtso Lake, often called “Heaven Lake.” The journey north from Lhasa crosses Lagen La Pass (5,190 m), where you’ll suddenly glimpse Namtso’s deep-blue expanse stretching toward snow-clad peaks.
Walk along the shore, breathe the crisp mountain air, and watch yaks grazing against a backdrop of endless sky.
If you stay overnight, you’ll witness one of the clearest night skies in the world — perfect for stargazing and astrophotography.
Return to Lhasa in the evening or next morning, depending on your comfort and schedule.
After breakfast, say farewell to the “Roof of the World.” Your guide will transfer you to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
Most travelers leave Tibet transformed — not just by what they’ve seen, but by how it’s made them feel.
As one of my clients from France once told me:
“In Tibet, the air is thin, but the experience is deeply rich.”
Before you can embark on your dream Tibet tour, there’s one essential piece of paperwork you’ll need — the Tibet Travel Permit, sometimes called the Tibet Entry Letter.
Unlike other parts of China, foreigners cannot freely enter Tibet without special authorization. Don’t let that worry you, though — your local Tibet travel agency (like us) will handle everything for you.
The Tibet Travel Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) and allows foreigners to enter Tibet and travel within designated regions like Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and Namtso Lake.
You cannot apply for it personally — it must be arranged through an authorized local travel agency.
Documents needed:
Valid passport (with at least six months before expiration)
Valid Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)
Confirmed Tibet tour itinerary
Your agency submits these to the TTB, and the permit is approved within 8–15 working days. The original document will be mailed or delivered to your hotel in mainland China before your departure flight or train to Lhasa.
Without this permit, you cannot board any flight or train to Tibet.
Depending on your itinerary, your agency will also help secure the following:
Alien’s Travel Permit (ATP): Required for visiting Shigatse, Gyantse, or Everest Base Camp. Issued by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) once you’re in Tibet.
Military Permit / Border Permit: Required for remote regions such as Mount Kailash or Ali Prefecture.
Group Visa (for entry via Nepal): If entering from Kathmandu, you’ll get a single-entry Chinese group visa — not a standard China visa.
You don’t need to worry about these — your Tibet tour operator will handle all the paperwork for you.
Foreigners must travel in organized tours with a licensed guide and driver. Solo backpacking is not allowed.
You’ll need to join a group or book a private Tibet tour through a local agency.
Your itinerary must match the destinations listed in your permit.
Always carry your original passport — you may need to show it at hotel check-ins or checkpoints.
Pro Tip: Plan your Tibet trip at least 4–6 weeks in advance to allow enough time for permits and logistics.
Tibet is not only high in altitude but also high in meaning. To make your journey smooth and meaningful, keep these essential Tibet travel tips in mind.
Tibet’s average elevation is 3,500–5,000 meters. Most travelers experience mild symptoms (headache, dizziness, fatigue) in the first day or two — don’t panic, it’s normal.
Take it slow on your first day in Lhasa.
Hydrate well — water and electrolytes help your body adjust.
Avoid alcohol and heavy food.
If you have a history of heart or lung conditions, consult your doctor beforehand.
Some travelers bring Diamox (altitude medication), but it’s optional.
Remember: altitude adjustment is more about patience than pills.
The Tibetan Plateau’s weather changes quickly — sunny mornings, windy afternoons, chilly nights. Here’s what to pack:
Layered clothing (base layer, fleece, down jacket, windbreaker)
Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat
Lip balm & moisturizer (air is very dry)
Small first-aid kit (pain relief, bandages, altitude medicine)
Power bank (battery drains faster in cold)
Snacks & refillable water bottle
Tibetans are kind, spiritual, and respectful — visitors should be the same.
Always walk clockwise around monasteries and stupas.
Do not touch religious relics or people’s heads.
Ask before taking photos of monks or locals.
When visiting monasteries, remove your hat and speak quietly.
Avoid stepping on prayer flags or Mani stones.
Show humility — you’re entering a living, sacred world.
“In Tibet, respect is the true language.” — an old saying among local guides.
Tibetan cuisine is hearty and simple, perfect for high-altitude living. Try:
Tsampa (roasted barley flour mixed with tea or butter)
Momos (Tibetan dumplings, often with yak meat or vegetables)
Butter tea — salty and warming; an acquired taste but a sign of friendship
Yak meat and Tibetan noodle soups for energy on the road
Vegetarian options are available in Lhasa and larger towns.
Always accept tea or food when offered — it’s a gesture of goodwill.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse, but expect slower speeds in remote areas.
ATMs work in cities, but carry some cash for small monasteries or villages.
Bring Chinese Yuan (RMB); foreign cards rarely work outside big hotels.
No. Foreigners are required to travel with an organized tour and a licensed guide.
Yes, you must first get a Chinese visa before your agency can apply for your Tibet permit.
Absolutely. Tibet is one of the safest destinations in Asia, with friendly locals and low crime rates.
The Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are limited — carry cash.
May, September, and October — perfect weather, clear skies, and fewer tourists.
After 20 years of helping travelers from around the world discover Tibet, I can confidently say that your journey begins with choosing the right local partner.
Our agency, based in Lhasa, specializes in custom Tibet tours for international travelers — including cultural journeys, overland expeditions, and spiritual retreats.
We handle everything:
Tibet permit processing
Itinerary design & tour booking
Hotel reservations & private drivers
Professional English-speaking guides
Whether you’re a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, we’ll tailor your itinerary to your interests and travel pace.
Contact us: tibettourism@gmail.com
Wechat \ WhatsApp: 86 139 8998 9889 Lhamo
Based in: Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China
“Traveling to Tibet isn’t just about visiting — it’s about awakening.”
Let us help you plan that awakening with care, authenticity, and local expertise.
When you finally stand beneath the towering walls of the Potala Palace, or feel the wind off the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, you’ll realize — Tibet is not just a destination, it’s an experience that transforms you.
This vast, sacred plateau invites you to slow down, to listen, and to reconnect — not just with nature, but with yourself.
So, if your heart is whispering that it’s time to go higher, to travel deeper — listen.
The mountains are waiting.
Welcome to Tibet — the Roof of the World.
We’ll see you soon.