Best Lhasa Tour Packages & Lhasa Travel Guide

FAQs About Lhasa Travel

We’ve gathered answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Lhasa travel, including the best time to visit, recommended length of stay, accommodation options, and what to pack. This FAQ section is designed to address common concerns and provide quick guidance for you to plan a enjoyable trip to Lhasa.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Lhasa?

A: Yes, you will need a Chinese visa and a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) to visit Lhasa. The TTP is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is required for all foreign visitors to Tibet.

Q: How long should I plan for a Lhasa tour?

A: Most visitors spend around four days in Lhasa. Some choose to stay longer to explore nearby attractions such as Yamdrok Lake, Namtso Lake, and the Drak Yerpa Hermitage. If you are particularly interested in Tibetan Buddhism, you can also visit Samye Monastery—the first monastery in Tibet—located about 170 kilometers southeast of Lhasa.

Q: Can I travel independently in Lhasa, or do I need to book a tour?

A: Foreign visitors to Tibet (including Lhasa) are required to travel with an organized tour and accompanied by a tour guide when visiting the scenic spots. So, you’ll need to book a tour with a licensed travel agency in advance before arriving in Lhasa.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Lhasa?

A: Yes, Lhasa is generally a safe city to visit. However, travelers should be aware of the risks associated with altitude sickness. Visitors are advised to take it slow and acclimate to the altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness. You can take precautions such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting Tibet.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Lhasa?

A: The best time to visit Lhasa is from April to October when the weather is relatively mild and the skies are clear. However, the summer months can be crowded with tourists and with higher prices. While, Lhasa is well-known as the “City of Sunshine”, so you can actually visit here all year around. It’s also great to come in winter, and you’ll save some money from the low season discounts.

Q: How do I get to Lhasa?

A: The easiest way to reach Lhasa is by air. Lhasa Gonggar Airport is located about 60 km away from the city and offers regular flights to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. Apart from the flights from inland China, you can also opt to fly to Lhasa from Kathmandu, Nepal. Another popular option is to take the famous Tibet train from Beijing or other major Chinese cities. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is one of the highest railway lines in the world, and offers spectacular views of the Tibetan Plateau.

Q: What should I pack for a Lhasa tour?

A: Layered warm clothing is good for your Lhasa travel, as temperatures can be cool even in the summer months, especially for the morning and the night. Other essential packing items include sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the high elevation can lead to intense UV exposure. It is also recommended to bring some cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted in Tibet.

Q: What kind of hotels are available in Lhasa?

A: As the capital of Tibet, Lhasa has a wide selection of accommodations ranging from the economical guesthouses to the luxury hotels. So, you will find a variety of options to suit your needs and preferences. Here are some of the types of hotels available in Lhasa:

Luxury Hotels: Lhasa has a few luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities and services. These hotels usually have spacious rooms, high-end restaurants, swimming pools, fitness centers, and spa facilities. Some of the well-known luxury hotels in Lhasa include St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Shangri-La Hotel Lhasa, and InterContinental Lhasa Paradise.

Mid-range Hotels: Mid-range hotels in Lhasa offer comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. These hotels usually have decent rooms, restaurants, and some basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and TV. Some popular mid-range hotels in Lhasa include the Thangka Hotel, Four Points Sheraton Hotel, and House of Shambhala.

Budget Hotels: Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses are also available in Lhasa. These accommodations offer basic amenities such as shared or private rooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. Some budget options in Lhasa include Yak Hotel, Tashitakge Hotel, etc.

Q: What is included in your Lhasa tour package?

A: Our standard Lhasa tour packages include accommodation at selected hotels, car transportation with an experienced driver, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to all attractions, and Tibet Travel Permit application. Please note that airfare and train tickets to Tibet are not included in the package price. However, we would be happy to assist you with booking your travel to and from Lhasa.