How to Plan a Lhasa Tour? A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning a Lhasa tour doesn’t have to be a challenge. In this easy step-by-step guide, we’ll help you figure out the best time to visit, how to get there, and how long to stay. With insights from our years of experience, you’ll feel like a seasoned traveler, even if it’s your first time visiting Tibet.

We’ll also cover what travel documents you need, what to pack, and where to stay, so you can make the most of your journey. Everything you need to plan your perfect Lhasa tour is right here!

When is the Best Time to Visit Lhasa? From April to October

The best time to visit Lhasa for good weather is from April to October. From spring until autumn, the weather is mild to warm, with favorable conditions for exploring the outdoors. April to June marks the beginning of the travel season, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It can still be cold at night, but the dry weather brings sunny days with great visibility.

July and August are the warmest months, and temperatures can rise about 20℃. Summer has vibrant festivals and lush landscapes, but it is also the peak season for domestic travel. The summer rain isn’t too heavy, but foggy conditions can sometimes make seeing the mountain peaks difficult.

Dry, warm weather returns in autumn. September and October are often regarded as the best months overall, featuring crisp autumn air and clear skies. It’s less busy than summer, except for the National Day holiday during the first week of October.

Besides, winter can also be a good time to visit Lhasa. As the City of the Sunshine, Lhasa is warmer than northern cities of China like Beijing. If you visit Lhasa in winter, besides the clear air and blue sky, you can find the transportation and accommodation are less expensive than usual while the city is little less crowded.

Tourists enjoying warm sunshine at Jokhang Temple in spring.

What Documents are Needed for Lhasa? The Tibet Travel Permit is a Must

The first step to visiting Lhasa is to see whether you need a visa to visit China. Currently, citizens of many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany and Malaysia, can enjoy visa-free entry to China. For other travelers, obtaining a tourist visa for China is simple. Apply at the nearest embassy, consulate, or visa service center, and you will receive a visa within 3-4 working days.

All international travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet and travel around the Lhasa area. The TTP is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and must be arranged through a registered Tibet travel agency. We will handle the application process once you book a guided tour with us.

Depending on your itinerary, additional permits such as the Alien's Travel Permit or Military Permit may be required for travel outside Lhasa to other areas of Tibet, such as Mount Everest.

What to Pack for a Lhasa Tour? Travel Light but Smart

Packing for a Lhasa tour requires a balance between comfort and practicality, especially given the high altitude and variable weather. It is said that in Tibet, you can experience all four seasons in a single day. Clothing should be layered to let you easily adapt to the changing temperatures. A warm jacket, thermal base layer, and windproof outer shell gear are essential, particularly in the early mornings and evenings.

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm are necessary to protect against the strong ultraviolet rays at high altitudes. Comfortable walking shoes are important for navigating monastery steps and uneven streets. Additionally, it's advisable to bring personal medications, altitude sickness remedies, and a refillable water bottle. While Lhasa does have pharmacies and shops, some items may be hard to find or more expensive.

How to Get to Lhasa? Choose Between Flights and Trains

There are two main ways to get to Lhasa: by air or by train. Flights are the fastest and most convenient option, with daily departures from cities all over mainland China, like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou and Xian. There is also one direct international flight to Lhasa from Kathmandu. The 90-minute flight crosses over the Himalayas with an amazing bird's eye view of Mount Everest along the way.

For a gradual ascent and scenic experience, many travelers opt for the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. The trains depart from cities such as Xining, Chengdu, Xi’an and Beijing, offering breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau along the way.

While the journey can take anywhere from 20 hours, starting from Xining to over 50 hours from Guangzhou, the close-up views of the unique landscapes of the Tibetan plateau make it a popular choice. All Tibet trains are also equipped with oxygen systems for the comfort of travelers, and provide a smoother transition to the altitude.

The train offers a scenic journey to Lhasa.

How Many Days to Spend in Lhasa? 4 to 6 Days are Recommended

A well-paced Lhasa tour typically lasts between four and six days. This timeframe allows for proper acclimatization and enough time to explore the city’s main attractions without feeling rushed.

The 4-day Lhasa tour is a classic one for most first-timers to Tibet. On your first day, it's important to rest and adjust to the altitude. The following two days can be used to visit iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, and the Sera and Drepung Monasteries. Then the last day, you can leave Lhasa to your next destination.

With extra one or two days, you can take short excursions to nearby Namtso or Yamdro Lake, explore Ganden Monastery outside the city, or simply absorb the tranquil pace of Tibetan life.

Where to Stay in Lhasa? Hotel Options for Every Budget

Lhasa offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxurious 5-star hotels. For budget travelers, there are many Tibetan-style hostels and family-run lodges in the old town area, providing an authentic atmosphere and close proximity to Barkhor Street.

Mid-range options like the Lhasa Thangka Hotel provide a comfortable stay, blending modern amenities with traditional décor. For those seeking high-end comfort, several international hotels, such as the St. Regis Lhasa Resort, offer spacious rooms, luxury amenities, and exceptional service.

Regardless of your budget, it’s wise to choose accommodations that are centrally located and well-reviewed, especially in terms of cleanliness and staff hospitality. It’s also recommended to book a room with an oxygen supply to help you cope with the high altitude.

Join our Expertly Designed Lhasa Tour for a Worry-Free Experience

Tibet is a unique place with an ancient culture and traditions. Joining our expertly designed Lhasa tours will ensure you have a worry-free experience while enjoying the best attractions the city has to offer.

Our carefully crafted Lhasa tour packages transportation arrangements, guided sightseeing, and accommodations, all tailored to your travel preferences. We’ll ensure you have the right permits, and a good itinerary to let you adjust to the altitude.

With experienced local guides by your side, you can gain deeper insight into Tibetan culture and history while enjoying a safe and well-paced itinerary. Let us take care of the logistics so you can focus entirely on experiencing the spiritual beauty of Lhasa.

Join our Lhasa tour for a smooth experience!

Conclusion

A little bit of preparation goes a long way when planning a Lhasa tour. Following expert knowledge and advice, you can have an unforgettable experience in one of the most unique regions of the world. Start by planning when to go and making sure you have the right documents. Then, decide how to get there and how long to stay.

With one of our expertly designed Lhasa tour itineraries, you can rest assured that you won’t miss out on any main attractions or cultural gems not included in the guidebooks. Start planning your tour today, or contact us for more information anytime. Lhasa is waiting to give you the trip of a lifetime.