How to enter Tibet in 2025 : plane, Train, or Car?

International Flights

International flights to Tibet are limited to the Lhasa–Kathmandu route. It’s the only direct international flight route (it operates regularly). So Nepal is one of the entry points.

Domestic Flights from Chinese Cities

Major gateway cities include:

• Chengdu (most popular departure point)
• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Guangzhou
• Xi'an
• Chongqing

Taking the train can be a wonderful experience. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway allows you to gradually acclimatize to high altitudes while witnessing breathtaking landscapes. It is the world’s highest railway.

Major Train Routes to Lhasa

Tibet trains run daily between Lhasa and Beijing/ Shanghai/ Guangzhou/ Lanzhou/ Xining/ Xian, and every other day between Chengdu/ Chongqing. Daily departures from:

From Nepal

You can enter Tibet by road from Nepal, typically through the Gyirong border crossing. This route often includes spectacular views of Mount Everest and stops at Everest Base Camp.

Within China

If you're already in China, overland routes are possible from:

• Chengdu via the Sichuan-Tibet Highway
• Yunnan Province
• Qinghai Province

These routes take you through stunning mountain passes and remote Tibetan regions, but they require additional permits and significantly more time to complete. Contact us to arrange it.

Choose flights if:

• You have limited time.
• High altitude concerns make gradual acclimatization less important.
• You want the quickest route.

Choose trains if:

• You want to experience the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
• You prefer gradual altitude adjustment.

Choose overland if:

• You're in Nepal and want a classic adventure
• You have extra time (2+ weeks)
• You want to see regions other tourists miss