Tibet Rental Vehicle Tour & Service

To visit Tibet, foreign travelers typically need the following permits:

Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) and is required for all foreign travelers visiting Tibet.

Aliens' Travel Permit: Travelers traveling to partially restricted areas such as EBC, Basumtso Lake, Samye Monastery, etc. need to obtain Aliens’ Travel Permit via Tibet Travel Agency (like Tibet Horizon).

Military Area Entry Permit: If you want to extend your trip to military-sensitive areas such as Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, etc. or want to travel along the G318 Highway, you need to apply for a Military Area Entry Permit.

Chinese Group Visa: If you travel to Tibet from Nepal, you’ll need a Chinese Group Visa issued by the Embassy in Kathmandu.

Provisional Driving License: Travelers joining a self-driving trip in Tibet need to apply for a provisional driving license.

Our Xizang tour packages include Tibet Travel Permit and all the necessary Tibet travel documents. If you book with us, we’ll help apply for the permits needed to ensure a smooth and worry-free Tibet vehicle rental tour.

Our Tibet tours by rental vehicles extend from Tibet to Nepal, Sichuan, Yunnan and Xinjiang, so it’s necessary to take the weather conditions of these regions into consideration.

Nepal has a pleasant climate with average summer temperatures of 20°C - 35°C and winter temperatures of 2°C - 12°C. June to August is the rainy season in Kathmandu, seeing heavy rainfall and making it less suitable for driving or cycling.

The weather in Yunnan is like spring all year round. The summer is cool and the winter is warm. The whole year’s mild temperature makes it a place attracting travelers in all seasons.

In Sichuan, the monsoon climate is obvious. Western Sichuan’s climate is characterized by long winters and concentrated rainfall in July and August. Therefore, it’s not suitable for driving or cycling along G318 during rainy seasons.

Xinjiang’s weather is characterized by low rainfall, large temperature differences between day and night, and long hours of sunshine. The temperature from December to April drops below freezing.

In Tibet, the weather is featured by a large daily temperature difference and a long cold winter. Summer is mild to cool but also rainy affected by monsoon weather.

Therefore, the best time to join our Tibet motorcycle tours is generally from April to May and from September to October. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for driving or cycling on the breathtaking landscapes of Tibet.

Sorry but no. Foreign tourists cannot simply obtain a Tibet Travel Permit through a travel agency without participating in the agency's organized tours for driving or cycling in Tibet. Foreigners visiting Tibet are not allowed to travel in Tibet independently or rent vehicles for touring purposes. You must be accompanied by a professional guide. Normally, your guide will ride in the car not far from you to ensure your safety and give timely support.

The cost of a Tibet tour depends on several factors, including the length of the tour, the type of accommodation, the mode of transportation, the vehicle you rent and the specific services included. Our tour packages are designed to cater to a range of budgets, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious experiences. The cost also includes travel permits, accommodations, transportation, and guided tours. For the most accurate pricing, it's best to contact us with your specific travel plans, and we can provide a detailed quote based on your preferences and requirements.

Yes, a provisional driving permit is required to drive a rented vehicle in Tibet. This permit ensures that you meet the local driving regulations and are aware of the specific road conditions in the region. To obtain it, you typically need to apply through a registered travel agency in Tibet, like us Tibet Horizon. We will assist with the application process, which may involve providing personal identification and proof of an international driving license. We will guide you through the necessary steps to secure the permit before your arrival in Tibet.

Generally speaking, the roads are in good condition. Most of them are paved with asphalt with two lanes. However, there are certain sections of the road that are not so ideal as you will pass lofty mountain passes and bends. The road conditions at these sections may become narrow and bumpy. It's advisable to check current road conditions, weather forecasts, and any travel advisories or restrictions that may be in place. And it’s essential to ensure your rental vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with necessary accessories.

The fitness demand for a Tibet rental vehicle tour varies based on the type of vehicle you intend to rent.

For a car rental tour in Tibet, a moderate level of fitness is required as you'll be driving at high altitudes where the air is thin, and it's important to acclimate to the altitude before engaging in any physical activity.

As for a motorcycling tour in Tibet, a moderate to high level of physical condition and possibly prior experience with motorcycle touring are advised due to the rugged terrain and the need for endurance and balance, especially at high elevations.

For a Tibet bike rental tour, a higher level of physical fitness and mental endurance are required mainly because of the high altitude and the long ride on the road. The high altitude will make it difficult to breathe and exert oneself when the air becomes thinner. It's essential to engage in training before the journey and build up your strength to be able to cycle in high-altitude areas.

It's important to ascend gradually and accommodate for 1-2 days, especially for driving or cycling to places in higher elevations such as EBC and Mt. Kailash. It’s also advised to take a physical examination and consult with a doctor before deciding to join a Tibet vehicle rental tour.

Physical Fitness: Given the high altitudes and varying terrain, it's crucial to be in good health and possess a reasonable level of physical fitness. Keep regular exercise and avoid catching a cold before leaving for Tibet. Avoid staying up late or drinking and keep energetic.

Mental Preparation: Prepare yourself mentally for the challenges of Tibet rental vehicle tours, especially of bike and motorcycle tours. Keep a positive mindset and build up the confidence to face any difficulties or unexpected circumstances that may happen.

Necessary Documents: Ensure you have the necessary permits and visas, including your passport, Tibet Travel Permit, provisional driving license and any permits and visas needed.

Packing Essentials: Basics to pack include appropriate clothing such as a down jacket, a windbreaker and sneakers, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Don't forget a thermos and snacks to stay hydrated and energetic. You can also prepare some medications like band-aids, glucose, and Ibuprofen.

You can bring your own vehicle to Tibet, of course. Driving or riding in your own vehicle that you are already familiar with can make your journey more comfortable. You can bring your car, bike, or motorbike to Lhasa by flight or by road, but you need to pay for the transportation. However, it requires a lot of paperwork and permits.

A more convenient choice is to rent a vehicle in Lhasa. You should check its condition and see if it suits you well before your rental. Please contact our expert consultants for more information about vehicle delivery or rental.