The flight from Lhasa Gonggar International Airport to Shigatse Airport provides a convenient route to the Everest region, drastically cutting down travel time compared to overland journeys. The flight lasts just over an hour, offering incredible views of the Tibetan Plateau, snow-capped mountains, and valleys. After landing in Shigatse, you can continue your journey to Everest by 6-9 hours’ driving or 4-day trekking. It is ideal for those with limited time who want to minimize travel fatigue in Tibet Shigatse Everest tour.

1. Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (LXA)

Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (IATA: LXA) is the largest and busiest airport in Tibet, located about 60 kilometers from Lhasa city center. As Tibet’s main international and domestic hub, it offers flights to various major cities across China, such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Xi’an. The airport has modern amenities, including restaurants, ATMs, and shops that cater to both domestic and international travelers.

To reach the airport, travelers can use:

Airport Shuttle Bus: This takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $4.
Taxi: A taxi ride from downtown Lhasa costs between $30-$45 and takes about 1 hour.
Travel Agency Tour Service: Foreign visitors cannot travel independently in Tibet, and if you book a Tibet Tour with us, we will provide an airport shuttle bus service for you and arrange in advance to make sure you can get to the airport on time.

Lhasa Gonggar Airport

2. Airports in Shigatse

Shigatse Peace Airport (PKX), the First Airport in Rikaze

Shigatse Peace Airport (PKX), officially known as Rikaze Heping Airport (IATA: RKZ), is a vital transportation hub located in the Shigatse region of Tibet. Situated approximately 54 kilometers from the city center of Shigatse, the airport rests at an impressive altitude of 3,782 meters, making it one of the highest airports in the world.

Originally established in 1973 for military use, the airport was opened to civilian flights in 2010 following a significant expansion costing 484 million yuan. The airport features a single concrete runway measuring 5,000 meters in length and a terminal building covering 4,502 square meters. Shigatse Peach Airport serves several domestic destinations, including direct flights to Chengdu, Xi’an, and Chongqing.​

To facilitate travel to and from the city, a shuttle bus operates from the airport to Shigatse for a nominal fee of $5. Additionally, taxis and other transportation options are available. For travelers seeking to explore the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage of Tibet, Shigatse Peach Airport serves as a convenient gateway.​

Shigatse Tingri Airport (DDR), the Closest Airport to Mt. Everest in Tibet

Shigatse Tingri Airport (DDR), located in Tingri County, serves as a crucial gateway for travelers heading to Mount Everest Base Camp (EBC). Opened in December 2022, this high-altitude airport sits at an elevation of approximately 4,316 meters, making it one of the highest airports in the world. It plays a pivotal role in reducing travel time for those aiming to explore the Everest region. The airport is strategically positioned about 90 kilometers from Tingri Town, a popular stop for acclimatization before the final push to EBC.​

Shigatse Tingri Airport offers limited but essential flights from major hubs like Lhasa Gonggar Airport and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. Currently, Air China is the primary carrier operating flights into this airport. Due to its high altitude, travelers are advised to rest upon arrival and take precautions for altitude sickness. The airport is designed to handle both civilian and military operations, ensuring efficient services for tourists and local transport.​

With the opening of Shigatse Tingri Airport, the journey to Everest has become significantly shorter, providing easier access to one of the most iconic destinations in the world.

3. Lhasa Shigatse Flight

Flying from Lhasa to Shigatse is the fastest option for reaching the Everest region. Several flights operate daily, mostly in the morning, to help travelers maximize their time for onward journeys, particularly to Everest Base Camp or other scenic spots around Shigatse. The flights are operated by Tibet Airlines and other domestic carriers, offering both economy and business class options. Early booking is recommended due to high demand during peak travel seasons.

Lhasa to Shigatse Flight Schedule and Ticket Price

Shigatse to Lhasa Flight Schedule and Ticket Price

4. Travel Documents for Flying from Lhasa to Shigatse

International travelers are required to have specific travel documents to fly from Lhasa to Shigatse. Here’s what you need:

Chinese Visa: All international visitors must have a valid Chinese visa to enter Tibet.
Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is mandatory for all foreign tourists and can only be obtained through a licensed Tibetan tour operator. It is required for entering Tibet by flight, train, or road.
Aliens’ Travel Permit: This permit is necessary for travel beyond Lhasa, including Shigatse and Everest Base Camp. It can be obtained in Lhasa with the help of our tour guide.​

Those travel documents take about 15 to 20 days to process, so plan accordingly when booking your trip.

5. FAQs on Traveling to Shigatse from Lhasa by Air

a. How to book my Lhasa Shigatse flight ticket?

Booking a flight from Lhasa to Shigatse can be done through popular online platforms such as Trip.com, and Ctrip, or directly via the official website of Tibet Airlines. However, to save you from the hassle of navigating multiple platforms, Tibet Horizon offers a comprehensive booking service. We handle not only your flight reservations but also assist with securing essential travel permits, hotel bookings, and ground transportation. This makes your trip more streamlined and stress-free, especially in a region where coordination is crucial.

Besides, we can offer tailored Everest tour packages that cover all logistics, ensuring everything is in place for your journey. Booking early is recommended, particularly during the spring and autumn seasons, when flights to Shigatse and Everest Base Camp are in high demand. Tibet Horizon helps you secure the best deals available, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

b. How to pack my bags and luggage for Lhasa Shigatse flight?

Most airlines allow passengers to carry up to 7 kg of hand luggage and 20 kg of checked luggage. When packing for your flight to Shigatse, keep in mind the high altitude and fluctuating temperatures:

Warm Clothing: Temperatures can drop significantly, especially near Everest Base Camp, so bring layered clothing and a heavy jacket.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun's rays are intense at high altitudes, making sunscreen and UV-protection glasses essential.
Altitude Medication: If you’re prone to altitude sickness, pack medications such as Diamox or consult your doctor before traveling. Drinking lots of water can also help with acclimatization.

Remember to avoid packing sharp objects, flammable liquids, and large batteries in your hand luggage, as they are prohibited on flights.

c. How to board the Lhasa to Shigatse flight?

It is recommended to get to Lhasa Gonggar Airport at least two hours before your flight to Shigatse. Head to the designated check-in counter for your airline, where you will need to present your Tibet Travel Permit and your passport.

After receiving your boarding pass, proceed to the security check. Here, you will need to pass through standard security screening, and your Tibet Travel Permit will be checked once more. Be sure to keep your boarding pass and travel documents handy, as you’ll need to present them again at the boarding gate.

Once you’ve cleared security, head to your boarding gate and listen for any flight updates. If your flight is delayed or affected by weather conditions (common in Tibet due to high altitude), you will receive updates at the gate. Boarding typically begins 30 minutes before the flight departs. On board, you’ll be treated to incredible aerial views of the Tibetan Plateau, so try to book a window seat!

d. How to travel from Rikaze Peace Airport to my hotel in Shigatse City?

Foreign tourists in Tibet are required to travel as part of an organized tour, and Tibet Horizon offers free airport and train station transfers as part of our packages. Tourists who landed at Peach Airport usually choose to have a rest in Shigatse city for the short road distance of 54km. When you arrive at Shigatse Peach Airport, you won’t need to worry about arranging transportation. Our guide and driver will meet you directly at the airport and provide a complimentary transfer to your hotel in Shigatse City within 1 hour. This service ensures a smooth and comfortable journey without the hassle of finding a taxi or arranging public transportation, which is often limited in this remote region.

e. How to travel from Xigaze Tingri Airport to my hotel in Dingri Town?

Tourists who landed at Tingri Airport usually choose to have a rest in Dingri Town for the short road distance of 48km. For those staying in Tingri Town, the drive typically takes 1 hour, providing ample time to acclimatize to the altitude. With our private shuttle services, you can rest assured that your transfer will be safe, convenient, and accompanied by knowledgeable local guides. By booking with Tibet Horizon, you benefit from our all-inclusive services, saving you time and energy while exploring the Everest region.

f. How to get to Mount Everest from Shigatse Tingri Airport?

To reach Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Shigatse Tingri Airport (DDR), you’ll embark on a stunning journey by road through the G318 National Highway. The drive typically takes around 2-3 hours, covering approximately 90 kilometers. Most visitors first travel to Tingri Town, which is a common rest stop for those heading to EBC. Tingri is located at an altitude of around 4,300 meters, making it an ideal place to acclimatize before continuing to higher elevations. From Tingri, the road winds through the Tibetan plateau with breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including distant glimpses of Mount Everest. Here you can choose to take the eco-bus to the Everest Base Camp or experience the scenic 4-day trek to Mount Everest.

g. What to See in Shigatse?

Shigatse is not only a gateway to Mount Everest, but also a destination rich in Tibetan history and culture. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

Tashilhunpo Monastery: As the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery is one of the most important religious sites in Tibet. Established in 1447 by the first Dalai Lama, the monastery features impressive statues, including the giant Maitreya Buddha, adorned with gold and precious jewels.
Shigatse Dzong: Also known as Shigatse Fort, this historic fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Although largely in ruins, it remains a significant historical site and a great spot for photography.
Gyantse Kumbum and Pelkor Monastery: Located about 90 kilometers southeast of Shigatse, this architectural marvel is the largest chorten (stupa) in Tibet. The Kumbum is famous for its intricate murals and its nine tiers, which house 108 chapels.
Sakya Monastery: Situated about 160 kilometers west of Shigatse, Sakya Monastery is known as the principal monastery of the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Its massive walls and collection of ancient scriptures make it a worthwhile excursion.

6. Conclusion

Flying from Lhasa to Shigatse provides an efficient and scenic way to begin your journey to Everest Base Camp and explore the rich cultural heritage of Tibet. With multiple daily flights, relatively affordable prices, and convenient connections, this route is ideal for travelers who want to minimize their overland travel time and focus on the unique experiences Tibet has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the Tashilhunpo Monastery, trekking to Everest Base Camp, or taking in the beautiful Tibetan landscapes, Shigatse is a must-see destination. By ensuring you have the necessary travel documents, packing appropriately for high-altitude conditions, and booking flights in advance, you can enjoy a smooth and enriching adventure in this remarkable region of the world.