Shigatse is the second largest city in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is located in south-central Tibet, about 3,800 meters above sea level and about 270 kilometers from Lhasa. The city is a vital hub for Everest Base Camp and other important tourist attractions. Many tourists choose flights from various places to Shigatse Peace Airport and then to Everest Base Camp. If you want to learn more about Shigatse Peace Airport, read on!

Shigatse Peace Airport, the Fastest Way to Everest Base Camp

Shigatse Peace Airport, also known as Shigatse Heping Airport and Shigatse Heping Airport, is the fifth civil airport in Tibet after Lhasa Gongga International Airport, Qamdo Bangda Airport, Nyingchi Mirin Airport, and Ali Kunsa Airport. Originally a military airport, the airport was later converted into a civilian-military airport and officially opened to traffic on July 8, 2011.

As an important transportation hub to the Everest Base Camp, Shigatse Peace Airport offers a convenient choice for visitors. Compared with the 2 days’ driving from Lhasa Gongga Airport to Everest Base Camp (700km), the journey from Shigatse Peace Airport to Mount Everest can be 350 kilometers within 7 hours. The significant point is that most travelers choose to go to Everest Base Camp from Lhasa, so if you depart from Shigatse Peace Airport, you can effectively avoid crowds during peak travel times, making your journey more relaxed and enjoyable.

Shigatse Peace Airport

Shigatse Peace Airport Flight Schedule: Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi’an

Due to geographical location and infrastructure limitations, Shigatse Peace Airport currently does not have international direct flights. That means all flights to this airport must depart from Chinese Mainland. Therefore, foreign travelers planning to visit Shigatse must first arrive in one of China’s major cities and then transfer to a domestic flight to Shigatse. At present, you can fly directly to Shigatse from several key cities in China, including Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi’an.

Chengdu to Shigatse Flight Schedule and Ticket Price

Chengdu, located in southwestern China, is a city with a rich culture, often noted as the "Land of Abundance." It is famous for its abundant natural resources and is the hometown of giant pandas. As a key aviation hub in the region, Chengdu offers convenient transportation and direct flights to Shigatse Peace Airport. The flight from Chengdu to Shigatse takes about 2-3 hours, making it one of the fastest ways to reach Shigatse. If you plan to travel from Chengdu to Shigatse Peace Airport, booking your flight in advance is important.

Chongqing to Shigatse Flight Schedule and Ticket Price

Chongqing is renowned for its unique geographical location and delicious cuisine, often named the "Mountain City" or the "Capital of Hot Pot." It is also an important economic and transportation hub in southwestern China. Compared to Chengdu, there are fewer direct flights from Chongqing to Shigatse Peace Airport, with a direct flight taking approximately 3 hours. And if you fly from Chongqing with a layover in Xi'an, the journey will take at least 7 hours and 50 minutes. Therefore, we recommend booking in advance and prioritizing direct flights, saving you time.

Xi’an to Shigatse Flight Schedule and Ticket Price

Xi’an, historically known as Chang'an, is one of the most important cultural and political centers in Chinese history. As one of China's oldest cities, Xi'an boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage and was the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, located about 25 kilometers northwest of the city, is the largest airport in the northwest region. Direct flight from Xianyang Airport to Shigatse Peace Airport departs every other day with a duration of 3.5 hours.

Notice: The flight times listed above are for reference only, and please contact our travel consultant for the latest information.

Travel Documents Needed for Flights to Shigatse Peace Airport

Before traveling to Shigatse Peace Airport in Tibet, you should prepare the necessary travel documents.

Tibet Travel Permit is an entry permit for your Tibet tour, which cannot be applied by foreign tourists individually but by a qualified Chinese travel agency like Tibet Horizon.
Chinese Visa is required unless you are from visa-free countries like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Poland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, or Ireland, etc.

Top FAQs about Shigatse Peace Airport

1. How to book my Shigatse flight tickets?

There are two options for booking flight tickets. The first is self-booking. You can make reservations through airline websites or online travel platforms like Expedia or Skyscanner. The advantage of this way is its high flexibility. You can check and choose flights according to your needs at any time. When booking by yourself, you can directly compare ticket prices, flight times, and services from different airlines that best suit you. However, if you plan to travel to Tibet, you will still need a travel agency to arrange the Tibet Travel Permit.

The second way is to book through a travel agency, which can save you valuable time, especially for travelers unfamiliar with flight arrangements or who need additional assistance. If you choose Tibet Horizon, we will provide comprehensive service, helping you obtain the Tibet Travel Permit and find the best routes and prices.

2. How to board the flight to Shigatse?

After you purchase your ticket, you can arrive at the departure airport based on your flight's departure time. It is generally recommended to arrive at least 2 hours in advance. Then, proceed to the designated airline counter to check in; you can choose between self-check-in or assisted check-in. Self-check-in is usually faster than assisted check-in, while the latter can provide personalized service, allowing you to choose based on your needs.

Next comes security screening, where you need to place your carry-on luggage on the conveyor belt and undergo a security check by the personnel. After passing through security, find your gate and be aware of any changes to the flight details. When it’s time to board, line up according to the airline’s instructions and present your boarding pass and Tibet Travel Permit. Finally, locate your seat, stow your carry-on luggage, fasten your seatbelt, and prepare for takeoff to Shigatse.

3. How to get to Everest Base Camp from Shigatse Peace Airport?

Traveling from Shigatse Peace Airport to Everest Base Camp in Tibet is a wise choice, as it can save you time and help you avoid crowds, providing a comfortable and relaxed travel experience. The drive from Shigatse Peace Airport to Everest Base Camp covers approximately 380 kilometers and takes about 7-8 hours.

If you book your Everest tour with us, we will provide a comfortable vehicle to ensure a safe journey to Everest Base Camp. Along the way, you'll witness the majestic Himalayas, especially as you approach Mount Everest, where the snow-capped peaks appear particularly stunning. You'll also pass by many traditional Tibetan villages, allowing you to see the local lifestyle and cultural characteristics, immersing yourself in the rich ethnic ambiance. These beautiful landscapes will create unforgettable memories, showcasing Tibet's unique natural beauty.

4. What to see in Shigatse?

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Founded in 1447, Tashilhunpo Monastery is one of the main monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. It is situated about 5 kilometers from the center of Shigatse, making it an ideal spot for a short visit. The architectural style of Tashilhunpo Monastery blends traditional Tibetan art, with exquisite murals and sculptures adorning its interiors, particularly the impressive giant statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The monastery is perched on a hillside, offering a panoramic view of Shigatse City and the distant Himalayas. Overall, it is a perfect place to learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture as well as enjoy its natural beauty.

Sakya Monastery

Established in the 11th century, Sakya Monastery is renowned for its unique architectural style and rich cultural heritage. In 1961, it was designated as a national key cultural relic protection unit by The State Council. The monastery houses numerous artifacts, including over 150,000 precious items such as Buddha statues, murals, ceramics, thangkas, and ancient scriptures. These artifacts document the development history of the Sakya sect and reflect the historical changes in local cultural and artistic traditions. If you are interested in Tibetan Buddhist culture, Sakya Monastery is a great travel destination.

Pelkhor Choede Monastery

Pelkhor Choede Monastery, built in the 15th century, is a historically and culturally significant Tibetan Buddhist temple. Located about 7 km from the center of Shigatse, it is also great for a short visit. Pelkhor Choede Monastery combines different architectural styles, showing a unique artistic beauty. There are also several small temples and pagodas dedicated mainly to different sects of Tibetan Buddhism, where you can experience the diversity of religions.

Conclusion

With direct flights from Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi'an to Shigatse Peace Airport, you can choose the best option that suits your needs. Tibet Horizon is always here to assist you with ticket booking and Tibet travel permit application, which will save you valuable time and ensure a comfortable travel experience.