Tibet Self-driving Tour from Chengdu and Lhasa by Rental Vehicle
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Tibet Self-driving Tour by Rental Vehicle

Tibet Self-driving Tour by Rental Vehicle

The self-driving is the most unique and thrilling way to explore Tibet. Unlike traditional group tours, self-driving tours give you more freedom to discover Tibet at your own pace.

We can provide corresponding vehicle rental services according to your requirements and handle all the relevant Tibet travel documents and driving certifications for you, like Tibet Travel Permit, Temporary Driving License, etc.

Although it's a self-driving tour, don't worry about getting lost! Our professional guides will accompany you throughout the entire route, ensuring you a safe road adventure in Tibet.

Top 6 Tibet Self-driving Tour Packages

We've selected four classic self-driving routes for you! Our 12-day & 11-day self-driving tour follows the scenic G318 Highway connecting Sichuan and Tibet. Start your epic journey in Chengdu, the gateway city to Tibet and home to cute giant pandas and embark on a 2413-kilometer drive with stunning views of southwest land, including Zheduo Mountain, Yalong River, Bangda Grassland, and Lulang Forest. Our 8-day route departs from Lhasa, where you can acclimate to the altitude by visiting Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, and other landmarks. Then, you can venture to EBC and Rongbuk Monastery. In our longer 13-day and 17-day self-driving tours, you can venture into the western Tibet to visit Mt. Kailash and Guge Kingdom Ruins, and fully explore Tibetan landscapes and culture along the Ngari Southern and Northern Route. If you are starting from Kunming, Yunnan, then this 12-day Yunnan-Tibet motorcycle tour will be your top choice.

  • bugong bugong
    Small Group Tour
    Motorcycle Adventure Tour
    Yunnan-Tibet Overland Ride
    Best Riding Experience

    12 Days Yunnan Tibet Motorcycle Small Group Tour

    Promo: Experience the dramatic landscapes from Yunnan to Tibet by motorcycle

    Route: Kunming - Lijiang - Shangri-La - Deqen - Markam - Zogang - Ranwu Town - Nyingchi - Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Lhasa

    Dates & Price:

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    From $

  • bugong bugong
    Small Group Tour
    Sichuan-Tibet Highway G318
    Epic Self-driving Tour
    Highland Scenic Photography

    12 Days Sichuan-Tibet G318 (Chengdu to Lhasa) Self-driving Small Group Tour

    Promo: Self-drive along the legendary Sichuan-Tibet Highway G318 linking Chengdu and Lhasa

    Route: Chengdu - Danba County - Xinduqiao Town - Shangri-La - Mangkang - Basu - Bomi - Nyingchi - Lhasa

    Dates & Price:

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    From $

  • bugong bugong
    Top Sichuan Tibet Trip
    G318 Self-driving Tour
    Sichuan Tibet Overland Route

    11 Days Sichuan-Tibet G318 (Chengdu to Lhasa) Overland Self Drive Tour

    Features:

    Best for adventurous travelers
    Drive through the vast southwest China
    Pristine mountains and vast grassland

    Group size: Min.1 pax

    5.0

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  • bugong bugong
    Tibet Self-Driving Tour
    EBC Adventure
    Himalayan Peak Sightseeing

    8 Days Lhasa Yamdrok Everest Base Camp Self-Driving Tour

    Features:

    Self-driving through the breathtaking Tibetan Plateau landscapes
    Explore Lhasa’s ancient temples and palaces
    Drive on scenic routes to Mount Everest

    Group size: Min.1 pax

    5.0

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  • bugong bugong
    Best Tibet Motorcycle Tour
    Tibet Nepal Cycle Tour
    Lhasa EBC Kathmandu Route

    13 Days Lhasa EBC to Ngari Kailash and Guge Kingdom Motorcycle Tour without Trekking

    Features:

    The best for motor cyclers
    Tibet Nepal overland trip
    Two sides of the Himalayas

    Group size: Min.1 pax

    5.0

    • star
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  • bugong bugong
    Kailash Pilgrimage tour
    Guge Kingdom Discovery
    Tibet Self-Driving Adventure

    17 Days Lhasa Everest Kailash Guge Namtso Self-Driving Tour via Ngari Northern Route

    Features:

    Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of self-driving in Tibet
    Find authentic Tibetan culture in local villages and monasteries
    Capture unforgettable sunrises and sunsets over Mount Everest

    Group size: Min.1 pax

    5.0

    • star
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Tibet Self-driving Tour Service & Reviews

Why Join Tibet Self-driving Tour with Us?

  • Professional Tibetan local travel agency specializing in Tibet self-driving tours

  • Seasoned local tour guides follow the clients’ health conditions with emergency backup plans

  • Well-equipped vehicles, oxygen cylinders, and bottled water ensure a safe Tibet self-driving tour

  • Well-crafted itineraries covering Potala Palace, Yamdrok Lake, Namtso Lake, Everest Base Camp, Mount Kailash, Lulang Forest, Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Jade Dragon Snow Mountains, Kashgar Old City, etc

  • One-stop service arranging travel documents (Tibet Travel Permit, Temporary Driving License), accommodations, restaurants, car and motor rental for you

  • Trained travel consultants providing 1 to 1 customized tour service

  • 24/7 services to help with altitude sickness and unexpected problems

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Tibet Self-driving Tour Travelogue

Check the exciting moments of our customers' self-driving tours in Tibet!

Photos of tourists driving in Tibet
Arrival at the Potala Palace
Taking a photo at Karola Glacier
Rest on the road
Drive to Everest Base Camp
On the G318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway
Tibet Self-driving Tour
Tibet Motorcycle Tour

Tibet Self-driving Tour Faqs

  • 1. When is the best season for Tibet self-driving adventure?

    The best season for Tibet self-driving tour is typically spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During those periods, the climate is mild, the temperature is moderate, the skies are clear, and the road conditions are generally good.

    Summer (June to August) is the rainy season in Tibet. Some mountain roads may have natural disasters such as mud and landslides, affecting driving safety. Winter (December to March) brings low temperatures, especially at high altitudes, and some roads may become icy, making driving more challenging.

  • 2. What travel documents are required for Tibet self-driving tour?

    When traveling to Tibet, you will need to apply for several necessary documents, including the Tibet Travel Permit (issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and required for all foreign tourists), the Aliens' Travel Permit, and the Military Area Entry Permit (required for visiting Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar), and the Temporary Driving License (required for self-driving tourists).

    If you choose to join our Tibet self-driving tour, you don't need to worry about complicated procedures. We will handle all the necessary documents for you, ensuring your Tibet self-driving trip goes smoothly.

  • 3. Which vehicle is best for Tibet self-driving tour?

    Considering self-driving in Tibet, you can choose from a variety of vehicle types, including SUVs, luxury sedans, and RVs. Pick the right vehicle according to your needs and preferences.

    If you enjoy a challenge and adventure, an SUV like the Tank 300 or Toyota Land Cruiser is your best choice. These vehicles have high ground clearance, making them easy to navigate Tibet's rugged terrain and providing a memorable driving experience; If you prioritize comfort, a luxury sedan or RV might be more suitable. These vehicles feature comfortable seats, air conditioning, a sound system, and other amenities, ensuring a pleasant driving experience;

    If you're traveling with family or friends, a multi-seat van or minivan is ideal, offering more interior space and ensuring your comfort and convenience;

    If you want to experience a more exciting self-driving tour, you can also choose to rent a motorcycle and explore the beauty of Tibet at your own pace.

    Most importantly, renting a car through Tibet Horizon saves time and effort. We can handle all rental procedures, including obtaining a Temporary Driving License, making your Tibet self-driving tour more convenient.

  • 4. Is it safe to self-drive in Tibet?

    Yes, self-driving in Tibet is safe, but due to the unique environment and plateau climate, some precautions are necessary.

    First, while Tibet's main roads are in relatively good condition, roads in some remote areas can be bumpy and uneven. You’d check the condition of your vehicle and ensure you have enough fuel before setting off. While there are gas stations in most cities and along major highways, they are less common in remote areas, especially at higher altitudes. It's best to fill up your tank before entering these areas and familiarize yourself with the locations of gas stations along the way.

    What’s more, the high altitude in the plateau may cause mild altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue. Before driving, it is best to acclimate to the high altitude, avoid strenuous exercise, and stay hydrated. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, you shall stop and rest for a time and use portable oxygen cylinders or medicines for emergency treatment. If altitude sickness is too severe, please tell the tour guide immediately.

    Overall, as long as you prepare well and follow the instructions of the professional guide, the Tibet self-driving tour can be a very safe and exciting experience.

  • 5. What to pack for Tibet self-driving tour?

    When self-driving in Tibet, you'll need to prepare some essential gear to ensure a smooth and safe Tibet tour.

    1. It's crucial to carry Tibet travel documents, like your passport, Tibet Travel Permit, Temporary Driving License, etc.
    2. Tibet's climate is unpredictable, so bring plenty of warm clothing, including down jackets, gloves, and scarves, to withstand the cold weather.
    3. The oxygen in plateau areas is thin, so you can prepare portable oxygen cylinders or medicines to deal with altitude sickness in an emergency.
    4. Bring some food and water in case you're in a remote area for a long time and unable to buy supplies.

  • 6. Can I drive alone in Tibet without a guide?

    You cannot drive alone in Tibet without a guide. And all the foreign tourists cannot travel alone in Tibet. To ensure your safty and smooth self-driving tour in Tibet, we provide experienced local guides who are familiar with road conditions and can provide co-pilot service if necessary.

  • 7. Why to choose our Tibet self-driving road tour?

    Choose our Tibet self-driving tour, you will enjoy a full range of professional services. We offer high-quality rental vehicles, all rigorously inspected to ensure a safe and comfortable driving experience. We can also tailor-make itineraries for you, covering Tibet's most representative attractions and unique natural landscapes. In addition, we will handle all necessary documents for you, making your Tibet self-driving trip worry-free.

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  • Mr David from Canada, asked on March 17th, 2024

    Rental Motor Damage

    Hi! I am planning a Tibet motorbike tour. It seems that renting a motor is a convenient choice. I wonder what happens if I damage the motorcycle?

    Mr. Karma from Tibet Horizon, answered on March 17th, 2024

    Dear David, thank you for extending to us with your inquiry!

    Renting a motorcycle is convenient and you can choose from different types of motorbikes. Any damage of the rental motor must be reported to the team guide immediately. Our price does not include maintenance fees caused by force majeure but the rental car insurance covering incidental damages and maintenance fees under compensation limits.

    If you have further questions on motorbike rental or insurance, please feel free to contact us!

  • Mr Ronald from Spain, asked on April 3rd, 2024

    Luggage Place During Motorcycling

    Hello! We’re a team of 14 and we want to do a Tibet motorbike trip. Since we’re a large group and two more may join us, where can we place our luggage during our trip?

    Mr. Lhakpa Tsering from Tibet Horizon, answered on April 3rd, 2024

    Dear Ronald, thank you for your inquiry!

    During the motorcycle trip, we’ll provide a support vehicle following the motor team. Your personal luggage will be transported by the vehicle throughout the journey. Also, it can carry spare parts, bottled waters, and oxygen cylinders. Please don’t forget that international and domestic flights have baggage allowance, so it’s recommended to pack necessities.

    If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us. We’re looking forward to arranging a perfect Tibet motorcycle trip for you!

  • Mrs. López from Argentina, asked on March 3rd, 2023

    Visit Lhasa with my Chinese wife

    Hi, I'm planning to visit Tibet in January 2025 for a couple of weeks. I'm a British citizen living and working in China with a Z visa and Chinese residence permit. My wife, a Chinese national, will join me. I understand I need permits, but I'm unsure about the group travel requirement. I prefer to explore at my own pace with my wife, not as part of a group. Any advice would be much appreciated!

    Mr. Karma from Tibet Horizon, answered on March 3rd, 2023

    Dear López, thank you for your inquiry! Visiting Tibet in January offers a wonderful opportunity to experience local culture and traditions, with fewer tourists and more local Tibetans on spiritual pilgrimages to Lhasa. This provides a chance to interact with locals and immerse yourself in authentic Tibetan culture.

    Regarding your question about traveling independently without being part of a group or tour, it's important to note that according to the Tibet Tourism Bureau policy, travelers must book their Tibet tour with a local tour operator to obtain the necessary permits. Additionally, a guide will be arranged for you during your stay in Tibet, and if you plan to travel outside of Lhasa, you'll need to hire a car and driver, as foreigners are not permitted to use public transportation.

    However, with a reputable tour operator, it's possible to plan a flexible itinerary that allows you to explore at your own pace, especially after completing the day's activities. A good operator will ensure that your trip meets your preferences and interests while also complying with local regulations. Feel free to contact us for further assistance in planning your trip.

  • Mr. Schneider from Germany, asked on October 13th, 2022

    Ride a motorbike from Malaysia to Tibet

    Hi, we plan to ride a motorbike from Malaysia to Tibet. I wonder Which route has easier accessibility, entering through Kathmandu/ Bhutan or Yunnan (China). Secondly, which has a more scenic route? Thank you in advance.

    Mr. Lhakpa Tsering from Tibet Horizon, answered on October 13th, 2022

    Dear Schneider, thank you for reaching out us. In terms of accessibility and scenic routes, the best option would be entering Tibet from Kathmandu, Nepal. This route offers easier accessibility compared to entering through Yunnan, China or Bhutan. For a scenic and adventurous journey, entering Tibet from Kathmandu allows you to explore iconic destinations such as Mount Everest Base Camp or further west to Mount Kailash. The road from the Gyawala pass to Everest Base Camp offers breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating twists and turns, making it a favorite among motorbike enthusiasts.

    However, it's important to note that driving a foreign motorcycle into China requires specific permits, including an import permit, Chinese license plates, and a Chinese driving license. Additionally, traveling in Tibet requires a Tibet Travel Permit, and there are limited routes available for foreigners to enter Tibet overland.

    If you require more assistance with planning your Tibet tour, please feel free to contact us. We're here to help ensure that your trip is both enjoyable and memorable!

    • Mr. Ford from America, asked on April 5th, 2024

      Meals Included

      Hello! Does the G318 Overland tour include lunch and dinners on road?

      Mr. Passang Norbu from Tibet Horizon, answered on April 5th, 2024

      Dear Ford, thank you for extending your question to us.

      Our Sichuan-Tibet overland tour package include breakfasts listed in itinerary overview. Breakfasts are provided by hotels. Lunch and dinners on road are not included. During the overland trip, you can eat at à la carte restaurants to savor authentic Sichuan and Tibetan cuisine. You can order dishes according to your preferences. You can also bring some snacks, bread and instant noodles.

      If you have further questions or need a detailed quotation list, feel free to contact us.

    • Mr. Anderson from Italy, asked on July 28th, 2024

      Recommended self-driving route

      Is there a recommended self-driving route in Tibet that can provide us with to ensure we can enjoy the beautiful scenery while ensuring safety?

      Mr. Tenzin Jamphel from Tibet Horizon, answered on July 29th, 2024

      Dear Anderson, Thank you for your inquiry!

       For a self-drive tour in Tibet, here is a highly popular and scenic route recommendation, from Lhasa to Namtso Lake. This route not only boasts beautiful scenery but is also relatively well-developed, with comprehensive tourism facilities along the way, making it suitable for a self-drive tour. If you choose our self-driving trips to Tibet, we will apply Tibet Travel Travel Permit and Chinese provisional driving license for you.

      If you have any further question about travelling in Tibet, please feel free to contact us. We can provide you with a memorable and unique road adventure.