Tibet Travel Guide

1. Dear Travelers:

Thank you for booking your Tibet tour with us! Tibet Horizon is a professional travel agency dedicated to providing personalized service for every guest traveling to Tibet. This guide is designed to help you better prepare for your upcoming Tibet trip with essential information, helpful tips, and important travel documents. Please take some time to explore this guide, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We look forward to making your journey to the Roof of the World a memorable experience.

2. Getting to Tibet: Permits, Trains, Flights & Routes

Getting to Tibet requires careful planning, especially for foreign travelers. Learn about the Tibet Travel Permit, train and flight options, and routes from Kathmandu to choose the best way to reach Lhasa.

Get Your Tibet Travel Permit

As you may know, a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) is required for foreign travelers entering Tibet. It can only be applied for by a registered Tibetan travel agency on your behalf.

The processing time is usually 10–20 days, so we recommend booking your trip at least one month in advance. Once we receive your TTP, we’ll deliver it to your hotel in the Chinese Mainland. You’ll need the permit to board your flight or train to Tibet.

*Urgent Permit: An urgent TTP usually takes 7–15 days to process and comes with an additional fee.

*During Tibet's peak travel season, from April to October, and around major Chinese festivals, TTP processing may take longer. Delivery to your hotel may also be delayed. Please confirm the status of your permit with your travel consultant at least 5 days before you depart for Tibet. In some cases, our staff may hand-deliver the permit to you at the airport or railway station for an extra fee.

Take the Tibet Train to Lhasa

Once you’ve booked a tour with us, we’ll help secure your train ticket based on your preferred travel date, train route, and carriage type. During the peak season (April to October), you may not receive your exact train ticket information until a few days before you depart for Lhasa. Don’t worry. Our experienced staff will do their best to secure a ticket for you. We’ll inform you as soon as your train ticket is booked.

On your boarding date, if you need to collect your ticket yourself, please arrive at the railway station at least 2 hours early. Railway stations in China can have long lines, especially during busy periods. Go to the ticket office and show your train booking confirmation number, passport, and Tibet Travel Permit to collect your ticket. Nowadays, a paper ticket is not mandatory for boarding the train. You can also bring your passport, Chinese Visa, and Tibet Travel Permit to the manual checkpoint for entry.

After passing through security, check the train information, including the departure time, waiting room, and check-in time. Follow the large LED screens to find your waiting area and the correct platform for your Tibet train to Lhasa.

Kind Reminder: Your Tibet Travel Permit may be checked again onboard before you arrive in Lhasa. Keep it safe and easily accessible throughout the journey.

Take a Flight to Lhasa

Please arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight departure. Go to the check-in counter with your passport, and Tibet Travel Permit to obtain your boarding pass. Then, pass through security and wait for your flight at the designated boarding gate.

*Due to strong air turbulence and changing weather conditions over the Tibetan Plateau, flight delays and route changes can occur. If this happens, we will take a proactive approach and work closely with you to handle any unexpected issues.

Travel from Kathmandu to Tibet

Chinese Visa

Travelers from non-visa-exempt countries entering Tibet from Kathmandu can apply for either a Chinese Tourist Visa or a Chinese Group Visa.

Option 1: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa)
If you choose to enter Tibet from Nepal, a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) is needed. This individual visa is applied for in your home country before departure. It offers full travel flexibility, longer validity, and allows you to enter Tibet directly without staying in Kathmandu to wait for visa processing. However, applying independently requires submitting your own application and supporting documents prior to your Tibet trip.

Option 2: Chinese Group Visa
Chinese Group Visa is a paper-based visa with the names of all travelers on it. This single-sheet visa is processed through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu via a local Tibet travel agency. We will help you apply for the visa in Kathmandu. It requires a minimum group of 5 travelers and takes 3 working days to process, making it a convenient option if you do not have a pre-issued individual visa. The main drawbacks are that all five members must follow the same itinerary and enter and leave China together. Any existing Chinese Visa in your passport will also be automatically canceled.

By Flight

When you board a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, your passport and Chinese Tourist Visa will be checked at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The non-stop flight takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, our Tibetan guide will greet you with your Tibet Travel Permit and a white auspicious Hada.

*The visa usually allows you to stay in China for up to 30-60 days. The specific duration will be stated on the visa page by the Chinese embassy or consulate.

By Overland

After obtaining your Chinese Visa, you’ll travel to the Nepalese border town of Rasuwagadhi. You will then cross into Tibet through the Gyirong Border, where our Tibetan guide will meet you with your Tibet Travel Permit. After crossing the border, you will travel to Gyirong Town and spend one night there. You can also enter Tibet through the Zhangmu Border, near the Nepalese town of Kodari. After crossing the border, our Tibetan guide will meet you and assist with the transfer to Nyalam or onward destinations in Tibet. The journey then continues toward Ngari, Shigatse, and Lhasa.

3. Basic Facts about Tibet

With an average altitude of over 4,000 m, Tibet covers a vast area of about 1.23 million sq km (474,905 sq miles) and is known as the Roof of the World. Surrounded by lofty mountain ranges, Tibet consists of 7 prefecture-level divisions: Lhasa (3,650 m), Shigatse (3,836 m), Ngari (4,500 m), Shannan (3,600 m), Nagqu (4,500 m), Nyingchi (3,000 m), and Chamdo (3,500 m).

Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is usually the first city you visit in Tibet. It is home to many iconic Buddhist monasteries and temples. Here, you can experience Tibetan Buddhism and discover the unique religious and everyday life of local Tibetans.

Shigatse is the second-largest city in Tibet and a gateway to Mount Everest and spectacular Himalayan views.

Ngari, with an average altitude of over 4,500 m, is the highest region in Tibet. It is home to Mount Kailash and offers one of the most spiritual travel experiences in Tibet.

Shannan is known as the cradle of Tibetan civilization, blessed with fertile land and the Yarlung Zangbo River. It is home to many important Tibetan firsts, including the first Tibetan Buddhist site and the first Tibetan royal palace.

Nagqu is known for its vast Changtang Grassland and traditional Tibetan nomadic culture. It offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Tibetan nomads.

Nyingchi, with an average altitude of about 3,000 m, is one of the lowest-altitude regions in Tibet. It features dense forests and pristine natural scenery, often compared to the Swiss Alps.

Chamdo is known for its Khampa culture and the historic Ancient Tea Horse Road. However, much of Chamdo is currently not open to international tourists.

4. Features of a Tibet tour

Yes, you may have traveled extensively around the world. However, nothing quite prepares you for the unique experience of traveling on the Tibetan Plateau. We have selected some common challenges of a Tibet tour to help you prepare. Hopefully, you can be fully prepared both physically and mentally before arriving in Tibet.

Weather and Climate of Tibet

Though constantly changing and fairly unpredictable, the weather of Tibet follows certain patterns. Understanding these patterns can help you adjust to the local climate and prepare for your trip.

1. Intense UV Radiation

For first-time visitors to Lhasa, one of the first impressions is often the dazzling sunshine and deep blue sky. With an average altitude of over 4,000 m, Tibet experiences strong solar radiation and long daylight hours. Lhasa receives about 3,021 hours of sunshine annually, which has earned it the nickname “City of Sunshine.”

Solution: Protect yourself from strong UV rays by bringing SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed sun hat. Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to cover exposed skin and reduce the risk of sunburn. Avoid looking directly at the sun.

2. Thin Air and Low Air Pressure

Most of Tibet lies above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), with Lhasa at about 3,650 m. At this altitude, air pressure is lower, so each breath delivers less oxygen to the body. This can cause altitude sickness in visitors who are not yet acclimatized. Mild symptoms may include shortness of breath, dizziness, a rapid pulse, fatigue, headache, and insomnia. There is usually no need to panic, as mild discomfort may improve within a few days as your body acclimatizes to the altitude. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek help from your guide or a medical professional.

Solution: To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, avoid traveling to Tibet if you are ill or have a cold. After arriving in Lhasa, get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities. Stay well hydrated and eat light, high-energy foods. Keep a relaxed and positive mood. You may also consider altitude sickness medication after consulting a doctor.

3. Large Temperature Differences Between Day and Night

Another typical feature of Tibet's climate is the large temperature difference between day and night. Tibet experiences strong diurnal temperature variations. Days can be warm or mild, while temperatures may drop close to freezing at night, even in summer. For example, the average temperatures in Lhasa are:

Spring: -2°C (min) to 12°C (max)
Summer: 9°C (min) to 22°C (max)
Autumn: 7°C (min) to 19°C (max)
Winter: -7°C (min) to 9°C (max)

A simple rule is that you may feel warm under the strong daytime sunshine, but temperatures can drop quickly after sunset. If you travel to higher-altitude areas or mountain passes, bring a down jacket or other warm layers to protect yourself from the cold and strong winds.

Solution: Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures. Consult your guide or check the weather forecast before departure to choose the right clothing. If you travel to high-altitude destinations such as EBC, bring a down jacket, thermal trousers, woolen socks, scarf, and warm hat.

About Altitude Sickness

Tibet's high elevation and the risk of altitude sickness can be concerning for first-time visitors to Lhasa. However, with some basic preparation, you can make the acclimatization process easier.

Before departing for Lhasa, maintain your regular exercise routine, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling. Good physical and mental preparation can help you adjust to the high altitude. If possible, consider taking a Tibet train from a Chinese Mainland city to Lhasa, as the gradual ascent may make acclimatization easier. You can also consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication, such as acetazolamide (Diamox). Travelers with heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions should seek medical advice before booking a Tibet tour.

After arriving in Lhasa, some tourists may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, headache, rapid pulse, or insomnia. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and eat light, nutritious meals. Avoid strenuous activities during your first days in Lhasa. Avoid overeating and limit or avoid alcohol while acclimatizing. It is also advisable to avoid showering on your first day if you feel unwell. If your symptoms persist or worsen, inform your guide and seek medical assistance.

During your Tibet trip, remember that gradual ascent and proper acclimatization are important for reducing the risk of acute mountain sickness. Don’t push yourself, and tell your guide if you feel unwell. Our tour vehicles are equipped with oxygen supply systems for emergencies. Use supplemental oxygen when needed according to your guide’s advice. If severe altitude sickness occurs, oxygen and immediate descent to a lower altitude may be necessary.

*If you catch a cold in Tibet and plan to travel to a higher-altitude destination such as EBC, inform your guide before departure. Your guide can assess your condition and advise whether it is safe to continue.

Long Hours of Bus Ride Beyond Lhasa

Another distinct feature of a Tibet tour is the long distance between major attractions, esp. those outside Lhasa. With an average altitude of over 4,000 m, Tibet covers a vast area of about 1.23 million sq km (474,905 sq miles). Many major attractions are scattered across this vast region.

For example:
Lhasa to Namtso: 240 km one way
Lhasa to EBC: around 600 km one way
Lhasa to Mount Kailash: around 1,300 km one way

In many areas, traveling by tour vehicle is the most practical way to reach these attractions. Strict speed limits are also enforced for safety. As a result, long road journeys can sometimes feel tiring or uncomfortable.

Solution: Prepare some snacks, food, and water before boarding the tour vehicle. A sleep mask, travel neck pillow, earplugs, and motion sickness medication can make the journey more comfortable. You can also download your favorite music or podcasts to enjoy along the way. The spectacular scenery outside the window is another highlight of the road trip. If you travel with children, bring comic books, snacks, or games to keep them entertained.

Dining in Tibet

Dining in Tibet promises an exciting experience for foodies. Thanks to Tibet’s proximity to Nepal and India, as well as its long-standing trade with the Chinese Mainland, you can enjoy a wide range of dishes to suit different tastes.

Undoubtedly, Lhasa is the center of your culinary journey. Along Barkhor Street, you can enjoy traditional Tibetan foods such as sweet tea, Tibetan noodles, dried yak meat, mutton, and Tibetan momos in local tea houses and restaurants.

In addition to traditional Tibetan restaurants, Nepali, Indian, Chinese, and Western food are widely available around Barkhor Street. With such a diverse selection, you should have little trouble finding food that suits your taste during your Tibet tour.

Some of the popular restaurants in Lhasa include:
MakyAme: excellent Tibetan cuisine, a superb overview of Barkhor Street, great atmosphere
Tibetan Family Kitchen: Tibetan home-style meals, great local flavor, English-speaking staff, and vegetarian friendly
House of Shambhala Restaurant: romantic rooftop seating, cozy atmosphere
Namaste Restaurant: Nepali and Indian cuisine, vegetarian-friendly, flavorful curries
Dunya Restaurant: western, Tibetan, and Chinese mix, reliable for international travelers

Some must-try foods in Lhasa include:
Tibetan Momos: dumplings filled with yak meat or vegetables; steamed or fried
Tsampa: roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea; a Tibetan staple
Tibetan Sweet Tea: milk tea with sugar, popular and more palatable for many travelers
Butter Tea: salty tea made with yak butter and tea leaves—an acquired taste

After visiting Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, stop by one of Lhasa’s famous tea houses, such as Guang Ming Sweet Tea House or Canggu Nunnery Tea House, to experience authentic Tibetan tea culture and local life.

To your surprise, Lhasa nightlife is far from dull. If you still have energy after a day of sightseeing, or want to enjoy one last evening before leaving Tibet, head to one of the bustling bars in Lhasa and experience the city’s unique nightlife. Some popular choices include:

Makye Ame: A landmark of Lhasa nightlife, known for its romantic connection to Tsangyang Gyatso
Low House Music Bar: A Nepal-style bar with a lively music atmosphere
Ganglamedo Cafe and Bar: Features unique Tibetan decoration and great Tibetan atmosphere
Dunya Restaurant & Bar: Offers a Western-style bar atmosphere and international cuisine
Travelers Bar: A popular choice among backpackers and independent travelers

One more tip: don't drink too much and risk missing your tour the next day or your flight home. Also, make sure you have a safe way to get back to your hotel.

Normally, after spending 2 days in Lhasa for acclimatization and sightseeing, we travel beyond Lhasa to destinations such as Shigatse, EBC, or Mount Kailash.

In stark contrast to the culinary diversity in Lhasa, the more remote the places you travel to, the more basic the food tends to be. During road trips, our Tibetan guide will usually take you to designated restaurants for lunch where food safety is taken into consideration. Tibetan and Chinese cuisine are the most common options when dining beyond Lhasa. Therefore, it is a good idea to bring some snacks, food, and water with you for long journeys.

In places like EBC, basic foods such as instant noodles, yak meat, fried rice, potatoes, fried eggs, and bread are commonly available. Understandably, food can be much more expensive in such remote and challenging environments.

*For religious and cultural reasons, some Tibetans avoid certain foods, including fish, horse meat, donkey meat, garlic, and some types of birds. Dietary practices can vary among individuals and communities.

Hotels and Accommodation in Tibet

Admittedly, hotel and guesthouse facilities in Tibet are often more basic than those in modern cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Please lower your expectations for luxury hotels in Tibet, especially when traveling to remote areas. Hygiene standards may also be more basic than those of Western-style hotels, particularly in the western and northern regions beyond Lhasa.

In Lhasa, Shigatse, Tsedang, and Nyingchi, you can find a range of accommodation options, including 2- to 5-star hotels, guesthouses, boutique inns, and Tibetan-style lodgings. Top hotels in major cities offer modern amenities and international-standard facilities. At Everest Base Camp, you can stay in an EBC Tent Guesthouse or at the Rongbuk Hotel. However, accommodation in remote areas such as Mount Kailash and Namtso is much more basic. Options may include simple guesthouses and basic local hotels, where electricity, hot water, and other facilities may be limited or rationed.

In areas beyond Lhasa, hygiene standards can be basic. Accommodation is generally clean, but facilities may not always meet Western standards. Bathroom facilities can be very basic, and shared bathrooms and pit toilets are common. Some guesthouses may not have shower facilities or air conditioning.

We recommend bringing your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, flip-flops, and a towel. An electric blanket can help keep you warm during cold nights. If needed, you can also rent a sleeping bag from us.

As some remote areas have limited waste-management and pest-control facilities, you may occasionally encounter rodents in basic accommodation. To reduce the risk of attracting them, keep your food sealed and stored out of their reach.

Overall, Tibet’s accommodation ranges from modern hotels to basic rural guesthouses. Hygiene standards can vary significantly, so it is best to prepare some personal supplies and keep your expectations flexible, especially when traveling to remote areas. However, when compared with the jaw-dropping views of Mount Everest or the spiritual experience of the 3-day Mount Kailash Kora, these inconveniences may become part of a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience that you will remember long after returning home.

Solution: If you encounter any problems with your accommodation, don’t worry. Inform your guide or travel consultant as soon as possible. We will actively work with you to resolve the issue. Depending on availability, we can help you change rooms or upgrade your room for an additional fee.

Unexpected Events and Temporary Suspension of Tibet Tour

Tibet tours can be affected by unforeseen events, like government meetings, Buddhist conferences, newly issued travel policies, and natural disasters. These events may lead to the temporary suspension of Tibet tours or the closure of certain Tibetan regions to international travelers.

It's the last thing we want to see. In the worst-case scenario, if your upcoming tour is affected by force majeure, we promise to inform you as soon as possible and work proactively with you to find the best solution.

Tibetans and Their Language

Local Tibetans are deeply religious. Religious practices like kora (walking clockwise around a sacred Buddhist site, holy mountain, or lake as a form of pilgrimage), meditation, and chanting Buddhist mantras are an integral part of daily life. Tibetan women traditionally take care of much of the household work and childcare, while men often take a more active role in social activities.

Tibetans are generally known for their modesty, hospitality, courage, and resilience. They have developed ways to live in harmony with the challenging environment of the Tibetan Plateau while maintaining a strong connection to their religious traditions.

Tibetan is the main language spoken across Tibet, while many locals also speak Mandarin. English is less widely spoken, although people working in the tourism industry can often communicate in English, sometimes with a noticeable local accent.

Nevertheless, Tibetans are generally welcoming toward international travelers and enjoy communicating with visitors. A warm smile or simple greeting can help break the ice. If you learn a few basic Tibetan phrases, like “Tashi Delek” (a traditional greeting expressing good wishes) and “Thuk-je-che” (thank you), you are likely to receive even more warm smiles in return.

Taboos in Tibet Travel

Traveling in Tibet offers a unique and deeply spiritual experience, but it’s essential to be mindful of local customs, religious practices, and cultural sensitivities. Observing local etiquette isn’t just polite—it’s a sign of respect for Tibetan traditions and can help you avoid misunderstandings or causing offense. Here are some key taboos and practices to be aware of when visiting Tibet:

1. Walk clockwise around monasteries, stupas, and prayer wheels. The main exception is Bon religious sites, where pilgrims traditionally walk counterclockwise.

2. Remove your hat and dress modestly when visiting Tibetan monasteries. Avoid wearing revealing or skimpy clothing.

3. Ask for permission before photographing people, especially monks, nuns, and elderly people.

4. Do not take photos inside temples unless you have explicit permission. Many monasteries prohibit photography of sacred statues, religious ceremonies, or other religious objects.

5. Do not touch the head of a monk or local person, including children, as the head is traditionally considered sacred or highly respected in Tibetan culture.

6. When dining with Tibetans, be mindful of local dietary customs. Avoid ordering meat like fish, horse, donkey, or dog without first checking with your hosts or guide.

7. International tourists cannot travel independently in Tibet and must join an organized tour with a licensed travel agency and local guide. Do not venture into unfamiliar or restricted areas without informing your guide.

8. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics during your trip, and follow local regulations and your guide’s advice.

9. Do not buy Tibetan wildlife products, animal bones, or unverified Tibetan herbal medicines from street vendors. Some may be illegal, protected, or unsafe to use.

10. Avoid showing off your wealth when visiting remote Tibetan villages, especially in areas where local communities have a simple way of life.

11. Don’t encourage begging in Tibet. If you wish to help, consider making a small donation through a reputable local organization rather than encouraging repeated begging.

12. Do not litter. This is especially important near sacred lakes, mountains, monasteries, and other religious sites.

5. Suggested Packing List for Tibet Tour

Packing for Tibet requires careful planning due to its high-altitude environment, changing weather, and cultural expectations. Whether you're visiting Lhasa or trekking to Everest Base Camp, this packing list will help you prepare for comfort, safety, and cultural respect.

Travel Documents and Permits:
1. Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
2. Chinese Visa
3. Tibet Travel Permit (arranged by our travel agency)

Clothes and Accessories (from head to toe):
1. Layered clothing: breathable and thermal underwear, warm or thermal pants, sweaters, a down jacket, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell. Bring lightweight shirts and trousers for sunny days and warm sleepwear for cold nights.
2. Modest clothing for monastery visits (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops)
3. Sunglasses and a sun hat (essential at high altitudes)
4. A scarf and gloves (even in summer)
5. Woolen socks and comfortable walking shoes

Toiletries:
1. Toothbrush and toothpaste
2. Biodegradable soap, shampoo, and a lightweight towel
3. Toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and menstrual pads or tampons

Medicine and First-aid Kit:
1. Prescription medications
2. Medication for altitude sickness
3. A basic first-aid kit

*Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication

Trekking Gear:
1. Duffel bag (at least 40-50L) and small bags for carrying personal trash
2. Snacks and drinks for your daypack: herbal tea, coffee, yak jerky, chocolate, etc.
3. Trekking boots, trekking poles, a compass, and a headlamp
4. Tent (for mountain trekking), a sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -25°C, and a thermal sleeping bag liner

Extras:
1. Skincare products like sunscreen, moisturizing facial mask, lip balm
2. Thermal bottle
3. Portable charger or power bank
4. Umbrella or rain suit

6. On Your Arrival in Lhasa

Upon your arrival in Lhasa, either by flight or Tibet train, the following issues deserve your special attention.

Shuttle Service at Lhasa Gonggar Airport and Railway Station

Arrival by flight

Since most international travelers are required to join an organized tour, our guide will meet you at the taxi station just outside the airport (Gate No. 5) at the designated time. Lhasa Gonggar Airport is around 60–70 km from downtown Lhasa, and the drive takes about one hour.

Arrival by Tibet train

Lhasa Railway Station is around 7 km from downtown Lhasa, and the drive takes about 20 minutes. As always, our Tibetan guide will meet you at the taxi station just outside the railway station. The pickup time will be based on your train's arrival time. You can enjoy our free shuttle service from the railway station to your hotel.

*If there are fewer than 3 passengers for a transfer, we may use public transportation, like a public airport bus or taxi, instead of our private shuttle service. If international tourists use public transport, you need to be accompanied by your guide. Independent travel in Tibet is not permitted under current travel regulations.

Lhasa Tourist Map

In most cases, you’ll spend around two days sightseeing in Lhasa before heading to your next destination in Tibet. As the spiritual heart of Tibet, Lhasa is home to a wealth of important Buddhist and cultural attractions. Highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the “Three Great Gelugpa Monasteries”—Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery, and Ganden Monastery. You can also experience a traditional Buddhist kora around bustling Barkhor Street, relax in lively Tibetan tea houses, visit the royal summer palace of Norbulingka, explore the Lhasa River and historic streets, and sample delicious local snacks. Together, these experiences make Lhasa a fascinating destination for cultural travelers.

*One important reminder: to reduce the risk of acute altitude sickness, don’t rush to visit attractions immediately after arriving in Lhasa. Taking time to rest at your hotel will help your body adjust to the high altitude. Take it easy and allow yourself time to acclimatize. We normally spend two days in Lhasa, combining sightseeing with acclimatization.

Other Information

1. After your guide escorts you to the hotel, don't forget to ask about the next day’s tour arrangements, including the pickup time and any dos and don’ts you should know for the following day.

2. For shopping, head to Barkhor Street and its surroundings. You can enjoy local food in traditional tea houses or have a few drinks at local bars. A variety of exquisite souvenirs, like Thangka paintings, are available in the small shops and may keep you browsing for a while. You can also buy snacks and water from local stores for the next day’s tour.

3. For medical treatment, ask your guide to take you to a nearby hospital, such as:

TAR People's Hospital: (the biggest and best hospital in Tibet)
Address: Linkuo north road
Tel: 86-891-6322200
Lhasa Emergency Treatment Center (with English-speaking medical staff)
Address: No. 16 Lingkhor Rd
Tel: 86-891-98120
People’s Hospital Lhasa
Address: No. 1 Beijing East Road, Chengguan District, Lhasa City, Tibet Autonomous Region, China.
Tel: 86-891-6323811

Pharmacies are located along Beijing East Road and Beijing Middle Road. Alternatively, you can look for one near your hotel.

4. For banking and money services, if you have an account with China Construction Bank (CCB), Bank of China (BOC), or Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), you can use your bank card to withdraw cash at a bank counter or an ATM operated by your bank.

Bank of China in Lhasa:
Address: 7 Linkuo W Rd; Nanjin W Rd, 10 Jiangsu Rd
Construction Bank of China:
Address: Linju S Rd; Dangre Middle Rd; Yutuo Rd
Agricultural Bank of China:
Address: No. 39 Jiangsu Rd; Nanjing Middle Rd

*You may also exchange money with our Tibetan guide if you have no time looking for a bank.

5. If you have any special requests when traveling with children or elderly people, please feel free to let our guide know. They will be happy to assist you. Children under 5 and adults over 75 are generally not recommended to travel to high-altitude areas. Besides, never travel alone or venture into unfamiliar places in Lhasa. If you are unsure about anything, asking your guide first is always the best choice.

6. Emergency and Customer Service

In case of an emergency, please remember the following emergency calls:
Police: 110
Hospital: 120; 86-891-98120
Fire Dept.: 119
Lhasa Gonggar Airport: 0891-6182220; 0891-6833446 (flight booking)
Tibet Horizon Customer Service Office:
Address: Room 1703, Floor 17, Unit 1, Building 4, Baiyi Nan'an Community, No. 10, Century Avenue, Liuwu New District, Lhasa
Mr. Sangye, the customer service manager, is ready to offer prompt support and solutions for you. If you have problems, don't hesitate to make a visit.

7. Share Your Tour Experience and Leave a Review

We love to hear your feedback and suggestions about our travel services. Why not share your incredible travel experiences and helpful travel tips on our official Tripadvisor, Google Maps, or Facebook pages? Your feedback helps us improve our services and helps other travelers plan their Tibet trips with confidence.

Travel Consultant____________
Tibet Horizon