London to Lhasa: How to Get to Tibet from United Kingdom

Tibet is not easily reached by plane from London. There are two main paths one can take to get from London to Tibet. One way is to fly directly from London to a Chinese city, such as Beijing or Shanghai, and then take another journey to Lhasa. You can also fly directly to Nepal and then make a quick connection to Lhasa. 

London to Tibet via Chinese Mainland

Traveling directly from London to a major Chinese city, such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu, is the most convenient method to travel to Tibet. Then, you have the option of taking a train or an airplane to Lhasa. Although more expensive, it's the shortest path. There is also the option of flying to Kathmandu and then taking an overland trip to Lhasa. This option would be more economical for you. Exchanging speed for more daring travel enables visitors to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan scenery at their leisure.

Fly from London  to Beijing, then Get to Tibet from Beijing by Train or Flight

There are no direct flights from London to Tibet. From London, you may fly to Beijing. From Beijing, there are two methods to go to Lhasa: by scenic rail or a quick aircraft. Flying is the quickest way to get from Beijing to Lhasa. Getting to Lhasa by train is a fantastic experience that offers a thrilling journey. Direct flights are offered from London to Beijing. Thus, it is quite easy to get to Beijing from London.

Fly from London to Beijing

There are direct flights as well as ones that include at least one layover from London to Beijing. The travel time is variable, mostly around 9 hours to 16 hours. Think about layovers and the total time you will be traveling before choosing your flight. Direct flights arrive and depart in about 9 hours and 50 minutes. The distance is 8141.55.44km.

Explore Highlights in Beijing

When visiting Beijing, British visitors looking for a distinct fusion of history and technology have plenty of possibilities. Explore the stunning Forbidden City, the former Chinese imperial residence, or marvel at the intricate Great Wall. To find peace, meander through the ancient lanes known as the Hutongs, which are dotted with courtyard homes. Alternatively, visit the Temple of Heaven. Admire contemporary wonders such as the Olympic Park and the CCTV Tower, or explore the history of imperial authority at the expansive Summer Palace garden complex.

After Beijing tour, you can travel from Beijing to Tibet by train or flight

Take the Tibet Train from Beijing to Lhasa

Experience the breathtaking Chinese scenery as you travel to Tibet on the well-known Beijing-Lhasa train from Beijing. Cover the Tibetan Plateau, high mountains, and wide plains in around 40 hours. Tickets vary in price depending on the seat class.

Notice:
The above schedule & price is for reference only. Please contact us for the latest schedule & price if you need to book Tibet train ticket from us.

Fly from Beijing to Lhasa

Consider flying from Beijing to Lhasa if you have to get there quickly. 2625 kilometres may be flown in four and a half hours. 

Fly from London to Shanghai, then Get to Tibet from Shanghai by Train or Flight

Seeing a bustling metropolis like Shanghai on one trip and the spiritual center of Lhasa on another is quite the contrast. Imagine flying from London to Shanghai, a contemporary metropolis full of wonders, via the clouds. Following that, you depart for Lhasa, traveling there swiftly by plane or taking in the breathtaking scenery by train. Imagine exploring Shanghai's Bund and enjoying delicious street cuisine after admiring the city's futuristic skyline. Next, prepare yourself for a whole new level of wonder as you journey over the breathtaking Tibetan scenery by rail or air.

Fly from London to Shanghai

Traveling from London to Shanghai in 12 hours and 15 minutes, with connected and non-stop options, is an excellent way to see two of the world's liveliest cities. The city of Lhasa is rich in spiritual and cultural significance. A tour of medieval monasteries is possible, and you can take in the serene atmosphere. On this tour, a remarkable blend of modern marvels and ancient customs is promised. The distance is around 9197.15 kilometers.

Explore Highlights in Shanghai

Take in the vibrant energy of this pedestrian-only shopping area, which is teeming with independent retailers, global brands, and street vendors. Enjoy Shanghai's dynamic political and cultural hub, which is surrounded by imposing structures like the People's Government Building and the Shanghai Museum. This well-known theme park offers exhilarating rides, engrossing shows, and famous Disney characters. Enter a magical and captivating realm. Visit this renowned museum to learn about Chinese history. It has an extensive collection of artifacts that span thousands of years. This Buddhist temple, renowned for its large two-ton jade Buddha statue, is a peaceful place to visit. Explore this hip neighborhood that hypnotically combines posh shops, bustling eateries, and classic shikumen homes. This quaint neighborhood with its Art Deco buildings, cobblestone streets, and chic cafes offers a flavor of Shanghai's European history. Known as "The Opener" because of its trapezoidal top, this skyscraper is a masterpiece of architectural design. Enjoy the unmatched panoramic views from the summit of China's tallest structure by taking a short lift ride. This is an enjoyable day excursion where you can view the antique houses, bridges, and canals of this former maritime town.

After Shanghai tour, you can travel from Shanghai to Tibet by train or flight

Take the Tibet Train from Shanghai to Lhasa

By rail: The journey can take 44–47 hours, but when you travel into the Tibetan Plateau in China, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery. The cost of rail travel is typically less than that of plane tickets. Rail travel makes more sense than flying if you don't have a tight schedule and want to take in the scenery. Flying with rail is always a better value. It does, however, take longer. You could take the train ride if you have some free time.

Notice:
The above schedule & price is for reference only. Please contact us for the latest schedule & price if you need to book Tibet train ticket from us.

Fly from Shanghai to Lhasa

It takes roughly four hours to get there via plane. This is the quickest route to reach Lhasa. The higher price when compared to using the train is as follows. Plus, it'll take seven hours and forty minutes. Consider taking a plane trip if you are pressed for time.

Fly from London to Guangzhou, then Get to Tibet from Guangzhou by Train or Flight

You have to choose between cost and speed when traveling from Guangzhou to Tibet. In a few hours, flights may transport you directly to the heart of Tibet. If you're pressed for time or want to reduce your travel tiredness, this is great. Flights, however, are typically more costly. Trains, however, offer a more affordable alternative. They can save a lot of money, but they take a lot longer. By rail, you may cover the enormous distance between Guangzhou and Tibet while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Chinese countryside. While traveling, you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and get used to Tibet's greater elevations.

Fly from London to Guangzhou

There are some direct flights from London to Guangzhou available. However, several airlines offer flights with and without layovers. The travel time is around 11 hours and 45 minutes. The distance is around 9560 kilometers.

Explore Highlights in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is a historical and culturally rich city that offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can visit some of these locations. Canton Tower, the tallest structure in Guangzhou, is a well-known landmark offering stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Shamian Island, which was concessionaires during the colonial era, is now a pedestrian-only community with charming European architecture. Renowned for its intricate carvings and conventional construction is Chen Clan Academy's ancestral hall. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is acknowledged. Visitors can see a variety of foreign species up close during exhibitions or safari trips at the expansive Chimelong Safari Park.

After Guangzhou tour, you can travel from Guangzhou to Tibet by train or flight

Take the Tibet Train from Guangzhou to Lhasa

Traveling into Tibet from Guangzhou by train will reward you with breathtaking landscapes, but the trip can take 54 hours. Generally speaking, train tickets are less expensive than airline tickets. If you want to see the scenery and are not on a strict timetable, rail travel is a better option than flying. Rail travel is invariably more cost-effective. Still, it does take longer. If you're free, you could take the train ride. The distance is around 4980 kilometers.

Notice:
The above schedule & price is for reference only. Please contact us for the latest schedule & price if you need to book Tibet train ticket from us.

Fly from Guangzhou to Lhasa

Currently, there are no direct flights from Guangzhou to Lhasa. You have to take a layover in Chengdu or Chongqing. Usually, it takes 6 hours and 5 minutes. This is the quickest way. If you have less time in hand then go for a plane journey. The distance is about 2577 kilometers.

Fly from London to Chengdu, then Get to Tibet from Chengdu by Train or Flight

It will roughly take 14 to 12 hours to go from London to Chengdu. Depending on your preferences and price range, you can look for direct flights or ones that have layovers. London's ancient sites and modern surroundings are strikingly contrasted with Chengdu, a city renowned for its spicy food, enormous panda sanctuary, and long history. Make sure to include stops at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the Jinli Ancient Street, and the Wuhou Shrine on your agenda when visiting Chengdu. Then from Chengdu, you can take a plane or train to reach Tibet.

Fly from London to Chengdu

Finding flights from London to Chengdu is fairly straightforward, though only one direct flight is currently offered. Many airlines offer flights from London to Chengdu with a minimum of one layover, with the entire travel times ranging from 14 to 18 hours. Most layovers last between 2 and 8 hours. Prices can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book. Be prepared to spend approximately $815. Most layovers last between 2 and 8 hours. There are roughly 8,363 kilometers between Chengdu and London.

Explore Highlights in Chengdu

There are a few must-sees in Chengdu that encapsulate the culture and charm of the city. Meet the cute giant pandas Giant Panda Breeding Research Base to begin your tour. Here, you can see these famous animals in their native habitat and discover the conservation measures made to keep them safe. Next, go along the lively pedestrian avenue known as Jinli Ancient Street. It is surrounded by colorful stores, classic Sichuanese architecture, and street food vendors selling spicy regional fare. Visit the neighboring Wuhou Shrine, honoring the renowned military strategist Zhuge Liang, for a sense of Chengdu's rich history and legacy. Discover the trendy districts of Taikoo Li and Chunxi Road to get a taste of the city's dynamic modern culture. Without trying the city's renowned Sichuan cuisine, which is renowned for its robust flavors and spicy spices, no trip to Chengdu would be complete. Be sure to taste traditional dishes like mapo tofu, hot pot, and dan dan noodles at neighborhood restaurants all around the city.

After Chengdu tour, you can travel from Chengdu to Tibet by train or flight

Take Tibet Train from Chengdu to Lhasa

The magnificent and remarkable ride on the Chengdu to Tibet train lands passengers in Lhasa in around 36 hours. The train travels 3,070 kilometers, passing through beautiful scenery such as vast grasslands, towering mountains, and meandering rivers and gradually ascending to the well-known Qinghai-Tibet Plateau with an average elevation of over 4,000 meters.

Notice:
The above schedule & price is for reference only. Please contact us for the latest schedule & price if you need to book Tibet train ticket from us.

Fly from Chengdu to Lhasa

For those who want to experience the wonders of Tibet, flying from Chengdu to Lhasa is generally a convenient option. Only 1,311 kilometers separating Chengdu and Lhasa via air. The shortest way to get to the capital of Tibet is via plane, which takes around two hours from Chengdu. Views of the Tibetan Plateau and the Himalayas from above are beautiful, giving passengers a sneak peek into the magnificent terrain below. The breathtaking landscape and rich cultural legacy of Tibet will welcome you as soon as you land at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. To prevent altitude sickness, keep in mind to acclimatize to the high altitude gradually.

Fly from London to Xi’an, then Get to Tibet from Xi’an by Train or Flight

Traveling from London to Lhasa via Xi’an is an amazing journey. With just a less than 11-hour flight, you can land in an ancient city with profound history, which offers a distinctively different vibe from London. Embrace its history and culture by visiting renowned places such as Terracotta Warriors, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Drum Tower, Huaqing Palace, etc. Then, you can take a direct train or flight to Tibet.

Fly from London to Xi’an

It’s easy to get to Xi’an from London by air as many airlines offer direct or one-stop flight choices. A direct flight takes 10 hours and 25 minutes while a transfer method less than 20 hours. There are roughly 8,238 kilometers between Xi’an and London by air.

Explore Highlights in Xi’an

As a renowned cultural and historical center, Xi’an has many places worth visiting. Terracotta Warriors, famed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, is a must-see for every tourist in Xi’an. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is also a highlight of your Xi’an tour. It’s where Xuanzang, a famous monk and translator in the Tang Dynasty translated and taught Buddhism. Going to the Ancient City Wall located in the central area of Xian, you can have a panoramic view of this ancient city. Given time, you can spend a day driving to Mount Hua, one of the famous “Five Mountains” in China. It is regarded as the one with the most challenging hiking trail with only narrow trails clinging to the cliff and bottomless abysses only one step away. At the same time, its offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to explore Taoism. Don’t miss the dishes and snacks in there! You can get authentic cold noodles, pita bread port sandwiches, biang biang noodles and other delicious food from local restaurants and snack stores.

After Xi’an tour, you can travel from Xi'an to Tibet by train or flight

Take Tibet Train from Xi'an to Lhasa

Two Tibet trains stop at Xi’an Railway Station and take you to Lhasa in between 29 to 32 hours. This train ride traverses 2,864 kilometers, with breathtaking scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.

Notice:
The above schedule & price is for reference only. Please contact us for the latest schedule & price if you need to book Tibet train ticket from us.

Fly from Xi'an to Lhasa

Taking a flight from Xi’an to Tibet is a quicker choice. It only takes about 3hrs15mins to reach Lhasa. Currently, there are several airlines running between these two cities. You can choose up to your schedule and preferences.

Fly from London to Hong Kong, then Get to Tibet from Hong Kong by Train or Flight

Travelers traveling from London to Lhasa via Hong Kong have an exciting trip. Imagine leaving the sleepy European city and arriving in the bustling Hong Kong metropolis. Once you've left Hong Kong, you'll have to choose between flying to view the ancient city of Lhasa or boarding a train through its stunning landscape.

Fly from London to Hong Kong

Traveling from London to Hong Kong will take you to a world of rich cultural diversity and delicious cuisine, perfect for those who are dreaming of dim sum and stunning views. The trip is around 9648 kilometers and will take close to 12 hours.

Explore Highlights in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers a variety of attractions to suit the interests of visitors of all stripes. Climb Victoria Peak for breathtaking views, or take the well-known Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour for a charming perspective. Savor the colorful Temple Street Night Market, where a confusing assortment of sellers selling everything from souvenirs to local specialties can be found. Movie buffs may honor famous people at the Avenue of Stars, while families can enjoy endless thrills at Hong Kong Disneyland.

After the Hong Kong tour, you can travel from Hong Kong to Tibet by train or flight

There are no direct train or air services from Hong Kong to Lhasa. Traveling to Lhasa can be done by train or airplane. However, you must first make a trip anywhere in Chinese mainland cities.

Take Tibet Train from Hong Kong to Lhasa

By train, you can travel to Xining, Guangzhou, and lastly Lhasa. The entire trip takes between 35 and 48 hours, depending on when the trains link. Along this route, you can take in the breathtaking views of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which is sometimes referred to as the "Sky Train" because of its high altitude, and spend some time traveling in the modern high-speed train comfort. In contrast to flying, the cost is lower.

Fly from Hong Kong to Lhasa

You will need to take a journey to Chengdu first if you are traveling to Lhasa by plane, as Chengdu has a lot of connecting flights. With one layover, the fastest flight takes roughly six hours. There is no stoppage on the route from Chengdu to Lhasa. The air is the fastest way to get to Lhasa. This vacation is more expensive in terms of travel.

London to Tibet via Nepal

Fly from London to Nepal, then Get to Tibet from Kathmandu by Flight or Overland

Travelers seeking an exquisite experience may choose to take a flight from London to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. You can travel to Lhasa, Tibet, from there. You can go on a long road trip through glaciers and gorges, or you can take a quick flight over the majestic Himalayas.

Fly from London to Kathmandu

After landing by plane in Kathmandu, Nepal, take a land route to Lhasa. who appreciate taking in the amazing Himalayan landscape. The overland journey often begins at the border crossing at Gyirong and travels through Tibetan villages and monasteries. There aren't any direct flights operating at the moment between London and Lhasa. However, there is a simple way to go there by airline with just one stopover. Therefore, the flight including transit will last for about eleven hours and thirty-five minutes in total.

Explore Highlights in Kathmandu

Nepal provides exciting sports and a rich cultural background in addition to breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Explore Kathmandu's ancient temples, humming bazaars, and picturesque squares. Admire the magnificent Phewa Lake while strolling or parachute jumping in Pokhara. Travel through Chitwan National Park on jeep safaris to see tigers and rhinoceroses. Visits to Lumbini, the sacred pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha was born, are welcome. You can see the highest mountain in the world by trekking to Everest Base Camp.

After the Kathmandu tour, you can travel from Nepal to Tibet by flight or overland

There are two routes from Nepal to Tibet's Lhasa. both air travel and land travel. You can get to your location quickly via flying. Alternatively, you may decide to go overland. Traveling on land is less expensive than flying.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa

There may be direct flights from Kathmandu, Nepal, to Lhasa, Tibet. It takes one hour and twenty minutes to get from Nepal to Lhasa by plane. This is the fastest way.

Travel overland from Kathmandu to Lhasa

This road trip provides a special opportunity to experience the Himalayas in a relaxed and immersed manner without having to sacrifice the comforts of air travel. Take in the breathtaking views of the towering peaks rising from the untamed nature and flowing through valleys adorned with colourful prayer flags while traveling at your own pace and stopping at isolated settlements to experience Tibetan culture up close. Even though it may take longer than a flight, the experiences you have will surely last a lifetime. Take in the rush of adventure, the clean mountain air, and the ever-changing scenery as you cross one of the most stunning mountain ranges on the planet.

Tibet Travel Permit for British Tourists

All international travellers to Tibet must have a Tibet Travel Permit. The amount of work and season can affect how long it takes to process a travel permit to Tibet. It usually takes one to two weeks, though it may take longer during the busiest times of the year. UK travellers need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit in order to enter Tibet; these permits can be applied in Tibet from authorised tour operators. Sending the tour operator your itinerary, travel dates, and passport information is a requirement of the permission application process. When you apply to the local authorities, they will act as your representative. Tibet travel permits are typically issued for a certain itinerary and have a finite validity duration. If, instead of taking the Nepal route, you want to go to Tibet, you will also need a Chinese Group Visa. You may start your planned journey worry-free, step-by-step, with Tibet Horizon behind you.

Conclusion

Although there aren't any aircraft available that go straight from London to Tibet, you can fly to Nepal or Chinese Mainland first, and then take a vehicle, train, or plane to Lhasa. Your travel choices, time constraints, and financial position will all determine which option is best for you. For travels from London to Lhasa, we at Tibet Horizon, an established travel agency, offer a one-stop shop that handles hotel bookings, train and airline tickets, and the application for a Tibet travel permit.We hope to see all of you in Tibet!