Lhasa and Tibet,
at 3,650 metres
Tibet is not just another destination: it requires a permit, a mandatory guide and respect for an altitude that punishes rushing. In return, there is nothing else like it.
To enter the Tibet Autonomous Region you need a travel permit arranged through a Chinese agency, a guide throughout your stay and an itinerary approved in advance. You cannot travel independently.
Altitude is the second factor. Lhasa sits at 3,650 m and arriving by plane from sea level is a shock. We always build in a first day with no activity and a gradual climb if the trip continues to Shigatse or Everest.
What to see
Potala Palace
Tibet's most recognisable building: 13 storeys, 1,000 rooms and the Dalai Lamas' residence until 1959. Entry is capped and timed.
Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street
The spiritual heart of Lhasa. Pilgrims circle the temple clockwise all day; the street around it is the liveliest part of the city.
Sera Monastery and the monk debates
Every afternoon monks debate philosophy with claps in the courtyard. One of the most memorable scenes of the trip.
Norbulingka Palace
The former summer palace, with gardens and pavilions. Quieter than the Potala and lovely in the morning.
Yamdrok Lake and Shigatse
If the itinerary extends, the turquoise lake at 4,400 m and Tashilhunpo Monastery are the two classic stops.
Everest Base Camp (advanced)
Only with an extra permit and very good acclimatisation. You go from 3,650 to 5,200 m: not an add-on to recommend without preparation.
Permits: how it really works
The permit is applied for after your flights or train are confirmed and your Chinese visa is in order, and you must submit scanned passports for the whole group in advance. It is not issued to individual travellers: it is always tied to an itinerary and a guide.
- A valid Chinese visa (or residence permit) first.
- Scanned passports for the group, at least 15 days ahead.
- A fixed, approved itinerary; route changes on the ground aren't always possible.
- A guide accompanying you throughout your stay.
- Extra permits for border areas or Everest.
Altitude: how to climb safely
Our rule is simple: on day one in Lhasa, no sightseeing. Rest, drink plenty of water, no alcohol and no exertion. Day two, light activity. From day three, you can think about going higher.
- Night 1 — complete rest; this is when headaches and insomnia hit hardest.
- Day 2 — Jokhang and Barkhor, slow pace, no climbing.
- Day 3 — Potala (there are 300 steps before you even get inside) and Sera.
- Day 4 onwards — trips to higher ground, always gradual.
Combining Tibet with Qinghai and Gansu
For first-timers at altitude, we recommend entering the plateau by road: the Qinghai–Gansu Grand Route climbs from 1,100 to 3,200 m so gradually that you acclimatise without noticing. The jump to Lhasa is then far easier to tolerate.
- Don't photograph people or religious images without clear permission.
- Always walk clockwise around monasteries and stupas.
- Don't touch anyone's head, and never point at statues with one finger.
- The permit can be refused or delayed on sensitive dates — build in a buffer, and book high-season flights to Lhasa as early as you can.
Frequently asked questions
Can I travel to Tibet independently?
Do I need a permit for the Tibetan areas of Gansu, Qinghai or Sichuan?
Is it worth it if I only have four days?
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