Beijing Tibet Tours

All foreign travelers are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Lhasa and Tibet. The permit can only be applied for through a registered travel agency in Tibet (we are local based Tibet travel agency with office setting in Lhasa) and is required to purchase flight or train tickets to Tibet. Travelers should plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the permit application process, as it can take  two weeks to obtain the necessary permits.

Extending 1,956 kilometers on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects, Xining (2,200m), capital of Qinghai Province, and Lhasa (3,650m), capital of Tibet. The train from Xining to Lhasa runs at an altitude of 4,000m above sea level, and the highest point is 5,072 m. For Xining Tibet Tours, you will usually spend a night in Xining, which is at 2,200m above sea level. This will help you adjust to the altitude before boarding the train.

Besides, taking the train via the Qinghai-Tibet Railway can actually help alleviate altitude sickness. The train is equipped with oxygen supply systems and pressurized carriages, which can regulate air pressure and provide additional oxygen to passengers.

Due to the high altitude, it is advisable to undergo a physical examination before traveling to Tibet. Be sure to let your companions or the train staff know whenever you feel unwell or need help. The people there are always willing to assist and are experienced in dealing with altitude. Most of our guests who finished their Xining Tibet Tour did not suffering altitude sickness.

TheQinghai-Tibet Railway means the train journey from Xining to Lhasa which is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.Take the train from Xining to Tibet, you will passing through vast grasslands, snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, yaks and herders’ tents, and barren deserts. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the journey for antelope, foxes, and Kiang, plus the occasional nomad.

There is even a popular song in China called “Take a train to Lhasa”. Listen to the beautiful songs during a train journey from Xining to Lhasa (about 21.5 hours by train) to appreciate the charming beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.

For a classic exploration from Lhasa to Mount Everest Base Camp, it is highly recommended to take our 8 Days Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Shigatse - Mount Everest - Lhasa tour.

Besides, if you plan to trek to the base camp, you will need to allow at least a few days for acclimatization before starting the trek. The trekking can take 4-5 days, depending on your pace and the route you take.

If you plan to visit other attractions in Tibet, such as Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake, Shigatse, or Mount Kailash, you will need to allow additional time, which may take around 8 to 15 days. The number of days required to visit Tibet Mount Everest depends on the route you take and the activities you plan to do. Please remember, all the tours can be customized to suit your preferences and needs.

The average elevation of the region is over 4,000 meters and altitude sickness is a common concern for travelers visiting Tibet. Not everybody will suffer from altitude sickness when traveling in Tibet and most visitors will be in good condition when they arrive.

The symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. It is important to allow time to acclimate to the high altitude and to take precautions to prevent altitude sickness. Travelers should drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and eat light meals that are high in carbohydrates. It is also recommended to take it easy for the first few days, avoiding strenuous activities and allowing time to adjust to the new altitude when arrive in Lhasa. Some travelers may also benefit from taking medication to prevent or treat altitude sickness.

If symptoms of altitude sickness persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Many hotels and travel agencies in Tibet have oxygen supplies on hand to help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. It is important to consult with a doctor before traveling to Tibet, especially if you have a history of heart or lung problems, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions that may be affected by high altitude.

Yes, Beijing is definitely worth visiting. As the capital city of China, Beijing is steeped in rich history and culture, and boasts a wealth of iconic landmarks and attractions. From the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China to the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace, there is no shortage of must-see sights in Beijing. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or modern-day city life, Beijing has something to offer for everyone.

By Air: The most common way to get to Tibet from Beijing is by air. There are direct flights from Beijing to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. The flight takes around 4-5 hours.

By Train: Another option is to take the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the highest railway in the world. The train journey from Beijing to Lhasa takes around 40 hours and offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau. However, it's important to note that the high altitude can cause altitude sickness, so it's recommended to acclimatize to the altitude by taking the train.

Beijing to Xining by Air and then Train to Tibet:
We highly recommend traveling from Beijing to Xining by flight first and then taking the Xining to Lhasa train via the famous Qinghai Tibet railway. As Xining is the starting point of the Qinghai Tibet railway, this approach allows you to enjoy the best part of the Tibet train journey in a much shorter time, which takes only 24 hours, with a comparison of a 40-hour journey from Beijing to Lhasa. Additionally, you'll have more train options to choose from in Xining, as there is only one train between Beijing and Lhasa.

Good News! The wait is finally over - Gyirong Port (China Nepal Border) is open to tourism and ready to welcome you with open arms, in 2023. Currently, the Gyirong Port is used for tourism, while the Zhangmu Port is primarily used for freight (not for tourists).