Planning a trip to Tibet? These Tibet travel tips will help you stay safe, avoid altitude sickness, and make the most of your experience in this highland paradise.
Tibet Travel Guide: 28 Things You Should Know Before You Go
Tibet, known as the “Roof of the World,” offers breathtaking landscapes, profound spiritual experiences, and a unique cultural heritage. But traveling to this high-altitude destination requires preparation. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or part of a group, here are 28 essential tips to help you make the most of your journey to Tibet.
1. Bring essential medication
Pack Rhodiola (to combat altitude sickness), ibuprofen, motion sickness pills, and any personal prescriptions.
2. Rest on the first day
Upon arrival, skip sightseeing. Go straight to your hotel and rest. Avoid showering or washing your hair on the first night.
3. Dress in layers
Tibet has large temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer. Pack layers and a good jacket.
4. Expect mild altitude sickness
Most visitors experience symptoms. Give yourself 2–3 days to adjust.
5. Don’t skip sunscreen and moisturizer
The sun and dry air are intense at high altitudes—skin care is essential.
6. Always wear sunglasses
The UV radiation is extremely strong. Good sunglasses will protect your eyes.
7. Mobile signals are available
China Telecom has the best coverage. China Mobile is decent. China Unicom may be unreliable.
8. Know your license plates
Official tour vehicles start with “L”. In Lhasa, it’s “AL”.
9. Clarify car rental terms
Ask if driver meals, tickets, and lodging are included in the price.
10. Avoid suspiciously cheap rides
Cheap cars may abandon you or charge more halfway. Stick with reputable services.
11. Skip low-cost tour buses
If you can afford it, opt for custom or small-group tours. Always ask if there’s forced shopping.
12. Consider small group tours
A good budget-friendly alternative to custom trips.
13. Mobile payment works
WeChat and Alipay are widely accepted. Bring less cash.
14. Budget $150–$500 USD
This should cover basic needs. Carry small denominations.
15. Expect higher prices in remote areas
Scarce resources mean higher prices for food and accommodation.
16. Food costs
Meals average around ¥80 ($10–$12) per person. Noodles: ¥20. Water: ¥3.
17. Hotels are basic
Even hotels charging ¥600 ($80+) may only match a basic 2-star standard.
18. Lhasa is walkable
A taxi costs about ¥15–¥30 to explore the whole city.
19. Public transport is reliable
Buses connect major sites. Mobile payment is accepted.
20. Stay near Potala Palace or Barkhor Street
Older, but offers convenience and Tibetan atmosphere.
21. Be cautious with souvenirs
Buy local products like saffron, Tibetan medicine, or Dzi beads with an expert’s help.
22. Try local snacks
Noodles, dumplings, yak burgers, and Tibetan yogurt are must-tries.
23. Butter tea or sweet tea?
Butter tea helps with altitude. If it’s too strong, sweet tea is a tasty alternative.
24. Visit a tea house
In Lhasa, you can enjoy a full afternoon in a tea house for just a few yuan.
25. Best souvenirs? Yak jerky
If you’re unsure what to bring back, yak meat snacks are a safe, authentic choice.
26. Avoid tourist trap trinkets
Many souvenirs sold at Barkhor Street are mass-produced and not locally made.
27. Don’t miss the Princess Wencheng show
It’s a cultural highlight. Buy tickets through a travel agency for better rates.
28. Experience a hot spring
Places like Yangbajing offer high-altitude hot springs—but don’t soak too long.