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Ultimate Guide on How to Board the Flights to Tibet (Latest Version)

Jul 9, 2024 6:59 By

For the majority of foreign travelers who have never been to China, taking flights to Tibet may be an experience of a lifetime. If you are planning on your first visit to Tibet, you will be probably confused about the boarding procedures.

To offer you a seamless and hassle-free trip to Tibet, we have summarized a detailed guide on how to board the flight to Tibet as follows, thus you can enjoy your flight journey to Tibet from the mainland of China much more smoothly.

Step 1: Get Your Tibet Travel Permit beforehand (Important)

When flying to Tibet, ensure you have your passport, Chinese Visa, and Tibet Travel Permit with you; all three are essential for boarding your flight.

Your passport and Chinese Visa are the primary documents required for entering China and obtaining the Tibet Travel Permit. The Tibet Travel Permit, also known as China Tibet Visa, is the required document for all foreign tourists visiting Lhasa and exploring Tibet.

Tibet Travel PermitTibet Travel Permit is an indispensable travel document for Tibet entry.

The Tibet Permit application typically takes 7 to 14 working days, so it’s advisable to book your Tibet tour at least 21 days in advance. Once the permit is issued, we will send your Tibet Travel Permit to your hotel in the city where you are scheduled to board the flight. In some cases, like an emergency or transfer, we will deliver it right to your hand at the airport before departure.

It’s important to note that you have to show the original Tibet Travel Permit when you check in and board the plane to Tibet. Please keep your documents properly.

Please Note:
If you are from a country that has visa-free access to China, you only need to provide scanned copies of your passport when applying for the Tibet Travel Permit.

Step 2: Reach the Airport at least 2 hours in Advance

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights from the mainland of China to Tibet. Typically, check-in counters close 45 minutes before departure, so it’s essential to allocate enough time for all the procedures, especially during peak travel seasons like the summer holiday and, the Golden Week holiday.

Direction boardSigns can be found almost everywhere in the airport

Before heading to the airport, it’s strongly recommended to confirm the correct airport and the terminal location. In some major gateway cities like Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai, there are two airports offering flights to Tibet. Additionally, large airports in big cities always have several terminals located far apart.

Therefore, it's wise to double-check your departure airport and terminal to avoid unnecessary rushing and delays.

Step 3: Get Your Boarding Pass (Check-in) with Your Passport and Tibet Permit (Important)

Upon your arrival at the airport, find the check-in counter for your airline. There is always a display screen in each airport, showing the corresponding check-in counter information for each airline.

You need to show your passport together with your Tibet Travel Permit to the clerk, and they will give you a boarding pass that shows the flight number, boarding time, boarding gate, destination, and seat number.

Boarding PassBoarding Pass showing flight number, boarding time, boarding gate, destination and seat number

Step 4: Check-in Your Luggage

Usually, economy class flights to Tibet allow up to 20kg of checked luggage, along with a carry-on weighing up to 5kg. If your luggage exceeds these limits, you'll need to pay extra charges for the excess weight.

Remember, you can't pack power banks in your checked luggage; always carry them in your carry-on bag. Also, don't rush off right after grabbing your luggage. Wait for the announcement to ensure everything went smoothly with your checked baggage.

Please Note:
If you're uncertain about the baggage allowance for your flight or any specific restrictions, don't hesitate to reach out to your airline for clarification.

Check your luggageCheck your luggage if you bring a large one

Step 5: Pass through the Security Check

Going through the security check is a necessary process that involves queuing and takes some time.

Firstly, you need to present your boarding pass and passport to the staff, who will stamp your boarding pass upon approval. Then, before you pass through the security door, you should take off your bag, remove items from your bag, such as cell phones, laptops, power banks, umbrellas, etc., and place them in the basket on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening.

Please remain patient and ensure you collect all your belongings after completing the security check.

Pass through security checkPass through security check

Step 6: Waiting for Your Plane to Tibet

After the security check, find the corresponding departure lounge of the boarding gate shown on your boarding pass and wait for your flight to Tibet. The position of the departure lounge is also indicated on the display screen.

In large airports like Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, the boarding gate may be a considerable distance from the security checkpoint, so please allow enough time to reach it. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to seek assistance from airport staff.

Usually, boarding begins approximately about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Boarding announcements are typically made only in the vicinity of the boarding gate in larger airports, so be sure to keep an eye on the time and stay close to your designated gate.

Step 7: Boarding the Flight to Tibet (Important)

When boarding, you should show your boarding pass and the Tibet Travel Permit to the attendant at the boarding gate. After boarding, find your seat according to your boarding pass.

Boarding the flightBoarding the flight

When you are finally able to get in your seat, place your hand luggage under the seat in front of you. Fasten your seatbelt and switch off your phone before the flight takes off. During the flight, you may be offered free drinks or food at mealtime. If there is any question, you can just turn to the flight attendant.

Step 8: Disembark the flight

After a few hours in the air, your plane will touch down at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Stay calm and listen for instructions from the announcements as you disembark. Once off the plane, make sure to collect your luggage from the designated area.

Lhasa Gonggar Airport is simple to navigate, with just two floors. Head to the first floor for baggage claim - it's well-signposted. Retrieve your luggage and exit the airport with ease.

Step 9: Meet Our Guide at the Airport for Hotel Pick-up (Welcome to Tibet)

As you exit the gate of the airport arrival hall, our tour guide will warmly greet you with a traditional white hada, extending the most sincere welcome.

Lhasa Gonggar AirportArrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport

Following this, our tour guide and driver will take you to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. During the journey, you'll be treated to stunning views along the Brahmaputra River and Lhasa River.

If you want to know more about our free pick-up service, just feel free to contact us. We can also arrange a private pick-up just for you.

Travel Tips for Flying to Tibet

Due to its high altitude of Lhasa (3,650m), you may suffer from mild altitude sickness, such as headache, upon arrival at Lhasa airport. Take your time when retrieving your luggage and avoid rushing. Our tour guide will be waiting patiently outside the airport.

After leaving the airport, do not exert yourself and never rush to visit attractions in downtown Lhasa. It's recommended to go to your hotel and rest first, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude and recover from the long flight.

Conclusion

Boarding a flight to Tibet offers a glimpse into the bustling airports of China, especially in major cities. It's essential to know your departure airport and terminal, as some big cities have more than one airport. Expect queues for boarding passes and security checks, so arriving at least 2 hours early is recommended.

Most importantly, ensure you have a valid passport and the Tibet Travel Permit to board the flight. Without these, you won't be allowed to travel to Tibet.

To ensure a hassle-free Tibet tour, we handle everything from Tibet Travel Permit applications to airport pickups, tour arrangements, and even booking your flight tickets. Just tell us your travel plan, and let us make your dream trip to Tibet a reality.

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34 Comment ON "Ultimate Guide on How to Board the Flights to Tibet (Latest Version)"

Jun 21, 2024 2:17
Asked by Ke** from Singapore

Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash

Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin

Jun 21, 2024 2:17
Answered by Tibet Vista

Thanks for your inquiry. Our travel expert will send you a detailed itinerary according to your plan and help you arrange the best trip. Please check your email box.

Jun 21, 2024 12:30
Asked by Debo** from USA

Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.

Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah

Jun 21, 2024 12:31
Answered by Tibet Vista

Thank you for your inquiry. Travel time by vehicle depends on your route. For tours outside Lhasa, it often involves several hours of driving, with opportunities for short stops in local villages. Our one-on-one travel consultant will contact you to learn more about your plans and provide detailed schedules based on your route.

Jun 20, 2024 6:59
Asked by S** from HongKong

Tibet Tour from HK

May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you

Jun 20, 2024 7:00
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Shek, Thank you for reaching out and we are here to help. For Hong Kong residents that want to travel to Tibet, a Tibet Travel permit is not required, as long as you have the HKSAR passport, as well as the Home Return Permit (HRP). Officially known as the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, the HRP can be issued to Chinese nationals that are permanent residents of Hong Kong in order to enter mainland China. Cheers!

Jun 20, 2024 2:30
Asked by Na** from USA

Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?

Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?

Jun 20, 2024 2:30
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nayak, Thank you for reaching out! We're here to help. Well, for Indian passport holders who plan to visit Mt. Kailash, you have to book your Tibet tour with a licensed Nepali or Indian travel agency that is authorized by the Foreign Affairs Office of TAR or Pilgrim Center (also known as Tibet-India Pilgrim Reception Center) to get your Tibet Travel Permit and run your Tibet tour. If you are an Indian origin who lives outside of India and have another passport, let's say a US or Canadian passport, in this case, we can help you get the Tibet Travel Permit and other travel documents and arrange the Mt. Kailash tours for you.

Jun 16, 2024 9:40
Asked by A** from Singapore

Enquiry on private tour

We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.

Jun 16, 2024 9:40
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Azmi, Thanks for your inquiry. A viable option is to fly from HK to Chengdu and later take Chengdu-Lhasa train to Lhasa. You may enjoy the Lhasa to EBC tour from Lhasa to Gyantse, Shigatse, and EBC, which is the most popular itineraries in Tibet. Our travel consultants will have a detailed discussion with you and give you an accurate quotation. Looking forward to seeing you in Lhasa. Best Wishes.

Jun 15, 2024 11:14
Asked by Na** from Canada

We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa

Hello We are a family of 3 (2 adults, 1 child) and would like to visit Tibet again in 2025. We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa, then stay in Lhasa and mostly just walk around Barkhor, but also visit 3 monasteries: Sera (by bus), Drak Yerpa (by pilgrimage bus) and Tschokhang. We would like to stay in Lhasa for 10 days total, then leave by plane. Can you arrange a permit for this trip for us (3 Canadians)? Best regards, Brigitte Mueller

Jun 15, 2024 11:14
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nancy, We appreciate your message and are here to help. Of course, it is our great privilege to arrange a private Lhasa family tour for your family and help you secure the Tibet Travel Permit and Xining-Lhasa train ticket to Lhasa. Our friendly travel consultants will discuss with you for more details and help you plan an uplifting Tibet tour. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:12
Asked by Gr** from Canada

The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply

I heard from my friend that says there is difference between the above mentioned are: "Individual Tibet Entry Permit" - Individual Entering Tibet is granted. "Group Tibet Entry Permit" - Anyone from the group is Absent, the whole group is deny entry. May I know which one is the correct facts?

Jun 15, 2024 11:12
Answered by Tibet Vista

Tibet Travel Permit, the required travel document for entering Tibet Autonomous Region, has no distinction between individual and group. . What your friends might have mentioned is the Group Visa, specifically required for entry into Tibet from Nepal. You'll have to apply for the Group Visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, and you'll need at least four people in your group. You'll all have to enter and leave Tibet together. But if you're entering Tibet from mainland China, you don't need this group thing. Our travel consultant will contact you with more details and help you arrange your trip to Tibet.
Jun 15, 2024 11:10
Asked by Tam** from Singapore

Sightseeing Potala Palace

I would like to travel to Tibet in September 2024 from Kathmandu. Sightseeing Potala Palace, Jokhang temple and many more.

Jun 15, 2024 11:10
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Tamang, We appreciate your message and are here to help. September is a perfect time to travel from Kathmandu to Tibet. You can sign up for our 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa overland small group tour via Gyirong, EBC and Shigatse. This tour has fixed departures on Sept 6/13/20/27 and you can travel with other global travelers to share the tour cost. Another great option is to fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa and book the 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Small Group Tour to admire the majestic Himalayan range and travel across Lhasa and Shigatse, two of the biggest cities in Tibet. For both ways, our travel agents will help you get your Tibet Travel Permit and other travel documents needed and arrange the accommodations, local expert guide, etc. based on your travel preferences and interests. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:06
Asked by Ka** from Singapore

plan to travel to Mount Kailash

Hi I am Indian residing in Singapore and plan to travel to Mount Kailash in first week of September. I am all by myself and would like to join any travel group. How do i apply for tibet visa? How do i apply for Chinese visa? Could you help me with Travel Itinerary? Regards.

Jun 15, 2024 11:06
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Kadam, We appreciate your message and are here to help. If you are an Indian national with a Singapore passport, you can sign up for our 15-day Kailash and Manasarova Small Group Tour that departs on Sept, 1st. Firstly, you need to go to the Chinese Embassy in Singapore and fill out the application form to apply for the Chinese Visa yourself. After you get your Chinese Visa, you are expected to email the photos of your Singapore passport information page and Chinese Visa page to us to apply for Tibet Travel Permit on your behalf. Remember to do this at least 20 days before your departure to Tibet. We will manage to deliver the Tibet Travel Permit to your hotel in the Chinese arrival city. So, you can show the Tibet Permit and board the flight or train to Lhasa. Our expert travel agents will offer you more details and help you plan a seamless Lhasa to Mt. Kailash tour. Cheers!
Jun 15, 2024 11:04
Asked by Nyen** from India

Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit

Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit, we are three people and 2 adults and 1 infant 2 Indian Passport and 1 Nepal passport. we have applied for a China visa also.

Jun 15, 2024 11:04
Answered by Tibet Vista

Dear Nyendak, Thank you for reaching out! Well, if you have applied a China Visa, a great option is to email the image of your Chinese visa page to us and we can help you apply for Tibet Travel Permit on your behalf. So, you can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa for Tibet visit. A recommended tour for you is 5 Days Lhasa and Yamdrok Lake Small Group Tour where you can visit the landmarks of Tibetan monasteries in Lhasa and explore the holy turquoise Yamdrok Lake on a short excursion. Another important thing to consider is that due to the high elevation and thin air in Tibet, do consult a doctor to decide if it is safe to bring the infant to Tibet for travel with you. Our expert travel consultants will discuss more with you and help you plan a perfect Tibet journey. Cheers!

Check All Tibet Travel FAQs Here