Quick answer

Yes—you need permits and altitude preparation. Plan routes, respect local customs, and pack for high-altitude, dry conditions. Read below for visas, permits, timing, safety, transport, currency and practical tips.

Visa & entry requirements

• Chinese visa: All foreign visitors need a valid Chinese (PRC) visa obtained before travel. Apply via your nearest Chinese consulate/embassy.
• Tibet Travel Permit(s): In addition to a Chinese visa, foreign visitors must obtain the Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. You cannot enter Tibet (including Lhasa) without it.
  • How to get it: Usually arranged by a registered tour operator when you book an organized tour or hotel. You must provide passport copy and China visa details.
  • Arrival points: Permit is checked at entry to Tibet (e.g., at flights/train stations) and when leaving for other regions.
• Additional permits: If you plan to travel outside Lhasa (e.g., border areas, Everest region), you may need extra permits such as the Alien’s Travel Permit (issued in Lhasa) or Military Permit—your tour operator will arrange these.
• Independent travel: Independent/backpacker travel is effectively restricted. You must travel with a licensed local guide on an organized itinerary.

Best time to visit

• Peak season: May–September (warmest, many festivals). July–August have highest tourist volume.
• Shoulder seasons: April–May and September–October offer clearer skies, fewer crowds, comfortable daytime temps.
• Winter: November–March is cold, dry, fewer tourists; some attractions and services reduced but flights/train often cheaper.

Altitude & health

• Elevation: Lhasa sits around 3,650 m (11,975 ft). Altitude sickness is common for many visitors.
• Preparation: Rest on arrival (take 24–48 hours easy), avoid heavy exertion first 48 hours, hydrate, limit alcohol and smoking.
• Medication: Consult your doctor pre-trip about acetazolamide (Diamox) or other prophylactics. Carry basic medication, oxygen canisters, and be aware of symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, breathlessness—descend and seek medical help if severe.

Safety tips

• Acute health risks: Altitude-related illnesses are the main concern. Travel insurance with medical evacuation and high-altitude coverage is strongly recommended.
• Weather hazards: Strong UV; bring broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm.
• Crime: Lhasa is relatively safe with low violent crime; watch for petty theft in crowded places and markets.
• Political sensitivity: Tibet is politically sensitive. Avoid political demonstrations, provocative comments, and photographing military or security installations. Respect local and national laws.

Local customs & etiquette

• Respect Buddhism: Dress modestly in temples and monasteries; remove hats and shoes where required, keep quiet and follow signs.
• Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks and elders. Some monasteries restrict photography or charge a fee—obey staff instructions.
• Greetings & taboo topics: A simple greeting, modest behavior and avoiding political discussion about Tibetan independence or protests is wise.
• Offerings and circumambulation: When visiting temples (e.g., Jokhang, Barkhor), follow local practices like walking clockwise (kora) and avoiding stepping on thresholds or sacred items.

Currency & money

• Currency: Chinese yuan (CNY / RMB). Cash is widely used; ATMs available in Lhasa but may not accept all foreign cards reliably.
• Cards & mobile payments: Major hotels and larger shops accept UnionPay; international Visa/MasterCard acceptance is limited. Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common but require Chinese accounts—tourists often use cash or bank-card-compatible services.
• Tipping: Not customary in Tibetan culture; small tips in tourism-related services are appreciated but not expected.

Transportation & getting around

• Getting there: Flights to Lhasa Gonggar (LXA) are the fastest option from major Chinese cities. The Qinghai–Tibet Railway to Lhasa (Lhasa Railway Station) offers scenic highland travel from Xining/Beijing and provides time for acclimatization.
• Local transport: Taxis, hotel-arranged cars and small tour buses are common. Ride-hailing apps have limited availability. Agree fares or insist on meter use.
• Driving: Renting a car is possible but often restricted; many roads to remote regions require permits and/or guides.

Must-know tips & practical insights

• Book in advance: Permits, flights and accommodations fill quickly during high season and festival periods (e.g., Saga Dawa, Tibetan New Year).
• Tour operator: Use a licensed Tibet travel agency to handle permits, guides and logistics—this is mandatory for foreigners.
• Packing essentials: Layered clothing, warm jacket, hat, gloves, sturdy shoes, sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, reusable water bottle, basic first-aid kit, prescription meds, toilet paper (some public restrooms lack supplies), and small local-currency cash.
• Drinking water: Tap water is not recommended. Use bottled or boiled water; many hotels provide filtered water.
• Cultural attractions: Must-sees include Potala Palace (advance tickets often required), Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, Sera and Drepung Monasteries, Norbulingka, and nearby lakes (e.g., Yamdrok, Namtso if you have time and permits).
• Respect photography rules and opening hours. Potala Palace has limited daily visitor quotas—book early via your tour operator.
• Internet & connectivity: Mainland China firewall applies—many international sites/services are restricted. Consider VPNs before arrival (note legality and reliability vary). SIM cards and portable Wi‑Fi can be arranged but check coverage for remote areas.

Quick checklist

• Valid Chinese visa + Tibet Travel Permit (arranged via tour operator)
• Good travel/medical insurance with evacuation
• Altitude meds and plan to acclimatize
• Warm, layered clothing and UV protection
• Cash (CNY) and limited card expectations
• Respectful behavior in religious sites and around locals

Enjoy the spiritual landscape and unique culture—travel slowly, stay hydrated, and respect local rules for a safe, rewarding visit to Lhasa.