Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Lhasa

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# 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 prophylactic

Lhasa Travel Questions & Answers

Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Lhasa

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