Tibet 5-Day Tour: Lhasa & Qinghai–Tibet Railway | Small Group Experience

Tibet Discovery 5 Days

Discover Tibet in just 5 days! Carefully selected must-see highlights — your dream trip to Tibet starts now!

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Duration

5 Days 4 Nights

China Travel Itinerary ICON
Route

Lhasa ->Yamdrok Lake -> Karola Glacier -> Lhasa ->Qinghai-Tibet Railway ->Shigatse

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Group Size

Starting from 4 persons, 10 persons full tour

Solo travelers welcome to join

China National Travel Service (CITS) gives travelers the promise of maximum fun ICON
Integrity Commitment

100% authentic, no shopping stops

5,000CNY for breach of promise

China International Travel Service (CITS) chooses hotels that are absolutely comfortable and new ICON.
Premium Accommodation

Carefully selected 4-star hotels in Lhasa ・ 4-star standard or above throughout the trip

※Taking a soft sleeper on the Qinghai-Tibet Train

CITS China Travel ICON with exclusive itineraries forever.
CITS2Go Exclusive

2025 New Luxury Tourist Bus

Complimentary High-Altitude Travel Insurance

Potala Palace Afternoon Tea

Personalized Dryland Scallion Pulling Video

Blessings from Saronda

Scenic Spot Hanging Sutra Flags for Blessings

From 7,580CNY

Itinerary Map

Lhasa-Tibet Railway Journey Map

Tibet 5-Day Adventure | Lhasa, Shannan & Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Day1
Chengdu/Chongqing (or other places) to Lhasa
Tibet Select China Tour - Suitable for foreign travelers from Taiwan, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

Take the plane to Lhasa, 24-hour pick-up sign to pick up the train, dedicated car, directly to the hotel. Lhasa Tibetan language meaning "God's place of residence", known as the "City of Light", is the Tibetan people's spiritual home. First arrived in the plateau, please slow down the rhythm of meditation to feel the snowy sacred city of tranquility and mystery.

★ Helpful Reminder:
On the first day of arrival, please rest more and avoid strenuous activities and high places. Drink plenty of warm water, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and avoid hot baths to help you adapt to the plateau.

Meals on your own

Oxygen Hotel Lhasa Jomolangtse or similar oxygen hotel

Day2
Lhasa City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street & Potala Palace Afternoon Tea
Potala Palace Tibet tour package-CITS Tibet tour group guest photo

A deeper experience of Lhasa's religious and humanistic coreThe Potala Palace, overlooking the holy city; stroll along the bustling Barkhor Street, immersed in the ancient bazaar and the atmosphere of faith; and finally enter the Da Zhao Monastery, to appreciate the sacredness and solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism, which is an experience closest to the soul of Tibet.

➤ Potala Palace

A representative World Heritage Site in Tibet! The palace, monastery and lingam are all in one, with a collection of Buddha statues and thangkas. The view of Lhasa and the old city of Barkhor is magnificent and sacred.

➤ Barkhor Street

Lhasa's must-stop meridian path! Surrounding the Da Zhao Monastery, both sides are full of handicrafts and thangka stores, so you can stroll around without missing a beat.

➤ Jokhang Temple

"The heart of Tibet, the most important temple in Tibet. The temple enshrines the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and is a fusion of Tibetan, Tang and Nepalese architectural styles.

★ Sweet Tea Afternoon Tea
Exclusive gift! Enjoy a relaxing and ceremonial meal with sweet tea and Tibetan dim sum while admiring the Potala Palace.

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast
Afternoon Tea: Afternoon Tea with Potala Palace View

Chomolangtse Oxygen Hotel, Lhasa (2024, diffused oxygen)
or equivalent oxygenated hotels

Day3
Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Lhasa
Sheep Lake China2go recommended the most beautiful trip attractions

From the sacred lake to the wonders of the snowy region: early morning visit to the turquoise blue Yamdrok Yumtso, enjoy the highland lake and mountains; then close up to look at the magnificent Karola Glacier, feel the classic attractions of Shannan and Tibet.

➤ Yamdrok Yumtso

One of the Three Sacred Lakes of Tibet, its crystal-blue waters shimmer like gemstones, changing hues with the light. Believed to be an incarnation of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Compassion, the lake is a revered pilgrimage site where travelers seek blessings, good fortune, and spiritual pea

➤ Karjola Glacier

The most spectacular highway glacier! At an altitude of 5,600 meters, the ice wall is as vertical as a giant icefall. Experience the pure white world of snow-capped mountains and blue sky from a close distance.

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

Oxygen Hotel Lhasa Jomolangtse or similar oxygen hotel

Day4
Lhasa – Xining (Qinghai–Tibet Railway Soft Sleeper)
Photos along the Qinghai-Tibet Train

Choosing the Lhasa → Xining direction has the following advantages:

Altitude acclimatization: First adapt to the plateau in Lhasa, then gradually descend by train, which helps ease altitude sickness.

Sunrise view: If you take an evening departure, you can enjoy the spectacular plateau sunrise near the Tanggula Mountain Pass in the early morning.

Scenic progression: Experience snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and lakes first, then return to lower-altitude cities — from grandeur back to the warmth of daily life.

Highlights along the Qinghai–Tibet Railway
Departing from Lhasa, you will see along the way:

Nyenchen Tanglha Mountain Range

Snow-covered peaks stretching into view.

Nagqu Grassland

Vast and boundless, with Tibetan antelopes occasionally in sight.

Dangla or Tanggula mountain pass on the Qinhai-Tibet plateau

At an altitude of 5,072 meters, this is the highest point along the entire railway.

Hoh Xil Nature Reserve

You may spot wild animals such as Tibetan wild donkeys and antelopes.

Qinghai Lake

Before arriving in Xining, you can admire the vast blue waters of China’s largest inland lake.

The front of the Qinghai-Tibet Train at Xining Station.

Breakfast: Hotel breakfast

– Qinghai–Tibet Railway (Soft Sleeper)

Day5
Arrival in Xining
Xining representative building-cits travel

Qinghai derives its name from Qinghai Lake, the largest inland saltwater lake in China. Since ancient times, Qinghai has been an important passage on the southern route of the Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road. The province is home to diverse ethnic groups including Tibetans, Hui, Mongols, Salar, and Tu, creating a unique blend of cultures and religions. Here you can find Tibetan Buddhist sacred sites, Islamic mosques, and traditional nomadic culture — all coexisting in harmony and showcasing the rich diversity of Qinghai.

End of Tibet Discovery 5-Day Tour

Follow-up arrangements…
The tour ends in Xining. Guests may purchase their own return flight/train tickets, or ask us for assistance with booking and travel advice.
If you wish to extend your trip with additional sightseeing in Xining (such as Qinghai Lake or Ta’er Monastery), please let us know in advance and we will arrange a customized tour for you.

Introduction to the Qinghai–Tibet Railway

Meals on your own

For any additional requests, we can help arrange and book extra services.
Please consult our travel advisor.

Pricing Details

Tour Price Includes
  • Transportation: 9-seat VIP Deluxe Coach for groups of 4-6 persons; 8-10 persons will be upgraded to the latest 2+1 Premium Coach. All vehicles are 2025 qualified models, ensuring comfort, safety and peace of mind.
  • Accommodation:Accommodation is provided in double rooms throughout the tour, but single occupancy is subject to a supplement. Our selection of quality hotels in Tibet (4-diamond standard, not more than 4 years old or renovated) ensures that every guest enjoys a comfortable experience.
  • Insurance Plus:The tour includes travel agency liability insurance and vehicle seat insurance. In addition, we provide extra high-altitude travel insurance with coverage of up to CNY 500,000, ensuring greater peace of mind throughout your journey.
  • Professional license:We provide full assistance with all required travel permits, including the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien’s Travel Permit, and Military Area Permit, handling all procedures on your behalf—so you can focus entirely on enjoying the journey.
  • Ticket Arrangement:Tickets for sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary and sightseeing bus tickets are included.Qinghai-Tibet Train Sleeper TicketWe have a lot of reservations for the Potala Palace route 1 and other areas. Reservations for Potala Palace Route 1 and other attractions will be made in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
  • Dedicated drivers:A professional driver with extensive high-altitude driving experience will be arranged, providing attentive and safe driving service throughout the journey.
  • Professional tour guides:A professional English-speaking guide will accompany the group throughout the journey, with one guide assigned per vehicle to ensure attentive and personalized service. If guides in other languages are required, please inform our travel consultant in advance for assistance with arrangements.
  • Peace of mind preparation:Each vehicle is equipped with a 4-liter medical-grade oxygen cylinder and glucose supplies. In addition, each guest is provided with a portable oxygen canister, ensuring greater comfort and peace of mind in high-altitude conditions.
  • Thoughtful ServicesEach guest will receive a traditional ceremonial khata scarf as a welcome gift. Additionally, two bottles of mineral water are provided daily to ensure proper hydration throughout the journey.
  • Exclusive Transfers:Private transfer service is provided from Tibet airports or railway stations, with no ride-sharing throughout the journey. Guests are greeted upon arrival and assisted with luggage handling, ensuring a seamless and convenient travel experience from the very first moment.

We understand that insurance is one of the biggest concerns when traveling to Tibet. That’s why we include essential travel insurance for all our guests, at no extra cost.
Comprehensive coverage with four essential insurance protections included: Travel Accident Insurance, Tour Vehicle Seat Insurance, Travel Agency Liability Insurance, and High-Altitude Travel Insurance—ensuring complete peace of mind throughout your journey.

Tour Price Excludes
  • Meals:Hotel breakfasts as specified in the itinerary are included. Other meals are at guests’ own expense, with guide assistance available upon request.
  • Optional Expenses:Any additional activities outside the itinerary, as well as personal expenses, are not included in the tour price.Guests may choose to participate at their own discretion.
  • Long-Distance TransportationAirfare or train tickets from the departure city to Lhasa and back are not included in the tour price. We can recommend suitable flight or train options, and booking assistance is available upon request to make your journey planning easier and more convenient.
  • Tips:A suggested gratuity of CNY 60 per person per day is recommended for the driver and guide (CNY 30 each), as a gesture of appreciation for their professional service.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Important Information for Joining a Tibet Tour
  • Eligible Travelers:This tour is open to travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, as well as visa-free or visa-facilitated countries such as Malaysia and Singapore. Travelers of other nationalities are kindly requested to confirm eligibility with our travel consultant in advance.
  • Refund Terms:(according to the standards of the Observatory)
    1. Date of departure... 41 days or more before departureCancellation will incur a penalty of 5% of the total tour cost.
    2. Date of departure... 31–40 days before departureCancellation will incur a penalty of 10% of the total tour cost..
    3. Date of departure... 21–30 days before departureCancellation will incur a penalty of 20% of the total tour cost.
    4. Date of departure... 2–20 days before departureCancellation will incur a penalty of 30% of the total tour cost.
    5. Date of departure... 1 day before departureCancellation will incur a penalty of 50% of the total tour cost.
    6. Date of departure... On the day of departure or afterCancellation will incur a penalty of 100% of the total tour cost.
  • Force Majeure Clause:In the event that additional expenses arise due to force majeure factors, such as natural disasters or flight delays, the travel agency shall not be liable for compensation. However, we will make every effort to provide assistance and support in handling the situation.
  • Early Termination of the Tour:Any early withdrawal or failure to participate in scheduled activities for personal reasons shall be deemed a voluntary abandonment, and all payments made are non-refundable.
  • Admission Ticket Policy:From June to September, Tibet is a peak travel season. Potala Palace tickets require advance reservation, and visiting times may be adjusted due to capacity limits or regulatory measures.
  • Itinerary Flexibility:The itinerary sequence may be modified due to on-site conditions, while ensuring that all planned attractions are delivered as scheduled in terms of standard and quality.
  • Health Recommendations:Travelers with high blood pressure, heart conditions, asthma, or recent colds are advised to consult a physician prior to booking to confirm their suitability for high-altitude travel.
  • Conditions of Participation:Due to limited local tourism reception conditions in Tibet, travelers are kindly asked to maintain reasonable expectations and respect local culture and customs throughout the journey.
  • Accommodation arrangements:Solo participants will be matched with a same-gender roommate where possible. Should this not be feasible, a single room supplement will be required.
  • No Forced Shopping:We guarantee a 100% shopping-free itinerary.If you are found to have made a compulsory purchase, you will be refunded 5000 CNY.
  • Optional Activities:Optional activities, if available, will be explained by the guide according to the tour schedule, and participation is completely voluntary.
  • Language Services:An English-speaking guide is arranged by default. If a guide in another language is required, please inform us in advance so that arrangements can be made accordingly.

Tibet tours are arranged with Chinese- or English-speaking guides by default. If guides in other languages are required, please inform us in advance and we will assist with the arrangements.

Optional Services
  • Oxygen supplementation: Each guest is equipped with 1 bottle of portable oxygen canister, which can be used immediately in case of minor discomfort during the trip, thus providing greater peace of mind when coping with the high altitude environment.
  • Daily mineral water: Each guest is provided with two bottles (300 ml each) of mineral water per day, helping maintain proper hydration and reduce discomfort caused by the dry high-altitude climate.
  • Onboard Medical Oxygen: Each vehicle is equipped with a 4-liter medical-grade oxygen cylinder to respond to emergency situations and ensure safety throughout the journey.
  • Blessing Sutra Event: Each guest may take part in a prayer flag hanging ritual, experiencing Tibetan culture firsthand and creating a special and meaningful memory of the journey.
  • Health Limitations: Travelers with a history of severe hypertension, heart disease, asthma, or other chronic medical conditions are strongly advised not to participate, as high-altitude travel may pose risks to health and safety.
  • Special Requirements for Taiwan Travelers: Travelers aged 65 and above must provide a medical certificate issued by a hospital, including blood pressure, blood sugar, heart rate, and a doctor’s note stating “fit for high-altitude travel,” stamped by both the physician and the hospital.
    (Travelers from other regions are not subject to this requirement.)
  • Travelers Not Recommended to Join: Travelers who are pregnant, have diabetes requiring insulin injections, a history of brain or ophthalmic surgery, lung diseases, or major surgical procedures are strongly advised to avoid high-altitude tours, as such environments may pose potential health risks.
High-Altitude Travel Notes
  • Guests are advised to refrain from intense physical activity upon arrival and to avoid bathing during the first two days to support proper altitude acclimatization.
  • Please carry sun protection items such as sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen to protect yourself from strong ultraviolet exposure at high altitude.
  • Altitude sickness is a normal reaction at high elevations, and most travelers gradually adapt within 1 to 3 days. If you experience any discomfort, please inform your guide immediately.
  • As travel distances can be long, guests are advised to bring their own snacks and dry food to help replenish energy and maintain stamina during the journey.
  • Guests who maintain regular fitness routines are advised to suspend strenuous exercise prior to high-altitude travel.
  • Guests may consider preparing appropriate high-altitude medications in advance, based on personal needs and medical advice.
  • Keep good sleep and rest, and avoid staying up late to help your body adapt to the plateau environment faster.
  • Maintain a light and balanced diet, eat more vegetables and fruits, and avoid overeating and alcohol, as these may increase strain on the digestive system and the heart–lung function at high altitude.
  • Wear warm, layered clothing, as temperature differences between day and night can be significant at high altitude. Adjust layers as needed to avoid catching a cold, which helps reduce the risk of altitude-related discomfort.
  • If you feel unwell during the journey, try slow, deep breathing, and use the onboard oxygen supply or your portable oxygen canister as needed. In the evening, you may also consider using oxygen equipment provided at the hotel to help relieve discomfort.
  • Please remain relaxed and avoid excessive tension or anxiety, as psychological stress may also intensify altitude-related discomfort.
  • When traveling in Tibet, it is recommended to moderately consume local butter tea, which may help alleviate altitude-related discomfort and boost energy levels.

 

How to Book Flights to Tibet

CITS2Go is committed to delivering a travel experience unlike any you’ve had before—crafted especially for our valued guests.
The meeting point for this tour is Lhasa, and guests from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, etc. can choose to travel to the meeting point by plane or train.

As the Tibet Travel Permit application is based on flight or train information, guests must confirm their flight or train schedule with our travel consultant before purchasing tickets, in order to ensure a smooth permit application process.

For airfare arrangements, guests may choose to have CITS2Go assist with ticket booking. However, we recommend booking flights independently, as this allows you to earn credit card miles or reward points and enjoy greater flexibility in planning pre- and post-tour travel, creating a more personalized and seamless journey.

Why Are Meals Not Included?

CITS2Go aims to offer our valued guests greater flexibility and freedom of choice throughout their journey.

Breakfast is arranged daily, while time for other main meals is left to our guests’ own discretion, allowing greater freedom and flexibility in dining choices:
In Lhasa, Shigatse, and along the route to Mount Everest, guests are free to explore a wide variety of local dining options—from Tibetan and Chinese cuisine to street food and hot pot—all chosen according to personal preference, with no restrictions.

By not pre-arranging group meals, the itinerary becomes more flexible, offers greater freedom of taste, and avoids the limitations and unnecessary waste often associated with standardized group dining.

In special situations or when time is limited, the guide may assist in arranging or pre-ordering meals and will inform guests in advance. Participation is entirely optional, and individual preferences are fully respected.

Dining freely allows you to truly savor the unique flavors of Tibet.

 

Important Notes for Tibet Travel Permit Application
    • Tibet Travel Permit Application NotesTravelers holding foreign passports or Taiwan travel documents are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit when traveling to Tibet. Our company will handle the entire application process on your behalf—guests simply need to provide the required information as requested.
    • Travelers from Hong Kong and Macau are not required to apply for a Tibet Travel Permit. All necessary
    • Required Documents:
      • A scanned copy of the passport information page (Required for travelers other than those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan)
      • A copy of a Chinese visa or Taiwan Compatriot Permit, depending on the traveler’s nationality/status.
      • Some special itineraries may require additional documents, such as military area permits. Our company will inform guests in advance if such documents are required.
    • Processing Time:The letter of entry to Tibet needs to be applied 30-45 days in advance, so please register and submit your information as early as possible to avoid any disruption to your trip.
    • Attention:Please do not purchase tickets that cannot be used for the Tibet Entry Letter to avoid extra loss. If you have any questions, please check with us first.
    • Additional Notes:Tibet policy may be adjusted due to the period and region, if there is a temporary change, we will immediately notify and help to deal with it.
    • age: According to the regulations, travelers holding a Taiwan Compatriot Permit are required to prepare a health certificate issued by a public hospital.

    💡 Considerate reminder: although it is complicated to apply for Tibet entry procedures, but we will handle the whole process on your behalf, you only need to prepare the necessary documents, and you can wait for the departure without any worries!

Travel Consultant

Tibet Explore Snowbound 5 Days-Off Season
12/23-2/28
CNY 5,880

Your inquiry will be processed as soon as it is received during business hours. We’ll get back to you within 48 hours. Please complete all fields accurately to ensure fast and precise service.

If you haven’t heard from us within 48 hours, you can contact us directly via:
◆ Facebook:China2Go-CITS Global .
◆Whatsapp: 886911607167
◆Line@:@315xvpvi

Tibet Exploration 5 Days-Sub Peak Season
3/25-6/30; 9/1-9/25
CNY 6,880

Your inquiry will be processed as soon as it is received during business hours. We’ll get back to you within 48 hours. Please complete all fields accurately to ensure fast and precise service.

If you haven’t heard from us within 48 hours, you can contact us directly via:
◆ Facebook:China2Go-CITS Global .
◆Whatsapp: 886911607167
◆Line@:@315xvpvi

Tibet Explore Snowbound 5 Days - High Season
7/1-8/31; 9/26-10/4
CNY 7,580

Your inquiry will be processed as soon as it is received during business hours. We’ll get back to you within 48 hours. Please complete all fields accurately to ensure fast and precise service.

If you haven’t heard from us within 48 hours, you can contact us directly via:
◆ Facebook:China2Go-CITS Global .
◆Whatsapp: 886911607167
◆Line@:@315xvpvi

CITS2Go China International Travel Service | Trust & Distinctive Advantages

Trust, integrity, and genuine care — the travel agency you can rely on with confidence

China International Travel Service (CITSLOGO)

Founded over 70 years ago, CITS (China International Travel Service)Our service network covers all provinces in Mainland China and we have registered travel companies in more than 60 countries around the world. Over the years, we have received more than 10 million foreign guests and international delegates to visit China.

Guided by the principle of “Integrity First, Service Above All,” we are committed to providing every traveler with professional itinerary design and attentive on-the-ground service. Unlike typical tour operators, we do not include unnecessary high-cost medical visits or injections, and we guarantee a 100% sightseeing-focused experiencewith no shopping stops. Should this promise be violated, compensation of RMB 2,000 will be paid on the spot. Our goal is to ensure that every guest leaves China with genuine, positive, and unforgettable travel memories.

CITS national travelers]

 

A quick look at the highlights of the Ali Trans Mountain itinerary

100% Pure Play No Shopping, Default will be compensated 5000CNY-Give you the most beautiful Tibet trip!

Dining:3 breakfasts + 1 Potala Palace View Afternoon Tea; lunch and dinner not included (the guide can recommend or help arrange restaurants).

Accommodation:Total 3 nights hotel + 1 night sleeper on Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Cultural Highlights:Potala Palace + Jokhang Temple + Barkhor Street

Must-Do Experience: Return journey on the Qinghai–Tibet Railway classic route for an unforgettable experience!

Spectacular views:Yamdrok Lake + Karola Glacier

Multi-Gifts: Potala Palace ViewAfternoon Tea + Oxygen Bottle + Sutra Hanging at Scenic Spots + Saronda + Hatha Offering

Fees include admission to attractions:Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier

Traffic:Qualified private vehicle in Tibet, including soft sleeper train ticket from Lhasa to Xining on the Qinghai–Tibet Railway.

Insurance:Four insurance - Travel Insurance +Plateau Insurance+ parking space insurance + liability insurance

Driver's guide:Tibet local qualified professional Chinese tour guide (English and other languages are required, please contact the consultant), highland qualified professional driver

Other:Lunch and dinner, round-trip transportation, personal expenses and gratuities, and single room rate are not included.

Newest Premium Touring Car

★ 2025 Latest Vehicles ★

Tibet is a long-distance journey.We have fully upgraded tothe latest certified tour vehicles,.
with a clear promise:higher quality at no extra cost,ensuring a safe and comfortable journey throughout.

For groups of 7–10 travelers: Spacious 2+1 seat premium tour vehicles are used, offering enhanced comfort throughout the journey.

China International Travel Service (CITS) uses good cars.
Small groups of 4-6 people:
VIP-grade tour vehicles are arranged, providing a more exclusive and premium travel experience.

China National Tourism's latest Tibet tour VIP trolley photos Tibet tour car