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

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Itinerary

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
Our Promise

100% authentic, no shopping stops

Compensation up to CNY 5,000 if violated

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 Perks

2025 premium tourist vehicles

High-altitude travel insurance

Potala Palace view afternoon tea

Personal Cinematic “Lift-Off” Video

Traditional Lungta Blessing Ceremony

Hanging Prayer 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
Professional Tibet tour guide service for international travelers - Professional Tibet tour guide service for international travelers - CITS China2Go

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.

★ Travel Tips:
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: Own arrangements

Oxygen Hotel Lhasa Jomolangtse or similar oxygen hotel

Day2
Lhasa City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street & Afternoon Tea Experience
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 similar oxygen-equipped hotel

Day3
Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake – Karola Glacier – Lhasa
Yamdrok Yumtso Lake View Three Sacred Lakes in Tibet Yam Lake Tourist Attractions Introduction

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 Lake (Sacred Lake)

One of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, Yamdrok Lake is renowned for its vivid blue color that shifts with the light. It is considered a spiritual lake where locals come to pray for blessings.

▶ Karola Glacier

One of the most accessible glaciers in Tibet, located at around 5,600 meters. Its towering ice walls resemble frozen waterfalls, offering a dramatic and unforgettable sight.

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::Includes travel agency liability insurance and vehicle seat insurance, plus complimentary high-altitude travel insurance (coverage up to RMB 500,000) for added peace of mind.
  • Permit Assistance:Full assistance with Tibet Travel Permit, travel documents, and military permits, removing complicated procedures so you can enjoy your trip with ease.
  • Tickets Included: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.
  • Professional Driver:Experienced high-altitude drivers are arranged, providing safe and attentive service throughout the journey.
  • Professional Guide:A professional Chinese-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout (one guide per vehicle). English or other language guides can be arranged upon request.
  • Safety Equipment:Each vehicle is equipped with a 4L medical oxygen tank and glucose supplies. Each guest is also provided with a portable oxygen canister.
  • Thoughtful Service:Each guest receives a traditional Hada scarf, along with two bottles of mineral water daily.
  • Private Transfers:Includes private airport or railway station transfers in Tibet. No sharing, with meet-and-greet service and luggage assistance upon arrival.

Our Tibet journeys are designed to provide essential protection for every traveler
“Travel Accident Insurance, Vehicle Seat Insurance, Travel Agency Liability Insurance, and High-Altitude Coverage” — all four protections included.

What's Not Included
  • Meals:Except for hotel breakfasts listed in the itinerary, all other meals are at your own arrangement. You are free to explore local cuisine. Guides can provide recommendations or assist with arrangements if needed.
  • Optional Activities:Any activities outside the itinerary are personal expenses and are not included in the tour price. Participation is optional.
  • Transportation to/from Lhasa:Flights or train tickets from your departure city to Lhasa are not included. We can recommend suitable options or assist with booking if required.
  • Tips:Gratuities for driver and guide are recommended at CNY 60 per person per day (CNY 30 each for driver and guide) as appreciation for their services.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Important Information for Joining a Tibet Tour
  • Eligible Travelers:This tour is open to travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, and other visa-free or visa-convenient countries. Travelers of other nationalities should confirm eligibility with our consultants in advance.
  • Cancellation Policy:(Based on Tourism Bureau standards)
    1. Cancellation ... 41+ daysbefore departure: 5% of tour fee
    2. Cancellation ... 31–40 daysbefore departure: 10% of tour fee
    3. Cancellation ... 21–30 daysbefore departure: 20% of tour fee
    4. Cancellation ... 2–20 daysbefore departure: 30% of tour fee
    5. Cancellation ... 1 daybefore departure: 50% of tour fee
    6. Cancellation ... on or afterdeparture date: 100% of tour fee
  • Force Majeure:In the event of additional costs caused by natural disasters, flight delays, or other force majeure circumstances, the travel agency bears no liability for compensation but will do its utmost to assist.
  • Early Withdrawal:If a guest withdraws mid-tour or fails to complete an activity due to personal reasons, this is considered a voluntary forfeit and no refund will be issued.
  • Ticket Policy:June to September is the peak travel season in Tibet. Tickets for the Potala Palace must be reserved in advance, and visiting times may be adjusted due to restriction policies.
  • Itinerary Flexibility:The order of the itinerary may be adjusted to suit local conditions, but the standard of attractions remains guaranteed.
  • Health Advisory:Travelers with high blood pressure, heart conditions, asthma, or respiratory illness are advised to consult a physician before registering to confirm suitability for a highland itinerary.
  • Local Conditions:Reception Conditions: Tourism infrastructure in Tibet is relatively limited. Guests are advised to maintain reasonable expectations and respect local culture and customs.
  • Accommodation: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-Shopping Guarantee:This tour guarantees zero shopping stopsIf you are found to have made a compulsory purchase, you will be refunded 5000 CNY.
  • Optional Activities:Based on the group's actual schedule, the guide will explain available optional activities. Participation is entirely voluntary — no pressure to spend.
  • Language Services:The itinerary includes a Chinese-speaking guide by default. If an English-speaking guide is required, please inform us in advance for arrangement.

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
  • Portable Oxygen Supply: Each guest is provided with one portable oxygen canister for immediate use in case of mild discomfort during the trip
  • Daily Mineral Water: Provide 2 bottles (300ml) of mineral water per person per day to keep you hydrated and to avoid discomfort caused by high altitude dryness.
  • Onboard Medical Oxygen: Each vehicle is equipped with a 4L medical oxygen cylinder to handle emergencies and ensure travel safety.
  • Prayer & Kora Experience: Guests may participate in prayer and kora rituals to experience Tibetan culture and create meaningful memories.
  • Health Restrictions: Travelers with serious conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or asthma are advised not to join, to ensure safety.
  • Special Requirement 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.)
  • Not Recommended for Participation: Pregnant women, insulin-dependent diabetes patients, those with a history of brain or eye surgery, lung disease, or major surgeries are advised not to join high-altitude trips.
High-Altitude Travel Notes
  • Avoid strenuous activities upon arrival at high altitude. It is recommended not to shower or wash your hair during the first two days to prevent catching a cold and affecting acclimatization.
  • Prepare sun protection items such as sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen to avoid excessive UV exposure.
  • Altitude sickness is common. Most people adapt within 1–3 days. If you feel unwell, inform your guide immediately.
  • As travel distances are long, it is recommended to bring snacks and dry food to maintain energy.
  • If you regularly exercise, it is recommended to stop workouts in advance.
  • Before departure, you may purchase medications suitable for high-altitude travel, such as Diamox, Rhodiola, or glucose powder for emergency use.
  • Maintain good sleep and rest habits. Avoid staying up late to help your body adapt more quickly.
  • Keep your diet light, eat more fruits and vegetables, and avoid overeating or alcohol to reduce strain on the digestive and cardiovascular systems.
  • Wear layered warm clothing. Due to large temperature differences between day and night, adjust clothing accordingly to prevent catching a cold and reduce altitude sickness risk.
  • If you feel discomfort during the journey, practice deep breathing and use oxygen cylinders or portable oxygen if needed. You may also use oxygen supply devices in hotels at night.
  • Stay relaxed and avoid stress or anxiety, as psychological pressure may worsen altitude sickness.
  • When traveling in Tibet, it is recommended to drink local butter tea in moderation, which may help relieve altitude discomfort and boost energy.

 

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 wants to give every traveler maximum flexibility and freedom of choice throughout the 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.

Keeping meals unscheduled makes the itinerary more flexible, caters to individual tastes, and eliminates the waste and constraints of fixed group dining.

In special situations or time constraints, the guide may assist in arranging or reserving meals in advance. Participation is optional and entirely up to the guest.

Free dining allows you to truly experience the unique flavors of Tibet.

 

Tibet Travel Permit Application Notes
    • Permit Application:Travelers holding foreign passports or from Taiwan must apply for a Tibet Travel Permit. We will handle the entire process; guests only need to provide the required documents. application process on your behalf—guests simply need to provide the required information as requested.
    • Travelers from Hong Kong and Macau do not need to apply for a Tibet Travel Permit. All related procedures will be arranged by the travel agency.
    • Required Documents:
      • Scanned copy of the passport information page (required for non-Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan travelers)
      • Copy of Chinese visa or Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents (depending on identity)
      • Additional documents may be required for certain itineraries, such as military permits; we will inform you in advance
    • Processing Time:The Tibet Travel Permit must be applied for 30–45 days in advance. Please register early and submit documents promptly to avoid affecting your itinerary.
    • Important Notes:Please do not purchase flights that cannot be used for permit processing, to avoid potential losses. Contact us in advance if you have any questions.
    • Additional Information:Tibet travel policies may change depending on time and region. In case of adjustments, we will inform you promptly and assist accordingly.
    • Age Requiremen: Age Requirement: According to regulations, some travelers may be required to provide a medical certificate issued by a public hospital.

    💡 Friendly Reminder: The permit application process can be complicated, but we handle it entirely for you. Simply prepare the required documents and wait for your journey with peace of mind.

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 (China International Travel Service) or
◆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 (China International Travel Service) or
◆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 (China International Travel Service) or
◆Whatsapp: 886911607167
◆Line@:@315xvpvi

CITS2Go | Trust & Highlights

Built on trust and integrity — your most reliable travel partner

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!

Meals Arrangement: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

Entrance Fees Included:Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier

Transportation: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

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

Other:Excludes lunch and dinner, international/domestic transportation, personal expenses, tips, and single room supplement

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