Tibet Tour From New Zealand

Most Asked Questions about Tibet Tour from New Zealand

• How to get to Tibet from New Zealand?

  Although there are no direct flights to Tibet, connecting through major cities in mainland China is a straightforward option. Cities like Auckland and Christchurch offer both direct and connecting flights to hubs such as Guangzhou, Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

  Once you arrive at one of these key gateways, you can either take a flight to Tibet or enjoy the scenic Tibet train journey into the Tibet Autonomous Region. For example, the shortest flight from Chengdu to Tibet takes under two hours.

  Alternatively, you can fly from New Zealand to Kathmandu, which is the only city with international flights to Tibet. From there, you can either take a flight from Kathmandu directly to Tibet or embark on our 8-day Kathmandu to Lhasa tour, offering a chance to explore the breathtaking Himalayas along the way.

• Since I don’t need a Chinese visa, is it easy to get a Tibet travel permit?

  Yes, obtaining a Tibet travel permit is quite easy. However, the permit can only be applied for through registered local travel agencies, such as Tibet Vista, and not by individuals. Simply book your preferred itinerary with us, and we'll take care of the rest.

  We guarantee a 100% success rate in securing Tibet travel permits for our guests. So far in 2025, we've helped over 2,000 travelers obtain their permits, ensuring they are fully prepared for their once-in-a-lifetime trip to Tibet this year.

• How far in advance should I book my Tibet tour?

  It’s recommended to book your tour at least a month in advance, as processing your Tibet Permit with the Tibet Tourism Bureau takes about 8-9 working days. This also ensures we have enough time to deliver it to you on schedule.

  If you're planning to travel to Tibet by train or visit Mount Kailash and Manasarovar Lake, obtaining the necessary travel documents and prebooking train tickets may take longer. To ensure a smooth journey, it's best to make your reservation as early as possible.

• When is the best time to visit Tibet for New Zealand tourists?

  The best times to visit Tibet are during Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant with minimal rainfall. These months provide clearer views of Mount Everest and other peaks, without the rain and fog of summer.

  Also, these months are the good time for trekking in Tibet. No matter you want to take a holy Kailash kora or just a leisure hiking around Ganden Monastery near Lhasa, you can see the most beautiful scenery in such sunny and warm weather during these months.

  If you're planning to visit Lake Namtso or Mt. Kailash, it's best to avoid winter, as snow often blocks the roads. However, winter is an excellent time to visit Mt. Everest, with minimal rain and perfect visibility.

• Which way is more recommended to get to Tibet, by train or flight?

  There are two excellent ways to experience Tibet. The first option is to fly in and take the train out. This approach saves time and allows you to rest and acclimate to the high altitude, giving you more energy to explore Tibet’s unique culture, temples, and landscapes.

  The return train journey along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway provides a stunning visual experience, with views of snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and vast grasslands, making the trip home as memorable as your visit.

  The second option is to fly to Xining, take the Qinghai-Tibet train to Tibet, and then fly out after your exploration. Both options offer a good balance between efficiency and the opportunity to enjoy Qinghai-Tibet Railway’s breathtaking scenery.

• Is it safe to travel Tibet right now?

  Yes, it is completely safe for foreigners to explore Tibet. Tibet is as a safe a place to travel as other popular tourist destinations in the mainland of China, with no security issues for tourists.

  Tibetans are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and crime rates are very low due to their Buddhist beliefs. It is also safe for female individuals to travel Tibet.

  Additionally, the traffic conditions are quite decent in Tibet. Roads are generally well-paved and safe for overland travel, biking, or trekking. However, some China-Nepal border areas may be affected during the summer monsoon season.

• Can I travel Tibet independently?

  Unfortunately, independent travel in Tibet isn't allowed for foreign tourists.

  Local regulations require all international tourists to join a pre-arranged tour—either a small group or private tour—through a licensed agency like Tibet Vista. Throughout your stay, you must travel with a guide and use a prebooked tour vehicle.

• Is Tibet expensive to visit? What currency is used in Tibet?

  Traveling in Tibet is not cheap, with transportation and accommodation being major expenses.

  A trip to Tibet typically costs about twice as much as traveling in other Chinese cities. For solo travelers, a small group tour is the best option to share costs. Booking early with us not only offers early bird discounts but also secures the best flight rates.

  In Tibet, the currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). Local stores do not accept dollars or other foreign currencies, and coins are not accepted—only paper money is. Additionally, Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in Lhasa, Shigatse, Nyingchi, and other major cities and towns.

• How many days are enough for a Tibet tour?

  The duration of your Tibet journey varies based on factors like your destinations, personal interests, and available time.

  To experience Lhasa, the vibrant heart of Tibetan culture, a minimum of 4 days is recommended. This allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere and explore its key sites, such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

  For those who wish to marvel at the grandeur of Mt. Everest, the world’s highest peak, an 8-day itinerary is ideal. This period provides ample time to travel to Everest Base Camp and soak in the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas.

  If you have more time, a 15-day adventure offers an in-depth exploration of Tibet’s remote and mystical regions. This extended journey enables you to venture into the Ali Prefecture, discovering its rugged beauty, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan lifestyle.

• Am I welcome in Tibet?

  Tibetans are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, and they warmly welcome visitors from all countries, including tourists from New Zealand. The region is open to travelers, and its people embrace opportunities for cultural exchange.

  This welcoming spirit is reflected in the recent infrastructure improvements that make Tibet even more accessible. Trains now connect Lhasa with Shigatse and Nyingchi, while well-paved and maintained roads ensure a smooth journey from Lhasa to Mt. Everest.

  You can also experience Tibetan hospitality during family visits and daily interactions like in the local teahouses. When visiting Tibetan families, you'll be presented with a white Khata, a traditional ceremonial scarf symbolizing purity and compassion.