Lhasa Airport - The Gateway to Tibet

There are a few airports in Tibet, however Lhasa Airport will provide you with the best opportunity.


It is considered the gateway to Tibet for this reason. The airport is located a mere 61 miles (98 kilometers) from the city of Lhasa. It is one of the highest altitude airports in the world, with completion in 1965 for flights to Beijing and Chengdu. Tibet's forbidden zone was further opened to western society at this time, unveiling the third pole of the earth.

The runway is well equipped to handle the larger aircraft such as the A340 and Boeing 757 so that you needn't worry about having to hop on a "puddle jumper" to reach your Tibetan destination.

You can now catch flights from several domestic locations within China that include not only Beijing and Chengdu but also Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Xian, Xining, Diqing and Chamdo Region.

There is one international flight from Katmandu to Lhasa. The most frequented route is from Chengdu. With over forty flights inbound and outbound a week there is ample opportunity to pick a flight to fit your schedule.

The convenience of this airport is an added plus. There are shuttle busses from Lhasa Airport to Lhasa City throughout the day, allowing you the opportunity to view the magnificent landscape while on your way to the Holy Land.

History steps back thousands of years in this picturesque and spiritual region.

The Lhasa Airport's terminal is built in Tibetan style. The first floor contains an arrival lounge, ticket offices, departure lounge and baggage pickup. The second floor consists of a waiting area, dining hall and shops.

When you're ready to complete or begin your journey to Tibet, fly into the Lhasa Airport. Experience what the rest of the world may have seen when Tibet opened its borders to foreigners back in the 1960s. Experience the silent majesty of the pure and holy sentinels that stand watch over this very rich land.

Planning to visit Tibet and arrive at Lhasa airport? Read the Travel to Tibet Newsletter