How to travel Tibet from Italy

Flights from Italy to Tibet via China

A flight from Italy to China typically covers a distance of approximately 7,000 to 8,000 kilometres (4,350 to 4,970 miles) depending on the specific departure and arrival cities. The duration of the flight can vary, but it usually takes around 11 to 14 hours, including layovers. Several airlines offer direct flights from major Italian cities such as Rome or Milan to various Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.

Some of the airlines that operate regular flights on this route include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and Alitalia. Passengers travelling from Italy to China are required to have a valid passport and may also need to obtain a visa before their departure. It is recommended to check the visa requirements and apply well in advance. 

There are several airlines that offer flights from various cities in China to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. Some of the major airlines that operate these routes include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, Tibet Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines. These flights typically depart from major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xining, and Kunming.

How to travel from Italy to Tibet via Beijing

You can take a direct flight, CA940, from Rome to Beijing on even days. The flight duration is approximately 10 hours. If you are in Milan, there is a daily direct flight, CA950, from Milan to Beijing.

Flights from Beijing to Lhasa offer a convenient way to reach Tibet. With two departures daily, travellers have flexibility. The 4.5-hour flight allows for relaxation and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The flight showcases China’s diverse landscapes, including plains, rivers, and villages.  

Trains depart from Beijing to the capital of the Tibetan plateau every day, covering a distance of approximately 3,757 km. The train journey takes about 41-42 hours to cross China, passing through six provinces. The train departs from Beijing in the evening and arrives in Lhasa in the afternoon on the third day.

It is advisable to carry personal items such as headphones, books, or electronic devices to make the journey more comfortable. Upon arrival in China, passengers will go through immigration and customs procedures before entering the country. It is essential to comply with customs regulations and declare any necessary items or goods.

Transportation options from the airport to the desired destination within China vary depending on the city. Major airports usually have taxis, shuttle buses, or public transportation services available. Additionally, some airports may have high-speed train connections to nearby cities. It is always recommended to check with the specific airline, review the travel requirements, and stay updated on any travel advisories or restrictions before planning a flight from Italy to China.

How to Travel from Rome to Lhasa via Shanghai

Direct flight MU788 departs from Rome to Shanghai on odd days and has a flight duration of 11 hours and 50 minutes.

The flight from Shanghai is not a direct flight but stops at Xi’an. A flight from Shanghai takes approximately 7 hours and 55 minutes, and a two-hour transit in Xi’an

The train route from Shanghai to Lhasa is the second longest, covering a distance of 4,373 kilometres in 46-47 hours. The train departs from Shanghai every night and reaches Lhasa before noon on the third day. The train offers soft and hard sleeper bunks, costing around US$ 118 per person.

The main airport serving Lhasa is Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA), which is located about 60 kilometres south of the city centre. The duration of flights from China to Lhasa can vary depending on the departure city, but on average, it takes approximately 2-4 hours. It’s worth noting that Lhasa Gonggar Airport is located at a high altitude of around 3,570 meters (11,710 feet), so passengers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness upon arrival. It’s advisable to book flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as there is a limited number of flights operating to Lhasa.

Additionally, it’s important to check for any travel restrictions or entry requirements imposed by the Chinese government or local authorities in Tibet before planning your trip.

Flights from Italy to Tibet Via Kathmandu

There are several airlines that operate flights from Italy to Kathmandu, Nepal. Some of the major airlines that offer this route include Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Air India, and Oman Air. The primary departure airports in Italy for flights to Kathmandu are Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). These airports have frequent flights to Kathmandu, often with one or more layovers in the airlines’ respective hub cities.

The duration of the flight from Italy to Kathmandu can vary depending on the airline and the length of layovers. On average, the total travel time can range from around 16 to 24 hours, including layovers. It is recommended to book flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as prices tend to increase closer to the travel date. Additionally, it is advisable to check the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements for Nepal before planning your trip.

Kathmandu is the only country with a direct flight to Lhasa, a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa costs about US$ 300.The flight time is relatively short, the journey of 600 km takes about an hour. There are two direct flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa, CA408 (12: 10-16:00) and 3U8720 (11:30-15: 10).

There are currently no direct flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa. However, you can book a connecting flight with a layover in one of the major cities in China such as Chengdu or Beijing. Airlines that operate flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines. The duration of the journey can vary depending on the layover time, but it usually takes around 5-8 hours in total.

Please note that travelling between Nepal and Tibet (where Lhasa is located) requires special permits and it is recommended to book through a travel agency or tour operator to ensure all necessary documentation is in order.

To travel from Italy to Tibet via China, follow these steps:

1. Obtain a valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
2. Apply for the necessary visas: Apply for a Chinese tourist visa and a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP). The TTP is required to enter Tibet, and you can only obtain it through an authorized travel agency in China.
3. Book your flights: Look for flights from Italy to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu. Several airlines operate direct flights from Italy to China. Once in China, you can then book domestic flights to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.
4. Arrive in China: Upon arrival in China, proceed through immigration and customs. As a visitor, you will need to complete the necessary entry procedures, including presenting your passport, Chinese visa, and any other required documents.
5. Explore China: If you have time, consider exploring some of China’s major cities or attractions before heading to Tibet. Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu offer numerous cultural and historical sites to visit.
6. Obtain the Tibet Travel Permit: Contact a travel agency in China that specializes in Tibet travel to help you obtain the TTP. They will guide you through the process and arrange your travel itinerary within Tibet.
7. Travel to Tibet: Once you have the TTP, you can book a domestic flight from one of the major Chinese cities to Lhasa. Alternatively, you can opt for a train journey from cities like Beijing or Chengdu to Lhasa, which offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau.
8. Enjoy Tibet: Upon arrival in Lhasa, you can start exploring the stunning landscapes, visit monasteries, and immerse yourself in the unique Tibetan culture. Make sure to acclimatize to the high altitude gradually to avoid altitude sickness.
9. Things to Note: It’s essential to stay updated on the travel restrictions and requirements, as they may vary depending on the current political situation and travel regulations. It’s advisable to consult with relevant authorities or travel agencies to ensure a smooth and safe journey.