Transportation in Lhasa is a unique experience, as the city is located at an elevation of 12,000 feet in the Tibetan plateau, making it one of the highest cities in the world. Lhasa is the cultural and political center of Tibet, and as such, it is a popular destination for tourists and travelers. In this blog post, we will discuss the various ways to get to Lhasa from the surrounding main cities in the country, as well as the options for moving around the city once you arrive. We will also cover the ease, cost, and safety of each mode of transportation.
Getting to Lhasa from other cities in China can be done by plane, train, or bus. Flying is the most convenient option, as there are several flights per day from major cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai to Lhasa Gonggar Airport. The flight takes around 2-3 hours, and the cost ranges from around $200 to $500, depending on the season and class of ticket.
Taking the train to Lhasa is also a popular option, as the scenery along the way is spectacular. The train journey takes around 24-48 hours, depending on the starting point, and the cost ranges from around $150 to $400. The train is equipped with oxygen supply, as the elevation inside the train will be high. The Lhasa train station is located around 5 km south of the city center.
Taking a bus to Lhasa is the cheapest option, with prices starting at around $50, but it is also the most time-consuming and uncomfortable option, as the journey can take up to three days. The bus journey is also not recommended for travelers with altitude sickness.
Once you arrive in Lhasa, there are several options for getting around the city. The most popular and convenient option is taking a taxi. Taxis in Lhasa are relatively cheap, with the starting fare being around $1.50 and the cost per kilometer around $0.30. Taxis are widely available, and the drivers are usually friendly and speak some English.
Another option for getting around Lhasa is by taking a shared mini-bus. These buses run on fixed routes, and the fare is around $0.30 per ride. However, the buses can be crowded, and the routes may not be convenient for getting to your destination.
Lastly, there is the option of renting a bike or motorbike to explore the city. This can be a fun and budget-friendly option, but it is important to note that the roads in Lhasa can be challenging due to the altitude and the heavy traffic.
In terms of ease, taxi and shared mini-bus are the most convenient options for getting around Lhasa. In terms of cost, renting a bike or motorbike is the most budget-friendly option, followed by shared mini-bus and taxi. In terms of safety, taxi is the safest option, followed by shared mini-bus, and renting a bike or motorbike is considered the least safe option.
Overall, transportation in Lhasa is a unique experience, with several options for getting to the city and getting around the city once you arrive. While the altitude and heavy traffic can be challenging, the convenience and cost of the transportation options make it a feasible destination for travelers.
