Flights to Tibet from Bangkok

With the development of Tibet Tourism, now it is convenient to travel to Tibet from other countries. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand has much in common with Lhasa as both of them are two significant lands of Buddhism. It is worthwhile for Thai people to visit Tibet for Buddhist culture. Taking flights to Tibet seems to be a great way as it's time-saving and comfortable.

Important Notice:  Visitors from Thailand can enjoy a 30-day visa-free policy from March 1, 2024.

Why Travel from Bangkok, Thailand to Tibet?

1. Both Bangkok and Tibet are The Holy Lands of Buddhism

As a significant land of Buddhism, there is about 93.6 percent of Thailand is Buddhist and about 33,902 active temples in the country. Buddhism has been prevalent in Thailand since the 3rd century BC. It was first introduced by King Asoka who sent out monks to follow and learn the teachings of the Buddha of Siddhartha Gautama. Buddhism plays an important role in the culture of Thailand, taking a visit to some of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world is a necessary tour to seek the real doctrine of Buddhism. As a sacred land of Buddhism, thousands of hundreds of Buddhists from all over the world flood into Tibet to do a pilgrimage.

2. Explore the Unique Natural Scenery that You Never Find in Thailand

Another reason for Thais to travel to Tibet is to explore its unique plateau scenery. Tibet is a place cherished by nature. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the holy lakes, the majesty of sacred Mountains such as Kailash - the center of the world, Everest - the peak of the world, etc. Besides,  you could admire Buddhist temples and monasteries scattered on the plateau.

How to Take Flights to Tibet from Bangkok?

There are two convenient ways to take flights to Tibet from Bangkok.

Bangkok-Kunming-Lhasa(Recommended!)

Nowdays, taking a flight from Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) Then to Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) is a good option due to multiple flights. The journey from Bangkok to Kunming takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes then from Kunming to Lhasa takes another 2 hours and 40 minutes. The cost is about THB 8,190 to THB 17,465.

Bangkok-Kathmandu-Lhasa

Since there is no direct flight from Thailand to Tibet, You can travel to Tibet via Kathmandu, the only country that operates direct international flights to Tibet. Flights from Bangkok to Kathmandu run several times a day and cost about THB15,293 for a one-way ticket in the economy class cabin. And it will take about half-past 3 hours from Bangkok to Kathmandu. Currently, there are three direct flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.  Taking a direct flight from Tribhuvan International Airport of Kathmandu(KTM) to Lhasa Gonga International Airport(LXA) will take about 1.5 hours and cost THB 30,308  for a one-way ticket in the economy class cabin.

Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight Schedule

Flight Route Flight Code Departure-Arrival Schedule Type Airlines
Kathmandu to Lhasa H9 774 9:55 AM - 1:30 PM Mon, Wed, Fri 319 Himalayan Airlines
Lhasa to Kathmandu H9 775 1:15 PM - 12:35 PM Mon, Wed, Fri 319 Himalayan Airlines

>>See more Kathmandu to Lhasa flight info

Travel Documents for Thai Citizens

Thais can enjoy a 30-day China visa-free policy from March 1, 2024, but you will still be required a Tibet travel permit to enter Tibet. If your traveling duration exceeds 30 days, you still need a China visa to enter Tibet from mainland China. If you are traveling from Nepal, you need a China Group Visa.

Bangkok to Tibet via Mainland China

When traveling to China, Thai nationals need a Chinese Visa which can be obtained through the local Chinese Embassy in Bangkok. The process is quite fast and normally only takes 4 days. Once you get your visa, you can apply for your Tibet Travel Permit which can only be obtained by a registered travel agency in Tibet. Without a Tibet Travel Permit, Thais cannot board any plane to Tibet. Therefore it's necessary to book a Tibet tour in advance.

Bangkok to Tibet via Kathmandu

When traveling from Kathmandu to Tibet, you need to apply for a China group visa rather than a China Visa. Your Tibet travel agency will help you obtain an invitation letter issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Please note, applying for a China group visa takes 3 working days and requires 4 participants. Unless there are 4 people from you and you have a travel plan in Nepal, it's not recommended to wait for 3 days for your China Group Visa. In addition, if you travel from Kathmandu to Tibet, you also need to obtain your Tibet Entry Permit, which will be checked at the customs at Lhasa Gonga International Airport.