How to Travel to Tibet from France?

Tibet, the roof of the world, is a land of mystery and allure, known for its majestic natural landscapes and profound Buddhist culture. For those coming from the romantic city of Paris, the breathtaking scenery and unique culture of Tibet undoubtedly offer an infinite appeal. So, how to embark on a journey from France to Tibet? This guide will provide detailed information on the various ways to travel to Tibet from France, and offer a comprehensive travel guide to help you smoothly begin this soul-enriching journey.

Travel from France to Tibet

There are no direct flights from France to Tibet. Generally, there are two main routes for traveling from France to Tibet: via Mainland China or via Kathmandu, Nepal. The first option involves flying directly from Paris to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, and then either taking a flight or train to Lhasa. Another option is to fly to Kathmandu via Delhi, from where the French can enter Tibet by land or take a flight to Lhasa. Below, we will explore these two main routes in detail.

France to Tibet via Mainland China

To enter China, you'll first need to apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese embassy. However, French visitors can enjoy a 15-day visa-free policy until December 31, 2025. From Paris, you can take a direct flight to major gateway cities in China like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. You can explore various attractions in these cities and then take a flight or take a train along the scenic Qinghai-Tibet Railway to Lhasa.

To enter Tibet, you will need a Tibet Travel Permit(TTP), which can be secured by a reputable Tibet travel agency such as Great Tibet Tour, and we can provide a one-stop service to organize your entire trip in China and Tibet.

1. Paris - Beijing - Lhasa

There are two or three direct flights every day from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), with fares of about € 900. Beijing serves as one of China’s major international gateways and is a historical and cultural center, with a greater variety of international flights. Before heading to Lhasa, you can explore famous attractions like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven to experience China’s rich ancient culture.

From Beijing to Lhasa, there are direct flights available almost every morning and afternoon. The flight takes about 4 hours, with fares of about € 400. Besides, there are many connecting flights from Beijing to Lhasa, with prices ranging from €150 to €255, which can be more budget-friendly.

If you prefer traveling by train, there is a daily Z21 train departing from Beijing to Lhasa, covering a total distance of 3,757 km. The journey takes around 40 hours, arriving in Lhasa at about 11:36 a.m. on the third day. The cost for a soft sleeper ticket is around €164.

2. Paris - Shanghai - Lhasa

There are 3 to 4 direct flights daily from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). The flight duration is about 11 to 12 hours, with a cost of around €1,000. As a modern metropolis, Shanghai captivates visitors with the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Yu Garden. You can take this opportunity to explore the city and experience the unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures in this vibrant international hub.

From Shanghai to Lhasa, there are flights with layovers, including a 1-hour stop in Chengdu or a 2-hour stop in Xi’an. These flights take around 7 to 8 hours, with a fare of about €350.

Alternatively, you can take the Z164 train from Shanghai to Lhasa, which departs daily at 18:33 from Shanghai Station. It takes 44 hours and 32 minutes, with a soft sleeper ticket priced at about €165.

3. Paris - Guangzhou - Lhasa

There is a daily direct flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), reaching up to 12 hours, and costing about €650. During your stay, you can explore the city’s landmarks such as the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, Shamian Island, and Canton Tower. Experience the unique Lingnan culture and indulge in local delicacies like Cantonese dim sum and morning tea.

From Guangzhou to Lhasa, there are generally two flights with layovers in Chongqing and Diqing in the morning. The flight takes about 6 hours, with a fare of around €400.

Alternatively, you can take the Z264 train from Guangzhou to Lhasa, which takes about 53 hours to reach Lhasa Railway Station. This train runs every day in the peak season and every other day in the off-season.

4. Paris - Hong Kong - Lhasa

There are two direct flights daily from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). You can arrive in Hong Kong as fast as 12 hours and 10 minutes, with a fare of about €1,000. Hong Kong is famous for its shopping, from luxury stores in Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui to bustling street markets, you can experience the charm of this cosmopolitan city.

Currently, there are no direct flights from Hong Kong to Lhasa, but there are several connecting flights daily. You can fly to Lhasa via cities like Beijing, Chengdu, or Chongqing, with total travel times ranging from 16 to 22 hours. The ticket prices range between €220 to 450.

There is no direct train from Hong Kong to Lhasa, but there are 2 to 3 connecting trains every day. You can depart from Hong Kong West Kowloon Station to Beijing, Chongqing, or Guangzhou and then transfer to Lhasa from these cities. However, due to the long travel time and high ticket costs, it is not recommended to take a train from Hong Kong to Lhasa.

5. Paris - Chengdu - Lhasa

There are no direct flights from Paris to Chengdu. However, there are several flights from Paris to Chengdu via Guangzhou, Shanghai, and other cities every day. Once you arrive in Chengdu, you can explore the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, and savor local Sichuan specialties like hotpot and spicy tofu at Jinli Street before heading to Tibet.

From Chengdu to Lhasa, there are numerous direct flights daily, which is also the reason why Chengdu is recommended as a transfer hub to Lhasa. The flight duration is 2.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from €260 to 400, depending on the season and the airline.

Alternatively, you can choose to travel by train on the Z322 from Chengdu to Lhasa. This train departs every other day, with a journey time of 34 hours and 30 minutes, arriving in Lhasa at 7:40 am on the third day.

6. Marseille/Lyon/Toulouse/Nice - Lhasa

Currently, there are no direct flights from cities like Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, or Nice in France to China. However, you can take a flight and connecting flights through major hubs such as Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Germany, Brussels Airport (BRU) in Belgium, or Istanbul Airport (IST) in Turkey to reach major gateway cities in China like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou and Chengdu. From there, you can continue your journey to Lhasa by plane or train. For specific travel plans, you can consult our travel advisors, and we will recommend the most suitable routes based on your itinerary.

France to Tibet via Nepal

In addition to departing from Mainland China, French travelers can also travel to Tibet via Kathmandu, Nepal. Kathmandu serves as another gateway to Tibet, offering unique international flights and overland routes. There are no direct flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), but you can reach Kathmandu by connecting through cities like Delhi or Dubai. The total flight duration is around 12 hours, and the ticket costs about €500-700. However, there is an important detail to note: entering Tibet through Kathmandu requires an additional 3 working days to apply for a China Group Visa from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. The group visa requires a minimum of four people to be issued.

1. From Kathmandu to Lhasa by Flight

Nowadays, there are flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa operated by Himalaya Airlines every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The flight duration is short, taking only about 1.5 hours, with a cost of about €450. It is recommended to choose a window seat on the left side of the aircraft, where you can enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, during your journey.

2. From Kathmandu to Lhasa by Land

Aside from direct flights to Lhasa, you can embark on an overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This road trip follows the scenic Friendship Highway, offering stunning views of the Himalayas on both sides. Travelers will set out in a jeep from Kathmandu, crossing the Nepal border at the Rasuwagadhi checkpoint, and passing through the dramatic Trishuli River Gorge into Tibet.

Heading north, you’ll explore the breathtaking Gyirong Valley, marvel at the world's highest peak - Mount Everest, and witness the serene beauty of Yamdrok Lake. Along the way, you'll also visit Tibetan Buddhist monasteries like Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, and the iconic Gyantse Kumbum. The journey ultimately ends in Lhasa, where visitors can experience the rich Tibetan culture and religion, exploring the sacred sites of this renowned city.

√  8 Days Kathmandu to Lhasa Overland Tour

Necessary Document

Foreign travelers are required to obtain a special permit, commonly known as the Tibet Travel Permit, to enter Tibet. This requirement is due to the unique geographical, ethnic, and religious aspects of the Tibet Autonomous Region and aims to protect its ecological environment and cultural heritage.

Tibet Travel Permit

Every foreign tourist must apply for a Tibet Travel Permit, which is typically processed through a local travel agency. To obtain this permit, you need to provide a scanned copy of your valid Chinese visa and passport page. The application must be submitted at least 10 days in advance, but if you plan to visit the Ngari region, the documents need to be submitted one month prior. As an experienced Tibetan travel agency, Great Tibet Tour can help you acquire the permit smoothly and organize a pleasant journey.

China Visa and Group Visa

If you choose to enter Tibet from mainland China, you will need a China Visa, which can be obtained from your nearby Chinese embassy. However, if you are traveling to Tibet from Nepal, you will need a group visa. Your travel agency can help obtain an invitation letter, which is the mandatory document to apply for this visa at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, along with your passport and two passport-sized photos with a white background. The process typically takes around 3 working days.

Conclusions

There are various routes and methods to travel from France to Tibet. Whether you choose to fly or take the train via major cities in mainland China, or you prefer to appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas through flights or overland routes from Kathmandu, it is essential to prepare all necessary travel permits and visas in advance. It is also advisable to collaborate with a reputable local travel agency to enhance your overall travel experience.