How to Get to Tibet from Israel?

Israel is home to beautiful Mediterranean beaches, the desolate wonders of Negev Desert, and vibrant cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, rich in both history and modernity. Many Israelis love to explore the world. Tibet, known as the "Roof of the World," is a dream destination for adventure seekers and spiritual travelers.

However, getting from Israel to Tibet is not as simple as a regular international flight. Since there are no direct flights, Israelis must first reach mainland China or Nepal before entering Tibet. This guide will explain the best routes and necessary travel documents.

Israel to Tibet via Mainland China

To enter China, you first need to apply for a China Visa at the Chinese embassy in Tel Aviv. A Tibet Travel Permit is an essential document for entering Tibet, and the Great Tibet Tour can assist you with the application and provide you with comprehensive one-stop travel services.

From Tel Aviv, you can fly to Beijing and Shenzhen or Chengdu, and then continue to Lhasa by flight or the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. 

1. Tel Aviv - Beijing - Lhasa

From Tel Aviv to Beijing, direct flights operate every Monday and Thursday from Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). The flight takes about 9 hours, with ticket prices around 3,450 ILS. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, transiting via Baku offers fares as low as 1,800–2,000 ILS.

From Beijing to Lhasa, there are daily direct flights that take approximately 4 hours, with ticket prices around 1,600 ILS. If you're flexible, connecting flights are available at lower prices, typically ranging from 600 to 1,000 ILS. >> See more about Beijing to Lhasa flights

If you want to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, taking the train is a fantastic option. Train Z21 departs from Beijing daily, covering 3,757 km in about 40 hours, arriving in Lhasa at 11:36 am on the third day. The soft sleeper ticket costs around 650 ILS, making it an unforgettable journey through some of the world's most stunning highland scenery. >> See more about Beijing to Lhasa train

2. Tel Aviv - Shenzhen - Lhasa

Flights from Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) to Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) operate every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. The flight takes about 10.5 hours, with a ticket price of approximately 3,500 ILS.

From Shenzhen to Lhasa, there are daily flights with layovers in cities like Chongqing and Mianyang. The total travel time is 6–8 hours, and ticket prices are around 1,300 ILS.

3. Tel Aviv - Chengdu - Lhasa

Currently, there are no direct flights from Tel Aviv to Chengdu, but multiple daily flights connect via Dubai and other cities. The total travel time is about 18 hours, with ticket prices around 2,300 ILS.

There are many direct flights daily from Chengdu to Lhasa, with a flight time of about 2.5 hours. Ticket prices range from 1,000 to 1,600 ILS, depending on the season and airline. >> See more about Chengdu to Lhasa flights

Alternatively, you can take the Z322 train from Chengdu to Lhasa, which departs every other day. The journey takes about 34 hours and 30 minutes, arriving in Lhasa at 7:40 am on the third day. >> See more about Chengdu to Lhasa train

Israel to Tibet via Nepal

In addition to traveling through mainland China, Israeli tourists can also reach Tibet via Kathmandu, Nepal, another major gateway that offers both flight and overland routes into Tibet.

Currently, there are no direct flights from Tel Aviv to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, but you can transit through Dubai. The total flight time is approximately 9–12 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 2,000 to 2,600 ILS.

Please note that entering Tibet from Kathmandu requires an additional three working days to process a China Group Visa, and Israeli travelers must be in a group of at least four people to obtain this visa.

1. From Kathmandu to Lhasa by Flight

From April 1st, 2025, to the end of October, there will be four weekly flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. The flight is short—only 2 hours, with tickets priced at approximately 1,800 ILS.

Recognized by Lonely Planet as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Flights in the World, this route offers stunning aerial views of Mount Everest. It's recommended to choose a window seat on the left side of the plane, where you can witness the world's highest peak in all its glory.

2. From Kathmandu to Lhasa by Land

If you prefer a more adventurous route, you can embark on an overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This scenic trip follows the Friendship Highway, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas on both the Nepalese and Tibetan sides.

You will depart from Kathmandu and cross the Rasuwa Gadhi border checkpoint. The journey winds through the Trishuli River Gorge, entering Tibet and heading northeast to Lhasa. Along the way, you'll witness the majestic Mount Everest, visit the sacred Yamdrok Lake, and explore historic Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, including Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, and the Gyantse Kumbum Stupa.

Finally, you'll arrive in Lhasa. You can immerse yourself in Tibetan culture and spirituality, exploring the holy city's most famous landmarks, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, etc.

Necessary Document

International travelers must obtain a special permit, known as the Tibet Travel Permit (TTP), to enter Tibet. To apply for it, you need to provide scanned copies of your valid China visa and passport. Documents should be submitted at least 20 days in advance, according to your destinations in Tibet. If you plan to visit the Ngari region, the application should be submitted at least one month in advance. As an experienced Tibet travel agency, we can assist you in obtaining the permit and organizing a smooth and enjoyable journey.

If you are entering Tibet via mainland China, you need to apply for a China Visa at a Chinese embassy.

If you choose to enter Tibet from Nepal, you will apply for a China Group Visa, which is different from a regular Chinese visa. Our travel agency can provide you with a Tibet travel invitation letter. With this letter, along with your passport and two passport-sized photos, you can apply for the group visa at the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu. The process typically takes three working days.

Conclusions

Whether traveling via mainland China or Kathmandu from Israel, your journey to Lhasa offers stunning Himalayan landscapes and profound cultural experiences. Be sure to secure all necessary permits and visas in advance, and consider booking with a local travel agency for a wonderful and enriching adventure.