Easy Ways to Get from Qamdo to Lhasa

If your Tibetan adventure has begun in the historic town of Qamdo (Chamdo), the heart of the ancient Tea Horse Road, then reaching the iconic capital of Lhasa is your next great journey.

Overland Adventures: G318 Scenic Southern Route

If you're here for the views that will stay with you forever, the overland trip via G318 Sichuan Tibet Highway is non-negotiable. Stretching about 1,112 kilometers, the overland trip via G318 Sichuan Tibet Highway route takes 3 to 4 days of leisurely travel—perfect for soaking in every moment of Tibet's natural beauty without rushing. Unlike a straight drive, the journey unfolds like a living postcard: you'll wind through the vast, sunlit grasslands, gaze at the turquoise waters of Basum Tso, and pass Ranwu Lake, framed by the glittering Midui and Laigu Glaciers. Spring brings pink peach blossoms to the Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley, while autumn paints the hills in warm gold—no matter when you go, the scenery feels otherworldly. What makes this route even more special is the chance to spot pilgrims walking or prostrating their way to Lhasa's Jokhang Temple, a humbling reminder of Tibet's spiritual heart. For foreign travelers, note that self-driving isn't permitted—you'll need to join an organized tour with a registered Tibet operator. That's where we come in: our team handles all the necessary permits (including the Tibet Travel Permit) and arranges comfortable vehicles with experienced drivers who know the roads like the back of their hands. We'll stop at all the best viewpoints, suggest local eateries for authentic Tibetan momos, and even adjust the pace if you want to linger by a lake or explore a small village—no rigid schedules, just pure adventure.

Overland Alternative: G317 Kham Culture & Mountain Views

For those who crave a deeper dive into local life, the G317 Northern Route is a good choice. At 1,067 kilometers, it's slightly shorter than G318 but offers a more intimate look at Kham culture, the vibrant heritage of eastern Tibet. The road winds through Nagqu Prefecture, passing small towns like Riwoqe and Dengqen, where you can chat with locals in colorful traditional attire and visit lesser-known monasteries. Don't miss Galden Jampaling Monastery in Qamdo—founded over 600 years ago on a site recommended by Je Tsongkhapa, its golden roofs and intricate murals are a feast for the eyes. You'll also catch glimpses of Riwoqe Monastery, with its unique architecture, and the dramatic Zizhu Temple, carved into a hillside at 4,850 meters (Tibet's highest Bon temple, though foreign visitors can't enter inside). Road conditions here are a bit rougher—some stretches are gravel or dirt—but that's part of the charm; it feels like a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Flying from Qamdo to Lhasa: Quick & Convenient

If time is tight or you prefer to save energy for exploring Lhasa, flying is the easiest choice. Qamdo's Bamda Airport offers daily flights to Lhasa's Gonggar International Airport, with a flight time of about 1 hour 10 minutes—perfect for travelers who want to skip the long drive but still reach the capital quickly. On arrival in Lhasa, Gonggar Airport is 60 kilometers from downtown, connected by the smooth Airport Expressway. Flights typically cost 1,500 to 2,000 yuan one-way, and while you'll miss the overland scenery, you'll arrive fresh and ready to explore Lhasa's iconic sites like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

Conclusion

Either way, our team is here to help tailor your trip to your needs as you wish!