How to Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa Safely: Altitude Sickness Prevention Guide
As a matter of fact, Kathmandu sits at around 1,400 meters above sea level, while Lhasa jumps to 3,650 meters. That's a huge altitude leap—and it means altitude sickness isn't just a possible issue but something you need to plan for.
Pre-Trip Prep: Lay the Groundwork for High-Altitude Travel
Getting ready for your trip starts before you even board a plane or bus—and it's all about making sure your body is ready to handle less oxygen.
First, book a check-up 1–2 months before your trip. Your doctor will check your heart, lungs, and blood pressure to make sure you're fit for high altitudes. If you have chronic issues like asthma or heart disease, don't skip this—your doctor might give special advice or warn against the trip if needed. Note that take some preventive medicine can help your body adjust to low oxygen faster. It’s suggested taking it 1 week before leaving—but only with your doctor's okay. And pack ibuprofen for headaches and anti-nausea pills for stomach upset.

Travel Choices: Flight vs. Overland
By plane: The flight is only 1.5 hours from Kathmandu to Lhasa, but it's a sudden jump to 3,650m. Book a morning flight so you have daylight to rest for the next day’s itinerary when you land—don't rush to go sightseeing! Sit down, drink water, and let your body adjust for a few hours.
By overland: Cross the border at Gyirong (around 2,800m) and drive to Lhasa over 2–3 days. This is better for your altitude sickness adaption because you climb altitude gradually—each day you'll go a little higher, giving your body time to adapt. It's slower, but great if you have extra time and want to see more scenery.

Other Tips for Altitude Adaption
Eat smart: In the few days after entering Tibet, have small, frequent meals with simple porridge, noodles, rice instead of heavy, spicy food. Try butter tea (it's high in calories and helps with hydration) or glucose water for a quick energy boost.
No alcohol or caffeine: Both dehydrate you, and alcohol slows down oxygen absorption—stick to water or herbal tea.
Stay in an oxygen hotel: Most Lhasa hotels have rooms with oxygen supplies—ask for one! Turning it on at night helps you sleep better.

Conclusion
Remember: there's no rush to see everything on day one. A little patience now means you'll have more energy to explore Lhasa's monasteries, lakes, and culture later. Safe travels—and enjoy the view!


35 Comment ON "How to Travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa Safely: Altitude Sickness Prevention Guide"
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash