Tips for Navigating Public Transportation in Lhasa
Navigating public transportation in Lhasa as a foreign visitor may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and local know-how, it can become one of the most rewarding aspects of your Tibetan adventure. The city offers a surprisingly accessible network of buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services, all easily managed through China's most popular navigation app, Gaode Map. This versatile tool not only provides real-time bus schedules and multiple route options but also offers fixed-price taxi bookings and economical ride-sharing services, allowing you to split costs with fellow passengers heading in the same direction.
For those who prefer the authentic experience of hailing a taxi on the street, Lhasa's distinctive blue-white cabs with the "TAXI" signs on their roofs are easily recognizable. A simple wave of the hand will typically secure a ride, though it's wise to have your destination written in Chinese characters ready to show the driver. Most taxis operate on meters, with daytime fares starting at ¥10 for the first three kilometers and increasing by ¥3 per additional kilometer. Night rates charge slightly more per kilometer. If you hail a taxi through the Gaode Map app, the payment is generally completed within the app. You can use the balance in your WeChat Pay or Alipay accounts. For taxis that you hail by waving your hand, you can also complete the payment by scanning the QR code via WeChat Pay or Alipay. Paying in cash is also a recommended option.
The city's bus system presents an even more economical option at just ¥1 per ride, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into daily Tibetan life. Bus stops throughout Lhasa feature clear, bilingual route maps that display all lines serving that location, along with their directions and major stops, so you can study these maps to identify the most suitable route to your destination, though it's worth noting that bus drivers do not provide change, making WeChat or Alipay's transport QR code the preferred payment method. For those without Chinese payment apps, exact ¥1 coins are essential.
Cultural considerations enhance your transportation experience. Tibetan passengers generally value quiet conversations, so keeping phone calls brief and voices low is appreciated. Eating on buses is discouraged, as is photographing locals without permission.
Conclusion
Keep your hotel's address written in Chinese characters along with their contact number for emergencies, and do keep in touch with your guide in case you need help.
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34 Comment ON "Tips for Navigating Public Transportation in Lhasa"
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
Asked by Nyen** from India
Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit
Lhasa potala place visit and monastery visit, we are three people and 2 adults and 1 infant 2 Indian Passport and 1 Nepal passport. we have applied for a China visa also.