You Are Here:Home Lhasa Travel Guide Tibet Travel Guide Getting Around Lhasa: Buses & Taxis

Getting Around Lhasa: Buses & Taxis

Lhasa Travel Guidelao huang2026-9-10120

Introduction

Lhasa has a transportation system that makes getting around the city convenient.

Getting around Lhasa is simpler than it looks. city buses, taxis and walking covers almost everything a visitor needs, and the rules below cover the rest.

Buses

  • Routes: Extensive bus network.
  • Fare: 1-2 yuan.
  • Card: Transportation card available.

city buses, taxis and walking is the backbone: cheap, frequent, and signed in English on the main lines. Buy a transport card or use a mobile payment app rather than queueing for single tickets.

Taxis

  • Starting Fare: Approximately 10-12 yuan.
  • Per Kilometer: 1.5-2 yuan per km.
  • Availability: Easy to find, especially in tourist areas.
  • Rideshare: Didi and other apps available.

Taxis fill the gaps and are inexpensive by most standards. Have your destination written in the local script, and use a ride-hailing app if you want the fare fixed in advance.

Intercity Transportation

  • Train: Tibet Railway connects to major cities.
  • Airport: Lhasa Gonggar Airport.
  • Long-distance Bus: Buses to nearby areas.

For arrivals and departures, Lhasa Gonggar Airport handles the long-haul side. Allow more time than the journey seems to need – security and check-in queues at peak hours are the variable.

Walking

  • Barkhor Street: Best explored on foot.
  • City Center: Most attractions are walkable.
  • Altitude: Take it slow when walking.

Transportation Tips

  • Walking Shoes: Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Altitude: Don’t walk too fast.
  • Taxis: Negotiate fare for longer trips.

Practical Information

Item Detail
Primary option city buses, taxis and walking
Best value A transport card or mobile payment
Air/rail hub Lhasa Gonggar Airport
Late night Taxis or ride-hailing

Frequently Asked Questions

Is public transport signed in English?

On main lines and at major stations, yes.

How do I pay?

Transport cards and mobile payment apps are standard. Cash works but is slower.

Are taxis metered?

In most cities yes. Where they are not, agree the fare before setting off.

Quick Checklist

  • Get a transport card on arrival
  • Save your destination in the local script
  • Allow extra time for Lhasa Gonggar Airport
  • Use apps for late-night rides

Last Updated: July 2026

You May Also Like