Known as Tibet’s second-largest city, Shigatse blends cultural richness, breathtaking landscapes, and easy access to the majestic Mount Everest. Whether you are drawn to its vibrant monasteries or the chance to get up close to Everest, Shigatse is an essential stop on any Tibetan itinerary. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Shigatse a must-visit and how to plan your trip there.

Where is Shigatse in Tibet? Is Shigatse Worth Visiting?

Shigatse is located in the southwestern part of the Tibet Autonomous Region, approximately 260 kilometers west of Lhasa. It sits at the confluence of the Nianchu and Brahmaputra Rivers, at an average altitude of 4,000 meters. Shigatse borders Ngari to the west, Nagqu to the north, Lhasa and Shannan to the east, and Nepal, Bhutan, and India to the south.

But is Shigatse worth visiting? Absolutely. It serves as a major gateway to Mount Everest, being 343 kilometers east of Everest Base Camp, and is an essential stopover on the classic Lhasa to Kathmandu overland route. Beyond that, Shigatse is home to historic sites like the revered Tashilhunpo Monastery. You’ll be captivated by the blend of spirituality, local customs, and the serene yet striking landscapes that define this remarkable region.

How to Get to Shigatse, Tibet? Overland is the Main Way

Getting to Shigatse is an adventure in itself, with options by overland, train, or flight depending on your starting point. For most travelers, the overland route is the most popular, offering some of the most dramatic scenery in Tibet.

(1) Overland to Shigatse from Lhasa or Kathmandu

The most popular way to reach Shigatse is by road along the famous Sino-Nepal Friendship Highway. Connecting Lhasa and Kathmandu, the highway allows easy access to Shigatse from either side, depending on your travel plan.

The overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse spans roughly 260 kilometers and typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions. However, most tourists make stops at Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse Pelkor Monastery for sightseeing along the way. So, the trip generally takes about one day to travel from Lhasa to Shigatse by road.

If you’re starting from Kathmandu, Nepal, the road trip to Shigatse is longer. To gradually acclimate to the altitude and enjoy the highlights along the way, including Mount Everest, you would typically take 3 days to travel from Kathmandu to Shigatse. This includes one night at Rasuwa Gadi, one day at Gyirong, and one day to visit Everest Base Camp.

(2) Train to Shigatse from Lhasa

If you prefer a more relaxed journey, you can also travel to Shigatse from Lhasa by train. There are three trains departing from Lhasa to Shigatse every day, taking about 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Shigatse Railway Station. As an extension of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, the train route passes through Tibetan villages and beautiful landscapes of the plateau.

Train No.	Dep./Arr.	Duration
C885 Lhasa-Shigatse	07:10/09:30	2h 20m
C887 Lhasa-Shigatse	13:00/15:20	2h 20m
C883 Lhasa-Shigatse	16:30/19:02	2h 32m

Compared with the overland route, the train from Lhasa to Shigatse is much quicker and time-saving. It is suitable for those who want to visit Shigatse and Mount Everest in a limited time. However, you may miss attractions like Yamdrok Lake. For first-time visitors to Tibet, you can travel from Lhasa to Shigatse by car and return from Shigatse to Lhasa by train, ensuring you cover all the highlights of the region.

(3) Flight to Shigatse from Chengdu, Xi’an or Chongqing

Shigatse Peace Airport, while not as busy as Lhasa Gonggar Airport, provides flights from a few major Chinese cities, including Chengdu, Xi’an, and Chongqing. There is a daily non-stop flight from Chengdu to Shigatse that departs in the morning and takes around 2.5 hours. The flight from Xi’an to Shigatse also operates daily, with a flight time of about 3.5 hours. Additionally, there is a flight from Chongqing to Shigatse every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, taking approximately 3 hours.

Route	Dep. – Arr.	Flight No.	Airlines	Frequency	Price
Chengdu-Shigatse	06:35 – 09:10	TV9976	Tibet Airlines	Every Day	From $255
Xi’an-Shigatse	06:40 - 10:10	TV6059	Tibet Airlines	Every Day	From $100
Chongqing-Shigatse	06:00 - 09:10	PN6449	West Air	Tue, Thu, Sat	From $108

Flying is the quickest way to reach Shigatse but does not provide the gradual acclimatization that overland travel offers. If time is limited and you prefer a swift journey, flying is a viable option, though you are advised to acclimatize upon arrival.

When is the Best Time to Visit Shigatse, Tibet? April to May and September to November

Shigatse is a wonderful year-round destination, but the best times to visit are from April to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is stable and clear, ideal for sightseeing and trekking. Spring (April to May) brings the landscape to life with blooming wildflowers, while fall (September to November) offers crisp air and stunning views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest.

Summer, from June to August, is Tibet’s rainy season, though showers usually fall at night. If you plan to visit Tibet in summer, just be sure to check the forecast to enjoy clear views. Winter, from December to February, brings colder temperatures and possible snowfall, but it also means fewer tourists and lower travel costs.

What are the Top Attractions to Visit in Shigatse, Tibet? Mt. Everest Ranks First

Shigatse is not just a stopover on the way to Everest; it’s a destination brimming with cultural and historical attractions. Here are some of the highlights:

(1) Mount Everest

No trip to Shigatse is complete without venturing to Mount Everest. The city acts as a jumping-off point for the trip to Everest Base Camp (EBC), located around 350 kilometers away. The route to EBC takes you through the breathtaking Gawula Pass, where, on a clear day, you can see several of the world’s tallest peaks. Reaching EBC from the Tibetan side provides a more expansive view of Everest’s towering north face, making it a unique experience compared to the southern approach from Nepal.

(2) Tashilhunpo Monastery

Founded in the 15th century by the first Dalai Lama, Tashilhunpo Monastery is a spiritual cornerstone of Shigatse. It is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and features intricate murals, golden statues, and an atmosphere steeped in deep devotion. Wandering its halls, you can feel the profound history that has shaped Tibetan Buddhism.

(3) Gyantse Ancient Town

Located just over an hour’s drive from Shigatse, Gyantse is famous for its ancient fortress and the remarkable Gyantse Kumbum, a multi-story chorten filled with chapels. The town’s charm lies in its old-world feel, where cobblestone streets and traditional Tibetan homes offer a glimpse into a bygone era.

(4) Sakya Monastery

A two-hour drive from Shigatse, Sakya Monastery is known for its unique gray walls and distinct architecture, standing in contrast to the typical white and red buildings seen throughout Tibet. The monastery houses a vast collection of ancient scriptures and artwork, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Recommended Itineraries to Visit Shigatse in Tibet

For those planning a trip to Shigatse, here are two popular itineraries you can take to cover the region’s rich culture, stunning landscapes and iconic sites:

(1) 8-Day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp Tour

This 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour is a favorite among travelers, offering the chance to experience Lhasa, Shigatse, and Mount Everest all in one trip. The journey begins in Lhasa, where you’ll have time to acclimate and explore renowned landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery. From there, the route takes you over scenic mountain passes and past the breathtaking Yamdrok Lake before reaching the historic town of Gyantse.

After an overnight stay in Shigatse, the tour continues toward Everest Base Camp, where you’ll be rewarded with a close-up view of Mount Everest’s stunning north face—a sight often the highlight of the entire trip. On the return to Lhasa, you’ll also have a chance to visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse and the ancient town of Sakya, rounding out a journey rich in both cultural and natural wonders.

(2) 6-Day Lhasa to Shigatse Tour

For those looking to experience the heart of central Tibet without venturing as far as Everest, this 6-day Lhasa to Shigatse tour is an excellent choice. Starting in Lhasa, it includes visits to the city's must-see sights, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Then head west, stopping to admire Yamdrok Lake before arriving in Shigatse.

In Shigatse, a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery offers a chance to see one of Tibet’s most important religious sites, with its golden-roofed halls and vibrant Buddhist culture. This shorter itinerary allows you to delve into Tibetan history, religion, and scenic beauty while staying within a manageable timeframe.

More Travel Tips for a Shigatse Tibet Tour

To make your Shigatse Tibet tour enjoyable and hassle-free, here are some helpful travel tips:

Acclimatization: Shigatse sits at an altitude of around 4,000 meters, so acclimatizing is essential to avoid altitude sickness. It’s best to spend a few days in Lhasa (3,650 meters) before heading to Shigatse. Gradually adjusting to higher elevations by staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities, and getting plenty of rest can make a big difference in how you feel once you reach Shigatse.

Permits: To visit Shigatse, you’ll need both a Tibet Travel Permit and an Alien’s Travel Permit, which we can help arrange. The Tibet Travel Permit must be obtained before your departure and can take about 15 to 20 days to process, so we recommend contacting us well in advance. The Alien’s Travel Permit, however, is obtained by your guide after you arrive in Lhasa and typically takes only 1 to 2 hours to issue.

Packing Essentials: Shigatse’s high altitude means temperatures can vary widely, so pack in layers to stay comfortable. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are must-haves for protection against strong UV rays, while sturdy shoes are ideal for exploring. Even in warmer months, bring a warm jacket for cooler evenings, along with lip balm and hand cream for the dry climate.

Conclusion

Shigatse stands as a testament to Tibet’s deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re there to admire its revered monasteries or as part of your journey to Mount Everest, Shigatse offers an experience that is both enriching and unforgettable. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your visit to Tibet’s second-largest city will be a highlight of your travels through the Land of Snows. For more questions, feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today!