How to Get to Lhozhag County from Lhasa

Lhozhag County (洛扎县), located in the Tibet Autonomous Region, is approximately 284-300 kilometers from Lhasa. Depending on road conditions, the travel time could take between 6 to 8 hours. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Lhozhag County from Lhasa:

1. Long-Distance Bus 

Bus Departure: Buses from Lhasa to Lhozhag County are available 1-2 times daily from the North Suburban Passenger Station (北郊客运站).

Ticket Price: Around 110-116 CNY.

Travel Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours.

Bus Schedule:

  • Departure: 8:30 AM / 8:50 AM from Lhasa.

  • Arrival: Between 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM at Lhozhag County.

Key Stops:

  • Border Checkpoint: You will need your ID card and Border Permit to pass the checkpoint.

  • Yamdrok Lake Viewing Platform: A scenic stop during the journey.

Transfer Options:

  • From Lhozhag County to Sèxiāng (色乡): Around 40-50 CNY; departure at 5:30 PM.

  • From Sèxiāng to Cuòyù Village (措玉村): Private car (pickup truck) is required, with a cost of 50-100 CNY.

2. Self-Driving 

For those looking for flexibility, self-driving is a viable option, but certain roads are challenging.

Route:

  • Lhasa → G318 → G349 → G219 → Lhozhag County. The total distance is about 365 km.

Road Conditions:

  • After Langkazi County, the roads are mostly dirt roads.

  • Mongdala Mountain Pass is steep and risky, especially during the rainy season, as landslides can occur.

  • Sèxiāng to Cuòyù Village: About 12 km of dirt roads, requiring an off-road vehicle or a pickup truck.

Suggestions:

  • Break the journey into two days: Stay overnight in Langkazi County on the first day and reach Lhozhag County on the second day.

  • Off-Road Vehicles: An SUV or 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to challenging roads.

3. Cycling 

For adventurous travelers, cycling or motorcycling offers a more intimate experience with Tibet’s landscape, but be aware of the high-altitude challenges.

Route: Follow the self-driving route but be mindful of high-altitude sections, especially above 4,500 meters.

Important Tips:

  • Prepare windproof gear and oxygen tanks, as the altitude may cause discomfort.

  • Road Conditions: Some sections are gravel roads; it’s advisable to travel in groups and carry repair tools in case of bike issues.

Challenges: The journey requires physical endurance due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.

4. Other Transportation Methods 

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights or trains to Lhozhag County.

Flights: You can first fly to Gongga Airport (贡嘎机场) or take a train to Shigatse. Then, you will need to take a local bus or private vehicle to reach Lhozhag County.

Trains: You may need to take a train to Shigatse first, then switch to a bus to complete the journey.

5. Important Notes 

Border Permit: Ensure you apply for a border permit in Lhasa before your trip. This is necessary for accessing restricted areas.

Off-Season Travel: During the off-season (November to March), bus frequencies may decrease. It’s advisable to confirm schedules in advance.

Driving in Tibet: If you’re self-driving, be cautious of weather conditions and night driving. Avoid driving during bad weather, especially in mountainous areas.

Traveling from Lhasa to Lhozhag County requires careful planning and attention to road conditions, especially in high-altitude regions. Whether you prefer long-distance buses, self-driving, or cycling, each method offers a unique way to experience Tibet’s breathtaking landscapes. Make sure to prepare your necessary documents and adapt to the challenging environment to ensure a smooth journey.