Visit Gyantse, Tibet

Gyantse, at about 4,000 meters, lies between Lhasa and Shigatse in central Tibet. It is a small town with a hilltop fortress, and at its center is Pelkor Chode Monastery, which includes the Kumbum, a tiered stupa built in 1427 with dozens of small chapels.

What to see

The Kumbum. A nine-story stupa with 77 chapels, covered in Buddhist wall paintings and statues.

Gyantse Dzong. A fort on a rock above the town, built in the 14th century, which saw heavy fighting against the British expedition of 1904.

The road from Lhasa. The drive passes Yamdrok Lake, a bright turquoise lake, and Karo La, a pass with a glacier beside the road.

Getting there and how long to stay

Gyantse is about 260 km, around five hours by road, from Lhasa, on the route to Shigatse. Foreign visitors must have a Tibet Travel Permit and travel with an approved guide, which your operator arranges. Allow a few days in Lhasa first to adjust to the altitude. See Tsetang.

When to go

April to October. Winters are very cold. See our best time to visit China page.

Planning it with My Way Travel

We plan private trips in China with a private guide and driver in every city, high-speed rail and domestic flights booked for you, and hotels chosen for where you want to be. Have a look at our China tours or tell us your dates.

Sources: Tibet tourism information. Last checked October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a permit for Tibet?

Yes. Foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit and must travel with an approved guide, which your operator arranges.

How far is Gyantse from Lhasa?

About 260 km, around five hours by road.

What is the Kumbum?

A nine-story stupa with 77 chapels, built in 1427.

Photo: Antoine Taveneaux, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0.