Accommodations are divided into hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. Even in Lhasa, there are few hotels that cater to Western standards. As you move further away from cities, expect that the lodgings to be less sophisticated. Hotels in large Tibetan cities may have hot showers and other amenities, but smaller towns and villages are far less likely to have electricity and running water. Guesthouses have a few advantages; they are more friendly, often more homey, and less expensive. Some monasteries have guesthouses or you may be able to rent a spare room.
You may want to consider bringing a tent and sleeping bag if you don't wish to stay at a hotel. A sleeping bag is also nice if you are stuck in a budget hotel. Camping is a valid option, as long as you are away from the range of the PSB on the outskirts of a town. As a general rule, if you are close to a settlement, you should ask permission before setting up camp.
Room prices vary according to season, and winter is typically the least expensive time. If the hotel is not full, it is very likely that there will be a discount so you shouldn't hesitate to ask.
Upscale:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
When outside of Lhasa, it is suggested that you try staying at a guesthouse instead of a hotel. Hotels are usually used by tour groups and are often far more expensive than the poor quality rooms warrant.
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Less Expensive:
Mid-range:
Less Expensive:
Elizabeth Tseng