Where is Tibet located?
Tibet, officially the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), is located in the southwest of China, covering 1.22 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest region in China. Nestled behind the world’s highest mountain range, Tibet shares borders with India, Nepal, Myanmar (Burma), and Bhutan. If Tibet were an independent country, it would be the world’s 10th largest by area. Known as the “Roof of the World,” Tibet boasts an average elevation of over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), making it the highest plateau on Earth.
When is the best time to visit Tibet?
The best time to visit Tibet is between April and October. However, many destinations can be visited year-round depending on what you want to experience. Cities like Lhasa, Shigatse, and Everest Base Camp (North Face) are accessible even during colder months, although the weather can be harsh. For Everest Base Camp, April-May and September-October offer the clearest skies and the best views of the Himalayas. These months are also ideal for trekking tours, such as the Mount Kailash trek.
Is Tibet safe to travel?
Yes, Tibet is very safe for travelers. The local Tibetan people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and crime rates are low due to the region’s strong Buddhist influence. Roads are generally well-paved and safe for travel by car, bike, or on foot, although conditions along the China-Nepal border can worsen during the monsoon season.
One precaution is to be cautious of Tibetan mastiffs in nomadic or remote areas, as these dogs are bred to protect livestock and can be aggressive. But rest assured, with us, you’ll be in safe hands, as our experienced drivers know every corner of Tibet.
Can I travel independently in Tibet?
No, independent travel is not allowed for international visitors. You must arrange your trip through a licensed Tibet travel agency, like Tibet Vista. In addition to a Chinese Visa (L Visa for tourists), you’ll need a Tibet Travel Permit, which your agency will arrange for you to board flights or trains into Tibet from mainland China. Throughout your stay, you’ll need to be on a guided tour with a pre-booked vehicle.
When is Tibet closed to foreign travelers?
Tibet is typically closed to foreign visitors from mid-February to the end of March each year due to heavy snowfall and important local events. However, policies can change. For 2024, Tibet Travel Permits will be available from mid-March, and we can help secure your permit.
How can I get a travel permit while traveling from China?
It’s not possible to obtain a Tibet travel permit without a tour operator. If you inform us 8 to 10 days before your entry into China, we’ll secure the permit and deliver it to your hotel in mainland China. In urgent cases, our staff can hand over the permit to you in person at the airport or train station.
How to get Tibet Travel Permit?
Although Tibet is part of China, a Chinese visa alone is not enough to travel there. You will also need a Tibet Travel Permit, which is required to board a train or flight to Tibet, and to enter the region. Individual travelers cannot visit Tibet on their own and must book a tour through a licensed travel agency.
To obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, you first need to book a guided tour with us. After booking, you will be required to send us a copy of your passport information pages and your Chinese visa. We will submit these documents to the Tibet Tourism Bureau to process your permit, which typically takes about 8 to 10 days.
We highly recommend planning for your Tibet Travel Permit at least one month before your trip. Once your permit is ready, we can either deliver it to your hotel in Kathmandu, mainland China or email a copy, depending on whether you’ll be arriving by flight or train.
Is there an age restriction for the Tibet visa?
There is no age limit for visiting Tibet. You can bring children or elderly parents along. However, some remote areas of Tibet have only basic facilities, which may make it challenging to care for kids or older adults. It’s advisable to consult a doctor before planning a trip for elderly family members.
How can I get to Tibet? Can you help me book train or flight tickets to Lhasa?
Tibet can be accessed from mainland China or Nepal. If entering from China, you need a Chinese visa, which should be applied for in your home country. There are direct flights to Tibet from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Guangzhou, and Chengdu. Alternatively, you can take a train from cities such as Xining, Beijing, Chengdu, and Xi’an.
If entering from Nepal, you’ll need a Chinese group visa from the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, even if you already have a Chinese visa. This group visa takes about three working days to process. You can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (a 1.5-hour flight) or take the scenic overland route, which includes a six-day journey with an optional detour to Everest Base Camp (North Face).
We can assist with booking overland tours, flights, or train tickets to Lhasa. Just let us know your preferences, and our helpdesk will be happy to assist.
What is a recommended travel route to Tibet?
A great option is to fly to Chengdu and then either take a domestic flight or board the Chengdu-to-Lhasa train, which offers a unique experience on the world’s highest railway. If time permits, you can also enjoy a panda tour at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Alternatively, you can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa for a breathtaking view of Mt. Everest or take the 8-day Kathmandu-to-Lhasa overland tour via Everest Base Camp (EBC). Whichever route you choose, we’ve got you covered!
How can I enter Tibet from Nepal via overland?
The overland route from Nepal to Tibet is popular due to its accessibility. The two main routes are the Friendship Highway at Kodari and the Kyirong Highway at Rasuwagadi. Although the 2015 earthquake temporarily disrupted the Kodari entry, it has now been repaired and reopened. Several permits and visas are required to enter Tibet from Nepal, and these must be arranged through a tour operator, as they cannot be obtained individually.
What should I pack for traveling to Tibet?
Traveling light is possible, especially if your tour covers cities like Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, or Mt. Kailash. In Lhasa, most amenities are readily available. For first-timers, we recommend packing the following:
- Travel Documents: Passport, Tibet Travel Permit, and reservation confirmations.
- Layered Clothing: Bring thermal wear, fleece jackets, and waterproof outer layers, as temperatures can vary greatly.
- Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, UV-protected sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential to protect against strong sun at high altitudes.
- Sturdy Footwear: Comfortable shoes or boots with good traction for walking on uneven terrain.
- Medications: Carry necessary medications, including those for altitude sickness (Diamox), and consult your doctor before traveling.
- Thermos: To keep water warm and stay hydrated.
- Personal Items: SPF lip balm, a beanie for cold mountain passes, etc.
What are the hotel and restaurant facilities in Tibet?
In most cities and towns, you’ll find a range of accommodations from simple guesthouses to five-star hotels. Lhasa has a variety of options, while cities like Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang offer up to three-star hotels. Some government-run luxury hotels are now available in larger cities.
In smaller or more remote areas, accommodation is basic, often limited to guesthouses. In bigger cities, restaurants serve a variety of European and Western meals, but in remote areas, food options are simpler, often limited to Tibetan or Chinese cuisine.
What is the situation regarding altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness in Tibet depends on how well you adapt to the high elevation. Although not all travelers experience it, the risk increases at elevations above 2,700 meters (8,858 feet). Lhasa, at 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), exposes visitors to lower oxygen levels, which can cause headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. Mild symptoms usually disappear after two days, but if symptoms persist, inform your guide immediately. Our local Tibetan guides are trained to handle altitude sickness and will provide assistance or arrange for medical care if needed.
How to minimize altitude sickness during the Trip?
Here are some tips to reduce altitude sickness:
- Sleep well. Good rest helps your body adapt to altitude. We carefully select hotels to ensure comfort.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, but avoid overeating or excessive alcohol, which can worsen symptoms.
- Avoid cold showers. Especially at night or during colder weather, as this can increase your chances of getting sick.
- Take it easy. Don’t exert yourself too much, especially during the first few days.
- Consult your doctor. If you have pre-existing health conditions, seek medical advice before your trip.
Always follow your guide’s advice—they are experienced in helping travelers adjust to Tibet’s high altitude.
If you take the train to Lhasa, the gradual ascent can help reduce the chance of altitude sickness, giving you time to acclimatize. Most symptoms will subside within two days, but if they persist, your guide will know how to respond and arrange medical attention if needed.
What Taboos Should I Avoid When Traveling in Tibet?
- Ask for permission before taking photos of local people.
- Walk clockwise when you are in or near religious sites like temples, monasteries, pagodas, and mani stones.
- Do not touch Buddhist statues, scriptures, or ritual offerings, and avoid taking pictures inside temples or monasteries.
- Always rotate prayer wheels clockwise.
- Never step on the threshold of a tent, house, temple, or monastery.
- Do not touch anyone’s head, as it is considered very disrespectful.
- Remove your hat or cap when entering a chapel or other religious buildings.
- Dress modestly when visiting monasteries, chapels, and other sacred places.
- Avoid wearing clothing or shoes that feature images of Buddha or prayer flags.
Do I Need Vaccinations for Traveling to Tibet?
We recommend consulting your doctor at least two months before your trip for advice on vaccinations. While the following vaccines are commonly suggested for travel to Tibet, your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance:
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers, ideally four weeks before departure.
- Typhoid: Recommended for travelers to Tibet.
- Hepatitis B: If not previously vaccinated, this is recommended.
- Rabies: Consider if you’ll spend significant time outdoors.
- Tetanus-Diphtheria: Ensure your immunization is up-to-date (within the last 10 years).
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR): Two doses are recommended if not previously given, especially for travelers born before 1956.
- Yellow Fever: Required if you’re coming from a country where yellow fever is prevalent, particularly in Africa or the Americas.
For the latest updates, you can visit the CDC’s website on travel vaccinations: