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How to Visit Tibet? Latest Tibet Travel Guide in 2024

 

05-03-2023


Visiting Tibet is a unique experience that offers tourists a chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayan mountains, worship at the centuries-old temples and monasteries, and connect with the friendly and hospitable Tibetan people. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to visit Tibet and make the most out of your trip.

1. Can I visit Tibet in 2024?

Tibet has reopened the border to international tourists from April 1st of 2023 after its closure due to COVID-19 precautions, and according to the latest regulations, no quarantine or a negative COVID test required upon arrival. 

2. What to prepare to visit Tibet?

Visiting Tibet requires a bit of planning, so it's essential to plan your trip well in advance. You will need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit from the Chinese government, which can take up to 20 days to process. It's important to note that you cannot travel to Tibet independently; you must book your trip through a registered travel agency in China. They will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits and arrange your itinerary.
 

Tibet Travel Permit for international tourists to visit Tibet
Tibet Travel Permit for international tourists to visit Tibet

3. Is it hard to visit Tibet?

Visiting Tibet is not as hard as you imagine, and all international tourists from any country are welcome. Though independent travel in Tibet is not permitted, you can still either opt for a private tour or a join-in tour as per your preference. You just need to book a tour with a licensed travel agency, which will arrange all the necessary procedures for you. There are only a few steps as you can see below:

Step 1: Get the China visa
This step is not necessary if your country does not require visas to enter China (e.g. Singapore, Brunei, Mongolia)

Step 2: Send us the copies of your passport and China visa 
You don’t need to show up and apply for the Tibet Permit in person. And the documents can be easily sent to us via email.

Step 3: Confirm your tour details and get the Tibet Permit
We'll mail your Tibet Permit to your hotel address in China before you travel to Tibet.

4. When is the best time to visit Tibet?

Tibet is a high-altitude region with a harsh climate, and the weather can vary considerably throughout the year. The best time to visit Tibet is from May to October when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. However, the peak season is from July to August, and the crowds can be overwhelming. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Tibet during the shoulder seasons, such as April-May or September-October.

5. How to get to Tibet?

Visit Tibet from Mainland China
There are several ways to get to Tibet, including flying, taking the train, or driving from inland China. The easiest and most popular way to reach Tibet is by flying from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai. However, taking the train to Tibet is a unique experience and allows you to gradually acclimatize to the high altitude. The train journey from inland China to Tibet is a long and scenic one, taking around from 21 to 40 hours.

Visit Tibet from Nepal
Nepal is a popular gateway to enter Tibet, especially for travelers who want to combine a visit to both destinations in one trip. The flights from Kathmandu to Lhasa are operated by Air China and Sichuan Airlines, and they usually take around 90 minutes. 

Alternatively, travelers can enter Tibet from Nepal by land via the Gyirong border, which is located about 160 km from Kathmandu. The overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa is considered an epic adventure by many, as it involves driving across some of the world's highest mountain passes along the Friendship Highway. The journey usually takes around 8 days, including an overnight stay at the Everest Base Camp on the northern side of Mount Everest, which offers stunning views of the world's highest peak. 

Gyirong border is the main crossing for tourists between China and Nepal
Gyirong border is the main crossing between China and Nepal


It's worth noting that the entry from Nepal to Tibet requires a Chinese group visa which can only be issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, so it's important to plan ahead and obtain all necessary documents before embarking on the journey.

6. How much does it cost to visit Tibet?

The cost of visiting Tibet can vary widely depending on various factors, such as the duration of the trip, the mode of transportation, the level of accommodation, and the activities included in the itinerary. Additionally, foreign tourists are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, which is issued by the Chinese government and can only be obtained through a registered travel agency, adding to the overall cost.

The cost of a 4-5 day group tour of Tibet starts at around 400-800 USD per person, while private tours can cost upwards of 1500-2000 USD per person. This cost generally includes accommodation, vehicle, meals, and a tour guide.

It's worth noting that the cost of visiting Tibet can be significantly higher during peak tourist season (May to October) and lower during the off season (November to April). Additionally, prices may vary depending on the travel agency and the specific itinerary. It's important to research and compare prices from multiple sources before booking a trip to Tibet.

7. Is it safe to visit Tibet?

Yes, sure! Tibet is a safe destination for tourists. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and the region has good social security. However, visitors should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and take precautions such as resting upon arrival in Lhasa and consulting with a doctor beforehand.

Tips on how to acclimate yourself to the high altitude:
Tibet is known for its high altitude, with some areas reaching up to 5,000 meters above sea level. It's essential to give your body enough time to acclimate to the altitude to avoid altitude sickness. Some of the best ways to acclimate yourself to the altitude include staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, resting for the first few days, and taking it slow when climbing stairs or hiking.

You may want to read more about safe travel in Tibet.

8. Is there age limit for visiting Tibet?

Generally speaking, there is no age restrictions from the authority for those who want to visit  Tibet. However, if you plan to take your children or parents with you to Tibet, you will need to pay a special attention.

Though it is true that the main factor that determines whether you can visit Tibet depends on individual's physical condition, elder people is likely to encounter a more serious problem once they experience altitude sickness. Therefore, we suggest people who are over 65 years old should consult with their doctor before traveling. In addition, Tibet is not recommended to the elders who are with the diseases such as severe diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, chronic lung disease, etc. 

Referring to the children, if they are too young to communicate with you properly, then you might not be informed when they feel unwell, and it also might be a problem that young kids are not able to clearly describe the symptoms, so we do not suggest bringing young kids to any difficult tours (such as trekking tours) at remote areas in Tibet, where lack of sufficient medical support. 
 
All in all, that is not to say that the elderly or kids cannot visit Tibet, but the heath risk measurement is very important, and safety is surely the first priority that we concern. Tibet is vast and also has many places at lower elevation for travelers. With proper preparation, everyone can enjoy a trip in Tibet.  

9. What to see when you visit Tibet?

Tibet is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks and cultural sites, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and the Everest Base Camp. It's important to visit these sites with a local guide who can provide insight into the history and culture of Tibet. Other activities you can do in Tibet include hiking, camping, and exploring local markets.
 

Potala Palace is the must-see attraction when visiting Tibet
Potala Palace is the must-see attraction when visiting Tibet

10. What to note when you visit Tibet?

Tibet is a deeply religious and culturally significant region, and it's important to respect local customs and beliefs. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites and avoid taking photographs of locals without their consent. It's also important to remember that Tibet is a politically sensitive region, and discussions about politics should be avoided.

Local Tibetans go on a pilgrimage to Jokhang Temple
Local Tibetans go on a pilgrimage to Jokhang Temple

11. How many days do you need to visit Tibet?

The number of days you need to visit Tibet depends on what you want to see and experience during your trip. If you are planning to visit the capital city of Lhasa and its main attractions such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street, then you can plan for a minimum of 3-4 days. However, if you want to explore more of Tibet's natural beauty and cultural sites, then you may need to plan for at least 7-10 days or more. This could include visiting places like Namtso Lake, Everest Base Camp, Yamdrok Lake, and other remote areas.


In conclusion, visiting Tibet can be an once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique glimpse into a rich and fascinating culture. However, it's important to plan your trip in advance, respect local customs and beliefs, and take care to acclimate yourself to the high altitude. With the right preparation, you can have an unforgettable journey to one of the world's most captivating destinations.
 
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