Tibet is a safe and fascinating destination to visit, but traveling here is quite different from visiting other parts of the world. Besides preparing the required documents like the Tibet Travel Permit, you will need to join an organized tour. It’s also important to pack properly for the strong sunshine and cold nights of the plateau.

In this guide, you will find the top 10 key travel warnings and insider tips for visiting Tibet. Read to know the entry rules, travel documents, transportation options, the best time to visit, and safety and health advice. Get ready for a smooth, comfortable and rewarding journey to the Roof of the World!

#1 Tibet is Open to Foreign Tourists, but Organized Tours are Required.

Tibet is open to travelers worldwide, and you can visit Tibet right now to enjoy your dream adventure. However, independent travel is not allowed for international tourists, which means you need to join an organized tour arranged by a registered Tibetan travel agency.

This rule actually helps ensure a safe and smooth journey in Tibet. Free from the complicated planning, your tour operator will handle all the details for you, including all necessary travel documents, transportation, hotels, local guides, and drivers.

You can also choose a private tour for more flexibility and personal service, or a small group tour for a more budget-friendly and social experience.

As a reliable Tibetan travel agency with over 20 years of Tibet tour operating experience, we have a team of professional Tibetan local guides and travel experts. We can ensure you enjoy a seamless and pleasant trip in Tibet.

#2 Tibet Travel Permit is Needed to Enter Tibet.

All international tourists need to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit before entering Tibet. Without it, you cannot even board a flight or train to Tibet. Besides, the permit cannot be applied for individually - only an authorized local travel agency is qualified to handle it.

No worries - we can help guarantee your Tibet Travel Permit as long as you book your Tibet tour with us. The process is also quite simple - just send copies of your valid passport and Chinese Visa to us, and we will take care of the rest.

Normally, it takes about 8 to 9 working days to get the Tibet Travel Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. After that, we will immediately deliver it to your address in mainland China, allowing your to board your train or flight to Lhasa.

It is recommended to start the application process at least 20 days before your tour departure to avoid any delays.

#3 Chinese Visa is Also Needed, but Some May Enjoy Visa-Free Entry.

Besides the Tibet Travel Permit, you will also need to obtain a Chinese Visa, since Tibet is part of China. You can apply for it on your own at a Chinese Embassy or consulate in your home country or a third country.

However, there is the good news - tourists from over 40 countries can now enjoy 30 days of visa-free entry to China. These includes Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Iceland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, etc. So before your trip, check with us or local Chinese embassy whether you need a Chinese Visa for Tibet travel.

Join our most popular Lhasa and EBC tour for a smooth experience!

#4 There is No Age Limit, but Altitude Sickness Should Be Taken Seriously

There is no age restriction, and as long as you are physically healthy, you can visit Tibet. But you need to be careful about the altitude sickness to ensure a comfortable and safe experience in Tibet.

Since Tibet has an average altitude of over 4000 meters, tourists are likely to experience altitude sickness during the trip. Common symptoms of the altitude sickness include slight headache, loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia, etc.

But there is no needs to worry too much - most symptoms will gradually decrease after one or two days of adaption on the plateau. To prevent severe altitude sickness, it is highly recommended to acclimatize in Lhasa for a couple of days before ascending to higher places such as Everest Base Camp.

Also, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, avoid strenuous activities and get enough rest during your trip. Also inhale oxygen if needed - we offer both portable oxygen and medical oxygen for easy use for our clients.

#5 Tibet Has Strong Sunlight and Cold Nights - Pack Wisely.

Featuring a unique plateau climate, Tibet has strong sunshine, dry air and a large temperature difference between day and night. Nights can be cold even in the summer months from July to August.

So layered clothing is recommended to stay comfortable in Tibet. Wear light shirts, sweaters or jackets during the daytime, and add warm coat or down jacket for the chill evenings and mornings. Gloves, scarfs, hats are also necessary to keep you from the strong winds and cold air.

Sunscreen and sunglasses are needed to protect you from intense UV rays. Lip balm and skin moisturizers are useful for dealing with the dry weather in Tibet. Besides, basic toiletries, first aid kit, comfortable walking shoes can also make your trip more pleasant.

#6 Tibet Can be Visited Year-Round, but the Best Time is from April to October.

Tibet can be visited all year round, but the best season to visit is from April to October. During these months, Tibet has milder weather and clear skies, suitable for various outdoor activities.

In spring (April to June), Tibet features moderate, sunny and dry weather, with the landscape starting to turn green. It is the ideal season to see clear views of Mount Everest and appreciate the blooming peach blossoms in Nyingchi.

Summer in Tibet brings rainfall to the plateau, but it often falls in the evening. It is the warmest season, with more humid air and the highest oxygen levels. This time of year is ideal for enjoying lush scenery and festival experience.

Autumn (September to October) is the perfect time to see mountain views and vibrant fall foliage of the plateau. With dry, sunny days, clear blue skies, crisp air and golden colors, it is one of the most popular times for trekking and photography in Tibet.

We guarantee you a smooth and comfortable travel experience to Mount Everest.

#7 You Can Only Enter Tibet via Mainland China or Nepal.

At present, you can only get to Tibet via mainland China or Nepal, as there are no other entry points.

If you travel via mainland China, you can first fly to a major city such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, and then take a train or flight to Tibet. The train to Tibet normally takes from 20 to 50 hours, while offers breathtaking scenery along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. The flight, on the other hand, is fast and convenient, taking as little as 2 hours.

If you enter from Nepal, you can either fly directly to Lhasa or travel overland via Gyirong border. The non-stop flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa departs four times a week and takes only about 1.5 hours. While the overland journey offers an epic ride through Himalayas with scenic stops at many attractions such as Everest Base Camp.

#8 Some Attractions, like Mount Kailash, May Close in Winter.

While most attractions in Tibet are open year-round, some remote and higher areas, like Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, may be closed in winter. Heavy snowfall during deep winter months may block access to these regions.

If you plan to visit Mount Kailash, the best time is between April and October when the weather is warm and stable, and the roads are smooth and safe. During this time, you can take the kora trek around the holy mountain, following the steps of other devout pilgrims.

Keep in mind that Everest Base Camp is still open in winter. The Rongbuk Monasery guesthouse offers warm and comfortable accommodation there. Therefore, if you take a Tibet winter tour, you can also visit Mount Everest to see this magnificent world summit.

#9 Ordinary Tourists Can Only Reach Everest Base Camp When Visit Mt. Everest.

Visiting Mount Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime dream for many tourists to Tibet. For ordinary tourists, you can only reach Everest Base Camp - the nearest place to see Mount Everest, without climbing the mountain.

However, this base camp offer the perfect up-close view of Mount Everest, standing at an altitude of 5000 meters. It is also convenient to access, with a smooth and flat road directly connected from Lhasa. On clear sunny days, you may also have the chances to see brilliant sunset or sunrise over the mountain peak.

If you join our Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour, you can also get more sights of Mount Everest along the way. One of the most exciting moments is at Gawula Pass, where you can witness a breathtaking lineup of the world’s five highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest.

#10 Tibet is a Safe Destination, but Respect Local Religion and Culture

Tibet is indeed a very safe destination to visit, with very low crime rates and hospitable, kind-hearted locals. You can comfortably explore the cities, mountains and lakes on this vast plateau.

However, considering the deep-rooted Buddhist beliefs of the region, it is important to respect local religion and culture. Follow local customs and traditions to avoid breaking any taboos and causing unnecessary troubles.

For example, walk clockwise around the monasteries or stupas, and avoid taking photos inside the temple without permission. If you are unsure about certain rules or customs, consult your Tibetan guide for proper guidance.

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Conclusion

By understanding the key travel requirements and local customs, you can enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey to Tibet. Plan your visit for the best season, prepare the required documents in advance, pack well for the unique plateau climate, and choose either a small group tour or private trip that best fits your needs.

As the leading Tibet tour operator with over 20 years of experiences, we are committed to helping you make your dream trip to Tibet come true. Feel free to contact us or book your tour with us today!