Tibet Travel FAQs: Permits, Routes, Health, Costs and Practical Tips
Get all your questions answered about traveling to Tibet. From permits to accommodation, we’ve got you covered. Discover essential tips and information for a seamless and unforgettable journey to the Roof of the World.
Table of Contents
Permits & Visas
Q: Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)?
Yes. All foreign passport holders need a TTP issued via a licensed Tibet travel agency; independent travel isn’t allowed.
Q: What other permits might be required?
Many routes need additional permits such as the Aliens’ Travel Permit (ATP) and sometimes the Military Permit (e.g., western Tibet, Mt. Kailash, border areas). We arrange these when applicable.
Q: How long does permit processing take?
Typically 14–30 days. Apply early, especially for peak months and festival periods.
Q: Can you mail my permit to my China hotel?
Yes, for flights we can deliver to your hotel in mainland China; train travelers usually only need digital copies to collect tickets but we’ll advise based on your route.
Q: What China visa do I need?
A standard China visa matching your entry/exit plan. If your nationality is visa‑exempt for mainland China, you still need the TTP. Visa policies can change—confirm before booking.
Q: Can I travel to Tibet in February/March?
Policies vary by year; late winter/early spring can see temporary restrictions for foreigners. Ask us for the latest status.
Q: Can I travel independently once in Tibet?
No. A licensed guide must accompany foreigners for sightseeing; we manage this per regulations.
Q: What documents are needed to apply for a Tibet permit?
A copy of your passport and China visa. (If your country enjoys visa-free entry to China, then there’s no need to provide the visa.)
Q. What if I hold a work visa or student visa?
Besides your passport and visa, we will also need a letter from your company or school to verify your current employment or student status.
Q: Can I apply for a permit online without a physical passport, and how long does it take?
Yes, we apply for your Tibet permit through the online system of the Tibet Travel Bureau, so there’s no need to provide the original passport. The Tibet permit application typically takes 14 to 30 days.
Tibet Group
Q: What is your group size for Tibet tours?
Our groups consist of 4-14 people. We keep it small for a more personalized experience.
Q: How difficult is the tour for children and seniors?
Most tours are suitable for everyone, including children. However, if you are pregnant, have heart or lung issues, or have recently had a cold, we recommend not traveling to Tibet.
Q: Can I extend my stay after the tour finishes?
Yes, it’s possible to stay longer. However, please inform us when applying for your Tibet permit and let us know your plans for the extra days so we can arrange accordingly. Note that you must have a tour guide while traveling in Tibet, and travelers cannot visit any scenic spots by themselves. Public vehicles are permitted for foreigners.
Transport to and within Tibet
Q: Which is better, traveling to Tibet by train or by plane?
It depends. Traveling by plane is faster, taking 2 to 4 hours to reach Lhasa. By train, it takes about 20 hours from Xining and over 40 hours from Chengdu, Beijing, or Shanghai. However, the train offers beautiful high plateau views, such as grasslands, snow mountains, lakes, yaks, and Tibetan antelopes.
Q: Do you book air and train tickets to Tibet?
Yes, we assist with booking air or train tickets for a service fee. Please note that some train tickets (for example, to Lhasa) can only be booked one month before departure. So please contact us to know for sure what time we need your information.
Q: What are luggage limits?
Domestic flights typically include ~20kg checked for economy (varies by airline). Trains have generous carry‑on size but no checked baggage—pack compactly.
Accommodation & Amenities Tibet
Q: What are the differences between 3-star and 4-star hotels?
In Lhasa, Shigatse, and Nyingchi, we offer a range of hotel options from basic to luxury. Our group tours include 3-star and 4-star hotels. A 3-star hotel offers basic facilities, while a 4-star hotel provides a more comfortable experience with amenities like air conditioning, heating, oxygen supply, and a richer breakfast.
Q: Can hotels provide vegetarian food?
Hotels offer breakfast buffets with a variety of options. For other meals, travelers usually dine at restaurants and share food. You can inform our guide about your dietary preferences, and they will assist you with ordering.
Q: Will I have private bathrooms and hot water?
In cities, typically yes. In remote stops or trekking guesthouses, expect shared/squat toilets and limited hot water.
Q: Can I get vegetarian/vegan meals?
Yes in Lhasa and Shigatse. In remote areas choices are simpler—your guide will help arrange suitable options.
Health & Altitude Tibet
Q: How many acclimatization days do I need?
Plan 1–2 easier days in Lhasa (3,650m) before higher elevations or longer drives.
Q: What are common altitude symptoms?
Headache, poor sleep, mild nausea and fatigue in the first 24–48 hours. Hydrate, rest, and avoid alcohol.
Q: Should I take Diamox or other medication?
Consult your doctor. Some travelers use Diamox preventively; we provide oxygen support on select tours.
Q: Is travel insurance necessary?
Strongly recommended. Choose a plan that covers high‑altitude travel, medical treatment and emergency evacuation.
Q: Are hospitals and clinics available?
Lhasa has the best facilities in Tibet. Outside major cities, care is basic—plan accordingly.
Q: What medicine should I prepare for altitude sickness?
Bring medications like Diamox for altitude sickness, ibuprofen for headaches, glucose for energy, throat lozenges for colds, and any other necessary remedies (consult your doctor!). You may also consider local herbal medicine like Hongjingtian, which should be taken days before your trip.
Q: Can I find altitude medicine in Lhasa?
Yes, many drug stores in Lhasa sell altitude medicine and oxygen bottles.
Seasons, Weather & Festivals Tibet
Q: When is the best time to visit Tibet?
The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October when the weather is warm, and you can enjoy beautiful lakes, green grasslands, and wildflowers. For trekking tours, avoid the summer monsoon season (except in northern Tibet, which is dry).
Q: What are typical temperatures?
Wide range: cold nights even in summer at altitude; sun is strong—pack layers year‑round.
Q: Is winter very cold in Tibet?
Winter temperatures can drop below 0°C, but the daytime sun provides warmth. Winter is the off-peak season, offering fewer tourists, hotel discounts, and reduced entry fees for many scenic spots.
Q: Are there notable festivals?
Yes (e.g., Saga Dawa near Mt. Kailash). Dates vary by lunar calendar; permits and rooms sell out early.
Culture, Etiquette & Photography
Q: Any etiquette tips?
Ask before photographing people or monks; walk clockwise around stupas/mani walls; dress modestly in monasteries; avoid touching sacred objects.
Q: Are drones allowed?
Generally restricted/require special authorization. Assume “no” unless specifically permitted by authorities and local managers.
Q: Are monastery photo fees common?
Some locations may charge a small fee for interior photography—your guide will advise on site.
Families, Solo Travelers & Special Needs
Q: Is Tibet suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, with a suitable pace and acclimatization. Check with your doctor for any heart/lung conditions or pregnancy.
Q: Can solo travelers join a group?
Yes. We can place solo travelers in small groups to share costs.
Q: Do you offer private/custom trips?
Yes—fully customizable itineraries and pacing.
Money, Connectivity & Practicalities
Q: What payment methods work in Tibet?
Cash (RMB) is widely accepted. Some places take UnionPay; foreign cards are limited. WeChat Pay/Alipay now support many foreign bank cards—set up before arrival.
Q: Are ATMs available?
Yes in cities like Lhasa/Shigatse, but not in remote areas—carry enough cash for outlying days.
Q: Will my phone work in Tibet?
China SIM cards require passport registration at carrier stores. Data coverage is good in cities, weak in remote regions.
Q: Are WhatsApp/Google accessible?
Many services are blocked in mainland China. WeChat works best for local communications.
Q: What plug type and voltage are used?
220V, 50Hz. Sockets often accept A/C/I plugs, but bring a universal adapter.
Tibet Clothing
Q: What clothing to pack for Tibet?
When preparing for your trip to Tibet, pack appropriately for varying weather conditions. Layer your clothing, starting with thermal underwear, a warm sweater, a fleece jacket, and an outdoor or down jacket. Comfortable pants and regular shoes are suitable for most of the trip, but pack warm socks and sturdy trekking boots for trekking around Mount Kailash. Include gloves and a scarf to protect against cold winds.
Packing & Gear Tibet
Q: What should I pack for Tibet?
Layered clothing (base, fleece, down/shell), warm hat/gloves, sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen (high SPF), lip balm, sturdy footwear, quick‑dry layers, personal meds, and a reusable water bottle.
Q: Do I need a sleeping bag?
Not for city hotels. For high‑altitude treks/guesthouses in remote areas, a light sleeping bag liner is useful.
Q: Are trekking poles and gaiters recommended?
Yes for uneven terrain and spring/autumn conditions.
Border Crossing & Regional Access
Q: Can I exit to Nepal via Gyirong?
Often yes, but border status can change—confirm close to travel. Nepal visas are typically available on arrival at the land border (bring passport photos and USD).
Q: Do I need special permits for Mt. Kailash/Everest regions?
Yes—additional permits are required; we arrange them with your tour.
Q: Can I re‑enter mainland China after Nepal?
You need a valid China visa that allows re‑entry (not all visas permit multiple entries).
Sustainability & Responsible Travel
Q: How can I minimize my impact?
Use a refillable bottle, avoid single‑use plastics, pack out trash on trails, stay on marked paths, and respect wildlife and local customs.
Q: Do you support local communities?
Yes—our trips use local Tibetan guides, hotels and services wherever possible.
Booking a Tibet Tour
Q: How do I book a Tibet tour?
Let us know when you plan to visit Tibet and how long you will stay. Your trip advisor will recommend suitable tour packages. After confirmation, send us your passport and China visa copies. We require a deposit of at least 50% of the tour cost.
Q: Can I have a private customized tour in Tibet?
Yes, we offer customized tours tailored to your preferences or those of your group.
Tibet Tour Cancellation
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
- If the trip is canceled by us, a full refund will be provided regardless of the cancellation date.
- In the event of cancellation by you, the following charges will apply:
- 30 days or more prior to departure: Full refund, no cancellation fees.
- 15 to 29 days prior to departure: 50% of the deposit per person.
- 14 days or less prior to departure: 100% of the full payment per person.
Can I customize my tour or add special requests?
While our tours are pre-planned, we’re happy to accommodate special requests where possible. Whether it’s dietary needs, accommodation preferences, or specific sites you wish to visit, let us know, and we’ll do our best to tailor the tour to your interests.
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