FAQs: Your Guide to Tibet Travel

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.

Tibet Travel Permit

Q: What documents are needed to apply for a Tibet permit?

A: 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?

A: 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?

A: 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 Tibet

Q: Which is better, traveling to Tibet by train or by plane?

Q: 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.

Tibet Hotel

Q: What are the differences between 3-star and 4-star hotels?

A: 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?

A: 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.

Tibet Altitude Sickness

Q: What medicine should I prepare for altitude sickness?

A: 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?

A: Yes, many drug stores in Lhasa sell altitude medicine and oxygen bottles.

Tibet Best Season

Q: When is the best time to visit Tibet?

A: 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: Is winter very cold in Tibet?

A: 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.

Booking a Tibet Tour

Q: How do I book a Tibet tour?

A: 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?

A: Yes, we offer customized tours tailored to your preferences or those of your group.

Tibet Clothing

Q: What clothing to pack for Tibet?

A: 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.

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.

Ready to Explore Tibet?

Discover our range of carefully curated tours and start planning your adventure today. Whether you’re looking for a group tour or a customized private journey, we have the perfect trip for you.