China Travel — 30 Common Questions Every First-Time Visitor to Tibet Should Know

1. Can I travel independently in Tibet?

No, you cannot. All international tourists must travel to Tibet through pre-arranged itineraries with a licensed local Tibet travel agency (such as Tibet Vista).

In addition to a Chinese visa (L visa, which is a tourist visa for most global travelers), you will also need a Tibet Travel Permit obtained through your travel agency to board flights and trains to Tibet from other gateway cities in mainland China.

Furthermore, during your stay in Tibet, you will need to join guided tours and book travel vehicles, among other arrangements.

2. What is a Tibet Travel Permit, and how do I apply for and obtain one?

The Tibet Travel Permit, also known as the Tibet Permit or China Tibet Visa, is an important travel document issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau for international visitors traveling to Lhasa by plane or train.

You cannot apply for the Tibet Travel Permit directly from the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Instead, you need to book your Tibet tour through a local Tibet travel agency, which will handle the application for the Tibet Travel Permit on your behalf.

3. Is it safe for foreigners to travel to Tibet?

Yes, it is. Tibet is very safe. The local Tibetan people are among the friendliest and most hospitable in the world. Due to their Buddhist beliefs, the crime rate is very low. The roads in Tibet are generally well-maintained, and traveling by land, bike, or on foot is generally safe. However, some areas along the China-Nepal border may experience adverse conditions during the summer monsoon season.

It is worth noting that caution should be exercised around Tibetan mastiffs in pastoral areas or remote villages, as these fierce dogs, raised to protect livestock from wolves, may be aggressive.

4. When is the best time to visit Tibet?

The best time to visit Tibet is from April to early June and from September to November.

The summer monsoon season, from late June to August, can bring adverse conditions, and many roads may be impassable in winter.

5. When are foreigners banned from entering Tibet?

Generally, Tibet is closed to foreign tourists from mid-February to the end of March each year due to heavy snowfall and important events. However, travel policies may change. In 2024, you can start applying for the Tibet Travel Permit from mid-March, and travel agencies can handle the permit for you.

6. How to get to Tibet: Revealing the best travel routes.

For most travelers, reaching Tibet involves two main legs: arriving at a gateway city (such as Kathmandu, Chengdu, Xining, Chongqing, or Xi’an) via an international flight, and then transferring to a flight or train to Lhasa.

The recommended route is to fly to Chengdu and then take a domestic flight or the Chengdu-Lhasa train, which offers a chance to experience the world’s highest railway. If time allows, you can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to enjoy a panda tour.

Alternatively, you can fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa, enjoying a view of Mount Everest, or take an 8-day overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa via Everest Base Camp.

7. What should I bring when traveling to Tibet? Can I travel light in Tibet?

Yes, you can travel light in Tibet. Transportation within Lhasa is very convenient, and most travelers on small group tours to places like Shigatse, Nyingchi, Everest Base Camp, and Mount Kailash can travel light without carrying heavy backpacks.

For first-time visitors to Tibet, it’s advisable to bring the following items:

• Travel Documents: Passport, Tibet Travel Permit, and any other booking confirmations.
• Layered Clothing: Bring clothes that can be layered, including thermal underwear, a woolen jacket, and a waterproof outer layer. Temperature variations can be significant, so being able to adjust your clothing is crucial.
• Sun Protection: Pack high SPF sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong sunlight at high altitudes.
• Sturdy Shoes: Comfortable, durable shoes or boots with good grip are essential for walking and exploring the rugged terrain of the Tibetan Plateau.
• Medications: Bring any necessary medications, including antibiotics, cold medicine, and Diamox to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, diarrhea, and stomach issues. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before your trip.
• Insulated Water Bottle: To keep your water temperature stable and stay hydrated on the plateau.
• Personal Items: Lip balm to prevent chapped lips, a brimless hat to protect your head in cold mountain passes, etc.

8. What is the altitude of Tibet?

The average altitude of Tibet is over 4,000 meters. Lhasa is at an altitude of 3,656 meters, but other regions in Tibet have varying altitudes ranging from around 2,000 meters in the eastern part of Tibet, like Nyingchi, to over 4,500 meters in the western part, such as the Ali region.

Popular destinations like Everest Base Camp (5,200 meters), Namtso Lake (4,718 meters), and Mount Kailash (4,600 meters) are among the highest points in Tibet, not to mention some towering mountain passes.

14. What should visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan do when traveling to Tibet?

Overseas Chinese and Taiwanese residents need to obtain an “Entry Permit for Tibet” (入藏函), while residents of Hong Kong and Macau only need to carry their “Home Return Permit” (回乡证) and do not need to apply for a “Tibet Travel Permit.”

15. Can I fly to Tibet? What are the best gateway cities to Lhasa?

Yes, you can fly to Tibet! Direct flights to Lhasa are available from gateway cities such as Kathmandu, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi’an, and Shangri-La. Connecting flights to Lhasa are also available from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Kunming.

It’s important to note that if you fly to Lhasa, you will need extra time to acclimate to the high altitude. Therefore, avoid strenuous activities like jumping or running shortly after arriving at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport.

16. Which train should I take to Tibet? It’s best to travel from Chengdu or Xining to Lhasa.

Currently, there are trains from major cities in China, including Xining, Chengdu, Lanzhou, Xi’an, Chongqing, Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, to Tibet.

To experience the highlights of the Tibet train journey, the Xining-Lhasa train is one of the top choices, as the most scenic section of the train route is between Golmud and Lhasa. However, securing train tickets during peak travel seasons, especially in summer, can be a significant challenge.

17. Can I buy train tickets myself? Yes, but it’s not recommended for the following reasons:

You can, but it’s quite challenging for foreigners.

Firstly, online booking, phone reservations, and train station bookings do not provide English services.

Secondly, tickets are released 30-60 days in advance and may sell out quickly, especially during peak times. Thirdly, train schedules can occasionally change.

18. How far in advance should I book Tibet train tickets?

We recommend booking 3 months in advance. As mentioned, tickets are available for purchase 30 to 60 days ahead.

19. When can I receive Tibet train tickets?

Typically, you can receive the tickets about 3 to 5 days after they are issued.

20. Can taking the Tibet train to Lhasa prevent altitude sickness?

No. While the train is specially designed and pressurized to help prevent altitude sickness, and is equipped with two oxygen systems, visitors may still experience difficulty sleeping and fatigue upon arriving in Lhasa.

21. What are the best overland travel options recommended by Tibet travel experts?

You can join overland tours from mainland China, such as the Sichuan-Tibet overland journey via the G318 route. Additionally, you can book a 6-8 day overland trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa through some travel agencies, crossing the majestic Himalayas.

22. What travel documents are needed for traveling to or within Tibet?

If you are traveling overland to Tibet from mainland China, you need to present a Chinese visa and a Tibet Travel Permit.

If you are entering Tibet from Kathmandu, you must show a Chinese group visa and a copy of the Tibet Travel Permit.

23. Is it common to get car sick when traveling in Tibet?

Yes, it can be common due to the strong winds and winding roads. To mitigate car sickness, you can take motion sickness medication or sit in the front of the vehicle. Opening the window to breathe fresh air and taking frequent breaks to stretch your legs can also help.

24. What currency is used in Tibet? Can I use credit cards and ATMs?

In Tibet, especially in the larger cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, there are ATMs available. Credit cards can be used in Lhasa. However, it is advisable to carry cash, particularly when traveling to remote areas in western Tibet. Therefore, it’s best to exchange enough cash in Lhasa.

25. What Tibetan dishes are recommended for food lovers?

Tibetan and Chinese (primarily Sichuan) food is widely available across Tibet, even in remote areas like EBC and Kailash. Typical Tibetan dishes include tsampa (roasted barley flour), noodles, momos (dumplings), and yak meat. Popular Chinese dishes include twice-cooked pork, fish-flavored shredded pork, and Kung Pao chicken, with rice as a staple.

In Lhasa, there are more options besides these two types of cuisine. Nepalese, Indian, and Western food are also readily available.

26. What Himalayan-flavored vegetables can you find in Tibet?

No problem. Tibet is a haven for vegetarians. Although traditional Tibetan cuisine includes meat dishes like yak meat and meat-filled dumplings, there are still many vegetarian options available. Some typical vegetarian dishes you can find in Tibet include:

• Tsampa: A staple made from roasted barley flour, often mixed with water or butter tea to form a dough-like consistency.
• Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup made with vegetables and sometimes tofu or Indian cheese.
• Stir-fried Tofu: Tofu stir-fried with vegetables and Tibetan spices.
• Salad: Dishes made with spinach or mustard greens, often seasoned with spices and sometimes cooked with Indian cheese.
• Dal Bhat: A lentil curry served with rice, often accompanied by vegetable side dishes.
• Steamed Vegetables: Fresh vegetables steamed and served with Tibetan sauces or dips.
• Bread: Tibetan bread (bhaklep) or Indian bread (roti) without animal products.

27. Accommodation Options in Tibet

In Lhasa, you have a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and interests, from basic guesthouses to Tibetan-style hotels and five-star hotels.

Outside of Lhasa, accommodation options are more limited. However, larger cities like Qamdo and Shigatse do offer star-rated hotels. In places like Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash, you will only find tent inns, temporary tents, or monastery guesthouses.

29. Should I tip people who provide services in Tibet?

Tipping in Tibet is not mandatory. However, if your guide and driver provide excellent service and you truly enjoy your trip, it is recommended to give a tip of 30 to 100 RMB. In hotels and restaurants, you may also choose to leave a small tip to show appreciation if you are particularly pleased with the service or food.

1. What are the taboos for traveling in Tibet?
2. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
3. Walk clockwise around religious sites such as temples, monasteries, stupas, and mani stones.
4. Do not touch Buddhist statues, scriptures, or offerings, and do not photograph them inside temples or monasteries.
5. Do not turn prayer wheels counterclockwise.
6. Avoid stepping on the thresholds of tents, houses, temples, or monasteries.
7. Do not touch anyone’s head.
8. Remove your hat when entering a church.
9. Dress appropriately when visiting temples, churches, and other sacred sites.
10. Avoid wearing clothing and shoes that feature Buddhist images and prayer flags.