Passport, Chinese Visa and Tibet Entry Permit Requirements
As a foreign tourist or mountaineer visiting Tibet you must have a valid passport. You should also possess a visa issued by a Chinese Embassy unless from a country that has visa exemption agreements with China. A Chinese Visa will not entitle you to travel to Tibet. The Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB), a government agency, also requires a Tibet Entry Permit.

Tibet Trekss arranges Visas and Entry Permits. They will need to have your tour confirmation and your passport details (Name, Sex, Nationality, Date of Birth, Passport Number, Occupation) for submittal to TTB.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a " foreign tourist"?
"Foreign tourist" refers to the people who do not have a Chinese ID card. Although Hong Kong and Taiwan are part of China, these citizens still require a Tibet Entry Permit.

Is independent travel allowed in Tibet?
Independent travel is not allowed in Tibet. You should join an organized group or use an authorized agency like Visit Tibet Travel & Tours.

What is the best season for Tibet travels?
April to October is the high season in Tibet, although, many festivals and tours are organized in the off season. You may find even more comfort and hospitality, as there are fewer tourists.

What are the known places in Tibet?
Lhasa, Tsetang, Gyantse, Shigatse, Tingri, etc. are the most popular places in Tibet. Tours and expeditions to the mountains of Everest and Kailas and the Kharta area are also exciting and challenging.

How to enter Tibet? Through China or Nepal?
By Flight – There are multiple flights through China (Beijing, etc) and Kathmandu, Nepal. These trips will usually guarantee spectacular views of the Himalayas as well.

By Land – There are several roads through China and Kathmandu, Nepal. Overland trips are very popular and wonderful scenery is all part of the experience.

Combination Land/Flight – also popular is to split the trip into a flight one direction and drive the other.

What travel tips can be provided to respect the culture and traditions of local people?
Tibetan people are very kind and hospitable. You can feel free to talk with them, but there are some items to respect.

• Always ask permission before taking photographs of people.
• Religion and politics can be sensitive matters. Be cautious with questions dealing with these topics.
• Avoid eating dogs, donkeys or horses in Tibet.

What can I do with Tibetan beggars?
Religious beggars are an accepted part of society in Tibet. Giving money or food to a pilgrim is considered an act of merit. Donations of two or three Yuan (Chinese currency) are appropriate.

If beggars are old men and women dressed in dirty, shredded clothing, or a young child with a monkey on a chain, you will know these are the professional beggars. Their actions have less merit than the religious pilgrims do. Just wave them off as the locals do or simply walk away.

What medicine I should bring for the high elevation?
In addition to the normal medications for traveling recommended by your doctor, you should bring some thing to prevent symptoms of acute mountain sickness. Take time to acclimatize, drink lots of water and bring purification tablets. People suffering from heart, lung and kidney diseases should consult a physician before traveling to Tibet.

What should I bring for the plateau weather?
Tibet's high altitude and the atmosphere allow the sun's solar radiation to strike the earth with unusual intensity at all times of year. To protect your eyes and skin, bring a sunhat, sunglasses, lip balm and lotions sold with SPF ratings, and/or zinc-oxide cream to provide 100% block-out.

Always bring warm clothes with you even in the summer season for the temperature in Tibet varies a lot in the day and night time. Light clothing for daytime and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

If you have any other questions, please inquire here.