Tibet is famous as synonymous with Shangri-La and Roof of the World. Tibet is an autonomous region of China. With an average height of 4,500 meters, the Tibetan Plateau is considered to be the highest and largest plateau in the world with an area of 2.5 million square kilometers. The territory of Tibet is bounded by the Himalayas to the south and the Kunlun Mountains to the north.
Geographically Tibet is modest in scale – dramatic snow-capped mountains stretch across vast plains, winding highways weave their way through high passes draped with colorful prayer flags while shimmering turquoise lakes stand in the shadow of centuries-old glaciers. But amidst the amazing natural landscape, the people here are always smiling who follow Buddhism.
The way to travel to Tibet is unique. Here, free travel is not allowed. To enter Tibet and travel around the region you need to book a tour with a Tibet travel operator. Tours always include accommodation, transportation with a tour guide. Furthermore, all foreign travelers are required to arrange a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit in addition to a Chinese visa. All processing to obtain the permit will be done by your tour operator.
Tibet can be visited all year round. But the best time to visit is spring and summer (April to October) when Tibetan weather is not too harsh and most areas of Tibet are accessible. Most Tibetan festivals also take place in the spring and summer, including the Saga Dawa Festival, the Shoton Festival, and the Nagku Horse Racing Festival.
There are two options to get Tibet. They are passing through cities in mainland China and Kathmandu (Nepal). Kathmandu is the only international gateway to Tibet. You can enter Tibet by domestic flight or train from Chinese cities. Tibet can be visited by flight and drive from Kathmandu.
Tibet is an amazing travel destination in the world. However, there are some factors that create some challenges in planning a trip to Tibet.
Rules and Regulations: Rules and regulations, especially regarding the issuance of Tibet Travel Permits, are subject to change by the Tibetan authorities. Hence, awareness of specific rules and regulations is very essential,
Facilities: Major cities like Lhasa, Sigatse, Gyantse have good hotels, roads, restaurants. But there are not good services in remote areas.
High Altitude and Trekking: Tibet is the highest plateau in the world. Hence, some people here may suffer from altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness-AMS). Mild headache, fever, loss of appetite, or stomach disturbances are common symptoms of AMS. Just make sure to get some Diamox (Acetazolamide) before your trip. Our guide also teaches you some guidelines to stay safe from AMS before starting your trip. We also advise travelers especially those suffering from heart or lung or blood diseases to consult a doctor before travelling.