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Tibet opens to tourists for 2023, after two-years of closure

Tibet is now open to tourists after a two-year closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are some restrictions in place, such as the requirement to be part of an organized tour and to have a Tibet Travel Permit.
The Tibet Travel Permit is a document that is required for all foreigners who wish to visit Tibet. The permit can be obtained through a travel agency. Nepal Tibet Tours & Treks is expert for organizing Tibet Permit/Visa.

Is it safe to Travel Tibet after COVID ?

Tibet is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local culture. However, it is important to be aware of the high altitude and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Travelers should also be aware of natural disasters such as landslides, and be respectful of local customs and religious taboos. Overall, it is possible to travel safely to Tibet by taking necessary precautions and being aware of the risks.

Here are some additional details about the risks of traveling to Tibet:

• Altitude sickness is a common problem for travelers to Tibet, as the region is located at an average altitude of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. It is important to acclimatize slowly to the high altitude by taking it easy on your first day or two in Tibet and drinking plenty of water.
• Natural disasters such as landslides can occur during the rainy season in some overland routes in Tibet. It is important to be aware of the risks of landslides and to take precautions such as avoiding travel during the rainy season and checking with local authorities before traveling to remote areas.
• It is important to be respectful of local customs and religious taboos when traveling to Tibet. For example, it is considered disrespectful to point your feet at someone or to touch someone's head. It is also important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

What type of VISA / Permit needed to Visit Tibet?

Tibet Travel Permit is a document that is required for all foreigners who wish to visit Tibet. The permit can be obtained through a travel agency. The Tibet Travel Permit is a security measure that is designed to control the flow of people into Tibet. The permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is valid for a specific period of time. If you are travelling in to Tibet from China, you need to have Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit. If you are travelling to Tibet from Nepal, you need to have Tibet Group Visa which is issued from Chinese Embassy with the supporting documetns such as Tibet Travel Permit issued by TTB (Tibet Travel Beauro), filled up visa form and Original Passport with in 4 working days in Kathmandu.

To apply for a Tibet Travel Permit, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your passport information
• Your visa information
• Your itinerary for your trip to Tibet
• The name of your travel agency

Once you have submitted your application, the Tibet Tourism Bureau will process your application and issue your permit. The processing time for a Tibet Travel Permit is usually 10-15 days.

It is important to note that you cannot travel to Tibet without a valid Tibet Travel Permit. If you are caught traveling to Tibet without a permit, you will be deported and may be banned from entering China for a period of time. 

If you are travelling to Tibet via China:

Getting a Chinese Visa is simple and can be done at a Chinese Embassy in your own country or through a third country. You will need a valid passport for at least 6 months and the processing time is usually 4 business days. It is recommended not to mention visiting Tibet during the application to avoid additional procedures.
If you are travelling to Tibet from Nepal, Please send us your clear scan (minimum 6 months valid) passport copy by email minimum 15days before your departure, COVID cover insurance, we need your original passport in Kathmandu minimum before 4 working days, you need to fill up visa form including your passport size visa passport photo with both ear clear, we Nepal Tibet Tours & Treks will arrange your Tibet permit beforehand and will apply your Tibet group Visa at Chinese embassy with your original passport and necessary supporting documents.

How to get Tibet Travel Permit?

Contrary to popular belief, applying for a Tibet Travel Permit is not a complicated process. However, individual applications are not accepted under the policy, so it is necessary to contact a travel agency to handle the application. To make the process simpler for you, we have outlined the following steps: Step 1: Book your Tibet tour with us and finalize your travel itinerary. Step 2: Provide us with copies of your passport and Chinese Visa. Step 3: We will take care of submitting the permit application on your behalf. Step 4: Receive your Tibet Permit prior to your departure to Tibet. It is important to note that the Tibet Permit will be verified before you board your train or flight to Lhasa. We recommend beginning the application process at least two weeks before your scheduled departure date.

How to get in to Tibet?

At present, there are two primary ways to travel to Tibet: through mainland China or Nepal. The mode of transportation can vary based on your itinerary and budget, with options including flights, trains, or even an overland route. To assist you in selecting the most suitable method of travel, we have compiled a list of the most recommended options for the majority of travelers.

Getting in to Tibet Via China

To travel to Tibet from China, you can choose to fly, take a train, or drive. There are several cities in mainland China that offer direct flights to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi'an, and Kunming. The train journey to Lhasa is known for its scenic views, and the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the highest altitude railway in the world. Trains to Lhasa depart from several major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Xi'an. Lastly, if you prefer to drive, you can take the Sichuan-Tibet Highway or Qinghai-Tibet Highway, which offer spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains and other stunning natural landscapes. However, it's important to note that driving in Tibet can be challenging due to the high altitude, harsh weather conditions, and rough roads.

Getting in to Tibet from Nepal

To travel to Tibet from Nepal, you can choose to fly or drive. The flight from Kathmandu, Nepal to Lhasa, Tibet is a short but scenic trip, providing stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. It's important to note that flights may not operate every day, and schedules can be affected by weather conditions. If you prefer to drive, you can take the Friendship Highway, which runs from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This route offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and other natural wonders, but it's important to note that the road can be bumpy and unpaved in some sections. Additionally, travelers who plan to enter Tibet from Nepal must obtain a Tibet Group visa and Tibet Travel Permit before departing from Kathmandu. It's also recommended to join an organized tour group to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

What is the best season to Travel (Visit) Tibet?

The best season to visit Tibet is generally from April to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the temperatures are pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The high-altitude plateau of Tibet experiences a dry season during this time, with clear blue skies and low chances of rainfall. May to August is peak tourist season in Tibet, and during this time, visitors can enjoy several festivals and cultural events.
However, it's important to note that Tibet's weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures can drop quickly at night. During the winter months from November to March, Tibet experiences extremely cold temperatures, making it less favorable for travel. The roads can also become icy and snow-covered, making it challenging to travel to remote areas. Therefore, the best time to visit Tibet is during the warmer months of the year, from April to October.