Nicknamed the “Roof of the World,” Tibet is a land of astonishingly wide open space and domineering Himalayan peaks, but it is a culture that is dominated and oppressed by their Chinese invaders.
Travel to Tibet in a responsible, engaging manner is getting more difficult, but still possible. Travel insurance is a must because the region can be closed unpredictably by Chinese authorities, especially during the month of March. Do your research before deciding to go to understand the issues involved.
Getting to Tibet
There are only two options for getting to Tibet: through China or through Kathmandu, Nepal. If you go through China, you can fly from several cities to Lhasa. These include Beijing, Xian, and Chengdu. You can also take the new train which takes about 48 hours. However, you can only book the tickets 10 days prior to departure and the chances of landing a ticket for your particular day are only about 50%. Therefore, if your itinerary isn't flexible, we recommend flying in to Lhasa and taking the train out, which is easier to book.
If you travel to Tibet via Nepal, you can must fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa because the only road open to tourists is now closed after the 2015 earthquake. The flight is spectacular, crossing the Himalaya with great views of Mt. Everest.
Our Personal Picks
• The Tibetan Culture
• The Norbulinkga (Jewel Park) – the summer palace of the Dalai Lama
• Observing the resident monks debate in the courtyard of Sera Monastery
• Drive across the 5,045m/16,600ft Karo La with views of the Nojin Kangtsand Glacier
• A visit to Mt. Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan side of the mountain
When to Travel
For the best weather, travel to Tibet in the Spring, Summer, and Autumn. Tourism tends to swell in the summer with the opening of the train from Beijing and March tends to be a politically sensitive month for Tibet, often causing the border to tighten. If you’re interested in trekking, go between May through September are ideal conditions.
Visa Information
Both US and Canadian citizens are required to have a Chinese visa when entering Tibet via China. Additionally, you will need a Tibet Permit, which we will organize as part of our service. No Chinese visa is required if you go through Nepal and we will provide the Tibet Permit on arrival in Kathmandu.
