Intro
Visiting Tibet is a thrilling and unforgettable adventure on the ‘Roof of the World,’ but there are a few things you should do in order to have a hassle-free experience on your Tibet tour. It’s an exotic and remote region with a climate and terrain that can be challenging for travelers. Find out everything you need to know to smoothly manage the logistics and stay safe and comfortable. Here are the most important tips for a hassle-free Tibet tour.
1. Get Your Tibet Travel Permit in Advance
All international visitors to Tibet must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) before entering the region. TTPs are arranged through registered, local Tibet travel agencies on your behalf after booking a tour that includes accommodations, guide, and transportation. It usually takes 8-15 days for the TTP to be issued, but we recommend starting the process at least a month in advance.
Additional permits are needed to visit some areas in Tibet, such as Everest base camp. These permits are also arranged by your travel agency after your arrival in Tibet.
2. Take the Tibet Train for a Scenic and Comfortable Journey
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the highest railway in the world and one of the best ways to travel to Tibet. Xining, in Qinghai Province, is the start of the scenic 21-hour ride through the unique and breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, but you can board trains in major gateway cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu that will take you all the way to Lhasa.
From the warmth and comfort of the Tibet train, you’ll be able to watch the land transform as you ascend to the Tibetan Plateau. See the snow-capped mountains, vast plains, and artic lakes roll past for an intimate look into Tibet’s natural environment, and arrive in Lhasa well-rested, and ready to start exploring.
3. Book a Soft Sleeper Ticket for a Relaxing Ride
The Tibet train has hard and soft sleeper berths to choose from. Soft sleeper tickets are worth the extra cost to be able to enjoy the added comfort and privacy. Each soft sleeper cabin has four berths with warm and comfortable bedding. There is ample space for all of your luggage, and the cabin door can be closed for privacy.
Each berth has a TV screen and headphones for entertainment, and Tibet trains are equipped with air conditioners and oxygen supplies for passenger’s comfort and safety. A dining car serves hot food during the day, and a food trolley passes through each cabin,
selling snacks, beverages, and pre-packaged meals.
4. Join a Small Group Tour to Save Money and Simplify Travel
Private tours with a guide are possible in Tibet, but a small group tour is one of the best ways to save money and simplify your travel experience. Transportation costs are a big part of the expenses on a Tibet tour, and traveling with a small group allows the cost to be shared.
Meeting other like-minded travelers creates a more social experience. You’ll bond over the shared adventure with the chance to make lifelong friends. Tibetan dining is done in a communal setting. With more joining the meal, you can try a wider range of dishes while still saving money.
5. Pick the Best Time to Visit for Smooth Travel
Spring and autumn are considered the optimum times to visit. From April to June and September to October, the weather is mild, with clear skies and a very low chance of rain. These months are also outside of the domestic peak travel season when popular attractions can be crowded.
July and August are the warmest months, but also the summer monsoon season. Rain is not very heavy, but clouds and misty conditions can obscure the visibility of the Himalayan Mountain peaks. Winter, from November until March, has magical snowy landscapes and crystal clear visibility at places like Everest Base Camp. However, the cold can be harsh, particularly in remote and high-altitude areas.
6. Pack Smart for Tibet’s High-Altitude Climate
People say that in Tibet, you can experience all four seasons in a single day, so it is important to pack smart for the climate.
Dress in Layers: Pack layers of clothes to be able to adapt to changing temperatures. Bring a thermal base layer, warm trekking pants, a sweater, and a fleece jacket.
Sun Protection is Critical: At high elevations, the UV levels are high. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Wear High-Quality Hiking Boots: Warm hiking boots or shoes are essential for rough terrain. Footwear should have a sturdy tread and be high enough to stop rocks and pebbles from getting in.
First-Aid and Medications: In remote areas, you can’t just stop at a supermarket. Bring bandages, blister treatment, medication for altitude sickness, and enough of any other daily medications you need.
7. Take It Easy on Your First Few Days to Acclimate
Acclimatizing to the high elevation is critical when arriving in Tibet. All visitors from lower-elevation regions are at risk of altitude sickness. Plan to spend a few days in Lhasa to adjust before traveling to higher regions.
During your first few days, avoid strenuous activity and stay well-hydrated. Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness prevention and medication before traveling to Tibet. If you start to experience any symptoms, tell your guide immediately.
8. Respect Local Customs for a Meaningful Experience
Tibet is a place of tradition and ancient customs. Respecting the local culture will let you have a more meaningful and pleasant experience.
Be Respectful at Religious and Spiritual Sites: Wear modest clothing when visiting monasteries, and don’t disturb pilgrims or worshipers.
Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask before taking photos of Tibetan people, and check with your guide about when it is ok to take photos inside religious sites.
Walk Clockwise Around Religious Sites: Pilgrims walk in a clockwise direction around religious sites like Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. Move in the same direction to avoid disturbing anyone.
Avoid Sensitive Topics: Don’t try to discuss political or other sensitive topics.
9. Enjoy Tibetan Cuisine but Stay Mindful of Your Diet
Tibetan food is warm and hearty, perfect for the high-altitude conditions, and something you should definitely try. Local specialties like yak butter tea, tsampa roast barley flour, and momo dumplings will give you the energy you need to explore the outdoors. However, it’s still important to be mindful about what you eat to avoid any issues.
Stick to well-cooked foods, avoid raw vegetables, and drink bottled or boiled water. Bring some digestive aids or stomach medicine with you in case you have trouble adapting to local foods.
10. Conclusion
It’s no surprise that some unique arrangements are needed for visiting a remote location like Tibet. With a little advance planning you can arrange your Tibet Travel Permit, book tickets for the Tibet Train, and find a small group tour to join. By traveling during the best seasons and being mindful of the high altitude and unique local culture, you can be sure to have a smooth and unforgettable journey to Tibet and enjoy sights you can’t see anywhere else in the world.