Tibet Travel Guide: The Order to Prepare In

The first thing to sort out for Tibet is the permit. Foreign passport holders cannot travel independently, and must move with a licensed guide, a vehicle, and a pre-booked itinerary after the permit is issued.

Permits take time, and without one you cannot buy flights or train tickets into Tibet. Below we cover the process, documents, altitude, and timing.

Tibet in short

Secure the permit first, then book flights and trains. The permit is arranged through a qualified travel agency.

Once your dates are set, confirm the permit at least 30 days before departure. You cannot buy transport into Tibet before it is ready.

Foreign passport holders cannot travel independently

Foreign passport holders cannot travel Tibet independently. You must apply for the Tibet Travel Permit through a travel agency qualified to handle overseas travelers, and travel as a group with a licensed guide, a vehicle, and a pre-booked itinerary.

• Individuals cannot apply for the permit directly.
• It usually takes 7 to 14 working days, longer in peak season.
• Confirm at least 30 days before departure.
• Without the permit you cannot buy flights or train tickets into Lhasa.

Permits and required documents

Documents and steps depend on the route. The table below reflects the general case, and your operator will confirm the latest conditions.

Acclimatizing after arriving in Lhasa

Lhasa sits around 3650 meters. Shigatse is about 3836 meters, Yamdrok Lake about 4441, Namtso about 4718, and Everest North Base Camp about 5200.

• Spend your first day resting, and start sightseeing the next day.
• Drink water often and avoid heavy drinking or eating.
• Skip showers on the first day.
• If headache or nausea worsens, descend and rest.

If you have existing conditions, consult a doctor before departure.

Closure period and best timing

Each year around February and March there is a two to four week period when foreign visitor entry is suspended. The exact timing can vary, so check it before fixing your dates.

• April to October is the best window.
• Summer is rainier but grasslands are green.
• Winter is cold with fewer visitors.
• In peak season both permits and transport slow down.

A core itinerary frame

Standard routes radiate from Lhasa toward Shigatse and the lakes.

Packing checklist

• Original passport, copies, and extra passport photos.
• A warm layer and windproof jacket, as swings are extreme.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
• Moisturizer and lip balm, since the air is very dry.
• Basic medicine and prescriptions, kept with the prescription.

Conditions and document rules can change, so reconfirm the latest details with your operator before departure.