Tibet Travel Guide

Tibet, known as the Roof of the World, sits at an average elevation of 4,500 meters. It is a land of spiritual monasteries, turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and a deeply preserved Buddhist culture that will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

Tibet Permits - What You Need

Foreign travelers cannot visit Tibet independently - you must book through a licensed travel agency and obtain the following permits:

• Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): Required for all foreign visitors. Your travel agency applies on your behalf (takes 15-20 days).
• Alien's Travel Permit: Required for areas outside Lhasa (obtained in Lhasa).
• Military Permit: Required for border areas including Everest Base Camp.
• Frontier Pass: Required for Everest, Mount Kailash, and other border regions.

Important: China Royale handles all permit applications for our Tibet tours - you just need a valid Chinese visa and passport scan.

Dealing with Altitude

Altitude sickness is a real concern. Lhasa sits at 3,650 meters and Everest Base Camp at 5,200 meters. Here are essential tips:

1. Acclimatize gradually: Spend at least 2 days in Lhasa before going higher
2. Stay hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water per day
3. Avoid alcohol and smoking for the first few days
4. Move slowly: Do not rush upstairs or overexert yourself
5. Consider medication: Diamox (acetazolamide) can help prevent symptoms. Consult your doctor before travel.
6. Fly in, train out (or vice versa): The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is a spectacular and gentler way to acclimatize

Must-See Sacred Sites

Potala Palace, Lhasa

The iconic white and red palace towering above Lhasa was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. With over 1,000 rooms, it is one of the most impressive buildings in Asia. Daily visitor numbers are strictly limited - book well in advance.

Jokhang Temple, Lhasa

The spiritual heart of Tibet. Watch pilgrims prostrating outside, spin prayer wheels with the faithful, and see the oldest and most revered Buddha statue in Tibet inside.

Yamdrok Lake

One of Tibet's three sacred lakes, its impossibly turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains is one of the most photographed scenes in Tibet. The viewpoint from the Kamba La pass (4,990m) is spectacular.

Everest Base Camp (North Face)

The Chinese side of Everest Base Camp at 5,200 meters offers stunning views of the world's highest peak. The journey from Shigatse through increasingly dramatic landscapes is as memorable as the destination itself.

Best Time to Visit Tibet

April to October is the best period, with May-June and September-October being ideal. July-August is monsoon season with more rain but lush green landscapes. Tibet is closed to foreign tourists during February-March.