1. What documents should I hold for traveling in Tibet?

There are two documents required for foreign tourists who want to travel in Tibet. One is the Chinese Visa, which you can apply for in Chinese Embassy in your place. Another is the Alien' s Travel Permit issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau

2. How to get the Alien's Travel Permit?

Your local travel agency can be your representative to apply for the Permit. You can get it right here from our Tibet Tourism Bureau Chengdu Office, too. To apply for the Permit, you should provide the copies of your visa, passport and Foreign Residence Permit (if any) by fax or email.

3. What Statue of person called " foreign tourist"?

"Foreign tourist" here refers to the person who doesn't hold Chinese ID card. Although Hongkong, Taiwan and Macao are the inseparable parts of China, the citizens there are still required to get the Permit.

4. Is independent tour allowed in Tibet?

Independent tour is prohibited in Tibet. You should take part in an organized group or have the local travel operator to arrange for you.

5. What is the best season for tour in Tibet?

Generally speaking, from April to October is the best season for Tibet tour. However, having a winter tour can be pleasant if you don't mind the cold weather. You can avoid the tourist crowds, and economical accommodations and transportation are more available.

6. What are some popular places in Tibet?

Lhasa, Tsedang, Gyantse, Shigatse, Tingri, Zhangmu etc. are the most popular places in Tibet, for both normal and trekking itineraries. For expedition, Mt. Everest and Mt. Kailish are the most exciting and accessible areas.

7. How to enter Tibet?

By air, from Chengdu -Lhasa .By land, the possible routes are: Qinghai-Lhasa, Sichuan-Lhasa, Yunnan-Lhasa and Kathmandu-Lhasa. However, land transportation takes much longer time, and can be very tough, especially the Sichuan-Lhasa route.

8. Can I travel in Tibet by bus, I really can't afford the car?

Yes, but very limited, only Golmud (of Qinghai Province)-Lhasa. And this route is subject to change, not always available.

9. Other than Chinese currency, what else currency is acceptable in Tibet?

US$ is acceptable only in a very limited range, e.g. tips. However, for convenience, Chinese currency is the best choice. If you want to change US$ to Chinese currency in Tibet, you can change in Lhasa Hotel or the Bank of China.

10. Can I draw cash from the local banks in Tibet?

Yes, but only the Bank of China has this function. However, the ATM there doesn't always work properly. So we suggest you to bring some cash with you.

11. What should I keep in mind when I contact with the Tibetans?

Tibetan people are very kind and hospitable, you can feel free to talk with them. But there are some rulers you should go by:
1) Do not photo them without permission, please show the respect to them !
2) Do not talk about the sensitive topics like political or t religious matters!
3) Do not eat dog, donkey or horse in Tibet!

12. What can I do with Tibetan beggars?

Religious beggars are an accepted part of society in Tibet. Giving money or food to a pilgrim is considered an act of merit. Donations of five jiao(Chinese currency) are appropriate. Please note: if the beggars are the old men and women who dress in shredded, bulky clothes, while the younger ones may have a monkey on a chain, it's a spectacle of great interest to the Tibetans. These beggars are professionals, having less meritorious intentions than religious pilgrims. Just wave them off as the locals do if you don't want give anything.

13. What medic I should bring for the high elevation?

Try to bring the following medicines that will be very useful during your travel: cold and flu tablets, throat lozenges, nasal decongestant, Aspirin, Multivitamins. Or you can ask your local doctor for suggestions.

14. What should I bring for the plateau weather?

Tibet's high altitude and the atmosphere allow the sun's solar radiation to strike the earth with unusual intensity. It?¡¥s very easy to get sun-burnt there. Sunscreen of high sun protection factor, quality sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are good means of protection. Calamine lotion is good for mild sun-burnt. Those with fair complexions should bring reflective sunscreen with them. Apply the sunscreen to your nose and lips as well.