Tibet Tour

Overview

Tibet, on the lofty Tibetan Plateau on the northern side of the Himalayas, is an autonomous region of China. It's nicknamed the “Roof of the World” for its towering peaks. It shares Mt. Everest with Nepal. Its capital, Lhasa, is site of hilltop Potala Palace, once the Dalai Lama’s winter home, and Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s spiritual heart, revered for its golden statue of the young Buddha. 

Tibet, often referred to as the "Roof of the World" or the "Land of Snows," is an autonomous region located in the southwest of China. It's renowned for its high-altitude plateau, stunning landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and unique traditions.

Geography: Tibet is situated on the Tibetan Plateau, the world's highest plateau, with an average elevation exceeding 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) above sea level. It's bordered by the Himalayas to the south and the Kunlun Mountains to the north.

Culture and Religion: Tibetan culture is deeply influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, which has been the predominant religion in the region for centuries. The Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, traditionally resided in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Tibetan Buddhism incorporates elements of Bon, an indigenous religion of Tibet, as well.

History: Tibet has a long and complex history. It was once an independent kingdom, but it came under the control of the Chinese empire during the 13th century. In the 20th century, political tensions between Tibetans and the Chinese government led to the Dalai Lama fleeing into exile in India in 1959, following a failed uprising against Chinese rule. Since then, Tibet has been under Chinese control, and the issue of Tibetan autonomy remains a subject of international debate.

Economy: Tibet's economy is primarily agrarian, with yak herding and farming being central to the livelihood of many Tibetans. Tourism has also become increasingly important, with visitors attracted to Tibet's natural beauty and cultural heritage. However, economic development in Tibet is a topic of controversy, with concerns about environmental sustainability and the preservation of Tibetan culture.

Political Status: Tibet is officially an autonomous region within China, known as the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). However, the political status of Tibet remains a contentious issue, with many Tibetans advocating for greater autonomy or independence from Chinese rule.

Overall, Tibet is a region of immense natural beauty and cultural significance, but it also grapples with complex political and social challenges.

Useful Information: 

Planning a trip to Tibet can be an enriching experience, but it requires careful preparation due to its unique geographical and cultural aspects. Here's some useful information to consider:

Permit Requirement: Foreign tourists need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet, which can only be obtained through a registered travel agency. Make sure to apply for this permit well in advance, as the process can take some time.

Altitude Considerations: Tibet's average elevation is over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), so altitude sickness is a concern. It's advisable to spend a few days acclimatizing in Lhasa or other lower-altitude areas before heading to higher altitudes like Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October when the weather is milder and the region is more accessible. However, keep in mind that July and August are the peak tourist months, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Cultural Sensitivity: Tibet is a deeply religious region with a strong Buddhist tradition. Respect local customs and religious practices, such as avoiding photography inside temples without permission and walking around sacred sites in a clockwise direction.

Health Precautions: Due to the high altitude and remote location, medical facilities in Tibet are limited. It's essential to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation. Additionally, pack any necessary medications and consult your doctor before the trip.

Transportation: In this tour package we use overland Kathmandu to Kathmandu. If you want can fly back to Kathmandu or any destination from Lhasa. 

Accommodation: Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, with most concentrated in Lhasa and other major cities. In more remote areas, accommodation may be limited to basic guesthouses or nomad tents.

Sustainable Tourism: As Tibet is a fragile ecosystem with a delicate cultural heritage, practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact and respecting local customs. Support local businesses and artisans by purchasing handmade crafts and products.

Popular Attractions: Don't miss iconic sites like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street in Lhasa, as well as natural wonders like Mount Everest, Namtso Lake, and Yamdrok Lake.

Tour Packages: Consider booking a guided tour with a reputable agency, as independent travel in Tibet is restricted for foreigners. Tour packages often include transportation, accommodation, permits, and a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into Tibetan culture and history.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a memorable and fulfilling journey through Tibet.