Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Zach with a Z]

Anyone know the skinny on getting into Tibet?

I am looking into flying to Lhasa for a week, but I can't figure out if you need a Tibet travel permit for only Lhasa... and if you need to be part of a guided group for such a trip.

All the sites I keep looking for info on tell me different things, and all of them want me to book something with them.

Anyone done this trip, recently. And whats up?

thanks

[Spud10]

quick rundown:

All travel into tibet region is restricted and you usually have to be apart of a tour group (though you can tour alone with a guide, this works). Yes you can get around this, but ending up in a Chinese prison is never as fun as a it sounds.

It's difficult to find a tour company that wont try to scam you. Best advice is to email a bunch and see what they offer. Also, be careful as some will promise you a ballin' itinerary... but you have to take into account Elevation. It'll be tough getting adjusted, espeically if you aren't too physically fit. (Don't be scared tho, just take it easy. If you're gonna be in Lhasa only, its no biggy)

Outside of Lhasa, yes some regions require special (more special) permits while others are just restricted, period.

China also can shut down all travel to the region whenever it feels there may be trouble. Keep this mind.

If you are looking for reputable tour companies that i remember:

http://www.tibetanconnections.com/

http://www.windhorsetours.com/

http://www.tibetanexpeditions.com/

http://www.visittibet.com/

I can't promise that any of these groups are as good as they were, if they had any change in ownership or what not.

Best advice would be email them, tell them what you are interested in doing, your time-frame and ask for a price quote. Go from there.

Hope that helps

[travel zen]

It is now called Tee-bet

[dragon777]

Zach, you definitely need the travel pass for Tibet. They may of changed the rules but this pass must be purchased within the PRC. I got mine in Chengdu and also booked my ticket from there(alot cheaper). 2 way ticket to Lhasa. When I got to Lhasa there were plenty of rooms available(depends upon the season). Tours from here are cheaper to book as well. Stay in the Tibetan quarter of the city and not the Chinese section. Tibet can be politically unstable from time to time so the Chinese do stop foreigners from entering when these unfortunate events happen. Be aware of this.