Tibet Travel Guide

Everything you need to know before your sacred journey

Permits & Visa

Chinese visa + Tibet Travel Permit + Alien Travel Permit required. We handle all documentation.

High Altitude

Gradual acclimatization essential. Lhasa (3,650m) to Kailash (4,600m). Take it slow.

Best Time

May to October. Clear skies, accessible roads. Avoid winter (Nov-Apr) - extreme cold.

Health Prep

Medical checkup essential. Consult doctor about altitude medication. Good fitness required.

Permits & Documentation

Required documents for traveling to Tibet and Mount Kailash

1Chinese Visa

Tourist visa (L) required for all foreign nationals. Apply at Chinese embassy/consulate in your country.

ℹ️ Processing time: 4-7 business days

2Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)

Mandatory for all foreign tourists. Issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau. We arrange this for you.

ℹ️ Required: Passport copy + Chinese visa

3Alien Travel Permit

Required for travel outside Lhasa to restricted areas like Mount Kailash and Everest Base Camp.

ℹ️ We obtain this on your behalf

4Military Permit

Required for certain border areas and military zones near Kailash region.

ℹ️ Included in our service

📌 Note: We handle all permit applications and arrangements. You only need to provide passport copies and photos. Processing takes 15-20 days.

Altitude Acclimatization

Altitude sickness (AMS) is a serious concern when traveling to Tibet. Proper acclimatization can make or break your journey.

Warning Signs

  • Headache
  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Dizziness & fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty sleeping

Prevention Tips

1. Gradual Ascent

Spend 2-3 days in Lhasa (3,650m) before going higher. Don't rush.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

3. Medication

Consult doctor about Diamox (acetazolamide). Start 1-2 days before arrival.

4. Rest Properly

Avoid strenuous activity in first 48 hours. Sleep well, eat light.

5. Oxygen Support

We provide portable oxygen cylinders. Use when needed, don't hesitate.

6. Listen to Your Body

If symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Your safety comes first.

Essential Packing List

What to bring for your Kailash Mansarovar journey

🧥

Clothing

  • Thermal inner wear (top & bottom)
  • Fleece jacket & windproof jacket
  • Down jacket for high altitude
  • Trekking pants (waterproof)
  • Warm gloves, cap, scarf
  • Good quality trekking boots
  • Sunglasses (UV protection)
💊

Medical & Health

  • Personal prescription medicines
  • Altitude sickness medication
  • Pain relievers & digestive aids
  • First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm
  • Water purification tablets
  • Multivitamins
🎒

Gear & Accessories

  • Daypack (25-30L)
  • Water bottle (1-2 liters)
  • Headlamp/flashlight + batteries
  • Trekking poles
  • Camera + extra batteries
  • Power bank & chargers
  • Sleeping bag (for camping tours)
📄

Documents

  • Passport (valid 6+ months)
  • Chinese visa
  • Passport photos (4-6 copies)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Emergency contact details
  • Medical certificate (if required)
  • Cash (USD/CNY)

💡 Pro Tip: Pack light! Layers are better than heavy clothes. You can buy missing items in Lhasa if needed.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal guide for planning your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Excellent

May - June

🌡️ 10°C - 20°C
✓ Advantages
  • Clear skies
  • Mild temperatures
  • Blooming wildflowers
  • Less crowded
✗ Disadvantages
  • Some snow patches
  • Roads opening
Good

July - August

🌡️ 15°C - 25°C
✓ Advantages
  • Warmest months
  • Accessible roads
  • Lush landscapes
✗ Disadvantages
  • Rain possible
  • More tourists
  • Some muddy trails
Excellent

September - October

🌡️ 5°C - 15°C
✓ Advantages
  • Clear visibility
  • Perfect weather
  • Stunning views
  • Harvest season
✗ Disadvantages
  • Getting colder
  • Early snowfall possible
Not Recommended

November - April

🌡️ -20°C - 5°C
✓ Advantages
  • Fewer tourists
  • Unique winter views
✗ Disadvantages
  • Extreme cold
  • Roads closed
  • Limited facilities
  • Dangerous conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Tibet and Kailash Mansarovar tours

Q: Do I need a guide to visit Tibet?

A: Yes, independent travel is not allowed in Tibet. All foreign tourists must be part of an organized tour with a registered travel agency and have a licensed Tibetan guide.

Q: Is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra difficult?

A: The yatra is moderately challenging. The parikrama (circumambulation) involves trekking at high altitude (up to 5,630m) for 3 days. Good physical fitness and proper acclimatization are essential.

Q: What is the minimum age for Kailash Yatra?

A: Generally, pilgrims should be between 18-70 years old. We recommend a medical checkup before booking. Children and elderly travelers need special consideration.

Q: Can I use my mobile phone in Tibet?

A: Mobile coverage is limited. Lhasa has good coverage, but remote areas near Kailash have little to no signal. We recommend informing family before departure.

Q: What currency should I bring?

A: Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the official currency. USD can be exchanged in Lhasa. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major cities. Bring sufficient cash.

Q: Is travel insurance necessary?

A: Absolutely essential! Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation. Keep documents with you.

Have more questions?