Yes. A Tibet Travel Permit is mandatory for all tourists to Tibet and Tibet Autonomous Region. Travel to Tibet must be under an organized group. Most often, you need to secure a visa for China prior to applying for a Tibet Travel Permit. Your travel operator may be able to secure a group permit for you if you are joining a group.

Due to political issues, permits may occasionally be delayed or restricted. Although this is out of our control, by traveling as a group and with experienced leaders, we can deal with any situation more effectively.

The responsibility for visa and permits lies with the individual traveler, and the entry requirements may vary at any time. It’s recommended that you refer to your government’s travel advisory or the visa and entry requirements page for the latest information before you leave.

Yes. Your travel insurance is mandatory prior to departure. Your insurance must include medical expenses and emergency evacuation or repatriation, but these requirements can depend on your itinerary, so it’s worth reviewing the section on travel insurance within your Essential Trip Information.

It will not be possible to join this group until your tour leader sees your insurance policy number and the provider's 24-hour emergency contact details, which are recorded at the beginning of the trip. The availability and cost of healthcare can vary greatly, so insurance is a key aspect of "responsible" travel.

In case of travelers living in the USA, EU, or Switzerland, travel insurance cannot be mandated legally. However, it is still recommended. The travelers who decide to travel without insurance will have to sign a waiver form stating that they will be responsible for any expenses that may occur during their travel.

Tipping has become a common practice, particularly in tourist areas of Tibet, especially with regards to tour guides, drivers, hotel staff, and restaurant staff. Some hotels and restaurants even include a service charge on the bill.

The place is at a high-altitude region, and weather conditions may vary quickly. Thus, layers should be packed for comfortable travel. Warmer clothing and a windproof and waterproof jacket should also be included.

If your intention is to walk or hike, then light layers that are quick-drying are best, as they can easily be adapted to changing temperatures. A good pair of walking shoes and sun protection are also necessary, as the sunlight at altitude can be strong.

Also, when visiting religious sites, it is important to pack modest clothing, such as clothing that covers your shoulders, your arms, and your knees.

No. Tap water is not safe for consumption. For environmental reasons, it is best to try not to buy bottled water. Your local leader will be able to arrange for filtered water for you, and water purification tablets can also be useful when traveling.

The altitude is all part of the adventure when traveling to Tibet. The plan is structured to allow your body to gradually get used to it. Rest time is included, as is a slower pace on the first days of travel. The majority of travelers can cope well with altitude by keeping hydrated, having light meals, and listening to their bodies.

In the cities and even a few towns, internet access is available, and internet facilities like Wi-Fi are offered in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but the speed might not always be reliable.

Mobile coverage can usually be found in popular areas, including Lhasa, but it can be limited or unavailable in more remote areas, particularly when crossing high mountain areas.

We take the health and safety of our travellers seriously and take every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and inclusive for everyone. When you travel with us, you have access to our global support network and local on‑ground leadership, and you can rest easy knowing we have a zero-tolerance policy on discrimination.

We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure. The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Because Tibet changes your sense of scale, your sense of time. The open spaces, the routine, the spiritual cadence encourage contemplation without requiring it. Many visitors return with a new perspective, but not because of a singular experience, more because the destination has worked its way into your consciousness.