For the longest time, Tibet had been in the news for all the wrong reasons- political tension, human rights exploitation, oppression and atrocities of all kind. The western world is slowly waking up to the astounding natural beauty and the surreal calmness that the pure and pristine land of Tibet has to offer. Being the highest region on Earth, with an average elevation of 5000m, Tibet is home to some of the highest mountains in the world (Mt. Everest, Mount Kailash). The high-altitude snow-capped mountains had made it an inaccessible terrain but of late, its alluring landscape has been fascinating adventure lovers worldwide. The Tibet Travel can be the most satisfying experience of your life – if you know the right ways to travel to the land of peace and tranquillity.

Popular Travel destination

Tibet as a travel destination is becoming increasingly popular. There are two ways of reaching Tibet - from China and from Nepal. Nepal to Tibet route requires a 15-day group Chinese visa which can be arranged through Nepal based travel agencies. With this visa, entry and exit will be from the same point at the same time with all members of your group. Here visa extension is not possible.

Any entry from China to the – Roof of the World, a standard 30-day or 60-day Chinese visa is required which can be extended if needed.

There are some rules and restrictions that a foreign traveller has to keep in mind if he’s planning a trip to Tibet from China.

• Tibet travel requires proper planning, preferably months in advance.

• Foreigners are not allowed to travel independently. The travel has to be arranged through a travel agency before arriving in Lhasa.

• It is advisable to contact a travel agency 4-6 weeks in advance. If you have Mount Kailash and Western Tibet in your itinerary, book 2 months in advance. The agency will be responsible for applying for permits on your behalf. Booking an agency in advance gives them adequate time to prepare necessary documents.

• What type of permit will be needed depends on the itinerary that has to be declared before applying for the permit. Once permit received, itinerary cannot be changed much.

• Essentially a foreigner needs to submit his passport and Chinese visa to his travel agent who will be ready with permit before the client lands in Lhasa.

• Before boarding a train or flight to Lhasa, permits are checked. Also, hotels in Tibet don't allow entry without permit.

• A travel guide must accompany foreigners in Tibet. It’s a rule.

The importance of choosing a good travel agency is paramount since the way you experience Tibet and the Tibetan culture will largely depend on the travel arrangements made by the agency. Also, the agency assigns a travel guide who is responsible for helping you navigate through the stunning natural landscape. Try to opt for an agency which is Tibet-owned or Tibet-staffed. ‘Go to Tibet ‘ is one of the most popular and reliable agencies in Tibet which prioritizes safety, security and wellbeing of its clients above everything else. They shall arrange private tours, both regular as well as customized, for small groups. Their rates are affordable and easy on the pocket. It’s a place for all- the regular tourists, the adventure lovers (mountain-biking, cycling, hiking, trekking) and the spiritual seekers (Mt. Kailash tour) The hardworking, experienced and knowledgeable staff ensure that you experience Tibet in all its glory and take back memories that will last a lifetime.