What to Know About Tibet’s Border Areas: Permits & Restrictions

If you're planning to visit Tibet's most iconic spots near the border, you'll need more than just your Tibet Travel Permit. Every foreign traveler heading to Tibet's most border areas must get a Border Pass, also called Frontier Pass. These regions are key for national security and protecting fragile ecosystems, so rules are in place to keep everyone safe and the land intact. Wondering which must-see spots are on the "needs permit" list? I’m breaking down the best ones next, from snow-capped peaks to otherworldly landscapes.  

Shigatse

Shigatse is where most border adventures start—and it's packed with spots you won't want to miss. First up: Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Dingri County. It's the ultimate goal for many travelers—standing at 5,200m, staring at the world's tallest mountain, Mount Everest. To get there, you'll  pass multiple border checkpoints—each one will ask for your permit.

Then there's Gyirong Valley in Gyirong County—a total contrast to EBC's high altitude. Here, the elevation drops from 4,300m to 1,800m, so you'll trade snow for lush forests, waterfalls, and quiet Tibetan villages. It's also the main land entry point from Nepal via Gyirong Port, perfect if you're combining a Nepal trip with Tibet. If you love easy hikes and mild weather, this is your spot.

Ngari

Ngari is for travelers who crave remote, jaw-dropping beauty—and yes, all its top spots need Border Pass. Zanda Clay Forest in Zanda County is a must: 2,000+ square kilometers of "earth forests" that look like they're from another planet. Hike around at sunrise, and the rocks glow orange—plus, it's right near the ancient Guge Kingdom Ruins, a mystery-filled site for history buffs. Zanda County sits close to the China-India border, so your permit needs to list "Zanda" clearly.  

Next is the Lake Pangong in Rutog County. This high-altitude lake has crystal-clear water that shifts colors with the light. It's a paradise for birdwatchers to. And if you're up for a spiritual journey, Mount Kailash is also in Ngari—you'll need that border permit to join the Kailash Kora or even just view the mountain.  

Nagqu

Shuanghu County in Nagqu Prefecture is home to Purog Kangri Glacier—the world's third-largest glacier. Walk near its icy blue crevasses, and you might spot Tibetan antelopes or wild yaks on the Qiangtang Grassland nearby. It's high (over 5,000m!) and remote, so a permit is a must—and a good guide helps too.  

Important Rules: Stay Safe & Legal in Border Areas  

Once you're in Tibet's border regions, a few simple rules will keep your trip smooth. First: stick to your tour group's route. Our local guides plan every step to follow regulations—don't wander off on your own, especially to "unopened areas". Second: watch for "No Photography" signs. Checkpoints, military buildings, and some border fences can't be photographed—taking pics here could get your camera checked or photos deleted. It's not worth the hassle, so just put your phone away when you see the sign.  

Conclusion

Actually, you don't have to navigate the border permit process. Our travel agency takes care of everything for you. Just send us your info, and we'll submit the paperwork. Moreover, the permit fee is already included in our Tibet tour packages—no hidden costs, no last-minute runs to official offices. And remember: just like your Tibet Travel Permit, border permits can't be issued directly to foreign travelers on their own.