Key Differences Between Foreign and Chinese Domestic Tourists Visiting Tibet
Tibet is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and foreign tourists in China. However, due to the differences in tourism policies, there are some regulations and rules that foreign tourists need to be aware of.
Foreign Tourists Need to Apply for Tibet Travel Permit While Chinese Tourists Do Not
All foreign tourists without Chinese passports are required to apply for Tibet Travel Permit; otherwise, they will not be allowed to enter Tibet. Local Chinese tourists only need to have an ID card to do so.
Foreign Tourists Cannot Travel Independently in Tibet While Chinese Tourists Can
As Tibet is located in a border area of China, foreign tourists are subject to control in this region. Despite the control measures, Tibet welcomes tourists from all over the world who abide by local regulations.
Foreign Tourists Need to Book a Tibet Tour While Chinese Tourists Do not
In order to achieve the goal of organized tourism activities for foreign tourists in Tibet, foreign tourists need to book Tibet tour packages with Chinese travel agencies, either through private customized or group tours. Led by tour guides and drivers, they should follow the pre-arranged itinerary to visit scenic spots open to foreign tourists.
Some Areas Are Not Open to Foreign Tourists
At present, the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon in Nyingchi, Nan Yi Valley, Motuo County, Yadong County in Shigatse, and the entire Chamdo Prefecture are not open to foreign tourists. Chinese tourists can visit normally.
The Specifications of Tibet Travel Packages for Foreign Tourists Are Different from Those for Chinese Tourists
The hotels included in the travel packages for foreign tourists must have foreign-related qualifications. And the tour guide provided should be a bilingual one who can speak both English and the Tibetan language. For Chinese tourists, many Tibet travel packages are divided into no-shopping tour packages and shopping tour packages, while the travel packages offered for foreign tourists are all no-shopping tour packages.
Foreign Tourists Need to Sign up at Least Two Weeks in Advance While Chinese Tourists Can Embark on a Spontaneous Trip
This point is mainly closely related to the process of Tibet Travel Permit. The processing time for the Tibet Travel Permit for a regular Lhasa trip is generally at least 8 to 9 working days. When the itinerary involves remote and restricted areas, the processing time will also be extended accordingly. Therefore, signing up for a Tibet tour one month in advance is the safest choice.
Conclusion
Although traveling to Tibet inevitably involves some restrictions, finding a reputed travel agency can help you find the greatest freedom under these restrictions.
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39 Comment ON "Key Differences Between Foreign and Chinese Domestic Tourists Visiting Tibet"
Asked by Jacob Keis** from N/A
Train booking
We are a group of 15 (perhaps 17) who need to take the June 8th 15:27 train from Xining to Lhasa. We need to book this soon so prompt reply would be helpful. We are getting our permits from an agent and should have them in 6-8 days.
Asked by Nirm** from Australia
Hi, I’m interested in doing the Mount Kailash tour. I only have holidays from 20/09 to 4/10 this year. Do you have a tour that includes these dates? How much would the tour be? Are the flights, visas, passes and permits included in your prices? Thank you kindly. Regards, Nirmala (Nationality: Australian Group Size: 1 person Arrival Date: 20/09/26) Nationality: Australian Group Size: 1 person Arrival Date: 20/09/26
Asked by An** from N/A
Best time to travel for the Linka festival
Hey, I'm looking to travel to the Linka festival with my partner. When is the best time to go this year? Thanks!
Asked by Goldliam Soo** from N/A
lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June
Hi, lm from nyc in the usa how much is your 13 day Mt Kai lash tour in September or June? And approximately how much would would the airfare be round trip? Thank you
Asked by Liliana Me** from Macau
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.