Best Shoes for Walking in Tibet's Old Towns
First, what to avoid: sandals and flip-flops are a poor choice. The rough, uneven stones easily scrape feet, and even a light drizzle can make surfaces dangerously slippery. Their lack of support also leaves ankles vulnerable to twists on uneven ground. Save them for hotel rooms, not historic lanes.
Instead, prioritize sneakers, hiking boots, or Martin boots. These styles excel on Tibet's old town terrain: sturdy enough for gravel paths and muddy patches after rain, yet flexible enough for hours of wandering. Hiking boots, in particular, shine on steeper lanes, while sneakers offer a lighter option for casual strolls.
Three non-negotiable features define the best shoes here:
Grip: Look for deep, rugged treads. They dig into smooth flagstones and wet surfaces, preventing slips when rain hits. Rubber soles with multi-directional patterns work best.
Ankle support: Mid-cut designs stabilize your feet on uneven stone slabs, reducing strain from constant adjustments. This is key—hours of walking on bumpy ground can leave ankles aching without proper support.
Breathability and quick-drying: Summer temperatures in old towns can reach 25°C, so opt for mesh-and-leather blends. They keep feet cool during the day, and the leather adds warmth for chilly evenings.
Steer clear of overly thin soles—they transfer every stone's bump directly to your feet, causing fatigue. Also, skip shoes with excessive frills, tassels, or sequins; these catch on uneven edges and get damaged easily.
Conclusion
Finally, break your shoes in before you board the plane, and you’d better walk your local park's gravel paths and climb a few flights of stairs. A well-tamed pair will reward you with confident steps through incense-filled courtyards.
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35 Comment ON "Best Shoes for Walking in Tibet's Old Towns"
Asked by Liliana Me** from N/A
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.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash