Tibet , province-level administrative region of China , located in a high-mountain area in the southwestern part of the country. It is officially called the Tibet (Chinese Xizang) Autonomous Region (TAR). Throughout its long history, Tibet at times has governed itself as an independent state and at other times has had various levels of association with China. Regardless of China 's involvement in Tibetan affairs, Tibet 's internal government was for centuries a theocracy (state governed by religious leaders), under the leadership of Buddhist lamas, or monks. In 1959 the Dalai Lama (spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and at that time the head of Tibet 's internal government) fled to India during a Tibetan revolt against Chinese control in the region. China then took complete control of Tibet , installing a sympathetic Tibetan ruler and, in 1965, replacing the theocracy with a Communist administration.
1 Could you give me some advice on clothing when traveling in Tibet?
Temperature differs dramatically between daytime and at night. Lhasa, the capital city, could have a temperature during daytime of around 10-25 Centigrade, but at night, temperature may plummet to 0 Centigrade or lower. You are advised to bring thick, warm coats when traveling Tibet. The roads are very dusty so you may wish to consider wearing dark colored clothing.
2 Can I travel Tibet with my child?
Tibet may not be an ideal destination for young Children. The climate and generally harsher conditions in Tibet may not be ideal for young children. The sights and attractions are not those which children like to visit and facilities will be very primitive. If you do decide to bring your young child to Tibet please ensure that you bring all your child's daily needs with you.
3 Â When is the best time to visit Tibet?
Tibet is one of the most dramatic climates places in china. Though cool in summer, it is extremely cold in the winter. The best time for your Tibet trip is from April to November, avoiding the cold and dry weather from December to February.
4 Are there any suggestions on what I should do or take to acclimatize the altitude in Tibet?
Almost every visitor is affected by the high altitude as Tibet is over 3000 meters above sea level and many areas are above 5000 meters. Most of the visitors get acclimatized to the high altitude by taking it easy for one or two days, while still paying to their health.
We would like to make several suggestions to those contemplating going to Tibet.?
People with serious heart diseases should not visit Tibet. Those with less serious heart problems need to consult a doctor before traveling.
5 What should I bring for the Tibet plateau weather and high elevation?
Tibet's high altitude and the atmosphere allow the sun's solar radiation to strike the earth with unusual intensity. To protect your eyes and skin, the sunscreen, sunglasses or dark glasses and lip creams are advised.
In addition to the normal medications for traveling, just like the Aspirin and Ibuprofen etc, you should bring some high altitude medication. Better ask your doctor for suggestions.
6 How to get Tibet Permits in Hong Kong
Your travel advisor will take care of all formalities to obtain the permits to allow you to enter Tibet
7 How to get the Travel Permit to Tibet?
Travel permit to Tibet is issued by Tibet Tourism Administration. To apply for it, the copy of your passport and Chinese visa, together with other information such as your occupation should be provided. Journalists and people that could be involved in political matters could be revoked. Your local travel agency can help; or, you are welcome to contact us.
8 Can I travel to Tibet by myself?
No. According to China's regulation, individual travel to Tibet is not allowed. You have to join a group and we can help you find one at any time.
9 When will I get my Tibet Permit?
Your Tibet Permit will be issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau after our local Tibet agent presents the Permit application together with a copy of your passport and China Visa. The Tibet agency will fax the permit to our office or to our agent's office in the city where you will board the train or plane for Tibet. Your guide at this place will give you then Tibet permit which will be required to be presented when you arrive in Tibet. After your arrival in Tibet, the guide will collect the permit from you and he will return the permit to the Tibet Tourism Bureau. You will not need the permit again and the permit must be returned.
8 Â Exchanging money in Tibet ?
The best place to change foreign currency and travelers checks is the Bank of China. Some hotels may provide exchange service but this is uncertain. If you are travelling to remote areas of Tibet, try to take your cash in small denominations. RMB100 and RMB50 bills are sometimes difficult to change. Coins are not acceptable even for donations.
Credit Cards- they are not recommended as a method of payment in Tibet. They are only accepted in 5-star hotels or big department stores in Lhasa.
Banks- Bank of China, China Construction Bank and China Agriculture Bank have branches in Lhasa.
