As of the 11th of May, 2021 we have received confirmation from our local partners in Lhasa that Tibet has reopened to tourism for travellers of all nationalities. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Tibet has been closed to tourism even as China has dealt with the pandemic and its cities have seen life back to normal.
The catch, of course, is that China itself is still closed to inbound tourism, so at present it is only possible to visit Tibet if you are currently working or living in China. There is still hope that travel corridors between China and various countries will open up before too long for vaccinated travellers, as per our recent announcement regarding the US.
Tibet is located in the southwestern region of China, and nicknamed the “Roof of the World” for having an average elevation of 4,380 meters. The Tibet Autonomous Region borders Myanmar (Burma), India, Bhutan, and shares Mt. Everest with Nepal.
All non-Chinese passport holders entering Tibet must be registered on a guided tour to receive an entry permit. To obtain this permit you will need to provide a copy of your passport, Chinese residence permit, and a proof of employment letter from your employer. Read more about the Tibet permit here.
As Tibet reopens, you will also now need to provide a nucleic acid test report taken 7 days before entry to Tibet.
For those who have already received their vaccination, you will still need to take the COVID-19 test to show a negative result.
To get to Tibet you may either fly from most major cities in China or board the highest train in the world departing from Beijing. We of course recommend taking the train.
YPT can arrange your independent tour to Tibet any time. Your tour with us includes the classic destinations of Lhasa, Namtso Lake, Shigatse and Mt. Everest Base Camp or more off the beaten track locations such as Mount Kailash. Follow our Where to Go in Tibet blog for more information.
Contact us for more information on Tibet and China
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