Tibetan Tourism Info > Facts For The Visitor > Planning
Planning
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It is extremely difficult to find an accurate map of the plateau that has topographic and toponymic information, so your best option is to invest in a good guidebook with detailed maps. The seven geographic regions of Tibet are structured around cultural, ethnic, and linguistic differences for Tibetans, but political division of autonomous region and prefectures does not take these considerations into account. Each prefecture is divided into administrative counties that are generally reflective of Tibetan customs and desires.
Unfortunately, many Chinese cartographers have used the names of counties and county capitals interchangeably. Tibetan location names are increasingly becoming replaced by Chinese names. Additionally, a lack of standard translations for Tibetan locations and the local variations on pronunciation make it even more difficult for you as an unfamiliar traveler.
When to Go
The seasons are similar to those in China, but it is colder due to the high altitudes. April to June and September to November are usually the best months for travel, although they tend to be the most popular. July and August tend to be extremely rainy and you will probably have to struggle with flash floods or high rivers, but August especially is a prime season for visiting festivals. Despite the cold temperatures and resulting challenges of travel, winter is not a bad time to go because it is still very sunny and nomads from all over Tibet journey to Lhasa. March is a politically sensitive month so there may be increased restrictions on travel. Regardless of the month, you should still be prepared for dry air and cold temperatures at night. Western Tibet tends to be drier, and the eastern portion follows weather patters similar to those of Southeast Asia.
Consider timing your trip with a festival if you're interested in experiencing the best of Tibetan culture.
Chinese tourists pour into Lhasa during Chinese week long holidays from May 1 to October 1, so you should be prepared to pay higher prices for rooms and be more flexible about room situations.
Independent vs Organized Tour Groups
Although organized tour groups are more expensive, they give you more access to "closed" areas of Tibet. A tour operator will also take care of travel permits and help with flight arrangements. If you have less money and are physically capable traveling as an individual can be just as rewarding. You should still be sure to take note of any travel limitations or you may face expulsion from a closed area.
Possible Tour Routes
The Tibetan plateau is the size of Western Europe, so you should plan accordingly. Depending on which gateway city you use to enter Tibet, you may find it easier or more difficult to reach certain areas within Tibet. These routes are only meant as suggestions of possible journeys that you might consider while in Tibet.
- Cultural tour of Central, Southern, and Western Tibet- This trip takes 15 days and introduces you to major historical palaces and monasteries. The best months are April through June and Late September to November.
- Mt. Kailash and Guge Kingdom- A trip to these areas takes you through Western and Northern Tibet. This tour takes 25 days, and the best season is May to July and September to October.
- Kyi-chu Valley- This valley is located in Central Tibet and is perfect if you're interested in rural Tibetan life and monasteries. An expedition usually takes 15 days and April to October provides a wide window of opportunity for you to visit.
- Brahmaputra Gorges and the Salween-Mekong Traverse- This journey takes 19 days and is best for the months of April to June and late September to October. Parts of this route may be impassable in the rainy season or due to glaciers melting so a four wheel vehicle is highly recommended.
- Lhasa to Chengdu Overland- Despite the rural landscape and lack of modern facilities, this route is gaining in popularity and allows you to visit "closed" areas of Eastern Tibet. On this 21 day journey, you will pass by quite a few important monasteries, and this route is best traveled April through June and late September to October.
- Lhasa to Kunming Overland- This trip contains some of the most beautiful scenery in Tibet, yet only takes 18 days. The best months to visit are April through June and late September to November.
- Kham and Amdo Overland- You will experience the culture of Kham and Amdo in this 22 day journey. This trip is appropriate May through October, which gives you a wide option of dates to travel.
- Golok and Gyaron Overland- This journey will take you 21 days and you will get to experience Amdo, the nomads of Golok, and monasteries in Far East Tibet. The best months for this journey are April through June and September through October.
- Eastern Kham Overland- On this route, you will travel through eastern Kham for 26 days and be able to view a number of important religious sites. This trip is best May through June and late September to October.
- Nature Parks of Amdo- Passing through beautiful nature reserves, this journey is 23 days in length and is best for April through October.
Contributors to this Page
Elizabeth Tseng