Essential Tibet - 12 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour offers incredible vistas and cultural experiences. Highlights include staying in a traditional yak hair tent with views of Mt. Everest, exploring Lhasa and touring the famed Potala Palace, and witnessing Tibetan Monks debate at the Sera Monastery. You'll also learn to make Tibetan momos.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  You will stay in hotels for 10 nights and a nomadic yak hair tent for 1 night near Everest Base Camp. Accommodation styles vary; hotels/guesthouses might be simpler than what you're used to. Especially in western Tibet and near Everest Base Camp, accommodation can be very basic with shared facilities, minimal running water, and basic pit toilets. A sleep sheet/bag is recommended due to potential dust and cold. Note that properties may not have elevators.

• What are the modes of transportation used on this tour?

  Transportation includes flights (Chengdu to Lhasa), private vehicles, and walking. Be prepared for bumpy rides in remote areas of Tibet and Nepal as roads can be narrow, winding, and poorly maintained, though the views are stunning.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights, such as the one from Chengdu to Lhasa, are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. We require your passport information at booking to process these tickets.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 15 travelers, with an average group size of 10-12.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of for this trip?

  Yes, Lhasa is at an altitude of over 12,140 ft (3,700 m), and the trip reaches a maximum altitude of 5630m. You may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy due to altitude sickness. We recommend consulting your doctor about altitude sickness medication. It is your responsibility to check with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations. Bring a First Aid kit and be aware that medical facilities are sometimes remote.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for this trip?

  You will need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). If you require a visa for China, you must obtain an 'L' (tourism/short term visitor) visa. We provide a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to assist with your Chinese visa application. After receiving your Chinese visa, you must send a copy to the tour operator at least 31 days prior to departure for your Tibet permit to be arranged. When applying for the China visa, do not list Tibet as a destination. For Nepal, e-Visas are available for some nationalities and are strongly suggested for pre-arrival application; visas are also available upon arrival at the airport or land crossings (point of entry Rasuwagadi).

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied on this tour is 18. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  In Asia, a conservative dress standard is recommended. Please pack loose, lightweight, long clothing that covers knees and shoulders, especially when visiting temples or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist countries like Tibet and Nepal. A shawl or scarf is also useful.

• How much spending money do I need to bring?

  Spending money requirements vary by traveler based on habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. We recommend having access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What should I know about currency and payment methods in China and Nepal?

  In China, while currency exchange rates fluctuate (check www.xe.com), WeChat Pay and Alipay are common payment methods. We strongly recommend setting these apps up with a linked credit/debit card and a data roaming package before arrival, and carrying some cash as a backup as credit cards may not always work, especially outside first-tier cities. In Nepal, ATMs are limited to major cities, and major credit cards are accepted in most shops but may incur a 2-4% transaction fee.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join the group without evidence of travel insurance. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation is required. We also strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities.

• What is the tipping etiquette on this tour?

  In China, tipping is not traditionally expected in restaurants but is customary in the tourism industry. Recommendations for tipping local guides and drivers range from 1 to 3 USD per person per day. If you feel your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) did an outstanding job, a guideline of 5 USD per person per day is appreciated.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock for luggage is recommended. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. During free time, use your judgment for optional activities and consider traveling in small groups or taking taxis at night in cities. Be aware of and avoid protests or demonstrations.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour price includes a welcome briefing with your CEO and group, a Tibetan cooking class in Lhasa, a night in a yak hair tent at Everest Base Camp, orientation walks in Lhasa (including Durbar Square and Barkhor Street), tours of Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, Sera Monastery (to witness monks debating), visits to Pelkor Chode Monastery and Gyantse Kumbum, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery and Nunnery, Rongbuk Monastery, an Everest Viewpoint, the border crossing to Nepal, and a Bhaktapur excursion.

• Are there any optional activities on this tour?

  No, there are no specific optional activities listed for this tour, as all main excursions are included.

• What should I know about internet access in China?

  While traveling through mainland China, you will not be able to access some popular internet websites such as Google, Dropbox, Gmail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WordPress, and Whatsapp due to government restrictions. If you wish to use these sites, we suggest researching and installing a suitable VPN on your device prior to travel, or using data roaming if available.

• Can I use drones in Nepal?

  No, drones and their flying are prohibited in Nepal. Violating these regulations may result in police custody.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Some of the hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. You may also need to do your own laundry at times, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.