The Orient - Tibet - Country Information

For a long time Tibet has been one of the most adventurous and inaccessible places on the planet and although it is now easier to visit, it has not lost any of its mystery. The Jokhang Temple, in the capital Lhasa, is Tibet’s most sacred temple and a focal point for pilgrims from all over the country and the incomparable Potala Palace still towers over the city. Further west, lie the important towns of Gyantse and Shigatse, the latter dominated by the vast Tashilumpo Monastery, former home of the Panchen Lama.

Key Facts
Full Country Name	Tibet
Area	1,228,400 Km²
Population	2.62 million
Capital	Lhasa
Time Difference	GMT +8
Visa	Visa is required
Currency	U.S. dollars
People
Language	Tibetan
Dialling Code	+86
Electricity	230-240V

Visas:

British passport holders require a visa/permit to visit Tibet. This will be obtained by Bales Worldwide and the charge (including the visa fee) will be included in the cost of your holiday. A full 10 year passport is required and it must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure. If your passport is not valid for six months it will be necessary to obtain a new one.

Health risks:

Hepatitis A & B, Japanese encephalitis, Malaria, Typhoid

When to Go:

The main characteristics of the climate in Tibet are related to the high altitude of the Tibetan Plateau; the air is thin with less oxygen and moisture (which can give rise to the altitude sickness).  The best time to visit Tibet is between May and October.  There is usually plenty of sunshine during the day, but there is a sharp drop in temperature at night time (and even between sunlight and shade). Some warm clothing is advisable for Tibet due to the changes in temperature at altitude.