27 December 2018

In 2017, Tibet received over 25 million tourists, a number that continually increases as China allows more tourists into the remote region. With the numbers growing, now is the time to go before it becomes another tourist trap in the Asian region. Tibet has traditionally been closed off to visitors, but access has become more streamlined and the visitors permit well documented by travelers of all kinds. Visitors from far and wide go to Nepal to see the best view of the Himalayas, but Tibet offers them as well but from the other side of the famous mountains.

How Backpacking Tibet Works

Tibet is located on the Himalayan Plateau, one of the highest places on Earth, harboring two of the highest peaks, namely Mount Everest and K2. This area has fewer tourists when compared to the Nepalese side because of the required entry permits. The views are unmatched on either side, but backpacking Tibet brings its own special novelty, fewer tourists.

Tibet is legally a part of China, so first off it is imperative to obtain a Chinese visa, followed by a Tibet Entry Permit. The Tibet Entry Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and usually takes between 5 and 20 days or more to process. At the moment, solo travelers are not allowed into Tibet and must be booked into a group. This means solo travel to the area is impossible for non-Chinese citizens. Traveling to this area is a group is a great way to meet new people or go with loved ones. The next step is to work out what to pack when visiting the mountainous region. When visiting, it is recommended to bring warm clothes, even in summer, because at night the temperature drops dramatically. Comfortable shoes, altitude sickness medication, lip balm, and snacks are also recommended to bring with you.

Backpacking with a Guide

Tibet is a travel spot for the strong. In order to get the Tibet Entry Permit, you will need a tour to process the application and a formal guide. The guide, however, will not be with your 24/7 and will be useful when traveling the Himalayan paths. Backpacking is common here because of the lack of good roads into the high mountain regions, so it will be like an adventure of its own. Backpacking the Himalayas is not a vacation, but rather an adventure to be had with a fellow group of travelers and a unique one that will surely be enjoyed.

Tags: Tibet Tour