Welcome to Tibet!

Please contact us to provide specific details including: number of days, if you need help with air / train tickets, Hotel arrangements (indicate Budget, Middle, or Upscale hotel preferences), list any specific places of interest. There are many beautiful places that can only be seen in Tibet, including colorful sites along the 7 day trip to Everest, starting at Lhasa. We also do trekking and camping at Mt.Kailash, as well as mountain biking trips.

Tibet Travel Permits

There are two kinds of permits issued for traveling in Tibet: the Tibet entry permit (TTB permit, equivalent of a visa for Tibet) and the Alien travel permit (PSB permit). Some people also call the Tibet travel permit as the Tibet visa, or Lhasa visa.

TTB Permit - Tibet Entry Permit - The "Tibet Visa" or "Lhasa Visa"

When you fly into Lhasa you will need to show this permit when checking in at the airport. In order to buy a flight to Lhasa you will need to show this permit. TTB permits are also needed by groups traveling by Land Cruiser and train.

PSB Permit - Alien Travel Permit

If you want to visit "restricted" areas in Tibet, you will need an Alien travel permit issued by the PSB (Public Security Bureau) of Tibet. The Alien travel permit is also sometimes referred to as the PSB permit.

How to get the travel permits?

We may be able to obtain travel permits on your behalf. Simply send the following information:
1) Your full name;
2) Your gender;
3) Your date of birth;
4) Your passport number;
5) Your nationality
All information must be exactly the same as in your passport. In additional information such as your occupation, as journalists and government officials/political personnel may require more complicated procedures in order to be issued a permit. Please be advised that you need to apply for the travel permit at least 10 days prior to your entry date. Lhasa PSB will not issue travel permits to individuals.

How long does it take to get a Tibet travel permit?

Generally it takes at least ten days to get the Tibet permit provided that you supply all of the necessary documents, and another 3 days (or more) to Express Deliver the permit. Tip: When applying for a Chinese visa, it is generally better not to mention Tibet. After you get your Chinese visa, a Tibet travel permit is easier to obtain. Of course, there is always the slight risk that you might be refused entry to Tibet even if you get a Chinese visa. In our experience, the TTB seldom refuses entry to tourists unless they belong to one of the categories of people mentioned above (diplomats, journalists, government officials). Other documents: Tibet is under Chinese jurisdiction, so you are required to hold a valid Chinese visa (issued by a Chinese Embassy), as well as a valid passport.If you are coming to Lhasa from Kathmandu, it is advised to get a Chinese visa from Kathmandu (regardless of whether you already have a Chinese visa issued in your country) as a special administrative situation exists between China and Nepal.