Welcome to Tibet, the Roof of the World! As an experienced Tibetan tour guide and operator with more than two decades of experience in the tourism industry, I am often asked by travelers about the process of obtaining a Tibet permit, also known as the Tibet Travel Permit or TTP. In this blog, I will guide you through the steps to obtain the permit and offer some tips to make your journey to Tibet hassle-free.
Choose a reliable tour operator:
The first step in obtaining a Tibet permit is to choose a reliable tour operator. The Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) only issues permits to authorized tour operators, and individual travelers are not permitted to travel to Tibet. Therefore, it is important to choose a reliable tour operator who can provide all the necessary documents and permits for your trip.
Book your tour in advance:
Once you have chosen a tour operator, you should book your tour at least two months in advance. This will give your tour operator enough time to obtain the necessary permits and make arrangements for your trip.
Provide all necessary documents:
To apply for the Tibet permit, you will need to provide the following documents to your tour operator:
A clear scanned copy of your passport
A clear scanned copy of your Chinese visa
A detailed itinerary of your trip, including the places you plan to visit, the dates of your stay, and the mode of transportation you will be using
A letter of invitation from your tour operator
Wait for approval:
Once your tour operator has all the necessary documents, they will submit your application to the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) for approval. It usually takes about 10-15 days for the TTB to issue the permit.
Collect your Tibet permit:
Your tour operator will collect your Tibet permit and deliver it to you in person or by post. Make sure to check that all the information on the permit is correct, including your name, passport number, and travel dates.
Enter Tibet:
You must carry your Tibet permit with you at all times during your trip to Tibet, as you will need to show it at various checkpoints. Without the permit, you will not be allowed to enter Tibet.
Some tips to make your journey to Tibet hassle-free:
- Pack warm clothing, as Tibet can be very cold, especially at night.
- Avoid strenuous activities for the first few days to acclimatize to the high altitude.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Do not take photographs of military installations or personnel.
- Do not engage in political or sensitive discussions with locals.
In conclusion, obtaining a Tibet permit requires some preparation and planning, but it is a necessary step for traveling to this unique and beautiful region. By following the steps outlined above and working with a reliable tour operator, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Tibet.
