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'Shangri La', 'the Rooftop of the World' - locked away in its Himalayan fortress, Tibet has long exercised a siren's hold on the imagination of the West. Tibetans are used to hardship and, despite the disastrous Chinese occupation, they have managed to keep their culture and humour alive.
Travel Warning: General Security
Travellers should avoid any large demonstrations in Tibet, particularly in Lhasa where the Chinese military has increased its presence. Travel restrictions were recently lifted by the Chinese government and tourists are once again allowed to enter - with the appropriate permission from authorities. The three-month closure followed a series of public gatherings and pro-Tibet demonstrations which descended into violence in March. Fatalities were reported, although the exact number was never verified. For information from travellers in the region, check out the Thorn Tree forum.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
Tibet (Xizang)
Population
2,700,000
Currency
Name: Yuan Renminbi
Code: CNY
Symbol: Y
Electrical Plugs
220V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Mandarin
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +8
Country Dialing Code
+86
Weights & Measures
Metric
Tibet - Free Guidebook Chapter
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Tibet guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Tibet download page.
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
