PERMIT SITUATION UPDATE

"I hope this encourages the adventures of those that are willing! "

Well I sure hope it doesn't encourage anything of the sort, at least not to anyone with common sense. Besides being outdated information, it's also irresponsible in the context of the current situation. Foreign travelers that try this nowadays might risk only being booted out of Tibet and maybe losing some money with fines, but spare a thought for any Tibetan that defies the current regulations and gives you unofficial shelter, or independently rents you a vehicle to enable your happy jaunt...the consequences for them might be very unpleasant indeed.

It's a rumor, so nothing's for sure, but I travelled through Tibet this month and our guide told us, that there's a chance they will close Tibet again in July (instead of May)

#744 It is not just a rumour. Everyone in the travel industry in Lhasa now knows that the government has shifted the celebrations for the "Peaceful Liberation of Lhasa" from May to July.

In the past the government has cancelled issuance of Tibet Entry Permits during events like this - so it is reasonably likely that there may be another closure during the first 2 weeks in July.

However - once I again (and frustratingly so) its very unlikely that any official announcement will be made until closer to the date. Its also possible that large agencies with good govt. relations will still be able to get permits but small agencies may not.

My assessment based on years working in tourism related field in Tibet (and given the current sensitive situation in Ngaba in Sichuan and the international press that is receiving) is that it is "reasonably likely" there will be another closure during this time.

At this stage no-one can be 100% sure.....Obviously this wrecks havoc for guaranteed travel planning during this period.

In view of ongoing standoff between Chinese army and monks of Kirti monastery
foreigners were banned from restive Tibetan areas

http://www.chinapost.com.tw/china/local-news/tibet/2011/04/25/299897/Foreigners-banned.htm

this notice was issued by Sichuan authorities, not by TAR.

Very interesting article/news davyd. Usually the T.A.R is the first to close during any political tension in Tibet. But this time it is areas outside T.A.R being closed. Unfortunately these events in Sichuan will also make authorities in the T.A.R. very nervous. Sadly this likely means there will be no lessening of the permit restrictions in the T.A.R. any time soon.

Question for Jonesy...

I fly into Lhasa on 8 May to do my 'trip-of-a-lifetime/dog-off-a-leash/dream trek' (and isn't that just asking for trouble). The Kangshung Face trek is due to start around 15 May and finish 25 May. Then by road to KTM. Might this mean I won't be allowed in at all, as my time in Tibet is scheduled for 8-30 May?

Thanks, Jo from Melbourne

Hi Jo.

It doesn't look like you'll have any permit problems for your 8th May departure. Your permit is likely already processed!

I have been out to Kharta Valley but have never made the opportunity to trek up to the Kangshung Face......it sounds amazing! ENJOY!

j_australis - there is no way to predict this. Official closing announcements have often come a day or two before the closing. OTOH those in Tibet at the time of the closing usually have been permitted to continue their tours.

Ruth

Permit is DEFINITELY OKAY for the first week of May.

It's still too early to tell the situation in mid-May, but I think it should also be okay.

Hi folks,

I'm currently in Beijing, but travelling to Xi'an on Sunday. I had planned to spend 3 nights in Xi'an, and then travel onwards in China. But I'm now thinking about a trip to Tibet.

1). Would it be possible to arrange a permit and return train ticket to Lhasa from Xi'an in 3 days?
2). Can anyone recommend a hostel where they could assist with the process?
3). Approximate cost of permit/visa and ticket?

I realise this might be a pipe dream, but worth a shot!

Thanks' for any assistance.