Is It Safe to Travel to Tibet?
Tibet, a holy land in the Himalayans that is known as the “third pole of the world”, attracts countless travelers from all over the world to explore its unique beauty. Besides its breathtaking landscapes and mysterious Buddhist culture, travelers wonder that is it safe to travel to Tibet? Let's show you the concerned issues among travelers such as altitude sickness, road conditions, crime, food, etc.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness is the most concerning issue for many travelers. Tibet is located on a plateau. When you go to Tibet from the plains, you could be worried that altitude sickness would occur due to changes in altitude. Don't worry! On the first day when you arrive in Tibet, as long as you have a good rest and avoid exercise vigorously, altitude sickness will generally not occur.
Road Conditions
Tibet is a tightly controlled place, there are many checkpoints on the roads which entail stopping. Checkpoints will check passports, permits and other documents. As a result, driving on Tibet’s roads means having stops, slow speeds, and waiting. For example, there are more than 2 checkpoints on the road between Lhasa and Shigatse. What’s more, most vehicles are equipped with speed monitors, which will alert when the driver is driving too fast. During a long journey in remote areas in Tibet, particularly when you are looking forward to visiting Mount Everest or other attractive sites, the speed may be frustrating. However, the speed limitation and checkpoints ensure you a safe trip in Tibet, please be patient.
About Tibetans
Most people in Tibet are devout Buddhists. They are modest and kind, and they are very taboo about stealing and killing. They are modest and gentle, if you have something to ask, they will be happy to help. If you pay a visit to their house, they will very hospitable and make you feel at home. Their smiles are bright and pure, like the sunshine here, warm as spring.
Criminal
Criminal is rare in Tibet. However, there are some petty criminals in Tibet, and the majority of them are theft. In crowded areas in Lhasa, particularly in Barkhor Street, you may encounter pickpockets. Take care of your bags and pockets, and don’t bring a large amount of cash with you. Hold your camera tightly when you are enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Make sure your digital equipment, such as phones and tablet computers, are always in your bag. There are some common scams in Tibet and foreign travelers are vulnerable to them. Don’t go with people who approach you and invite you to drink at a bar or café. What’s more, ATM scams are common in recent years. Using an ATM accompanied by your travel guide is suggested to avoid ATM crime or your card is swallowed. You’d better use ATMs during the daytime in banks, shops, and big shopping centers. Don’t go out at night.
Dogs and Other Animals
Tibet owns more than 800 species of wild animals, 200 species of which are native. As a wonderland for wildlife, you are suggested to protect the Tibetan animals and yourself by respecting the laws. Brown bears, yaks, and snow leopards attacked local people during past years. Travelers are not suggested to trek or cycle in those wild areas alone but companied by a local travel guide. When you see wild animals, keep a safe distance from them and never approach them. In the countryside and pastoral areas, almost every local family owns a Tibetan mastiff. The Tibetan mastiff is a species of dog, which is powerful, ferocious and dangerous. When you see a dog during your journey, keep away from it.
Money and Valuables
Don’t carry much cash with you, and don’t show your wealth in public. Take care of your valuables, such as jewelry, cameras, and expensive watches. Don’t leave them in vehicles or hotels. If your thing was stolen, report it to the nearest Public Security Bureau. You will fill in a loss report and claim the loss on your travel insurance, which will cover it.
Your passport is valuable, since criminals may commit crimes with lost passports. To avoid your identity being used by criminals, take care of your passport and always bring it with you. Contact the nearest Embassy as soon as possible once you lost your passport.
Food
Although you will be surrounded by attractive local food, which is cheap and delicious, you’re suggested to eat in the big restaurants. A meal in a big restaurant in Tibet is not cheap, which costs about CNY 60 per person, but it’s worth trying. Food from vendors is not always safe, and it may be cooked with stale meats and vegetables. For your health, you’d better have your meals in reliable restaurants with better sanitary conditions.
Local Customs and Taboos
When you come to Tibet, learn about some local customs and taboos, which can make you a more popular person and make the journey more pleasant. For example, the local people are very devout to the Buddha, so we should respect their beliefs. Do not whistle in Tibetan homes at night. Do not make loud noises in the temple, or touch the Buddha statues casually. Don't hug the Tibetans' shoulders or touch the Tibetans' heads. The local people are shunning to kill and have dogs, horses, donkeys, or fish in some places, so remember not to persuade them to eat them. Do not step on the threshold when entering the door. When you see Mani stones, stupas, and temples, you should go around from left to right, and the direction of turning prayers wheels should be clockwise. When Tibetans service tea for you, you have to take it with both hands. When Tibetans offer you khata scarfs, please bow down and accept them. If Tibetans put their hands together, they show their sincere blessings to the guests. And, if Tibetans stick out their tongues, they show humility and friendliness.
Final Words
In a nutshell, it’s safe to travel to Tibet as a foreign traveler. Located in Lhasa with more than 10 years of experience, we offer group and private Tibet tour packages with seasoned travel guides and drivers. We guarantee you a safe, unforgettable and rewarding trip to Tibet.