Are independent travel allow in Tibet?
It is the most asked and fundamental question. Are independent travel allowed in Tibet?
No, It’s been over a decade since independent travels are prohibited in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. So, all the visitors must have the tour organized with a Local Travel agency in Tibet. This organized Tibet tour includes A licensed tour guide, a private vehicle, and the Tibet travel permit.
The primary document needed for travelling to Tibet is the Tibet travel permit issued in Lhasa. Only a local registered travel agency can help apply it for you. Unfortunately, no travel agency can help you make it unless you booked a package tour with them.
While in Tibet. In Lhasa, You are pretty much free in a day besides the guided tour to the sites. During your journey to other regions of Tibet. A tour guide will be with you all the time. But after arriving at the destination of the day. You are pretty much free to explore around. There will be a guide assigned to you all the time during your stay in Tibet.
The private vehicle means a vehicle assigned to the group. If it is a Group Tour, you will assign a bigger car with a driver and a smaller group size like a small family. Then we will assign you a smaller van. You cannot travel on public transportation outside Lhasa city.
You may want to read more of Tibet travel regulations and Tibet travel guide here. If you have questions about Tibet travel, like, Are independent travel allowed in Tibet? Please do write to us at info@itibettravel.com.