Adventure World

Tibet

Tibet is one of the last 'frontiers' on earth. Life is not easy and the land is arid but the people are hardy and cheerful and the scenery is magnificent. Huge, ornate monasteries and temples bear witness to the deep Buddhist faith and the ancient roots of a rich, highly developed culture. Teeming, colourful bazaars in Lhasa and holy sites like Mt. Kailash draw pilgrims from every part of this land and beyond. Vast, empty plains, clear light, breathtaking vistas, colourful people and majestic peaks are all waiting for the true adventurers in Tibet!

Top Highlights

Tibet lies on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of the southwest border of China. The average height of the whole region is more than 4,000 meters above sea level, for which Tibet is known as 'Roof of the World'. The highest peak of Tibet, also the highest in Himalayas and in the whole world, is Everest Peak, which is as high as 8,846.27 meters above sea level.

Although a part of China, Tibet has a unique culture of all there own. It is mainly inhabited by Tibetans, a minority nationality of old and mysterious people. Tourist attractions include the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Jokhang Temple, and a number of Buddhist sacred places.

It is freezing cold most times of the year. Most tourists visit Tibet only in the warmest seasons, June, July, August and early September.

The most popular places to visit in Tibet are: Lhasa, Tsedang, Gyantse, Shigatse, Tingri, Zhangmu etc, for both normal and trekking itineraries. For expedition, Mt. Everest and Mt. Kailish are the most exciting and accessible areas.

Fact Sheet

• Country Dialling Code: + 86
• Capital: Lhasa
• Language: Everyone speaks Tibetan and many speak Chinese.
• Electricity: 220V 50Hz
• High Altitude Sickness:Acute Mountain Sickness(AMS) is common at high altitudes, and depends on the elevation, the rate of ascent and individual susceptibility. Most visitors to Tibet will suffer from at least some symptoms that will generally disappear through acclimatization in several hours to several days.
• Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom, and many travelers have trouble sleeping for the first few days after arriving in Lhasa.
• To prevent acute mountain sickness:
  • Drink extra fluids. The mountain air is dry and cold and moisture is lost as you breathe. Evaporation of sweat may occur unnoticed and result in dehydration.
  • Eat light, high-carbohydrate meals for more energy.
  • Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don't smoke.
  • Avoid sedatives.
  • Don't push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  • Avoid catching cold before entering Tibet.
• Useful tip: Be aware that Tibetans often gesture with their lips to show a direction, so if a member of the opposite sex pouts at you they are just showing you where to go!