Tibet trekking holidays: The basics of Tibetan treks

Jun 06, 2018 BY AWE365 Team

If you want to chalk off another notch against that bucket list, why not look at Tibet trekking holidays for your next big adventure?  There are treks and then there are Tibetan treks!

tibet trekking holidays - Flickr CC image by McKay Savage

Tibetan treks

For many of us simply hearing the name Tibet conjures up exotic images of mountain passes, traditional villages and a simpler, more spiritual way of life.  Many have embarked on Tibet trekking holidays to escape the 9 to 5, cleanse the soul and to find themselves (Well, it worked for Bruce Wayne anyway!).

As a region it has attained almost mythical status among travellers. This is partly due to the difficulties involved in reaching this remote plateau and partly due to the fantastic experiences that you’ll have if you do.

As a wild and mountainous region, one of the best ways to see Tibet and experience the rich culture is to get back to basics and head out on foot. So if you’re thinking of exploring Tibet here’s what you need to know about Tibetan treks.

Tibet trekking holidays the basics of Tibetan treks- Flickr CC image by Andrew Smith

Why Tibet?

Staggeringly beautiful and with a unique charm all of its own. Anyone that has been to Tibet will know the answer to this one.

Though Tibet travel is strictly controlled by the Chinese government, a good tour operator will still be able to give you an authentic and traditional experience of the region.

While Tibet has lots of attractions including temples, palaces and monasteries, the star attraction has to be the landscape itself. Thanks to its altitude and unique geographical position, Tibet is unlike anywhere else on earth.

Tibet trekking holidays the basics of Tibetan treks - Flickr CC image by Andrew Smith

Planning Tibet trekking holidays

Independent travel to Tibet is forbidden to all non-Chinese passport holders so you can only travel as part of an organised tour. The trip must be booked through a Chinese travel agent and the tour also must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.

If accepted, you will receive a Tibet entry permit. This permit may need to be shown at any time including airports, trains and hotels. So keep it safe and don’t lose it!

The benefit of this is that all of your equipment, accommodation and meals are organised. So you can just relax and soak up the experience.

Tibet trekking holidays the basics of Tibetan treks - Flickr CC by McKay Savage

Top treks in Tibet

Organised treks in Tibet can last anything from a few days to a few weeks. So it’s easy to find a route that will suit your ability and your timescale.

Pretty much all of Tibet is good for trekking, with routes crisscrossing much of the country. With so much choice deciding on the route that’s right for you can be difficult, so if you’re unsure speak to your travel organiser for recommendations.

Tibet trekking holidays the basics of Tibetan treks - Flickr CC by Dirk Groeger

The most famous route is of course to the Everest Base Camp (Tibet side) from Lhasa. This is a fantastic trail that leads you through some of Tibet’s most beautiful countryside, and is not to be missed during your visit to the region. There are various options taking 8 to 10 days including the treacherous but least busy Kangshung Face trek.

If you are looking for a short trek the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage takes around three days or the Ganden to Samye Trek takes four days. If you have a week or so, the Gyama Valley Trek takes about eight days or both the Tsurphu to Yangpachen Trek or Mount Shishapangma Base Camp Trek take around seven days.

Want to do more serious climbing during your trip to Tibet? There are also mountaineering options that will take you into the roof of the world, reveal more spectacular scenery and push your physical capabilities to the maximum.

Tibet trekking holidays the basics of Tibetan treks - Flickr CC image by Nicholas Bourque

Tibet offers huge amounts of charm, character and adventure. If you’re lucky enough to have the chance to visit this vibrant and stunning region, you’re in for a real treat.

We hope you found this article about the basics of Tibetan treks useful. If you are planning Tibet trekking holidays be sure to check out our Tibet discounts as you could save a fortune on your next adventure.

 
Asia, China, Everest Base Camp (Tibet), Ganden, Gyama Valley, Himalayas, Kailash, Lhasa, Mount Everest, Mount Shishapangma, Samye, Tibet, Tsurphu, Yangpachen
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