AccessTibet.com - General FAQ

FAQ: Everything Else

1.When is the best time to visit Tibet?
2.What’s the weather like in Tibet?
3.What health precautions should I take before traveling to Tibet?
4.How to avoid and treat high altitude sickness?
5.Can I take photos with Tibetans?
6.What to pack for Tibet?
7.What currency is in use in Tibet?
8.Is it easy to find an ATM in Tibet?
9.Are credit cards accepted in Tibet?
10Can I stop to take a picture on the road?

Our Answers:

1. When is the best time to visit Tibet?

The best time to visit Tibet is from early May to late October. The temperature is mild and the air is crispy. The busiest months are usually July and August. Fall & spring can be excellent for trekking and cultural trips as you don't have to face the crowds and everything is cheaper. Winter is cold and clear and snow capped mountains are equally spectacular and there will be no crowds to deal with. The overland journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu is usually possible year round now that the new road has been built.

The following time are the busiest period due to Chinese holidays: first week in May, first week in October, and Chinese Spring Festival (often takes place in late January or early February)
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2. What’s the average temperature in Tibet?

The average temperature in Lhasa is 36.4°F (2.5°C) during January to March; 55.5°F (13°C) during April to June; 59.7°F (15.4°C) during July to September; 39.2°F (4°C) during October to December. Temperature varies a lot from morning to evening and from area to area. In the summer, light jackets are necessary and in the winter down jackets and wind breakers are needed.

3. What Health precautions should I take before traveling to Tibet?

You should certainly consider the altitude. Average altitude in Lhasa is 12000ft(3567m). If you have doubt, please consult professionals. Our trips are designed so that you do not over-exert yourself in the first few days, and our guides are experienced and aware of the dangers of altitude sickness. There is also preventative and symptomatic medication to help with the minor symptoms of altitude sickness (headaches, nausea).

You must advise us in writing, at or prior to booking, of any medical condition which may cause you to be not fit for the trip.
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4. How to avoid and treat high altitude sickness?

1. Please try not to strain yourself and avoid excessive working before taking Tibet tours.
2. Avoid drinking coffee or alcohol in the high altitude areas.
3. Drink plenty of water or tea.
4. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) while avoiding fatty stuff.
5. Acclimatization is important. Relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
6. Avoid sleeping pills because they may cause shallow breathing at night and make it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep. Consult your doctor for preventive medication for high altitude sickness.
7. Use Oxygen to relieve symptoms.
8. If nothing else works, return to areas at lower elevation.
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5. Can I take photos with Tibetans?

Tibetans are very friendly. Most of the time they are more than happy to be in your picture, but it is always a good practice to ask for permission first. Sometimes they ask for money for taking pictures, especially at scenic points so it’s a rule of thumb to make sure with your guide before taking pictures. For taking pictures of Tibetan children, usually small gifts such as pencils or candies are sufficient.
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6. What to pack for Tibet?

Cameras, extra batteries and/or films, sun glasses, sun screen, hats, chap stick, light jacket for summer and down jacket for winter are necessary. Further clothing and equipment depends on the type of trip you are doing here. We are happy to make suggestions according to your destination.
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7. What currency is in use in Tibet?

The currency in use in Tibet is Renminbi (RMB) – Chinese Yuan. Foreign currencies may be converted into RMB at all banks and some hotels.
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8. Is it easy to find an ATM in Tibet?

It’s easy to find ATMs in Lhasa and Shigatse, although it’s hard to find one in remote areas or the smaller towns. However the trend is that ATM will become more and more accessible.
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9. Are credit cards accepted in Tibet?

Most of the internationally accepted credit cards including Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted in large shopping centers and hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse. Credit card symbols are displayed where they are accepted.
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10. Can I stop to take a picture on the road?

Of course. This is one of the advantages of traveling in private tours. When and where to stop is a decision between you and your travel partners. As long as the itinerary of the day can be met, our drivers are glad to stop for you to take pictures. A "Tashi Deleg" (good fortune in Tibetan) is all you need.
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For further enquiry please feel free to mail us: enquiry@AccessTibet.com