Tibet Overview:
Tibet avoided the commercial influences of the western world and remained a hidden world for many centuries. Since it was governed by its Buddhist spiritual leaders, monasteries became the culture's nucleus in every respect. Their high regard is mirrored by their sheer size and magnificence. Even though many were lost during China's cultural revolution, the ones that remain give us an idea of what once was. Tibetan Buddhism incorporates many of the elements of the older religion "Bon Po," which worshiped the elements of sky, moon, sun, fire and soil. Monasteries and pilgrimage routes are often swarming with pilgrims traveling long distances in fulfillment of their Buddhist vows.

Tibet is vast and the logistics of trekking are more complicated than in neighboring countries. Perhaps the late photographer, Galen Rowell said it best — "If you are trying to decide between a vacation at club Med and going to Tibet, then by all means go to...Club Med...but if you are burning with a passion to see the country and the people then go."

There are three primary entry points for Tibet visitors, each with its good and bad points. Tuesdays and Saturdays there are direct flights from Kathmandu, as well as daily flights from Chengdu and Beijing, China. The flight to Lhasa from Kathmandu is often preferable as the change in altitude is not as drastic as when you arrive from China. Kathmandu is nice to return to following a long trek in Tibet. Driving from Kathmandu is a literal option, but is difficult due to the high passes to be crossed before reaching Lhasa. It's better to save that overland route as a means to leave Tibet.

Trek Possibilities To Consider:
Tibet offers an interesting array of trek options. The most famous is known as the Mount Kailas Trek (offered as an HHT Organized Trek in September). It is a trek which can also be a great destination during the time of "Saka Dawa", a Buddhist holiday celebrating Lord Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. It is celebrated during the full moon of late May or early June. You can observe scores of pilgrims as they amble the trail around the holy mountain.

Another interesting trek connects Ganden to Samye — both hold famous monasteries. This jaunt takes about five days and combines two important historical sites with a beautiful high altitude hike. Popular with HHT trekkers is the Tibet trail to Everest Base Camp via Rombok Monastery. There are many possible routings on this theme, depending on how high you'd like to go! Unless you are inclined to carry all necessary gear yourself, Tibet trekking requires a minimum of three participants in order to be practical — all food and gear must be transported by vehicle to the trailhead from Lhasa and later carried by Yaks on the trails. Our Independent Treks in Tibet are generally outfitted with a guide and a full time cook.

Tibet's trekking season is short. High altitude treks like Mount Kailas are best done in June or September. May and October can be possible, but will be colder at night. Travel in summertime is possible, but expect delays due to rain. In Tibet, food choices are limited. Most western visitors find what's available to be quite a change from their usual fare. Traditional Tibetans lived on a steady diet of Yak Meat, Barley ("tsampa") and salty butter tea. We can improve on that for you, but if you are a vegetarian or have serious diet limitations be sure to tell us and consider carrying some extra 'energy' bars and treats to add variety!

Cultural Tours:
With each passing year, more Chinese citizens visit Tibet as tourists. Tibet's heritage as a 'hidden world' may soon be drawing to a close with the inauguration of a rail line from China's mainland to Lhasa. "Progress" is coming to Tibet! While helping move goods and tourists into Tibet, this mainline will unquestionably alter the face of the country in years to come. The best advise to experience this "hidden world" is to see it now, as significant changes lie ahead.

The Chinese have built an extensive road system in Tibet and many interesting cultural sites can now be visited by short walks or day hikes from spots along the road. In Lhasa you can find good hotels run by local Tibetans. Outside the city, many hotels are operated by the Chinese and can be a bit impersonal. A thermos of hot water is always provided in Tibet hotel rooms but they don't have the same standards of hotel cleanliness or western styled bathrooms. For more-relaxed 'touring' trips, any time of year can be an option.

Some HHT travelers have visited Tibet during the dead of winter and an enjoyable experience! Hotels in major cities and towns have heating and wood stoves are common amenities in the countryside. Heated all-road vehicles are available and Tibet's winters aren't too cold and the snow doesn't get so deep to seriously dampen travel plans!

Handicrafts:
Items you'll likely see in Tibet include statues, religious items, silver jewelry, thankas, hats, bags, masks, incense and decorative items. For those interested in hand-made local art, the disappointment is that most of what you'll see in Lhasa is actually made in Nepal, India or China. Unless you discover a local artisan at work, save your money unless you really like the piece — it probably came from somewhere else!

Learning Resources:
The best advantage you can have for your trip to Tibet is to learn about the country's past and present before you go. There are also tight government restrictions on what you may bring into the country — and remember, not much is available after you arrive! A funny book we recommend is "The Hotel on the Roof of the World: From Miss Tibet to Shangri La" by Alec Suer. Alec was the head of marketing for the now-defunct Lhasa Holiday Inn. His book is insightful and a fast read. One of the best films available regarding the current political environment and the impact of tourism in Tibet is "Windhorse" which is available on DVD.

Process:
Independent treks are unique by definition. To assist you in perfecting your custom trip, we suggest you call or email us first to review any questions and options. We will make this consultation with you on a casual basis and free of charge, to help us determine the feasibility and anticipated costs of your trek. Once you have decided on the scope and details of your trip, we require a $100USD non-refundable Development Fee. We will then create your detailed custom itinerary — including all associated costs, routes, lodging, amenities and schedules. When you approve and commit to your trek, we will subtract the $100USD Development Fee from the land cost of your trip. If you cancel your trip for any reason, the Development Fee is not refundable. We remain in contact throughout the entire development process to create the exact trip you have in mind.

Development Fee: $100USD*
Trip Cost Estimate: Average $100USD per day* (trek options and group size can affect trip cost)
Minimum Group Size: 2-3*
Maximum Group Size: Any

* The development fee is the cost involved to develop your unique itinerary.
   It is non-refundable and is paid at the time you apply for your custom trip.
   Trip cost is based on a group size of three (3) or more.
   Short trips close to Lhasa can be done by two people. Longer trips or great driving distances need three as a practical minimum.