It is important to remember that the political climate in Tibet is turbulent and that the situation and consequently your plans, could change overnight. There are however, some common sense considerations to observe while travelling in Tibet.

First, we suggest you make yourself aware of the current situation in Tibet.

Although travelling with a local Tibetan guide is the best way to see the country, visitors should be aware that the Chinese security network is extensive. There are many plain-clothes police and security cameras strategically placed on roofs. It is important to bear in mind that it may be very dangerous for Tibetans if you actively seek out information on human rights abuses or other political subjects, (although some Tibetans may volunteer such information).

This does not however, stop you from remaining observant; you may wish to note down information which you think could be of use later.

Secondly, you will be helping to keep Tibetan culture alive if you attempt, as far as possible, to use Tibetan rather than Chinese resources, e.g. hotels, tour operators and souvenir stalls.

• Staying in an expensive Chinese hotel.
• Using Chinese guides and tour operators.
• Buying Tibetan antiques.
• Buying products made from wild animals, especially endangered species.
• Patronising Chinese-run shops, restaurants etc.
• Making donations at official collection points in religious institutions, as the money tends to go to Chinese authorities.

Try to:

• Travel individually or in a small group.
• Leave donations on altars or give them directly to monks or nuns.
• Give donations to pilgrims from provincial Tibet.
• Use knowledgeable Tibetan guides or Tibetan-staffed tour operators.
• Exercise care for the environment when trekking.
• Be discreet when talking or giving things to Tibetans.
• Be informed before you leave for Tibet.

Individual/Small Group Travel

At present, official Chinese Government policy states that holders of Chinese visas can enter Tibet if they travel in a “group” which can officially be as small as two or three people. However, there are inconsistencies. Apparently, once inside Tibet the individual or small party traveller is not faced with as many restrictions as the China Travel Service or the Chinese Embassy will have you believe.

Check out Tony Williams’ Independent Travel to Tibet webpage for the latest information.

Himalayan Tourist Code

• Protect the natural environment. The Himalayas may change you - please do not change them.
• Limit deforestation - make no open fires, and discourage others from doing so on your behalf. Where water is heated by scarce firewood,use as little as possible. When possible,choose accommodation that uses kerosene or fuel efficient wood stoves.
• Remove litter - burn or bury paper, and carry out all non-degradable litter. Graffiti are permanent examples of environmental pollution.
• Keep local water clean and avoid using pollutants such as detergents in streams or springs. If no toilet facilities are available, make sure you are at least 30 metres away from water sources, and bury or cover wastes.
• Plants should be left to flourish in their natural environment - taking cuttings, seeds and roots is illegal in many parts of the Himalayas.
• Help your guides and porters to follow conservation measures.
• As a guest, respect local traditions, protect local cultures, maintain local pride.Be patient, friendly and sensitive.
• When taking photographs, respect privacy - ask permission and use restraint.
• Respect holy places - preserve what you have come to see, never touch or remove religious objects. Shoes should be removed when visiting temples.
• Giving to children encourages begging - a donation to a project, health centre or school is a more constructive way to help.
• You will be accepted and welcomed if you follow local customs - use only your right hand for eating and greeting. Do not share cutlery or cups, etc. It is polite to use both hands when giving or receiving gifts.
• Respect for local etiquette earns you respect - loose, light-weight clothes are preferable to revealing shorts, skimpy tops and tight-fitting action wear. Hand-holding or kissing in public are disliked by local people.
• Observe standard food and bed charges - but do not condone overcharging. Remember when you’re shopping that the bargains you buy may only be possible because of low income to others.
• Visitors who value local traditions encourage local pride and maintain local cultures - please help local people gain a realistic view of life in Western countries.