Tibet Group Visa (TGV)
If you’re planning to travel to Tibet from Nepal, obtaining a Tibet Group Visa (TGV) is mandatory for travelers of all nationalities. This visa must be arranged in Kathmandu with the assistance of a tour operator. To ensure a smooth application process, it is advisable to arrive in Kathmandu at least six working days before your scheduled departure.
Travel Insurance
Carrying valid travel insurance is not only highly recommended but also mandatory for trips to the Kailash region. The insurance must cover all aspects of your journey. Note that the cost of travel insurance is not included in the trip package, so it is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have adequate coverage for the entire duration of their journey.
Clothing
For a comfortable experience in Tibet, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes are ideal. Nights and early mornings can be cold, so warm clothing is essential. Women from India are advised not to wear saris during the trip. Additionally, pack personal items such as toiletries, cosmetics, medicines, and a small first aid kit, as these can be hard to find during the journey. A route map can also be helpful to track your progress.
Essentials to Pack
Winter Wear: High-quality Gore-Tex jackets, down jackets, thermal innerwear, warm trousers, and sweaters. Woolen gloves, scarves, and caps are also essential.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes and light leather boots for snowy terrain.
Accessories: Sunglasses for UV protection, sunblock, a torch with spare batteries, and a daypack for personal belongings.
Snacks: Carry chocolates, dry fruits, glucose, and energy bars for the journey.
Miscellaneous: Water purifying tablets, wet tissues, deodorant, toilet paper, a sewing kit, and a camera.
Health and Fitness
This journey is among the most challenging high-altitude trips in the world. It requires good physical fitness. Those with asthma, heart conditions, or other health concerns should consult their doctor to assess their ability to endure harsh conditions, including extreme cold, high altitudes, and dusty roads. The trek includes climbing to an altitude of 19,500 feet during the Parikrama.
Managing Altitude Sickness
Traveling in high-altitude regions like Tibet can lead to altitude sickness, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, breathlessness, and exhaustion. To help acclimatize, it is mandatory to spend two nights in Kayrong (2,700m) before ascending further. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smoking, and consult your doctor about taking Diamox tablets as a preventive measure. A Gamow bag will also be available during the tour to help mitigate severe altitude sickness.
Currency
The Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the local currency in Tibet, with an approximate exchange rate of 1 Yuan = 13 INR. Currency exchange facilities are available at the Nepal-Tibet border. It is advisable to re-exchange leftover Yuan at the border before re-entering Nepal.
Risks and Liabilities
While every effort is made to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, trips to Tibet are subject to the regulations of the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB). Unexpected circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, or flight cancellations may necessitate changes in the itinerary. Any additional costs incurred due to such events must be borne by the traveler.
