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1. What is the best time to join a Tibet photography tour?
The best time to join a Tibet photography tour is generally from April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies, mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for appreciating natural and cultural wonders and taking perfect photos. In summer, the weather may be rainy, but the temperature is higher and tourists can witness the celebration of Shoton Festival. In winter, the weather is cold but tourists can enjoy a lower cost of transportation and accommodation and feel less crowded as there are fewer tourists. Also, Losar, the Tibetan New Year, often falls in February or March.
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2. What permits are needed to join a Tibet photography tour?
To visit Tibet, you typically need the following permits:
Tibet Travel Permit: This permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) and is required for all foreign travelers visiting Tibet.
Aliens' Travel Permit: Travelers traveling to partially restricted areas such as EBC, Basumtso Lake, Samye Monastery, etc. need to obtain Aliens’ Travel Permit via Tibet Travel Agency (like Tibet Horizon).
Military Area Entry Permit: Travelers visiting military-sensitive areas such as Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, etc, need to apply for a Military Area Entry Permit.
Our Xizang (Tibet) tour packages include Tibet Travel Permit and all the necessary Tibet travel documents. If you book with us, we’ll help apply for the permits needed to ensure a smooth and worry-free Tibet photography tour.
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3. What about the accommodation during Tibet photography tours?
Lhasa, Shigatse, Nyingchi, and major Tibetan counties such as Darchen and Zanda, offer more diverse options from 3-to 5-star hotels to local guesthouses. They provide basic to luxury facilities, all ensuring a comfortable stay. For private travelers, you can choose according to your standards. However, in remote areas like EBC, only cozy tents and guesthouses are available.
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4. What to eat during Tibet photography tours?
We have handpicked restaurants with food safety guarantees for our clients. You can enjoy unique Tibetan, Sichuan, Nepali, and Indian cuisines along the way. Specialties include yak hotpot, sweet tea, butter tea, roasted pig, tsampa, barley wine, stone pot chicken and spicy diced chicken. Nepali and Indian dishes feature chicken masala and various curries. You can also find Indian dishes in Tibet. Also, if you have any special dietary requirements, please keep our guides informed and they will help you check food composition when you order dishes.
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5. How to deal with possible altitude sickness when traveling in Tibet?
Traveling on the Tibet Plateau with an average altitude of over 4,000 meters, it’s common for some tourists to experience altitude sickness. The symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, and dizziness.
To minimize the effect of altitude sickness, it is important to allow time to acclimate to the high altitude and to take precautions to prevent altitude sickness. Travelers should drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol or caffeine. It is also recommended to take a slow path in the first two days after entering Tibet. The itineraries of our Tibet photography tours are hassle-free, taking you to the landmarks in Tibet and allowing you to explore the stunning sites and cultural splendors on a slow path.
If you feel uncomfortable, tell your guide. We have prepared oxygen tanks in our vehicles. You can inhale oxygen and take medication when necessary. If symptoms of altitude sickness persist or worsen, we’ll help transfer you to the hotel or hospital to seek medical attention immediately.
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6. What should be avoided when taking photos in Tibet?
When taking a photography trip in Tibet, there are certain things to be mindful of to ensure respect for the local culture and customs, as well as to comply with legal regulations. There are some general restrictions to keep in mind:
1. Do not take photos in a chapel, a shrine or any non-public area in the monastery. Also, taking photos of Buddha statues is not allowed in the majority of Tibetan monasteries.
2. Avoid photographing during sky burial, prayer or ritual ceremonies.
3. Some areas in Tibet may be restricted for photography due to security or cultural preservation reasons. Please follow the guidance of our local leaders.
4. When photographing locals, especially in religious or cultural contexts, always ask for permission first. Be respectful and considerate of their feelings and personal space.
5. Do not get too close to wildlife when photographing them. Maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals or their habitats.
6. Do not use drones with cameras in most areas.
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7. What camera gear to prepare for a Tibet photography tour?
To take perfect photos in Tibet, you typically need to bring the following photography equipment:
1. A reliable camera with good low-light performance and high resolution is essential for capturing the diverse scenes in Tibet.
2. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes, large temples, and the vastness of the Tibetan Plateau.
3. A UV filter can protect your lens from dust, scratches, and the sun's harmful rays.
4. Tripod is essential if you're using longer lenses and photographing in low-light environments.
5. Extra batteries and portable chargers are crucial to keep your devices powered.
6. Bring enough memory cards to store your photos, as you'll likely be taking many.
7. Rain cover can protect your gears from the elements, particularly rain and dust.
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