Tibetan people
Tibetan Customs
Major Festivals in Tibet
Tibetan Language
These conditions govern your relationship with our organization. Please read and review these terms regularly as they may change. By booking your itinerary, you agree to these terms, including our cancellation policy and limitations of liability. These terms affect your rights and determine the law and location governing any dispute.
The booking becomes effective only when the deposit is paid and the customer signs the contract with the travel service confirmation form and conditions. The company will send the deposit receipt to the customer via email or fax after confirming the reservation.
There are 5 payment methods and all bank charges are credited to the customer’s account:
Deposits
To secure your reservation, a deposit of at least 20% of the tour price is required. For tours starting within 15 days, full payment is necessary at the time of booking. Bank transfers are not accepted as a payment method.
Final Payment
The final payment must be made at least 15 days before the tour begins unless otherwise specified in the contract, which may allow payment upon arrival. Unpaid reservations after the due date may be canceled, incurring a cancellation fee.
Payment on Arrival
For certain trips, the final payment can be made within two days of arrival via cash or credit card at our on-site office. PayPal, wire transfers, and Western Union are not accepted.
Tibet is a unique travel destination with its own challenges, including an underdeveloped economy, limited infrastructure, and a rugged natural environment. As a result, it does not offer the same level of comfort, luxury, or services found in more developed regions or cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Healthcare facilities, anti-epidemic measures, and communication infrastructure may also be less advanced than in the customer’s home country or other major cities.
Tourist Vehicles in Tibet
While all tourist buses and minivans are in good condition, the harsh road and natural conditions of the Tibetan Plateau can lead to quicker aging of vehicles, making them less convenient compared to those in mainland China or other popular destinations. Most vehicles lack air conditioning, as Tibet is cold year-round, but they are equipped with heating systems. Customers are advised to understand and accept these conditions as part of the experience.
Hotels and Accommodations in Tibet
Luxury hotels in major Tibetan cities beyond Lhasa, Shigatse, and Tsedang offer modern amenities, including hot water available throughout the day, though morning usage peaks might cause slight delays. Boarding houses and standard hotels in cities often lack heating or cooling systems, and hot water is typically available only during limited hours in the morning and evening. Winter travelers benefit from substantial discounts at most hotels, making it an excellent time for comfortable or luxurious stays.
In smaller towns and remote villages like Zhangmu, Tingri, and Saga, accommodations are simpler, with hot water or thermos bottles provided only during limited times. While air conditioners are unavailable, some hotels offer electric blankets in winter. To stay warm, travelers are advised to request hot water bottles or heaters, as nights can be particularly cold.
Tour Guide
All tour guides are native Tibetans who speak English with a slight Tibetan accent, which customers may need some time to adjust to. If communication issues arise, customers should inform the company promptly to arrange a replacement guide.
Cancellation by Customer
If you decide to cancel your trip, a written cancellation request is required. Refunds will be calculated based on the date the request is received and will adhere to our cancellation policy. Applicable refunds are processed within 15 days. Cancellation fees are as follows:
For customers unable to obtain a Chinese visa, cancellations made 30+ days prior to departure will be fully reimbursed. Political disruptions causing trip cancellations will result in full reimbursement, excluding non-refundable airline or train fees.
Changes and Adjustments
The company may alter itineraries due to unforeseen circumstances, including political events, weather, or logistical issues. Major changes will be communicated promptly, and customers unable to accept them can cancel their booking for a full refund, excluding non-refundable transportation fees. Customers wishing to modify their bookings 30+ days before departure may incur re-quoted package costs. Changes within 30 days are subject to a $200 management fee plus any additional provider-imposed fees.
Passenger substitutions are allowed 30+ days before the trip, provided the new traveler meets requirements. All changes during the trip must be communicated to the company, with customers bearing any resulting additional costs.
The company’s liability is limited to organizing and promoting travel services provided by independent contractors, such as transportation, accommodation, and tours. These suppliers are not the company’s agents or employees; thus, the company is not responsible for their negligence, misconduct, or omissions. The company also disclaims liability for injuries, losses, delays, or inconveniences caused by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, civil unrest, strikes, terrorism, or overbooked accommodations. Similarly, it is not responsible for purchases made during trips or for health issues arising during travel. For flights, the company acts only as an intermediary and not as an airline agent.
The company reserves the right to modify itineraries, accommodations, and services due to unforeseen circumstances. Any travel advice or information provided by the company, such as regarding visas or vaccinations, is non-binding and should be verified with appropriate authorities.
Travel Documents
Customers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months before applying for a Tibet permit. For travelers entering Tibet from China, scanned copies of the passport and Chinese visa must be submitted to the company at least 30 days before departure. Additional documentation may be required for customers working, studying, or residing in China.
For those entering Tibet from Nepal, scanned passports must also be sent 30 days prior, and customers must arrive in Kathmandu at least three working days before departure. A Group Tourist Visa, processed in Kathmandu, will override any existing Chinese visa. A visa service charge of $15 per person must be paid directly to the company’s Kathmandu office.
If travel documents are provided or tours booked within 7–15 days of departure, the company may charge a $100 per person service fee to cover additional administrative costs.
Booking and Issuing Train Tickets
The company reserves group train tickets from Chinese railway companies or agents and submits the booking plan 1–3 months prior to departure. As real-name booking is mandatory, train tickets are issued 10–20 days before departure. Clients are advised to confirm bookings early for timely arrangements.
During Tibet’s peak tourism season (June to mid-October, Chinese Spring Festival, and public holidays), train tickets may be issued as late as 1–9 days before departure due to high demand. Clients release the company from any claims arising from delays, inconveniences, or additional financial costs related to this process. Penalties for cancelling or changing group train tickets differ from individual bookings and follow specific terms.
During peak seasons, train ticket demand may exceed supply. Clients may need to adjust their travel plans, such as:
Clients must inform the company if they cannot accept such flexibility when booking; otherwise, it is assumed they agree to these adjustments.
Obtaining soft sleeper tickets to Tibet is challenging due to limited availability. Priority may be given to:
If soft sleeper tickets are unavailable, hard sleeper tickets may be provided as a substitute unless the client specifies otherwise when booking. The company will communicate such preferences in the booking plan. Clients release the company from claims arising from inconveniences or costs due to soft sleeper unavailability.
For any changes, cancellations, or substitutions, clear communication with the company during booking is essential to ensure client preferences are met as closely as possible.
Insurance Coverage
The tour cost includes Personal Travel Accident Insurance provided by Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, Ltd., with coverage limited to accidents occurring within China. In the event of an insured accident, Ping An Insurance determines the compensation amount and proportion. The company assists in coordinating with the insurance provider but assumes no liability beyond what is stated in the insurance contract.
The company strongly recommends travellers obtain additional insurance to complement this policy, particularly for coverage outside of China.
Any disputes will be resolved in accordance with the Insurance Law of the People’s Republic of China and related regulations.
Tibet’s Geographic Challenges
Due to Tibet’s high altitude and unique environment, travellers may experience Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) or related complications. The client must inform the company in writing about any pre-existing physical, emotional, or mental conditions that could:
If such conditions arise after booking, immediate written notice is required.
Company’s Rights: The company reserves the right to:
No refunds will be issued in such cases, and the company bears no further liability.
Medical Responsibility: Travellers with pre-existing conditions:
The company is not responsible for:
By participating, travellers acknowledge these risks and agree to bear full responsibility for their health and safety during the trip.
Governing Law
This contract is governed by the laws of the People’s Republic of China.
- Disputes must first attempt resolution through discussion.
- If unresolved, either party may submit the case to the People’s Court of Wuhou District in Chengdu.
Reporting Issues: If dissatisfied with any service, the Client must immediately inform the local tour guide or trip advisor. Prompt reporting gives the company an opportunity to resolve or improve the situation. Failure to do so may result in reduced compensation or refusal of compensation.
Filing Complaints: If unsatisfied with the resolution, the client must file a formal complaint:
The company will not accept claims submitted after this 15-day period. Compensation may also be denied if the client posts negative messages online or in media prior to filing a formal complaint.
Privacy Policy
The company may share the Client’s personal information with service providers (e.g., airlines, banks) as needed to facilitate the tour. Efforts will be made to safeguard the information.
Option 1: Wire Transfer
Option 2: Credit Card: Provide the following via email, call, or fax:
Type of Credit Card