Expert: Tom Carter ~ Travel China Expert - 8/7/2008

Question
Hello,
I am looking into a tour group travel from Lhasa, Tibet to Kathmandu, Nepal for March 2009.  I am having a hard time trying to book in advance, but the reason I want to book ahead of time is because I've read regarding getting a Chinese visa that you have to have reservations for each night you plan to stay in China as well as booked tickets out of the country.  I've also read that people may get denied a Chinese visa because they plan to got to Tibet on their itinerary.  Is this true, and does that mean the best way to get a Chinese visit is to make reservations, cancel them, and not mention Tibet?  Please save me from this visa confusion!
Thanks,
Laura

Answer
Hi Laura,
The laws regarding traveling to Tibet from China are purposely inconsistent and erratic because the entire tourism market for that region is in a constant state of flux.

There is presently absolutely no way to confirm details about obtaining visas or even tickets in and out of Tibet by way of China. The airlines, railways and tourism bureaus will each have their own information, and each will contradict the next. Welcome to China!

If you suspect that your Tibetan reservations will prevent you from obtaining a Chinese visa, then absolutely change your itinerary until you arrive in China. But again, these rules and regulations are fluid, and what's not to say you will still be denied entry.

I am sorry I don't have any firm information for you about this very controversial and sensitive issue, but that's the nature of the beast that is the Chinese government. You might also want to check out the forums on http://www.thebeijinger.com for up-to-date first-hand information.

Either way, Tibet is stunning and I hope you are able to complete your journey.

Best,
Tom Carter
http://www.tomcarter.org

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