Expert: Nilesh Korgaokar - 6/5/2002

Question
I want to do a overland trip via south china (yunnan) to tibet to kathmandu between september to November. Is it impossible to cross Yunan into Lhasa by land? they say I need a permit, only obtained from travel agents in Chengdu and fly into Lhasa? Are there cheaper, yet legal alternatives? seems so many tour co.s offering this route-- any recommendations?
And what average temperatures can i expect during this period in tibet, kathmandu?  

Answer
Hi Lawrence,

To the best of my knowledge its not possible to travel from Yunan to Tibet by road. You may want to however, check by getting yourself a Lonely Planet China Guidebook which you will anyway need for your travels.

To get to Tibet from China you can either take a train to Chengdu and then fly into Lhasa or travel further up north to Golmud and then take a bus to Tibet. Getting permits to Tibet should not be a problem. In fact a Chinese visa will get you in Tibet without any additional permit.

You can expect very temperate climate in China and Tibet at this time of the year. You should have no problems with the weather.

Enjoy yourself.

Nilesh.