Himalaya Travel Guide - Travel to Himalaya in 2024

• 1. Should I worry about altitude sickness when travelling in Tibet?+

  The average elevation of the region is over 4,000 meters and altitude sickness is a common concern for travelers visiting Tibet. Not everybody will suffer from altitude sickness when traveling in Tibet and most visitors will be in good condition when they arrive.

  The symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. 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, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and eat light meals that are high in carbohydrates. It is also recommended to take it easy for the first few days, avoiding strenuous activities and allowing time to adjust to the new altitude when arrive in Lhasa. Some travelers may also benefit from taking medication to prevent or treat altitude sickness.

  If symptoms of altitude sickness persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Many hotels and travel agencies in Tibet have oxygen supplies on hand to help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness. It is important to consult with a doctor before traveling to Tibet, especially if you have a history of heart or lung problems, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions that may be affected by high altitude.

• 2. How to apply for the Tibet Travel Permits?+

  In order to apply for a Tibet Travel Permit, you need to apply for a Chinese visa in the Chinese embassy or consulates in your country first. If you book a tour with us, we will send an invitation letter to you to help you apply for a Chinese visa.

  Once you get a Chinese visa, please send the photocopies of the visa and your passport to us, and we will apply for the Tibet Travel Permit for you. Please note that international tourists must book a tour with a local travel agency in Tibet if they want to travel to Tibet.

  After the permit is issued, we will send it to your hotel or the places you stay in China. You need to show the permit while boarding on a train or flight to Tibet. The government do not allow travel agencies to send the permit overseas.

• 3. How to get to Lhasa? By air or by train, which one is better?+

  There are usually two ways to get to Lhasa , depending on your starting point and travel preferences.

  (1) By Air: You can fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport from major cities in China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Guangzhou, as well as from some international destinations such as Kathmandu, Nepal. The airport is located about 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) from Lhasa and can be reached by taxi or bus.

  (2) by train The Qinghai-Tibet Railway connects Lhasa with several major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xian, and Xining. The train journey is a popular way to reach Lhasa as it offers stunning views of the Tibetan plateau and the Himalayan mountain range. However, the journey can take several days, so it's important to plan accordingly.

  Once you arrive in Lhasa, our team at Asia Odyssey Travel will be there to greet you with English-speaking guides and experienced drivers. We'll escort you from the airport or train station to your hotels in Lhasa.

• 4. Do I need to get a Tibet permit to visit Tibet Everest Base Camp?+

  All foreign travelers who wish to visit Mount Everest from the Tibet side are required to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit and Alien's Travel Permit. These permits can only be obtained through a registered travel agency in Tibet. As a local based Tibet travel agency, we can assist travelers in the permit application process.

  It's important to note that the Tibet Travel Permit is required to purchase flight or train tickets to Tibet. Therefore, travelers should plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the permit application process, as it can take one to two weeks to obtain the necessary permits.

• 5. Do I need to get a visa to visit Bhutan?+

  For most nationalities except for Indian, Bangladeshi, Maldivian nationals, a visa is required to enter Bhutan. This visa can be obtained through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, such as Asia Odyssey Travel. Additionally, you will need to pay the visa fee of $40 and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100 per night, which is effective from September 1, 2023, until August 31, 2027.

• 6. When is the best time to visit Bhutan?+

  The best time to visit Bhutan depends on your personal preferences and the specific experiences you are seeking.

  Typically, the popular tourist seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is generally pleasant and the skies are clear. These seasons offer great opportunities for outdoor activities, trekking, and witnessing Bhutan's vibrant festivals.

  The Paro Tshechu is held in Paro in March or April. The Thimphu Tshechu is help in capital Thimphu in September or October. The Punakha Tshechu is  celebrated in February or March in the Punakha Dzong.

  Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially in higher elevations, but it offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains. The monsoon season (June to August) brings heavy rainfall, but it can still be a good time to visit for lower tourist numbers and lush green landscapes.

• 7. How to plan a Bhutan Tour?+

  It typically needs 6 to 10 days. For a 6-day tour, it is highly recommended to visit Paro - Thimphu - Punakha, and return to Paro. Begin in Western Bhutan with around 2 days in Paro, followed by Thimphu (1-2 days) and Punakha (1-2 days).  Or, extending your trip by 1-2 days will allow you to explore the less-visited Haa or Phobjikha valleys. To delve deeper into Bhutan's cultural heritage, head to central Bhutan for 1-2 days to visit Trongsa and Bumthang. This itinerary ensures a well-rounded experience, showcasing the best of Bhutan's natural beauty and historic sites.

• 8. What is Bhutan Famous for?+

  Bhutan is renowned for its unique approach to national happiness, stunning Himalayan landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and well-preserved environmental beauty. It's famous for the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, traditional architecture like dzongs, vibrant festivals like Tshechus, and its philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Bhutan is also recognized for its commitment to environmental conservation, being one of the few carbon-negative countries in the world.

• 9. What are the must-visit places in Bhutan?+

  No.	Place	Description
  1	Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)	A famed cliffside monastery offering spiritual experiences and breathtaking views.
  2	Punakha Dzong	Known for its stunning architecture and historical importance, it's located at the confluence of two rivers.
  3	Thimphu	The capital city blending traditional and modern elements, with attractions like Tashichho Dzong and the Buddha Dordenma statue.
  4	Phobjikha Valley	A scenic glacial valley, famous as the winter home of black-necked cranes and for its natural beauty.
  5	Bumthang Valley	The spiritual heartland of Bhutan, home to some of the oldest temples and monasteries.
  6	Rinpung Dzong	An important religious and administrative center in Paro, showcasing Bhutanese architecture.
  7	Chele La Pass	One of Bhutan's highest motorable passes, offering panoramic views of mountains and valleys.
  8	Haa Valley	A less-traveled valley noted for its pristine nature and insight into the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle.
  9	Trongsa Dzong	A centrally located dzong with significant historical value and spectacular views.
  10	Dochula Pass	Known for its 108 memorial chortens, stunning Himalayan views, and the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple.

  Find more information View 10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan>>

• 10. How to get to Bhutan?+

  Bhutan can be reached by air through Paro International Airport, which is Bhutan's only international airport. Flights to Bhutan are available from major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Gaya, Guwahati in India, Dhaka in Bangladesh, Bangkok in Thailand, Kathmandu in Nepal, and Changi in Singapore.

• 11. How do I obtain a visa for Nepal?+

  To obtain a visa for Nepal, you can apply for a tourist visa at the Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country or upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You will need a valid passport, completed visa application form, and the required fee in the form of cash or credit card. Get more ideas about the Nepal visa from our travel experts >>

• 12. What are the popular tourist attractions in Nepal?+

  Nepal boasts numerous popular tourist attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, and Pashupatinath Temple. Other notable attractions include the sacred site of Lumbini, birthplace of Buddha, the scenic lakeside town of Pokhara, and the wildlife-rich Chitwan National Park.

• 13. What are the must-visit places in Kathmandu?+

  In Kathmandu, must-visit places include the ancient temples of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath, the intricate woodcarvings of Patan Durbar Square, and the historical sites of Bhaktapur Durbar Square.

• 14. What is the best time to visit Nepal?+

  The best time to visit Nepal for tours and travel is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for trekking and outdoor activities. Check more about Nepal Weather & Best Time to Visit Nepal

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