About Tibet

Brief history and current situation – Most people are knowledgeable about the situation in Tibet and you will learn more by reading items on the recommended reading list that TVP provides. However, two most widely used websites are www.savetibet.org, and www.tibet.com for a perspective from the Tibetan government in exile. The website of the US Consulate in Chengdu, China (http://chengdu.usconsulate.gov) offers good information and advice on Tibet related issues.

Map of Tibet: It is hard to find a good detailed map of Tibet in English. However, www.tibetmap.com has good maps of Tibet that you can view, print or purchase. The most helpful map and information related to tourism in Tibet might be your travel guidebook. TVP has a map of areas that we will be visiting which will be shared once we arrive in Lhasa. Lastly, http://www.tew.org/geography/index.html and http://www.thdl.org have useful maps and information on Tibet.

Weather: Summer in Tibet is mild and, besides a few rainy days, quite pleasant. The low to mid 20°C (70-75°F) summer days give way to winter days that are not as cold as you might expect, still averaging around 7°C (44°F) during the day in January but plunging to around -10°C (14°F) at night.

High Altitude Illness: The altitudes in Tibet are categorized into HIGH: 8,000 to 12,000 feet, VERY HIGH: 12,000 to 18,000 ft and EXTREMELY HIGH: 18,000 and above. We will be staying within about a 300 square mile radiance of Lhasa (in ranges from 11,000 ft to 16,500 ft). We will acclimatize in Lhasa for a few days and increase in altitude slowly. High altitude tea, herbal pills, and oxygen tanks are available in Lhasa and TVP will bring some to villages. However, you are asked to consult with a travel clinic before you leave and bring your own remedies.

Health and Safety – The center for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) has up to date information on health and safety issues and other recommendations that are organized by geographical regions. For example, East Asia includes all of China and Tibet and there is also a Traveler’s Health section with lots of good information. Again, TVP highly recommends that you consult with a travel clinic to see if you need vaccines and to seek advice. In terms of safely issues such as losing a passport or getting into trouble with the law, please visit the website of the US Consulate in Chengdu, (http://chengdu.usconsulate.gov) as it offers some advice. TVP will purchase basic medical emergency and evacuation insurance through Travel Guard International (www.travelguard.com) and your program leader will have a copy of this policy.  TVP also encourages you to purchase additional coverage if you are not covered by your current health insurance.