Visiting Tibet during Tibetan New Year: What to Know
The Tibetan New Year, determined by the Tibetan astronomical calendar, typically falls between January and March on the Gregorian calendar, with the dates varying annually and clustering around February. In 2026, it will be celebrated on February 18. This festival holds immense significance for Tibetans, symbolizing new beginnings and family reunions. The celebrations are rich and diverse, featuring traditional rituals, folk dances, and sumptuous feasts, offering visitors a vibrant cultural immersion.
Plan Ahead: Secure Your Tibet Trip Dates
To fully enjoy the Tibetan New Year, start planning 1–2 months in advance. Between mid-February and late March, Tibet's accessibility for foreign tourists may be affected by political or natural factors, though policies vary yearly. To avoid disappointments, consult our travel advisors promptly. They can guide you through the latest regulations and help you choose the best travel dates, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.
Essential Documents for Your Visit
Foreign visitors need to book a Tibet travel package through a licensed travel agency. The Tibet Travel Permit to Tibet is mandatory; apply at least one month ahead via our agency. Additionally, a valid Chinese visa and passport are required. These documents are crucial for entry and travel within Tibet. Ensure all paperwork is in order to avoid delays or entry issues during your trip.
Experience Budget - Friendly Adventures in Tibet During the Tibetan New Year
The Tibetan New Year coincides with Tibet's winter off-season. During this time, airfares to and from Tibet and Tibet travel package costs reach their annual lows. You can enjoy significant savings while experiencing unique cultural events. The reduced crowds also allow for a more intimate exploration of Tibet's traditions and landscapes, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious adventurers.
Winter Preparations
Tibet's winter during the New Year is frigid. From January to February, daytime temperatures average around -5°C to 5°C, while nights plummet to -10°C to-15°C. Pack warm winter clothing, including insulated jackets, thermal layers, and warm hats and gloves. Prepare for dry conditions and intense sunlight, too.
Seasonal Closures for Tibet’s Attractions
During the Tibetan New Year, the Mount Kailash Scenic Area closes due to winter conditions. In contrast, Everest Base Camp remains open. However, high-altitude sites in Tibet may temporarily shut because of blizzards or poor road conditions. City-based attractions continue normal operations. Check updates regularly to plan your itinerary accordingly.
Cultural Etiquette and Taboos
While Mount Kailash is closed during the winter due to harsh weather conditions, Everest Base Camp remains open. However, potential weather factors such as heavy snowfall and road conditions may temporarily close high-altitude attractions in Tibet. Despite these occasional closures, city attractions continue to operate as usual. It is advisable to check the latest updates on accessibility before planning your visit.
Conclusion
Our travel consultants are always on top of the latest information and are ready to assist you. Your inquiries are most welcome!
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35 Comment ON "Visiting Tibet during Tibetan New Year: What to Know"
Asked by Liliana Me** from N/A
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash