Can You Give Money to Tibetan Beggars?
As you stroll along Barkhor Street in Lhasa or wander through the old quarters of Shigatse, you will likely encounter people who stretch out their hands in hope. They may be elderly men wrapped in heavy chuba robes, weathered by years of wind and sun, or young mothers cradling infants, their eyes quietly asking for a little help. In Tibet, begging is not merely an act of desperation; it is often woven into the fabric of religious life. Almsgiving in Tibet is regarded as a meritorious deed, a way to accumulate good karma and practice compassion. Giving to those in need is seen as a spiritual exercise for both giver and receiver in Buddhist teachings.

If you wish to express kindness while ensuring your help reaches those who truly need it, a thoughtful approach makes all the difference. First, consider directing your gift toward elderly or visibly disabled beggars; they are generally less able to work and more dependent on charity. Keep in mind that Tibet uses the Chinese currency, so it is wise to carry a pocketful of small notes and coins.

When you offer alms, do so with humility and respect; a slight nod, a gentle smile, and eye contact convey that you recognize the person's dignity. Avoid any tone or gesture that might suggest superiority. Photography is another sensitive point: never snap pictures in exchange for money, and always ask permission if you feel a moment is worth capturing. By observing these simple courtesies, you turn a brief encounter into a meaningful exchange that honors both giver and receiver.

Conclusion
In Tibet, giving money to beggars is an accepted cultural practice, and the manner in which you give matters as much as the act itself. Rather than distributing coins indiscriminately, choose to support those who are most vulnerable and do so with genuine respect. If you prefer to help in a more structured way, consider donating to reputable local charities, monastic schools, or medical clinics that work directly with impoverished communities. Such contributions can have a lasting impact after your journey ends. Remember that travel is not only about seeing new landscapes but also about understanding different ways of life and showing reverence for the beliefs that shape them.


35 Comment ON "Can You Give Money to Tibetan Beggars?"
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