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Tibet is known as ‘The Roof of the World’ for good reason. The Tibetan Plateau is probably the highest human inhabited region in the world. It is a stark (if wonderfully beautiful) land with many of the world’s tallest mountains. It is also the source for many of the largest rivers on the planet including the Yangtze, Yellow, Indus, Mekong, Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. It is a region of high horizons and deep plunging canyons.
tibet on isango
The weather is harsh. It is very dry for most of the year with an average of only 18 inches of snow. It does get some rain from the Indian monsoon, which comes in heavy bursts between June and September. Due to its high altitude the air is thin, which means that sunlight can be very strong and fluctuations between day and night temperatures (20 to 25oC) are extreme. The winds are strong and almost constant as it sweeps unimpeded across this vast and arid land. You won’t see too many trees as most vegetation is no larger than low bushes and shrubs.
However, it is this very ruggedness, rocky desolation and ruggedness that grabs at every one of your senses. It is a place of incredible, if unconventional beauty. You will be enthralled for every minute of your Tibetan adventure. And even after you leave.
tibet
So What Do You Pack?
Tibet travel presents several unique challenges to the visitor. So when it comes to packing for a trip to Tibet then you need be guided by a very simple philosophy. Pack sensibly and that means – keep it to a minimum.
Luggage Carriers
When you are deciding what you will take on your Tibet visit you should first consider what kind of luggage carrier you will pack them in. Avoid large and heavy suitcases. The best and most convenient carrier is a medium-sized backpack giving you the freedom of movement. You will not be weighed down and exhausted at the end of every day. A waist bag is also a good idea as you can put money, important documents and essential items into it.
Clothes
These are probably the most vital items on your packing list. The key here is warm. Pack warm clothing and wear several layers that can be easily added or removed. You will experience sudden and unexpected temperature changes and bad weather in a single day. A waterproof rain jacket is absolutely necessary. There will be frequent rainfall and even snowfall when Tibet tourism is at its peak visiting periods. Sturdy walking shoes, preferably the insulated waterproof kind are important items too.
A down coat or large overcoat is necessary for those who are travelling beyond Lhasa and Shigatse. Other essentials include gloves, four or five pairs of woolen underwear, a thick sweater, four or five pairs of woolen socks, long sleeve cotton or lightweight wool shirts and T-shirts. Ladies should avoid skirts or dresses. Keep in mind that most hotels in Tibet have no central heating.
Essential Items
Outside Lhasa the hotels are basic and don’t have the usual items found in most hotel rooms around the world. You will need to carry a cup or drinking glass, a small towel, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and slippers. It is not convenient to wash clothes when travelling outside the big towns, cities and you are in remote places. Carry a packet of clothes detergent powder if you have to do laundry.
Medicines
Besides your usual prescription medicines you should carry medication to treat colds, headaches, stomach aches and diarrhoea. Carrying altitude sickness pills are also a good idea.
Skin Protection
First off, solar radiation is strong in the thin air of Tibet so skin care protection is very necessary. Sun block and creams are necessary items. Another good sun protector is long-sleeved clothing as are sunglasses. The wind is strong, constant and dry. It can cause much damage to your skin. So carry ample amounts of lip balm and moisturising creams. These items are important or you could seriously damage your skin.
Miscellaneous Items
Here is a list of other items you should consider carrying. Some you may need to take with you while others are available in Lhasa.
Cash – RMB, Euros or US dollars. Credit Card acceptance and ATM’s are not a common feature in rural Tibet.
Water bottle
Insect repellent
Knife
Camera film
Rechargeable batteries
Multi-vitamins
Light sleeping bag
Walking stick