China Travel Forum

[Guest]

I am planning to spend two weeks in Tibet and another three weeks other parts of China soon. As I understand it: you can get a group permit for Tibet that it only lasts three weeks or so but can be extended and possibly 'split off' to become an individual tourist visa?? What's the fine on leaving China if I don't manage to get the visa 'split off'?
Can you overland Lhasa to Chengdu? or must you fly? My guide book says the overland route is not open to foreigners... what's the latest? How long does it take? I'm planning on Lhasa - Chendu - Xian - Shanghai - Beijing. Any places en route that I must not miss? Kitsch curiosities, frenetic markets, tranquil lakes and boat trips, accessable village life, and interesting architecture (whether new, old or ancient) are what I am after... Sadly it will not be possible to visit Xiamen, anywhere else with splendid architecture?

Thank you!

[Daniel]

Your trouble with visas depend on whether you arrive in Tibet from mainland China or from Nepal. Entering from Nepal you need to be in a group and leave with that group. The groupvisa can be split into a individual tourist visa but its no easy case. Look at the FAQ at the beginning. Theres some posts about that. Dont think about travelling around on a groupvisa outside your group in China. Chances are the authorities will look at it as if your travelling without a visa or have overstayed your visa. I think the fines start at 500 rmb a day for that.
There are busses from Lhasa to Chengdu. Tourists are officially not allowed and its not direct busses. If you have the time and dont mind waitingtime it can be done. I dont know about the prices.
Places to visit in Tibet while there is beside Lhasa and its monasteries (Drepung and Serra, dont miss the debate at 3 pm at Serra) is Ganden. It can be done in 1 day. busses leaving early morning from Barkhor. There are busses for samye too.
I would recommend you to find some people to share a 4wd and go for 2 days, 1 night to Nam Tso Lake (4800 m). Its very beautiful but also very cold this time of the year. Otherwise there are busses for Gyantse and Shigatse, both worth a visit. Finally theres the basecamp.