State Department Travel Information - Tibet - Consular Information Sheet, July 2, 1997

Travel to Tibet: It is possible to make travel arrangements to Tibet from outside of China. Once in China, travelers wishing to visit Tibet must join a group, which can be arranged by almost any Chinese travel agency. The travel agency will arrange for the necessary permits and collect any fees. The Chinese government requires foreigners (including U.S. citizens) wishing to visit Tibet to apply in advance for approval from the Tourist Administration of the Tibetan Autonomous Region. More information is available through the Chinese Embassy or one of the Chinese consulates in the United States, or, while in China, at the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate general. See "Entry Requirements." There have been some reports of robberies and assaults along remote highways near China's border with Nepal and in areas near Mt. Everest. See safety information contained in the section "Information on Crime."