Tibet Autonomous Region Hotels China

Tibet, China is an autonomous region, also referred to as Xizang Autonomous region has a population of around 3 million people and was created in 1965. Despite Chinese influence, Tibetan culture dominates here and the region has a very different feel to mainland China. The region has a fascinating if difficult history, kept alive largely by the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Government-in-exile and their work and that of fellow Tibetan supporters in highlighting the plight of the region. Do bear in mind though when speaking to locals that the topic is still extremely sensitive and is best avoided. The region's geography is incredibly varied and its location on the Tibetan Plateau makes this the highest region in the world.

Mountains, valleys, glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, lakes and swamps fill the landscape. Mount Everest (Mount Qomolangma) is the main natural attraction here and the mountain lies in the Himalayas, on Tibets border with neighbouring Nepal but other attractions include the Qomolangma National Nature Reserve, which surrounds Mount Everest; Mount Kailash which is deemed sacred by both Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus and the Yarlong River National Park which is home to Yalung Zangbo Canyon, the world's largest canyon. Aside from Mount Everest, Tibetan Buddhism is the other major tourist attractions and many of the attractions focus on this aspect of Tibetan life.

Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet and other major cities include Xigatse (Tibets second city and home to the 15th century Tashilhunpo Monastery), Gyantse and Qamdo. Lhasa sees increasing numbers of visitors each year so tourist facilities are improving with cafes, bars and restaurants available and there are plenty of hotels with 3 stars costing between £40 - £80 per night and 4 star s such as the Xin Ding Hotel costing between £70 - £150 per night. Local attractions include the Polata Palace, home of successive Dalai Lamas; the 7th Century Jokhang Temple and Monastery, Sera Monastery; Yalong River National Scenic Spot; the Ruins of Guge Kingdom and the sacred Lake NamcoIn addition to its difficulties with China and intermittent civil unrest, there are a number of border disputes to the South East and West of the Tibetan region so its worth being aware of any issues before you travel.

In addition, all foreign visitors to the region require at least one type of permit, including the basic Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit, whilst travel to outer regions of Tibet may also require an Aliens Travel Permit (ATP) and remote areas may require a Military permit so it pays to look into the permits you may require before travelling. If you visit with an organised tour of the region, this can make arranging permits easier.