Nepal-Tibet situation..

[garyw]

Hey guys, two questions about Tibet:

-What is the current and near future situation about the land crossing with Tibet? I have just come off a long trek so dont know the exact ins and outs - is it open? Is it the same as before? Is it looking stable? I am hoping to cross around early/mid May.

- I know the various complications with permits / groups / visas etc. But actually I am a resident in HK and as such have a pink card which allows me to cross into China without a visa. I guess it acts like a permanent visa or resident status. Anyway, not sure if anybody is familiar with this situation, but with this card can I cross over independently?

Many thanks!

[thesilvertops]

I can't answer all your questions but there has been a report in the press that the borders will re-open on May 1st to tourists. If you're in Kathmandu try talking to Green Hill Tours in Thamel as they are pretty good on Tibet. They may be able to answer your questions.

[webmaster]

Official word in Kathmandu is that Tibet will remain closed until after the Olympics.

Tibetan protesters are pushing for an earlier opening, but it is almost certain that it will remain totally closed to tourists and journalists though the end of May.

[thesilvertops]

Here is a little more on the press statement.

Quote:

UPDATE April 11: The Tibetan regions in the TAR, Qinghai, western Sichuan and southwest Gansu will NOT be reopening on May 1st.

We have heard several reports from within China that travel within Tibet will reopen in early May. Yesterday the Shanghai Daily reported that Tibet will open again beginning on May 1st. The China Daily reported the same story saying that both foreign and domestic tourists would be allowed back into Lhasa starting on May 1st.

While it is still not 100% that Tibet will reopen, it definitely looks like it could happen. We at Tibetan Connections can begin making your travel arrangements to travel to Lhasa.We are committed to getting foreigners to Lhasa as quickly, cheaply and easily as possible. For more information concerning permits and train tickets to Lhasa, please email us at lhasapermits@tibetanconnections.com or at info@tibetanconnections.com

End Quote

Maybe you can email them for more info.

[Sharon]

My fear is that after the Games, China will roll into Mustang one day and that will be part of Tibet. There is plenty of vehicle traffic from Tibet already and very little Nepal could do to stop it.