Go touring the enigmatic land of Tibet is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone, even the elderly. If you are looking for some advice for senior travel in Tibet, here are 9 essential Tibet travel tips for senior travelers you should pay attention to before traveling to Tibet.
Before going into detail about Tibet travel tips for the elderly, I’d like to answer one frequently asked question by our customers aged 50 and over, or who want to take senior parents to Tibet. Is There Any Age Limit for Tibet Tours?
The quick answer is NO. In fact, there is no age limitation for travel to Tibet by far. Elderly travelers can take a tour to Tibet as long as they are healthy enough. Many people above 70 years of age have been to Tibet. However, we would love to provide some guidance and useful tips to help you prepare for a safe and smooth Tibet tour.
Before Departure
1. Consult your doctor
For senior tourists, the most important thing is to consult your doctor for advice on whether you can travel to Tibet before planning a trip to Tibet. Please see your doctor at least a month before your trip to Tibet, share your plans, and discuss health concerns. Better take a medical checkup as well.
If you are worried about altitude sickness, you might drink Rhodiola or take Diamox one week in advance for prevention. But remember to consult your doctor before using.
Important Note:
Senior travelers with the following health problems should avoid visiting Tibet, including heart diseases, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, severe anemia, chronic respiratory system diseases, etc.
2. Don’t Catch a cold
It’s also crucial to keep fit and don’t catch a cold before your departure to Tibet and during your stay in Tibet. The average altitude of Tibet is 4,500 m (14,750 ft) above sea level. High altitude sickness is one of the biggest concerns for travelers visiting Tibet. Having a cold or the flu would worsen mountain sickness.
3. Choose the right way to visit Tibet
(1) For elderly tourists, it would be a good idea to choose a private tour escorted by an experienced tour guide. A guided private Tibet tour will give you more flexibility.
(2) If time permits, take an overnight train ride to Tibet. It will help better acclimatize the high altitude of the Tibetan plateau. You’ll also enjoy a fantastic window view along the way to Lhasa.
(3) Plan an easy and leisure tour itinerary in Tibet according to your physical conditions. Remote areas in Tibet like Mt. Everest Base Camp and Mt. Kailash only have basic facilities, and some roads are rather bumpy.
(4) Spend 2-3 days in Lhasa (about 3,600 m / 11,800 ft) for acclimatization before proceeding to higher altitude places.
4. Pack properly
(1) The weather in Tibet may change radically between day and night due to its high altitude. It’s advisable to bring layering clothes and prepare anti-cold clothes even during summertime.
(2) Bring a medical kit with enough prescribed medicines and medicines for emergencies.
(3) Prepare copies of your medical records, contact list of your family, doctor, embassy, etc.
>> More travel tips for what to pack before visiting China and Tibet
5. Get travel insurance
Purchasing international travel insurance before travel to Tibet is necessary because sometimes unexpected issues might occur. Make sure you have a plan offering emergency medical benefits in case that you must visit a doctor.
>> More information about travel insurance for your Tibet tour
Tips on Creating a Senior-Friendly Tibet Trip Itinerary
7. Most importantly: A slow-paced itinerary
To be more specific, visit only 1-2 main attractions per day and avoid long periods of walking. Leave plenty of time to rest and enjoy Tibetan sweet tea/butter tea.
Remember not to schedule any activities on your first day; simply rest to acclimatize to the high altitude. Begin your Tibet exploration on the second day with easier, lower-altitude attractions.
>> Recommended 13 Days China Tibet Discovery Tour
8. Best places to visit
Lhasa (at 3650 meters) is the first stop for most tourists, including seniors, on their Tibet tour. With 3-4 days, you can visit Tibetan highlights such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
For seniors (65 years and older) who are afraid of high altitudes, Nyingchi – “the natural air anion bar of Tibet” (at 2800-3100 meters) – can also serve as a gateway city for your Tibet trip. 2-3 days can be spent exploring Basum Tso Lake and the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon.
If your physical condition permits, you can travel from Lhasa to Shigatse.
Please note: Visiting destinations/sightseeing sites above 4700 meters is not recommended for seniors.
>> Recommended 5-day Tibet Adventure Tour for Family
9. Top things to do in Tibet for elderly people
Spiritual journeys to Tibetan Buddhist shrines: Potala Palace (at approx. 3700 meters) is a symbol of Tibet, but it has many steep steps. At Jokhang Temple (ata approx. 3650 meters), you'll see countless pilgrims. Sera Monastery (at approx. 3700 meters) is where you can witness the classic scene of monks debating Buddhist scriptures.
Hands-on cultural experiences: Fun and almost effortless. In Barkhor Street, you can learn to paint Thangkas and make Tibetan incense under the guidance of professionals. Or, you can wear Tibetan clothing and take your first photos.
Traditional teahouse experience: Simply sit and drink sweet tea, learning about the local way of life.
Tibetan family visit: Gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan traditions, cuisine and daily life. Or, visit a local park and witness locals singing, dancing, and socializing.
>> Recommended 18 Days China Vacation for Seniors: Lhasa, Yunnan & Panda
While Traveling in Tibet
10. Take it easy
(1) As mentioned above, it’s suggested to rest for a couple of days in Lhasa before visiting other destinations in Tibet. And try not to use an oxygen inhaler if you can handle it by yourself.
(2) Calm down and avoid running, jumping, or getting too excited.
(3) Travel at a slow and don’t get too tired every day.
(4) Keep a good mood and have good sleep are also helpful to better acclimatize the altitude.
11. Dress in layers
(1) The temperature in Tibet changes dramatically between day and night. Pay attention to the weather forecast, and make sure to dress in layers.
(2) Keep sunglasses and a hat handy to prevent intense sunlight and windy weather.
12. Keep yourself hydrated
Drink plenty of water daily because the climate on the Tibetan plateau could be rather dry. Do not smoke or drink alcohol upon arrival in Tibet.
13. Eat light meals
For older people (and actually younger people too) traveling to high-altitude areas, special attention should be paid to their diet. In short, eat light meals, avoiding greasy and overly spicy foods. Plus, try some authentic Tibetan food, such as Tibetan Noodles, Momo, Highland Barley Porridge, Tibetan Stew, and Tibetan Yogurt. And, Western food is also available in Lhasa.
14. Get health care
It’s very common to feel unwell (such as headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, etc.) when you first arrive in Lhasa. Normally, you’ll get better in one or two days ass your body adjusts to the change. However, If you really feel very sick, you should see a doctor.
If you have further questions about senior travel in Tibet, please feel free to leave us a comment. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours. Click to find out more helpful tips about senior travel in China.
Plan Your Tibet Tour with Easy Tour China
Thinking of a memorable Tibet adventure after you retire? Our Tibet travel experts offer fantastic ideas for senior tourists over 60s, to enjoy their trip worry-free and smoothly. They offer the right balance of sightseeing, culture, relaxation, and local life experiences to appeal to elderly people. Contact us today to start planning your trip to Tibet.
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