Yes, all foreign tourists require a Tibet Travel Permit and a Chinese visa to enter Tibet. You can obtain these permits through a registered Tibetan tour operator.

Most travelers fly into Lhasa, Tibet's capital, from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, or Kathmandu, Nepal. Your tour operator will assist with flight bookings.

Both options are available. Group tours are often more cost-effective, while private tours offer more flexibility in terms of itinerary and schedule.

The best time is during Tibet's travel season, which typically runs from April to October. The weather is relatively mild, and most of the tourist attractions are accessible.

Pack warm clothing, as the temperatures can drop significantly, even in the summer. Additionally, essentials include comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good camera.

Consult your doctor before the trip, as Tibet's high altitude can cause altitude sickness. It's essential to acclimatize slowly and stay hydrated.

The typical route for a Tibet overland tour starts in Lhasa and includes visits to iconic sites like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. From Lhasa, you'll drive through scenic landscapes to destinations like Shigatse, Gyantse, and Everest Base Camp.

The drive from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.