Tourists from both home and abroad flock to Tibet Autonomous Region, China as the National Day holiday (from October 1 to 7) impends. Foreign tourists are taking pictures in Jokhang Temple.[Photo/Chinanews]

1.Are there any restrictions on foreign tourists to visit Tibet? What about overseas Chinese, Taiwanese, Hong Kong and Macao residents?

Foreign tourists must be organized to travel to Tibet. They must be organized by travel agencies and with confirmed routes. What's more, a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP for short) from the Tibet Tourism Bureau is indispensable. The TTP must be shown upon booking flights and boarding planes.

Overseas Chinese and Taiwanese also need to apply for the Tibet Travel Permit. Hong Kong and Macao residents need a Home Return Certificate instead of the TTP.

Foreign tourists, overseas Chinese, and Taiwanese can entrust the Tibet Tourism Bureau and travel agencies to apply for the permit with the copies of passport, Chinese Visa and work certificate. Normally, it will take about one week, or 2-3 days for emergency.

2. Who needs a border pass when traveling Tibet How to apply and can it be applied in Tibet?

Since many places in Tibet are in the border areas or haven't been entirely opened to tourists, domestic citizens (including Hong Kong and Macao citizens) must apply for border passes if they want to enter these areas. Otherwise, they will be turned down.

For Chinese citizens who have valid passports, which have been endorsed with overseas visa, they don't have to apply for border passes. The procedure of Tibet border pass is the same as that of Shenzhen. People can apply for it with their Identification Cards at the police station where they keep their household registration. We suggest you get a certification of travel at the Tibet Tourism Bureau before applying for a border pass in case some police stations may reject your application.

3. Which areas in Tibet need border passes?

Shigatse Prefecture Zhongba county, Saga county, Nylam county (Zham), Tingri county, Kangma county, Yadong county, Gampa county, Dinggye county, Gyirong county.

Lhoka Prefecture Cona county, Lhongzi county, Lhodak county, Nanggarze county.

Nyingtri Prefecture Mailing county, Nang county, Zayul county, Medog county.

Ngari Prefecture Purang county, Zhada county, Rutog county, Gar county.