Shannan Travel Tips
Shannan is also named Lhoka in Tibet which is a long-standing prefecture-city located in southeast Tibet. Shannan can be listed as the first destination in your itinerary in Tibet. While Some other travelers take Lhasa as the starting point and then transfer to Shannan instead. It is usual to undertake a 6-day tour combining Shannan and Lhasa.
1. Useful Numbers
- Fire: 119
- Police: 110
- Area code: 0893
- Ambulance: 120
- Weather Broadcast: 121
- Consumer Complaint: 12315
- Local Phone Number Inquiries: 114
- Long-distance Phone Number Inquiries: 113
Read More: Useful Numbers for Travelers in Tibet
2. Best Time to Visit Shannan
Because of the warm and moisture laden winds from the Indian Ocean, Shannan enjoys a relatively moderate temperature and weather. Paying a visit to the landmarks of Shannan, like Yungbulakang Palace, Samye Monastery and Yamdrok Lake only, you can plan your trip all the year around. If you want to extend your trip to other destinations in Tibet, April to October is the best time
3. Tibet Permits for Shannan Travel
Tibet Entry Permit is required before visiting Shannan and the nearby towns and attractions, such as Namtso Lake, Ganden Monastery. It is issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau. You must have it to take your flight/train to Tibet. To get the permit, you need book a Tibet tour with us, and send us your passport and Chinese visa about 20 days in advance, and then we will apply for the permit (all Tibet permits can only be applied by travel agency).
4. Packing and Wearing
Firstly, you can’t forget your passport and Chinese Visa. A large backpack and a smaller one should be taken(the smaller one can be used for daily activities). Necessary medicines are needed. Other stuffs like sunglasses, snow glasses, hats, lip balm, sunscreen products are recommended.
As for wearing, you are suggested to dress in layers (both thin and thick jackets). Down jacket is necessary in spring and autumn. A pair of durable and comfortable shoes is required.
5. High Altitude Sickness Tips
The average altitude of Shannan is about 3,700m (12,139ft), really low compared with some other regions in Tibet. While visiting the landmarks in/around Tsedang, like Yungbulakang Palace, Samye Monastery and Trandruk Monastery, tourists seldom get a serious high altitude sickness. If you want to drive to Yamdrok Lake, you need to pass Kambala Pass with a high altitude of 5,030 meters. Remember to drink more water, keep warm and avoid strong activities. Your tour operator will also prepare oxygen supply for emergency use.
