There are many Tibet guidebooks out there, and each has its strong points. While some focus only on the Tibet Autonomous Region, other books cover the Amdo and Kham regions, and still others give extensive details on pilgrimage, trekking, and overlanding. Here are several Tibet guidebooks that we recommend.
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1. Tibet (Lonely Planet)
While it only covers the Tibet Autonomous Region, this book contains detailed information about the areas around Lhasa, Central Tibet (U-Tsang) and Western Tibet (Ngari). Small and easy to carry, this book is indispensable for travelers to the T.A.R..
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2. Mapping the Tibetan World (Kotan Publishing)
Great maps and detailed information on all ethnic Tibetan regions, including those in the Tibet Autonomous Region, Western China, Ladakh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sikkim. Incredibly useful for those looking to travel independently through Amdo and Kham.
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3. Tibet (Footprint Handbooks)
Covering the entire Tibetan plateau, this book includes extensive information on all of Tibet, its monasteries, and sacred places. At a hefty 1000 pages, it might be a bit too much to pack, but it’s a great reference.
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4. Trekking in Tibet (Mountaineers Books)
A great trekking guide that covers the Tibet Autonomous Region as well as Amdo and Kham. Includes info on trek duration, distance, elevations, and highlights of different routes.
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5. Tibet Overland (Trailblazer Publications)
This guide provides advice and detailed maps for independent travelers crossing the Tibetan plateau. Info on getting around Tibet by 4WD, bus, mountain bike, and even yak. Great for cyclists.
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6. Lhasa (Immersion Guides)
Written by Lhasa insiders, this book contains useful information on where to eat, sleep, shop, hike and play. Inside the book you’ll find profiles and perspectives of local artists, monks, and business owners. Good for those who want to see the off-the-beaten-path locations in and around the city.
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7. Tibetan World (Frommer’s Guide Book)
This guide covers whole China travel info. There is a section for the Tibetan World which covers Amdo, some part of Kham and Tibetan Autonomous Region.
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