Is It Visa-Free to Travel to China, Tibet & Kailash Manasarovar?

Since China rolled out its expanded 30-day visa-free entry policy in 2026, many travelers have been asking an important question:

If I can enter China without a visa, does that mean I can also visit Tibet and Mount Kailash freely?

Here’s the clear answer:

Mainland China may be visa-free for you.
Tibet and Mount Kailash still require special permits.

Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.

China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Policy (2026 Update)

As of 2026, citizens from 50 eligible countries can enter mainland China without a visa for up to 30 days per visit for tourism and approved short-term activities.

This policy applies to mainland China only — cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, etc.

Who Can Enter China Visa-Free?

Travelers holding ordinary passports from the following regions are eligible:

🇪🇺 Europe (35 Countries)

United Kingdom, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Asia (7 Countries)

Bahrain, Brunei, Japan, Kuwait, Oman, Republic of Korea (South Korea), Saudi Arabia

Oceania (2 Countries)

Australia, New Zealand

South America (5 Countries)

Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay

North America (1 Country)

Canada

If your country is on this list, you can stay in mainland China for up to 30 days per entry without applying for a traditional tourist visa.

(Always confirm with your nearest Chinese embassy before traveling, as policies can change.)

What Activities Are Allowed Under Visa-Free Entry?

The 30-day visa-free policy covers:

• Tourism

• Business visits

• Visiting family and friends

• Conferences and exhibitions

• Sports competitions

• Exchange programs

• Short study tours

• Transit

The policy is currently valid through December 31, 2026 for most participating countries (with some exceptions).

Important: Tibet & Mount Kailash Are Different

Even if you can enter China without a visa, Tibet Autonomous Region requires additional travel permits for all foreign travelers.

This applies to destinations like:

• Tibet Autonomous Region

• Mount Kailash

• Lake Manasarovar

• Lhasa

These areas are classified as restricted regions.

What You Still Need for Tibet & Kailash

Even under visa-free entry to China, you must obtain:

1. Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)

2. Alien Travel Permit (for certain areas)

3. Military Permit (for sensitive border regions like Kailash)

These permits:

• Must be arranged through a registered tour operator

• Cannot be applied for independently

• Require confirmed itinerary and guide

• Often require joining an organized tour

Independent travel is not permitted in Tibet.

So, Is It Visa-Free for Kailash?

No.

Visa-free entry to China does not mean unrestricted access to Tibet or Mount Kailash.

Think of it this way:

•  Mainland China → Possibly visa-free

•  Tibet → Special permit required

•  Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar → Multiple special permits required

Final Takeaway

China’s visa-free policy makes entry easier for many travelers in 2026 — which is great news.

But if your journey includes Tibet or the sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, you will still need:

• Official travel permits

• A licensed tour operator

• Pre-approved itinerary

Planning ahead is essential.

If Tibet or Kailash is on your spiritual or adventure bucket list, make sure you coordinate permits early and confirm current regulations before booking flights.

Safe travels — and plan wisely.