The Handles Indian passports, Indian citizens, those who are traveling to Tibet, the application process for permits varies depending on the type of travel: 🔺 Indian Tourists ( Not Visiting Mount Kailash in Ngari Area ) If you are an ordinary Indian tourist not going to Ngari (Mount Kailash), you need to book a tour with a local Tibet travel agency. Then, at least 20 days in advance, email the photocopy of your valid passport, Chinese visa, and your photo to the agency. The Tibet travel permit will usually take 7 to 10 working days to process, and the agency will deliver it to your hotel before you take the Tibet train or fly to Lhasa. Local travel agencies in Tibet are not allowed to handle applications for Indian pilgrimage permits. 🔺 Indian Pilgrims ( Going to Mount Kailash Ngari Area ) If you are an Indian pilgrim going to the Ngari area, you need a pilgrimage permit jointly issued by the Tibet Autonomous Region Foreign Affairs Office, the Tibet Military Command, the Tibet Frontier Corps of the Armed Police, and the Tibet Autonomous Region Ministry of Public Security. You must book your tour with a local Tibet travel agency, provide your passport and other necessary information to the agency, and they will handle the application process for you. The specific processing time may vary, so it is advisable to contact the agency well in advance. It should be noted that individual applications for the Tibet travel permit are not permitted. It can only be obtained through an authorized local Tibet travel agency. 🔻 Why ? Local travel agencies in Tibet are not allowed to handle applications for Indian pilgrimage permits mainly due to the following reasons: Political and Diplomatic Tensions The relationship between India and China is complex, with ongoing border disputes, trade disagreements, and other issues. These tensions have historically influenced travel and trade policies, leading to restrictions on Indian citizens' access to sensitive areas like Mount Kailash, which is of great significance for pilgrimage. Security Concerns The areas where pilgrimages take place, such as the Kailash region, are close to contentious border areas. Given the strategic importance of these regions, the Chinese government needs to ensure strict security and control access, especially during periods of heightened bilateral tensions. Therefore, restrictions have been imposed on Indian pilgrims to safeguard national security and stability.