Private Itineraries

Rescue Effort in the Race! Tibet Tour Affected by Nepal Earthquake

Published: Apr. 29, 2015

Notice:
Since July 1st, 2015, tourists are allowed to reach Mt. Everest Base Camp again, which was closed because of the Nepal earthquake. Currently, tourists can reach the base via Gangga Road from 07:00 to 09:00 and 19:00 to 21:00.

On April 25, 2015, a devastating magnitude 8.1 earthquake hit Nepal, causing at least 4,300 deaths. TravelChinaGuide.com feels so sorry for the victims and prays for the rescue! China’s Tibet, bordering Nepal, is also affected and 25 deaths have been confirmed. Visits to the area are also affected to some extent due to the needy situation for disaster relief goods.

Here are some relevant questions by visitors, together with our suggested answers:

1. Can I visit Tibet after the Nepal earthquake?
Yes. According to our local travel agency, visitors can still visit Tibet after the earthquake. However, the itineraries currently cover only attractions in Lhasa area, as roads leading to Gyangtse, Shigatse, Tingri, Mt. Everest, and Zhangmu Port are only open to vehicles transporting disaster relief goods.
2. When can I visit the other areas in Tibet?
The restart time for visits to other areas in Tibet is still unknown. We will update the information as soon as possible once travel is allowed.
3. Are trains and flights to Lhasa still operated?
Yes, they are operated as usual.
4. Was there any snow slide on Tibet side of Mt. Everest?
Yes, there was a snow slide in the north side of Mt. Everest at the height of about 22,966 feet (7,000 meters), but causing no death and injuries. The trapped climbers have all been led to the base camp safely. Some of them will continue climbing when the situation is confirmed safe.

Height Change of Mt. Everest Caused by the Earthquake

The earthquake was caused by rapid tectonic movements in the Indian. Located quite close to the epicenter, Mt. Everest has gotten some height change. But it is not clear whether it has grown higher or shorter.

What should we do when an earthquake comes? Here are some most basic self-rescuing steps.

1. Stay calm and do not run out when it is shaking. Find a close and safe place to hide yourself as soon as possible, such as a corner formed by two walls, the position next to a piece of firm furniture.
2. Squat down in that place and protect your head with a bag or arms.
3. When it stops shaking, go outside immediately and run to a large open area.