Leading Australian adventure travel company, World Expeditions, has reported that the ‘challenging’ visa arrangements applicable to travellers visiting Tibet that have prevailed for much of the year have now been overturned with a return to normal procedure.

Earlier this year, a new “5 Nationality rule” meant that permits would only be issued when a minimum of 5 travellers of the same nationality applied together.  The new arrangement allows permits to be issued when there is a minimum of two trekkers, making it much easier to secure permits.

World Expeditions is awaiting advice as to whether permits for single travellers will be issued.

World Expeditions CEO, Sue Badyari, said the new ruling is great news for Tibet trips for 2013.

“Earlier this year, we were advised that Tibet’s visa rules had been changed, making things very difficult for companies such as World Expeditions to confirm travellers when less than 5 participants of the same nationality had booked on the same departure,” Ms Badyari said.  “We also received advice that Tibet would be officially closed for the month of October, which resulted in us being unable to secure permits for several trips and also meant we had to adjust itineraries to avoid trekkers being turned away by authorities.”

“We’re delighted that this situation has been lifted and look forward to continuing to support the people of Tibet by operating our trips in Tibet, using Tibetan local partners, whenever we can,” she said.