The Chinese side of Mount Qomolangma received 13,764 foreign tourists in 2024, more than double the number recorded in 2023, a notable sign of the boom in international tourism following China’s relaxation of its visa policies .
According to the culture and tourism bureau of Tingri district in southwest Xizang Autonomous Region, where the northern base camp of the world’s highest peak is located, these tourists are mainly from countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Germany and France.
China has granted unilateral visa-free access to travelers from 38 countries, allowing them to stay for up to 30 days. Regarding visa-free transit, the country has extended the permitted stay time for eligible foreign travelers from 72 hours or 144 hours to 240 hours, which is expected to attract more international tourists in the new year.
Dmitry Afonin, a tourist from Belarus, visited the Mount Qomolangma scenic area with his friends in late 2024. He said transportation and accommodation proved very convenient in Xizang.
”The ecology here is well protected,” he added.
In 2023, Xizang lifted travel restrictions imposed during the pandemic period and reopened to international tourists. In the same year, the Mount Qomolangma scenic area welcomed around 6,500 foreign tourists.
Tashi Dondrup, head of Tingri district, said that as the region continued to open up, it would be even easier for international tourists to visit Mount Qomolangma.
Located on the border between China and Nepal, Mount Qomolangma peaks at an altitude of more than 8,840 meters and its northern part is located in Xizang.
