CHINESE authorities have banned foreigners from travelling to Tibet after two Tibetans set themselves on fire at a festival, according to local travel consultants.
A spokesperson from Tibet China International Tour Service confirmed the travel ban for foreign visitors to the region.
“We received the notice from the local tourism authority around five days ago, so it is impossible for us to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit for foreigners. We have no idea when we can resume business again,” the spokesperson said.
However, China International Travel Service (CITS) Integrated Management Department general manager, He Shengkang, said his company had not received any such notice.
“At present, foreigners can still sign up for tours to Tibet, but there must be more than five people of the same nationality,” said another CITS employee.
An estimated 38 Tibetans have self-immolated since February 2009 to protest against Chinese rule.
