and then

It wasn't until mid-2009 that I seriously put some thought into planning this trip to Tibet.  I just wasn't sure how it could be done as I didn't really know anyone who had been there recently.  I have a couple of friends who were lucky enough to visit in the 1980's when the doors to Tibet flew open and you could travel unassisted and on your own if you wanted to.  One friend cycled around southern parts of Tibet and camped out at night time.  There's no way that could be done now.  These days to travel in Tibet you must go in a group with a guide.

As the Saga Dawa Festival is held on the full moon of the fourth lunar month of the Tibetan calendar, the festival date varies from year to year.  I began my research by tracking down the date the festival was being held in 2010, once that was determined I started researching travel companies specialising in trips to Mt  Kailash.  I eventually found a good one who not only take smaller groups but they are also firmly committed to responsible travel principles and environmental sustainability.  I liked the idea of a company who employ local people as guides, porters, cooks and group leaders and ensure a good working wage and conditions.  With that, I took the plunge and booked my trip and I had nine months to prepare.