Mei Zhang, the founder of travel agency Wild China, said the bans were initially disruptive but her company now routinely declines to take bookings for Tibet trips in March.

Built in the 17th century by a predecessor of the current Dalai Lama, the Potala Palace in Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, has long been one of the holiest sites for Buddhists worldwide. This is despite the ...

“We cater to travelers who have been everywhere and are looking for soft adventure, spiritual immersion and cultural experiences in Tibet and Yunnan,” says Songtsam spokesperson Florence Li.