FAQ

What is an eco-camp? Norden is a eco-camp site fully immersed in the natural surroundings of the Tibetan Plateau, one of the most remote parts of the world. As such, there are many situations that could occur here that one would never expect to experience at a luxury hotel in the city. A guest that will enjoy Norden and the Plateau is one that truly appreciates nature, remote areas, and discovering new cultures. 

Do all accommodations include bathrooms and washrooms? All accommodations except the regular Tsepa Tents are equipped with ensuite, eco-friendly toilets and washrooms. The regular Tsepa Tent have private, eco-friendly toilets located adjacent to each tent.

Are there showers in the tents or cabins? Hot showers can be taken in the Shower House (6 stalls are available; note the water tank is not unlimited, so please use the water kindly during your shower). The Shower House is centrally-located, and within a 1-2 minute walk of all accommodations. We provide eco-friendly soaps and shampoo, as well as hair dryers. 

How do the rooms get heated? All Log Cabins and Tsepa Tents are heated with wood burning furnaces. Members of Norden's staff are more than happy to prepare your furnace at any time.

Is there any drinking water in the room? All Log Cabins and Tsepa Tents are supplied with drinking water as well as thermoses of hot water. 

Are there power outlets in the rooms and what type of outlets are they? Norden uses power outlets that are standard across all of Mainland China (type A and type I). 

Is there a laundry service at the camp? In order to minimize our environmental impact Norden does not offer laundry services on-site. Laundry services are available if needed in Labrang and we would be more than happy to direct you to someone we trust.

Is there wifi on the camp? Norden Camp is located in a very remote area of the Tibetan Plateau. Although the majority of the camp remains a Wi-Fi-free zone to allow for a deeper connection to the natural surroundings, Wi-Fi is available at the Welcome Center as well as the Norden Bar if needed. The staff can assist in connecting your device. Please note because of Norden's remote location, the Wi-Fi signal will not be as strong as in the city, and is susceptible to external factors (i.e. weather).  Also please note that certain websites are not available in China (Facebook, Google, etc.).

What are the age policies for children? Norden is a child-friendly and family-friendly environment. We encourage children to connect with nature, run around, and be a kid! We do require children to be under the supervision of an adult at all times. Children's pricing is available for ages 2-12. Infants under 2 years of age are free of charge.

What are your reservation policies? All bookings are confirmed through a 50% deposit on the total booking. The remaining 50% are paid upon arrival at the camp. Any cancellations 30 days prior to arrival are fully refundable. The deposit of 50% is non-refundable for cancellations between 30 to 14 days prior to arrival.  And the full payment of the reservation must be made for any cancellations 14 days prior to arrival. As we are a camp in a remote part of the world it is difficult for us to fill up rooms in such short notice and this is why we must take such measures with our reservations. Thank you for understanding our situation with cancellations.

How do I cancel my reservation? If you need to cancel your reservation we ask that you call us at +86 151 0941 8170 or send us an email at reservations@nordentravel.com. Please let us know at least 7 days prior to check in to avoid any cancellation charges.Any cancellations closer to check-in date will be non-refundable.

How do I modify my reservation? To modify a reservation please call us at +86 151 0941 8170 or send us an email at reservations@nordentravel.com.

What payment methods can I use on the camp? Union Pay, AliPay and WeChat Pay payments are available in the camp. International credit card payments may be made by online invoice (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and PayPal). ATM's can be found in nearby Labrang/Xiahe if need be.  

What currency is used in China and at the Camp? The Chinese Yuan (¥, CNY) is used throughout China. 

How do I pay for the extra products I consume while staying in the camp? Any experiences, food and drinks, or Norlha Textiles product purchases can be paid on-site during checkout using cash (CNY/RMB/¥ - kindly note no foreign currency is accepted) or one of the methods mentioned above. 

What is the climate like on the Tibetan Plateau? The weather in summer varies from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit). Spring and fall are beautiful, with warm sun, clear skies, and snow on occasion.

What should I wear in this type of climate? The weather on the plateau can be unpredictable. A day that begins with warm sunshine can end in light snowfall. We suggest that you bring a sturdy pair of shoes or waterproof hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate the changes in weather. We also suggest sunglasses, thick socks, thermals, t-shirts, and a good jacket (i.e. general mountain apparel). If participating in yoga, massage, athletic activities, or using the hot tub/sauna, please bring appropriate activity-related attire.

How high in altitude is Norden located? Norden Camp is located at an altitude of 3,200 meters (10,500 feet). At such elevations it is essential to bring a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen. One may feel the mild effects of this altitude - we recommend drinking lots of water and taking time to relax on the first day. For those participating in physical activities be sure to take as many breaks as needed. We recommend consulting your doctor regarding any altitude related medication.Flying into Lanzhou (1,500 meters; 5,000 feet) allows for a gradual acclimation during the 4.5 hour drive up to the plateau. Flying into Xiahe from Chengdu and Xi'an (both approximately 450 meters; 1,500 feet) is a more direct ascent to altitude, and more time will be needed acclimating. 

How long does it take to drive to the camp from the various airports? Norden is 30 minutes from Gannan Xiahe Airport (GXH), accessible worldwide via Lhasa, Xi'an, and Chengdu. The camp is a 4.5 hour drive from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (LHW), accessible worldwide via all major Chinese cities. Comfortable private sedan and van transportation are available from both airports. Please add this to your reservation or contact us for further information - reservations@nordentravel.com.

What Visa and documents do I need to enter China? A Chinese visa is generally required to enter China (please consult your country's embassy and China visa policy). No Tibet Autonomous Region (T.A.R.) special permit is needed to enter this part of the Tibetan Plateau.  Do I need any insurance or do I need to consider any health liabilities?Although the area surrounding Norden is very safe, Norden employs security personnel around the clock. If guests venture too far from camp it is possible to encounter dogs protecting their nomadic owner's herd of sheep and yak. We advise caution and recommend a guide for walks and hikes outside of camp . Please be aware that each guest assumes full responsibility and liability during their stay with Norden, including all experiences, excursions, and transportation. A waiver must be signed before joining Norden. We highly recommend traveler's insurance for all parties. It is also recommended that all guests be in good health and physical condition when traveling to Norden. Norden is equipped with standard first aid equipment on-site. If an emergency does occur, doctors and hospitals are available in Labrang.

What are Tibetan or Buddhist customs I must be aware of? The Tibetan Plateau is home to hardworking nomads and pious monks; it is the land of compassion and kindness. At Norden we strive to exude these qualities. If there is ever an issue during your stay, please inform our staff and they will do as much as possible to help resolve it. One may see monks visiting the camp, and will certainly see many at Labrang Monastery. If you do see a monk during your stay, please ask Norden staff before taking any pictures of them. The monks will be happy to hear your greeting of "Day-mo," which means "blessings" in Tibetan.