Dear IATS Seminar Participants,
We are delighted to share that preparations for the 17th Seminar of the International Association for Tibetan Studies are in full swing, and we look forward to welcoming you to Kathmandu this August.
In this message, you will find practical information regarding observer registration for friends, spouses, and colleagues, as well as details on visa arrangements and accommodation options to help you plan your stay.
We are also very pleased to have been able to grant 108 bursaries waiving conference fees, helping to make the seminar more accessible.
Set in the unique cultural and spiritual landscape of the Kathmandu Valley, the upcoming seminar offers not only a rich programme of academic exchange but also an opportunity to engage with the living traditions of the Himalayan region. We look forward to gathering together for what promises to be a rewarding and memorable week.
Observer Registration Now Open
We are delighted to announce that observer registration for the 17th IATS Seminar is now open. Please share the news with your friends, colleagues, and students!
To register as an observer, please follow three steps:
- Create an account or log in at ConfTool: https://www.conftool.com/iats2026
- Submit your observer registration: After logging in, navigate to “Your Submissions” and select “Register as Observer.”
- Confirm and pay: Once your application has been accepted (please allow a few days for processing), your ConfTool profile will display the option “Register as Participant.” Complete your registration and payment to reserve your place.
Deadline for the first round of observer registration: 14 May 2026. Depending on the number of applications, the deadline may be extended.
Visa and Invitation Letter
You can download your invitation letter directly from ConfTool, available in both Tibetan and English. If you need to adjust the name appearing on your letter, you may do so by editing your ConfTool profile.
For questions regarding invitation letters, please contact iats2026@conftool.com with “VISA” in the subject line.
Many participants will be able to obtain a visa on arrival in Nepal. For more information, please visit https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/page/visa-on-arrival.
Accommodation
For travel and lodging arrangements, please visit our Recommended Accommodation page from our travel partner, One Globe, where you will find an exclusive rate for The Soaltee Kathmandu, our seminar venue. This early-bird offer — the lowest available rate at The Soaltee — is reserved for IATS 2026 participants and valid until 15 May 2026.
We look forward to welcoming you to Kathmandu this summer for what promises to be a stimulating and enjoyable seminar.
With warm regards,
IATS 2026 Organizers