Amazing Tibet

Lhasa the Capital

Tibet sits on the Tibetan Plateau on the northern side of the Himalayas. The country has been nicknamed the “Roof of the World” because of its towering peaks. It shares Mt, Everest with Nepal. Lhasa is the capital.

Potala Palace is the landmark of Lhasa and stands on top of the Red Hill. It was the former winter palace of the Dalai Lama since 1649. Today it is a museum and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Besides seeing ancient Tibetan frescoes and Buddha statues from the top you can have great views over the city. To reach the palace there are more than 350 steps to climb.

Jokhang Temple is the most significant monastery in Tibet. It is a pilgrimage site, Tibetans come to worship the 12-year-old gilded bronze statue of Shakyamuni. The statue was brought by Princess Wencheng as her dowry when she married Tubo Kong Songtsen Gampo.

For great views climb to the roof of the temple where you can also see rooftop sculptures and ornaments. From here you can see Potala Palace in the distance.

The circular street of 1000 meters long Barkhor Street surrounds Jokhang Temple. The street consists of Barkhor East, West, South, and North Streets as well as 35 backstreets and alleys. It is a great place to taste Tibetan food and buy Tibetan souvenirs. For local Tibetans, this is a sacred road.

Sera Monastery is one of the three best monasteries in Tibet where you can see monks debating in the afternoon.

Drepung Monastery is the largest monastery in the country. The monastery is located on Gambo Utse Mountain and faces the Lhasa River and valley. It is known for its massive temples and the important Buddha display ceremony at the Shoton Festival. During the festival, the Buddha unfolding marks the start of the festival, Early in the morning, a giant Thangka of Buddha is unveiled on the hillside behind the monastery. Local pilgrims by the thousands come to the Shoton Festival as well as tourists from all over the world.

Norbulingka is the summer palace of the Dalai Lama.

It is also part of a popular park where local Tibetans have Linka, a picnic with family and friends. Having Linka is particularly important during the Shoton Festival.

Places to See in Tibet

Gyantse Kumbun is a three-dimensional mandala. It is located within the Gyantse's Pelkor Chode Monastery. Intricate sculptures and thangkas adorn each of the levels. The rooftop provides breathtaking views all around.

Gyawu La Pass is a spectacular mountain pass with panoramic views of the Himalayas. At one point you can see Mt. Everest. You ascend by winding roads providing lovely natural wonders.

Lake Namtso is a natural wonder. It is a high-altitude lake whose name translates to Heavenly Lake. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is also a pilgrimage site. Visitors enjoy hiking in the surrounding hills.

Lulang Forest will bring you into natural splendor with green meadows, colorful wildflowers, and dense forest. In the background are towering snow-capped mountains. You can wander through the forest, smell the scent of pines, and listen to the songs of native birds.

Even if you are not planning to conquer Mt. Everest take a visit to the Mt. Everest Base Camp at the foot of the world's highest peak. It can be a heady experience. The base camp will take you through rugged terrains and quaint villages.

Take a pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash, a peak shrouded in mystery and revered by many religions. This is not only an amazing natural landmark but also a sacred mountain. It is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. The journey around the base of the mountains, known as the Kailash Kora, is considered one of the most beautiful places in Tibet for spiritual seekers. There is a diverse landscape taking you from rocky cliffs to serene lakes.

Yamdrok Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake. It is often called a “scorpion” due to its winding shape. This turquoise lake holds spiritual significance and is believed to be a transformation of a goddess.

Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon is the deepest and longest canyon on Earth. It offers visitors dramatic cliffs, a roaring river, and diverse ecosystems. The canyon is home to various flora and fauna unique to this region. Trekking through the rugged terrain you'll see lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife.

Yumbulakhang is an ancient fortress sitting atop a hill overlooking the Yarlung Valley. The fortress was built using a mix of Tibetan architectural styles. You can see intricate wood carvings and colorful murals.