Tibet

Why Visit
Climate

Why Visit

The moniker, ‘roof of the world’, is apt for Tibet in many ways. Not only does the region stand amidst the Himalayas, but also has an otherworldly simplistic charm that is bound to enthrall the traveller. For this, one should make a trip to Tibet.

Stuck in a time-warp, Tibet is a window to how the world looked many centuries ago, unaffected by western influences, content and wonderfully aloof from the rest of the world. It is a treasure trove of nature and Buddhist history and the original home to Dalai Lama, before he was exiled to India. A spiritual vibe hangs thickly in the air in Tibet. This, and the company of the Himalayas are compelling reasons for travellers to go here.

Climate

Tibet knows only different degrees of cold. While it’s cool in summer, the weather is excruciatingly cold in the winters. It’s only in the thick of summer when the lower lying regions get some relief to thaw themselves from the cold to the bone weather from the rest of the year. Since this is a high altitude plateau, encircled by towering mountains, there is little rain in the actual habitated places of Tibet. An arid, cold desert aura accompanies all parts of the region. This insipid looking topography throws up fantastic vistas.

Major Cities / Tourist Places

major-city

When speaking of Tibet, Lhasa is the one name that travellers identify with immediately. The ancient city is the prominent junction for a traveller. Showcasing its 1400 years old history, Tibet is a proud symbol of freedom, ever since Tibet was declared an autonomous region of China. Lhasa, as a capital of this region is the most eminent gateway into Tibet. It is home to the Potala Palace and Norbunglinka, structures that commemorate the Dalai Lamas as their living quarters and summer palace, respectively. The other important cities include, Gyantse, Shigatse and Qamdo.

Lhasa

An enchanting city, Lhasa literally means, ‘Place of Gods’. The white lego like houses and structures sprawl around the magnificent Potala Palace. With its narrow alleys, old world vintage ambience and a soothing vibe, there is no way that one cannot fall in love with Lhasa. Encircled by blue mountains, the city is nothing short of paradisiacal.

Tsedang

Located in the Yarlung Valley, 183km from Lhasa, the city is steeped in antiquity. The highlight of the town is the 14th century monastery of Ganden Chökhorling that was destroyed several times before standing resplendently after having been restored. Tsedang can safely be called the land of legends – there are plenty of stories embedded in the culture of this small town.

Shigatse

A fairly large city in the historical province of Tsang, Shigatse should be on the travellers list for many reasons. The top most reason has to be the Tashilhunpo monastery. After this is the Summer Palace of the Panchen Lamas. The experience of Shigatse is an interesting mix of history and modern culture.

Gyantse

Located on the ancient trade route, Gyantse still retains its original importance on the map of Tibet. It lies in the Nyang Chu Valley. A 14^th century fortress and ruins of a wall that encircled the city are the highlight here. Palcho monastery, the largest Chorten in Tibet is located here.

Shegar

Shegar boasts of an extraordinary sight of the Crystal Fort, whose wall snakes up a steep mountain. Only the intrepid make the journey on top of the fort, but if one does, he is rewarded with the view of Mount. Everest on a clear day – that makes all the effort worth it. Despite the fort being its only highlight, Shegar should be on the list for travellers.

Zhangmu

A town that straddles the border and therefore the culture of Nepal and Tibet is an interesting addition to your travel to Tibet. Relatively low in elevation, the town offers views that are unique from the rest of arid Tibet topography. Here you can see dense forests, sprawling vegetation and waterfalls swollen by the melting snow of the Himalayas.

Iconic Places

iconic-place

Apart from the mighty Mount Everest, in whose shadow the region stands, iconic places of Tibet include all the structures that are embedded in history for their association with the Dalai Lama – namely, Norbunglinka and Potala Palace. The Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok, Barkhor Street and the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery are other structures that resonate the history and living culture of the people of Tibet.

Potala Palace

Lhasa

A World Heritage Site, the Potala Palace was once the abode of Dalai Lamas, till the 14th Dalai Lama fled away to India. It now serves as a museum and a veritable symbol of commemoration to the Buddhists and their freedom. The palace stands on an elevation of 3700 m, magnificently overlooking the city of Lhasa.

Sera Monastery

Tibet

Sera means "hailstone" in Tibetan. Set at the foot of the Wudu Hill to the north of Lhasa City, Sera is comprised of a great sutra chanting hall and a college. Sera Monastery was founded in 1419 by Jamchen Choje, a disciple of Tsongkapa, the founder of Gelugpa Sect. The monastery was erected on a mountain slope. Sera Monastery together with Ganden Monastery and Drepung Monastery in Lhasa are known as the Three Great Monasteries of Tibet.

Drepung Monastery

Tibet

Situated at the foot of the Mountain Gambo Utse, the Drepung Monastery is known as the most important monastery of Gelugpa Sect in Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choje, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, the founder of Gelugpa sect in Tibet. Covering an area of 250,000 square meters (299,007 square yards), it held 7,700 in its heyday, and is among the largest monastery. Resembling a heap of rice from a distance, it was given the name 'Drepung‘, which, in the Tibetan language, means 'Collecting Rice’.

Jokhang Temple

Lhasa

One of the most sacred sites for Buddhists in Tibet, the Jokhang monastery is also known as Qoikang Monastery. A wonderful blend of Indian, Nepalese and Tibetan style of architecture makes Jokhang a unique architectural delight. Wondrous legends surround the temple, adding a dash of enigma to the already intriguing structure.

Norbulingka

Lhasa

Both historic and a structure of modern importance, Norbulingka served as the traditional summer residence of all Dalai Lamas from the 1780s until the 14th Dalai Lama's exile to India in mid 20th century. This has been declared a World Heritage site. Traditional aesthetics of the park are maintained at this largest park of Tibet, with sprawling well-manicured lawns. The annual Sho Dun or 'Yoghurt Festival' is held here.

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Tibet

Tashilhunpo Monastery is the biggest Gelugpa monastery in the Tsang region of Tibet. It is located in the town of Sigatse and was founded by Gedun Drup, a disciple of Tsongkapa, the founder of the Gelungpa sect. Gedun Drup is recognized as the first Dalai Lama. It was first built in 1447 and continuously expanded by the successive Panchen Lamas. The Ngagpa College (Tantric College), one of its four monastic colleges, is the residence of the Panchen lamas. The most amazing image in this monastery is the statue of the giant Maitreya (Future Buddha) erected by the 9th Panchen Lama in 1914. It took four years to build this monumental statue which stands 26 meters high and is composed of 275 Kg. of solid gold, and a great quantity of precious things such as pearls, turquoise, coral and amber. The 4th Panchen Lama's funeral stupa was built in 1662 and it stands 11 meters high and is covered in solid gold and silver.

Phalkor Monastery

Tibet

Located in Gyantse and founded jointly by Kedup Je of the Gelugpa Sect and Rabten Kunsang of the Sakyapa Sect in 1418, the Phalkor Monastery has a special influence over Tibet's Buddhism owing to its unification of three different sects, the Gelugpa, the Sakyapa and Bhuton Sects, in a single monastery. The famous Kumbum pagoda, built in collaboration with Newari artists from Nepal & Tibetan artists, also stands in the same courtyard with nine storeys, 108 doors and 77 chapels containing clay sculptures and various murals. The pagoda is said to have 100,000 images, either sculptured or painted, this is the reason for its name "100,000 Image Pagoda".

Yamadroke Lake – The Sacred Lake

Tibet

Yamadroke Lake is one of the biggest and beautiful lakes in Tibet. One can pass by this lake with about 02 hours drive along its bank. Yamadroke means turquoise in Tibetan language. In fact, the lake looks exactly as beautiful as turquoise blue during the good weather days. This freshwater lake, unlike other Tibetan lakes, is sweet and non-saline, extending for 624 sq. km., in the shape of two pincers of a large scorpion. You can have a short stop on its bank and enjoy photography here.

Namtso Lake

Tibet

Namtso in Tibetan means ‘Heavenly Lake’, is often described as being next to heaven because of its lofty altitude, stunning beauty, pure blue water, and spiritual associations. It is the highest saltwater lake in the world. Snow-capped mountains and open grassland, dotted with yak herds and local nomads, surround the crystal clear water of Lake Nam, making it one of the most beautiful places in Tibet.

Ganden Monastery

Tibet

Ganden Monastery is the 1st and primary monastery of the Gelugpa sect in Tibetan Buddhism. It was founded in 1409 by Tsongkhapa, revered reformer of the Gelugpa or Yellow Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. As Tsongkhapa himself initiated the Ganden Monastery, also acted as its 1st abbot and passed away in the monastery. Along with Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery, Ganden Monastery is also known as the Three Great Monasteries of Tibet.

Experiences

experience

The rugged terrain of Tibet is ideal for adventure lovers. It is no wonder that biking enthusiasts and motorcyclists find this region exceptionally great to discover. Apart from that, the Mt. Kailash trek is another charm for those who love the outdoors. High mountain passes, villages balancing on the steep hillsides and trekking routes that promise to enthrall make Tibet one of the most coveted destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Motor Biking in Tibet

Tibet

The Tibet landscape offers inimitable sights and challenges that one would recall with excitement throughout their life. You are literally riding on the roof of the world in the company of the Himalayas, clear blue skies, and going past villages that are a window into the heritage and local life of Tibet. This one is worth learning motorcycling for.

Mountain Biking

Tibet

Those looking for an extraordinary adventure in the midst of one of the most spectacular topographies, should sign up for a mountain biking tour. This comes with instructors, equipment and even a back-up van for safety. For the active traveller, there is no better way of experiencing the countryside.

Trekking

Tibet

Tibet, land of spirit and dream, is always mysterious to trekkers. Lying in the shadow of Himalayas, the breathtaking high plateau landscape of Tibet offers great opportunities for trekkers. No matter what your interest is, climbing majestic towering mountains, circling around holy lakes, visiting sacred monasteries, riding horses across the vast grasslands, or hiking through national parks, Tibet has something for you.

Traditional Tibetan Meal & Cultural Show

Lhasa

It is imperative to understand the rhythm of a region before you dive into sightseeing and enjoying the topography of a place. The best way to immerse and orient completely is by spending some time in a local home. Our resilient bond in the region allows for clients to spend a day at a local home, eating food from its kitchen and getting entertained with a cultural show. Insights and explanations are close at hand, and that’s what makes all the difference.

Festivals

festival

Most of the festivals in Tibet are celebrated in the Buddist monasteries of the towns, which are the cynosure of prayer, commemoration and celebrations. The Saga Dawa, The Monlam Prayer Festival, The Butterlamp Festival and The Thangka Unveiling at Tashilhunpo are some of the most important occasions for the locals. Festivities are low-key and do not have a raucous vibe – much in tune with how the whole region is even otherwise. But do expect to see a lot of colour, local food and dances.

Tibetan New Year

Tibet

The Tibetan name for New Year is known as Losar, and is celebrated across Tibet with a special flavour of zeal and reverence. The region comes alive with dance, music, festivities and religious activities for 15 days. The monasteries are the cynosure of all activities, as people dress in traditional clothes and offer prayers. The monastery courtyards come alive with performances by the monks.

Saga Dawa Festival

Lhasa

The festival, Saga Dawa, commemorates the life and teachings of Buddha and is celebrated across the region with much fervour. Celebrated in the period of March- April, it is a time for Tibetan cities to shine. Trips to the monasteries, religious processions, traditional dressing and great reverence for the teacher are observed on this day.

Sho Dun Festival

Norbulingka

Commonly known as the ‘yoghurt’ festival, Sho Dun has a permanent place on the annual festival calendar of Norbunlingka. The origin of this summer festival can be traced to 16th century, when the local people arranged a banquet for the monks, and the chief dish of the event was yoghurt. Go here to see the colourful operas that are performed which will transport you into the history of Tibet.

Festival Calendar 2024

Feb
24^thTsongkhapa Butter Lamp Festival, Lhasa (24 Feb 2024)

Jun
22^ndSamye Festival, Samye Monastery (22 June 2024)

Feb
10^thTibetan New Year, All Tibet (10 Feb 2024)

May
23^rdSaga Dawa Festival, All Tibet (23 May 2024)

Jun
22^ndZamling Chisang, Lhasa (22 June 2024)

Jul
09^thChoekhor Duechen, All Tibet (09 July 2024)

Nov
04^thSho Dun (Yogurt) Festival, Lhasa (04 Aug 2024)

Nov
22^ndLha-Bab Duchen, All Tibet (22 November 2024)

Top Stays

stay

Though there aren’t too many options of accommodations in the country, a handful that are present are delightful. Local architectural and design nuances can be seen in most of them, which is a great orientation to the culture for the travellers. Tibetans are proud of their heritage and use these aesthetics in many aspects. Reasonably good standard hotels are found only in Lhasa, the capital town of the region while at rest of the places the lodging gets more rudimentary.

House of ShambalaTibet

Lhasa

Boutique

House of Shambala takes you to a bygone era and looks nothing less than a set of a period movie. The 9 roomed property ensures that the experience is truly boutique, with every aspect of the stay customised to your liking. The tented terrace teahouse is where most guests choose to unwind, with the city of Lhasa sprawled before them.

Shangri LaTibet

www.shangri-la.com

Lhasa

Luxury

Unarguably one of the best places to stay in Lhasa, Shangri La stays true to its name by offering a superior experience and is an epitome of elegance. The view of the mighty Himalayas and the magnificent Potala Palace in their shadow can be enjoyed from most of the rooms. Add to that, the local dining experience and sightseeing insights, and the trip is a wholesome one. The amenities and facilities of the hotel are akin to any 5 star accommodation across the world.

Intercontinental Lhasa ParadiseTibet

www.ihg.com

Lhasa

Luxury

Situated conveniently in downtown area along the Lhasa River, Intercontinental Lhasa Paradise lies close the main attractions of the city. The hotel offers all the modern amenities with an exciting array of specialty dining experiences. It features luxury guest rooms and suites with stunning views of the mountains.

The St Regis Lhasa ResortTibet

www.starwoodhotels.com

Lhasa

Luxury

A Starwood property, stay at St. Regis is nothing less than extraordinary. Soothing ambience, superior amenities and well thought-out facilities make the stay in Lhasa, excellent. Find peace and serenity in every corner of the resort – the ideal way to unwind on a holiday. The Tibetan culture is close to you in every nuance of hospitality and aesthetics.