Often known as the “Roof of the world’’ “Land of Snows”,Tibet is absolutely one of the remarkable places in Asia, it should be included on every traveler’s bucket list. Located in an average elevation of 4,9000meters, it’s a mysterious and dream destinat
Often known as the “Roof of the world’’ “Land of Snows”,Tibet is absolutely one of the remarkable places in Asia, it should be included on every traveler’s bucket list. Located in an average elevation of 4,9000meters, it’s a mysterious and dream destination. With its incredible monastery sights, mind-blowing high-altitude treks, stunning scenery of the world’s highest mountains and mysterious religious culture, how could it not ? So it’s a great time to dip your toe into this amazing destination. Here are the top 10 places that you must visit in Tibet.
1
Everest Base Camp
Everyone who visits Tibet will make time for the Everest Base Camp. Why? It is the highest and most famous mountain in the world, that’s why. Experience the mountaineering challenge and enjoy the unobstructed, jaw dropping views from Rongbuk Monastery or a tent at the Base Camp.
Actually they are the only two options for you to accommodation. Rongphu Monastery, is highest monastery in the world and the prototype of the movie‘2012’. The facilities in the Rongphu guesthouse is basic ,rooms are not big but Looking out of the window on a clear day you can see Mount Everest! The restaurant is a cozy room with a stove in the middle and lots of fellow travelers get there for hot meal while sharing interesting stories . A few meters higher there is tent base camp often called Za-Rombuk.Most of people think this one is slightly warmer,bigger and more comfortable. Don’t expect too much about the toilet considering where you are and the awesome view . Then have a good sleep and get ready for the next day’s photography of the majestic Everest.
It is a great experience and life time adventure. You will find it is such a magical place.
2
Potala Palace
A trip to Tibet is not complete without a visit to the Potala Palace,Being the UNESCO World Heritage and the Dalai Lama’s former residence ,it is definitely a highlight for your tour . The palace situated at 12,139 feet (3,700 meters) above sea level,you will find there’s thirteen stories of buildings , containing over 1,000 rooms, ,it’s truly an architectural wonder . Besides, with its various statues, stupas ,murals and artifacts,you will find so much history and culture to be absorbed.
Be aware of the extremely high altitude, a large number of tourists have to give up before they reach the front door because of fitness issues. It’s a good idea to take it at a slow and steady pace or arriving at the Potala Palace the day before you visit to adjust the high altitude. Photography is not permitted inside the Potala Palace,so try to store the spectacular views away in your memory.
3
Jokhang Temple
Jokhang Temple is another UNESCO World Heritage,a Spiritual Center for Buddhists in Tibet.It was built around 642 AD by King Songtsan Gampo .You can feel and see the history when you walk from room to room but some travelers dislike the scent of incense and butter lamps.Then just watch pilgrims prostrate themselves on the ground while saying their prayers.
You will be deeply moving by their devotion even if you have no interest in the Buddhist religion.Do not forget to reach the top of the temple. The views from here are incredible and there is also an impressive view of the Potala Palace.
4
Barkhor Street
Barkhor is a circuit around the Jokhang Temple.Here you will also find pilgrims prostrating themselves on the ground, devotees walking around with their spinning prayer wheels and murmuring mantras in their mouths to maintain peace and prosperity in humanity. The circuit is lined with stalls on both sides that sell all sorts of items such as prayer wheels, Thangkas, metal wares,ornaments and jewelry, traditional Tibetan clothes, boots and other religious items etc. You do need to bargain very hard. It is full of interest.
5
Lake Namtso
If you have the time to go out of Lhasa, Namtso Lake is a good choice. Namtso, meaning heavenly lake in Tibetan, the second largest saltwater lake in China. It is incredible and amazing. The lake is located high in the mountain but the view on the road to the lake is very breathtaking and once you enter the lake area, the whole area is cover with snow. Wandering around here makes you feel peaceful. Make sure to try and catch the sunrise and sunset if you can, and its emerald-green water glitters in the sunlight is truly mind-blowing.If you choose staying overnight,you can enjoy millions of stars . What a wonderful experience.
6
Yamdrok Lake
The lake is one of the 3 largest sacred lakes in Tibet. The scenery is simply gorgeous, take your time to savor the whole stunning views . The best view is from a distance, the top of a high mountain pass. Then you can see the turquoise color of the lake! The sky was super blue and you really feel like in heaven. There are local people with animals for you to take your picture with, such as yak and mastiff dog. Worth the trip to see it.
7
Tashilhunpo Monastery
Tashilunpo, the seat of Panchen Lama, was founded by the First Dalai Lama in 1447. This monstery is amazing for its architecture and tranquility. The main buildings are topped in gold.
8
Samye Monastery
Samye Monastery was built during the Reigns of the Trisong Detsen in the 8th Century. You can watch the prayer session where the monks are chanting, ringing cymbals, drumming and blowing their deep-sounding long horns, which is very special and not available in Tibet. It’s worthwhile to visit the historical, religious heritage in different periods of Tibet.
9
Ruins of Guge Kingdom
Founded in the 10th century, Guge was an ancient kingdom in western Tibet . Later, it disappeared just like the ancient Mayan civilization.Today, the ruins of the Guge Kingdom left us some amazing architecture, ancient paintings, the mysterious Guge Silver Eye, and so on.What happened to such a strong kingdom? Maybe you can come here to explore the mystery.
10
Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar
It’s a journey of a lifetime to visit Mt Kailash and Manasarovar. They are religious destinations worshiped by more than a billion Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bons. Every year thousands of pilgrims of different faiths visit the Mt. Kailash. Circling the sacred mountain is a popular ceremony despite the long distance and difficult terrain. However for travellers it was more of observing the different shades of natures rather than faith.
For more up-to-date information about Tibet travel,scan the QR code to follow Tibet Vista, they offers innovative ideas on itineraries,things to do and see,places to eat and sleep, transportation and visa guidelines etc.
