While taking a tour in Tibet, there are literally thousands of places where you can take great photographs. From the heady heights of the myriad of mountains, to the beautiful waters of the hundreds of crystal-clear lakes, and the diverse architectures of
While taking a tour in Tibet, there are literally thousands of places where you can take great photographs. From the heady heights of the myriad of mountains, to the beautiful waters of the hundreds of crystal-clear lakes, and the diverse architectures of the region’s boundless monasteries. So here are just a few of the great spots, the most popular places, where you can make some everlasting memories.
Everest
The world’s tallest mountain, Everest stands proud and strong in the midst of the mighty Himalayas. Bordering with Nepal, the tallest of peaks is an attraction that many cannot wait to see, and is every travelers dream. The trip is not for the faint of heart, as the altitude is high with the Base Camp at 5,200 meters above sea level, but it is a view that will be remembered for a lifetime.
Mt. Kailash
The main peak of the Gandise Mountains, Mt. Kailash is the most famous holy mountain in the world. With four distinct sides, it resembles a giant pyramid, and similarly is considered to be a sacred place in four different religions; Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bonism. At 6,656 meters above sea level, walking the kora around this holy site is a strenuous ordeal, which is worth the three days spent doing it. Even for those not belonging to one of the four religions, the achievement brings a feeling of joy and serenity that no other mountain can deliver.
Yamdroktso
Lake Yamdrok, or Yamdroktso, is one of the most spectacularly beautiful lakes in the world. One of the three holy lakes of Tibetan Buddhism, this slender, feminine-shaped lake takes on the form of the iron scorpion of Padmasambhava, and is colored a deep turquoise. With the small Tibetan villages on the shores of the lake, and the surrounding grasslands dotted with yaks, the scenery is beyond breathtaking.
Jokhang Temple
Jokhnag Temple is the most religious place in the whole region, and is deemed as sacred for the Tibetan people. Pilgrims from all over Tibet, and indeed the world, travel to Lhasa to walk the holy kora around the temple and prostrate themselves in prayer in front of its iron-studded doors. The circuit for the kora follows the world-famous Barkhor Street, where you can buy almost anything of Tibetan origin, and many things you would not think you might find as well.
Potala Palace
The Potala Palace is a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and ancient Tibetan culture. This majestic red and white building complex is set against the grey-green color of the mountains, and is an iconic image of travel on the “Roof of the World”. A huge treasure house of Tibetan history, religion, culture, and art, it is well known for its many sculptures, statues of Buddha, hanging murals, and the massive collection of religious jewelry that lie within its walls.
Samye Monastery
Samye was the first ever monastery to be built in Tibet for Tibetan Buddhism. It was the place where Buddhism in Tibet was first established, overtaking the dominant pagan religion of the time, Bonism. Set in a valley surrounded by desolate sand dunes and barren mountains, this austere place is strikingly beautiful. The monastery contains numerous frescos, sculptures and murals that contain the early history of Buddhism in Tibet.
Lake Namtso
Namtso, Tibetan for ‘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.
