Tibetan temples and monasteries of greatest fame Archives

Things You Should Know Before You Go to Tibet: A Guide to an Enchanting Land

Tibet, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” is a mystical and captivating destination that offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual enlightenment. Before embarking on a journey to Tibet, it is essential to gather information and prepare for the unique challenges and experiences that await. This article aims to provide you with valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your understanding and ensure a smooth and fulfilling visit to this extraordinary land.

Entry Permits and Travel Restrictions:

Tibet has specific travel regulations, and obtaining the required permits is mandatory. To enter Tibet, you need both a Chinese visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. The permit can only be obtained through a registered travel agency in Tibet. Additionally, certain areas in Tibet may require additional permits, such as the Alien’s Travel Permit and the Military Permit. Ensure that you have all the necessary permits well in advance of your trip.

Altitude Considerations and Acclimatization:

Tibet’s high altitude can present challenges to visitors. Lhasa, the capital city, is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,650 meters (11,975 feet). It is crucial to allow ample time for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness. Gradually ascend to higher altitudes, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities in the first few days, and listen to your body. Consult with your healthcare provider regarding medication and preventive measures for altitude sickness.

Best Time to Visit:

Tibet experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year. The ideal time to visit Tibet is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. These months offer milder temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant landscapes. The summer months bring warmer temperatures and occasional rain, while winter brings cold temperatures and limited accessibility due to snow and ice.

Cultural Sensitivity and Respect:

Tibet holds deep religious and cultural significance for its people. It is crucial to respect local customs, traditions, and religious practices. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting monasteries and religious sites. Seek permission before photographing monks, sacred artifacts, or religious ceremonies. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, as it can be considered disrespectful.

Transportation and Road Conditions:

Tibet’s remote location and challenging terrain may pose transportation challenges. Domestic flights from major cities in China, such as Beijing, Chengdu, and Kathmandu (Nepal), offer access to Lhasa. Alternatively, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is an incredible journey to Lhasa, showcasing breathtaking landscapes. Within Tibet, consider hiring a local guide or travel agency to arrange transportation and navigate the region’s road conditions, which can be rough and remote.

Packing Essentials:

Pack appropriate clothing and essential items for your trip to Tibet. As the weather can vary significantly, layering is key. Include warm clothing, including thermal layers, a good-quality insulated jacket, hats, gloves, and comfortable walking shoes. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are crucial to protect against the intense sunlight at high altitudes. It’s also advisable to carry personal medications, as some medicines may not be readily available in Tibet.

Currency and Banking Facilities:

The official currency in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It is recommended to carry sufficient cash, as credit cards may not be widely accepted, especially in remote areas. ATM facilities can be limited, so it’s advisable to withdraw cash in major cities before venturing into more remote regions.

Internet and Communication:

Access to the internet and mobile networks may be limited in certain areas of Tibet. It’s advisable to check with your mobile service provider about international roaming options or consider purchasing a local SIM card for communication purposes.

Environmental Conservation and Responsible Tourism:

Tibet’s pristine natural beauty and delicate ecosystem require responsible travel practices. Respect the environment by not littering and disposing of waste properly. Support local businesses and communities, and choose accommodations and tour operators that prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

Development of tourism in Tibet and Nepal

Tibet and Nepal are both renowned destinations for tourists seeking unique cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and spiritual encounters. While Tibet has seen significant development in terms of tourism, surpassing Nepal in some aspects, several factors contribute to this disparity:

Political Factors:

Tibet is an autonomous region of China, which has invested resources and infrastructure development to promote tourism in the region. The Chinese government has made efforts to improve accessibility by constructing airports, highways, and the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, making it easier for travelers to reach Tibet. Additionally, China’s tourism policies and promotional campaigns have focused on highlighting Tibet’s cultural heritage, religious significance, and natural beauty, attracting a large number of domestic and international tourists.

In contrast, Nepal has faced political instability and transitional phases, which have impacted tourism development. Periods of political unrest, including the Maoist insurgency and frequent changes in government, have hindered the country’s ability to fully leverage its tourism potential.

Infrastructure and Accessibility:

Tibet has invested significantly in infrastructure development to facilitate tourism. The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, one of the world’s highest railways, connects major Chinese cities to Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, making it more accessible to visitors. Tibet also has modern airports and an extensive road network, enabling easier transportation within the region.

Nepal, while having made progress in improving its infrastructure, still faces challenges in terms of road connectivity, especially in remote mountainous areas. The country’s sole international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, has limitations in handling larger volumes of air traffic, impacting accessibility.

Cultural and Religious Appeal:

Tibet’s deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhism and its association with the Dalai Lama have captured the fascination of travelers worldwide. The region is home to iconic Buddhist monasteries, such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, attracting pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual experiences.

Nepal, on the other hand, is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, including Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Kathmandu Durbar Square and the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Lumbini. While Nepal’s cultural and religious appeal is significant, Tibet’s association with Tibetan Buddhism has garnered more global attention.

Marketing and Promotion:

China has invested in extensive marketing campaigns to promote Tibet as a tourist destination, showcasing its unique cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and spiritual traditions. This targeted promotion has increased awareness and attracted tourists from both domestic and international markets.

Nepal, despite its rich cultural and natural offerings, has faced challenges in marketing and promoting itself effectively on a global scale. Limited resources and fragmented marketing efforts have impacted its visibility and reach compared to Tibet.

It’s important to note that while Tibet may be more developed in terms of tourism infrastructure and promotion, Nepal offers its own distinct charm and attractions. Nepal’s trekking opportunities in the Himalayas, including the world-famous Everest Base Camp trek, its vibrant cultural festivals, and warm hospitality continue to draw adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts.

Both Tibet and Nepal have unique offerings for travelers, and the development of tourism in each region is influenced by a combination of political, geographical, and cultural factors. It’s the diversity and authenticity of these destinations that make them truly special and captivating for tourists around the world.

Conclusion:

A journey to Tibet is a profound and transformative experience. By familiarizing yourself with the necessary information and adequately preparing for your visit, you can fully immerse yourself in the region’s mesmerizing landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual heritage. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the Tibetan people, explore ancient monasteries, and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of this enchanting land. Keep an open mind, respect the local customs, and approach your journey with curiosity and reverence, and you are sure to create lasting memories of your time in Tibet.

Feel Free To Contact Us.

World Heritage Sites in Tibet

Three World Heritage Sites are located in Tibet, which the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has acknowledged as an autonomous area of China. These can all be found in Lhasa, the country’s capital, along with one Tentative entry for the Yalong region, which is the birthplace of Tibetan culture. The three locations in Lhasa are all must-sees on any cultural tour to Tibet since they provide distinctive perspectives of the beauty, history, architecture, and culture of this breathtaking country. We can still see remnants of this strange land’s ancient culture today. It is because cultural legacy is being preserved. Tibet, the supposedly remote sacred region, has kept much of its cultural history because of its distinctive geographic setting, which has prevented modern society from eroding it.

Potala Palace:

The famous Potala Palace in Lhasa was initially constructed in the 7th century and then expanded into the opulent, vast palace complex that it is today. Between the 17th through the middle of the 20th century, it served as the residence of the Dalai Lamas, the rulers of Tibet and the founders of Tibetan Buddhism. The interior’s smaller chapels, meditation spaces, and living quarters are equally as lovely and fascinating as the exterior’s stunning views. According to UNESCO, the palace is home to 698 paintings, approximately 10,000 painted scrolls, a sizable collection of sutras, as well as various sculptures, carpets, canopies, curtains, porcelain, jade, fine gold, and silver artefacts. Here, there is a lot to see. On your second or third day in Tibet, if you’re traveling there after taking a flight from Kathmandu into Lhasa, you’ll probably visit the Potala Palace. This is due to the fact that visiting requires a lot of stair climbing, which can be exhausting for visitors who are new to the high-altitude city. In 1994, the Potala Palace was designated a World Heritage Site.

Jokhang Temple:

Although it is governed by the Gelug school of Buddhism, the most sacred temple in Tibet, Jokhang, is accessible to followers of all schools of Buddhism. Although the complex’s earliest components date from 652, renovations and additions have been made over the years. The exterior of the temple is decorated with early Buddhist symbols including deer and wheel designs, while the interior features a confusing network of chapels dedicated to many gods and bodhisattvas as well as a substantial collection of cultural relics. The most sacred item in Tibet is kept within Jokhang: a life-sized figure of Jowo Shakyamuni, the queen who ordered the building of the temple, that is covered in jewels. Its golden roof skillfully combines Tibetan, Nepalese, Chinese, and Indian themes.

Norbulingka:

Previously the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, Norbulingka was only accessible to a select group of Tibetan nobility. It is the biggest artificial garden in Tibet and is currently an open park. It has the most historic structures and the nicest vistas. The palaces in Norbulingka are adorned with exquisite murals that capture the beauties of Tibetan culture and house a sizable collection of cultural artifacts and classics. Additionally, it is one of the primary locations where Tibetans spend their free time, particularly during the annual Shoton festival, when they congregate with friends and family to watch Tibetan operas and partake in “Linka” (the Tibetan picnic), which is a picnic in a park.

Yalong:

These locations include the Changguo Ruins, which are the remains of a prehistoric Neolithic settlement, and the Yongbulakang Palace, which was the first palace ever erected in Tibet. It was constructed in the 2nd century BC on top of the Zhaxiciri Mountain. Early Tibetan characters, poems, operas, medicine, astronomy, and calendars all descended from these regions. The Yalong region on the Tibetan Plateau, which includes the valley of the middle stretch of the Yaluzangbu River, its branches, and a few lakes, is the birthplace of Tibetan culture. The surviving artifacts, relics, and archeological sites provide evidence of the Tibetan people’s early civilisation, including their early religion, culture, arts, and society. The Yalong region has a total size of 1350 km2. It is a region on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau with significant cultural and natural value. This area has a plateau temperate semi-arid monsoon climate, which is characterized by intense sunlight, intense radiation, and thin air. Yalong region, which is where Tibetan culture first emerged, witnessed the early development of agriculture and animal husbandry as well as the emergence of the distinctive Tibetan culture. Here, one can find well-kept historical manors, palaces, temples, and burial grounds. Here were also developed the earliest forms of Tibetan poetry, medicine, astronomy, and calendars. The significance of the region’s historic temples cannot be overstated as the birthplace of Tibetan Buddhism. From this point on, the Tibetan Buddhism steadily spread to Tibet and a sizable portion of western and northern China.

Intangible Cultural Heritage in Tibet

Tibetan opera, regong art, the Gesar epic legacy, and the practice of Tibetan medicinal bathing are among the intangible cultural heritages of Tibet that UNESCO has recognized.

In 2009, Tibetan opera was added to the list of World Intangible Cultural Heritage. Tibetan opera is an integrated art form that incorporates Tibetan folk music, dances, and religious performances. It began as a Tibetan sacred art in the eighth century. Tibetan opera typically centers on Buddhist narratives.
The Regong Art, which has its origins in the 13th century in the Tibetan region of Huangnan, Qinghai province, is based on Tibetan historical personalities, myths, legends, and epics. The most common terms used to describe it are Tibetan Thangka painting, mural painting, pile stitching, sculpture, and other painting.
In western and northern China, King Gesar was revered as a hero by the communities of Tibetans, Mongolians, and Tu people. The King Gesar epic has primarily been transmitted orally through songs and storytellers. They are often done by switching between prose and poetry, however regional variations do exist. Thousands of years of Tibetan thangka painting, Tibetan opera, and other cultural forms have been influenced by the hundreds of Tibetan stories, folktales, and proverbs found in the epic.
The Lum medical bathing of Sowa Rigpa is a form of Tibetan medicinal bathing that was inscribed as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2018. It is a perspective on life based on the five elements and a philosophy of health and illness that was influenced by the Bon religion and Tibetan Buddhism. All of the local Tibetan plants utilized in the Tibetan medicinal bath are grown more than 3500 meters above sea level. They go through a laborious decocting, brewing, and boiling process. The selection of herbs, the heating procedure, and the temperature and duration of the bath must all be tailored to the specific disease at hand.

Feel free To Contact Us.

Tibet Travel Guide

Tibet tours provide lovely sightseeing excursions throughout key cities like Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyanste as part of a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

Tibet is also known as the “Roof of the World,” which gives us a great opportunity to visit spectacular and unique geography at the Tibetan highlands.

A visit to ancient monasteries, Dzongs, temples, and museums provides us with an insight into their culture and lifestyle along with the wonderful feeling of delight and happiness.

Additionally, Tibet tours take us to the historic sites of the Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, Jokhang Temple, and Norbulinka Palace as well as local Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Being on the roof of the world, Tibet is vast and full of wonders. Tibet Travel Guide informs visitors about the weather, people, customs, best time to visit Tibet, cost, permits, transportation, high altitude sickness, food, accommodations, currency, festival, religion, and map.

Tibet has so much to offer you that it is imperative that you prepare well before traveling there. Here, we’ve arranged the most significant Tibet travel guides in order to make things simpler, as follows.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Tibet Travel: Preparation

If you are considering a Tibet and Holy Kailash tour, you should be aware that it is a demanding journey that requires us to spend the most of our time at altitude.

Therefore, at least two months of consistent practice are advised, such as two hours a day of running, swimming, or joining a health club. Reduce your smoking and alcohol consumption.

To ensure that you can work safely within your own constraints, consult your doctor to determine your current condition of health. A first aid pack is necessary for the trip in addition to the specific prescriptions that were written by your doctor.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Tibet Travel: Required Documents

You are encouraged to have a small document bag or belt pouch to organize the following items: identity card, passport with Photostat copies, and diary for addresses, phone numbers, and small notes.

Ballpoint pens with extra ink and books, charts, etc. Traveler’s checks, credit cards, and currency. Tickets for trains and airplanes. any further personal paperwork.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Tibet Travel: Permits and Guide

Most of us associate Tibet with the region that encompasses its renowned capital Lhasa, the revered Mount Kailash, and the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. The Tibetan Autonomous Region is this territory. It belongs to China, and the Chinese government rigorously controls access.

You must obtain a special Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) in addition to your regular China visa if you are a foreigner. You require the Tibet Group Visa (TGV), which is required if you’re travelling through Nepal.

You cannot visit Tibet on your own. A guided tour is required, and visitors must follow a set itinerary that the Chinese government has meticulously chosen and is keeping an eye on.

Your tour operator should be able to arrange for your permits, but because there might be lengthy waits, apply as soon as possible. Although it is frequently possible to travel to Tibet on short notice in actuality, it is safest to apply as soon as possible.

Tips about Tibet Travel Permit:

You must have a Chinese visa and your passport ready in order to apply for a Tibet permit.
Give yourself at least 20 days to obtain your Tibet travel authorization.
The time required to process a Tibet permit is around 10 working days. It will then be forwarded to your tour operator/
Both a Tibet Permit and a China Group Visa are required for entry into Tibet from Nepal.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Weather information for Tibet/ Best Season

In general, the climate in Tibet is not as severe as many people think. From April through the beginning of November, when temperatures start to drop, is the ideal time of year to visit Tibet.

From April to November, the climate in central Tibet, which includes Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and Tsedang, is typically extremely mild; nevertheless, July and August can be wet, with over half of Tibet’s annual precipitation falling during these two months.

The months of October and November frequently have bright, clear skies, and because Tibet is at a lower altitude, midday temperatures can be fairly pleasant. The months of December through February are the coldest. Tibet can still be visited in the winter.

Very little snow falls in the low-lying valleys of Tibet (located near Lhasa, Shigatse, and Tsedang). Although March might have warm, bright days and isn’t always a bad month to be in Tibet, spring doesn’t fully start until April.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Tibet Tour Itinerary From Nepal

Day 01: Kathmandu to Nyalam (3,750m/12,300ft)-162KM

Day 02: Nyalam to Lhatse (4,350m/14,270ft)-220KM

Day 03: Lhatse to Shigatse (3,900m/12,790ft)-244KM

Day 04: Shigatse to Gyantse (3,950m/12,955)-90KM

Day 05: Gyantse to Lhasa (3,650m/11,970)-259KM

Day 06: Explore day in Lhasa

Day 07: Explore day in Lhasa

Day 08: Lhasa to Kathmandu Trans Himalayan Flight (1,300m/4,264 ft)

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Accommodation in Tibet

Tibet offers a variety of lodging alternatives, including hostels, hotels, and distinctive local homestays. The majority of lodgings include standard amenities like hot water and a kettle.

The majority of our lodging during the vacation will be in ordinary hotels with individual rooms, dormitories at hostels, or guest houses. In the major cities of Tibet, the majority of 3-star hotels and all 4-5 star hotels are your options if you require a more comfortable room with Wi-Fi and hot water for showers available around-the-clock. Try guesthouses if all you need is a room with limited amenities.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

Altitude Sickness

You should take altitude sickness very seriously. Fitness is unimportant. If they ascend too far without giving their bodies time to acclimate, even the hardest mountaineers risk dying.

Keep yourself well-hydrated, and wait until you have had some time to become used to the altitude before starting any long hikes. Know what you’re getting into: Tibet is the roof of the world, and the air is thin. Inform your tour guide of any symptoms.

Contact Us For Tibet Tour Package

How Much to Tip a Tibetan Guide and Driver?

Tipping is not required in Tibet, but if you take a lengthy trip to the EBC, western, or eastern parts of the country, your guide and driver will likely expect a tip at the end of the trip, assuming everything went according to plan and they provided satisfactory service.

The winter months from December to the following February are typically too chilly to generate much business, and in March Tibet is closed to foreigners. In Tibet, tipping for the guide and driver is customarily done at the conclusion of the tour.

The guide and driver work these 8 months, from April to November, to support themselves and their families for the entire year. However, good guides are typically very busy during high season, especially for GROUP TOUR.

They might not always be able to be there on your final day to bid you farewell at the train station or airport in Lhasa. If your tour guide, who has been with you the entire time except for the final day, says something like this, take it as a hint and tip the person before you leave on your final day.

Below we provide you with some general guidelines for how much you should tip your guide and driver in Tibet. e.g. When two friends take an 8-day tour of Tibet together, they tip each other jointly (rather than separately), rounding up to around USD $60 or CNY 400 for the guide and approximately USD $60 or CNY 400 for the driver.

Feel Free To Contact Us.

Tibetan temples and monasteries of greatest fame

Tibet is a place where Tibetan Buddhism vibe permeates the atmosphere. Since Tibet is home to more than 1,700 temples, Tibetan monasteries and temples can be found all over the world.

Tibet is the ideal destination for you if you’re the kind of tourist who wants to expand both intellect and body as well as soul. The stunning Tibetan monasteries only enhance the unforgettable experience with their intensely spiritual ambiance.

Different schools were created within some of the groups. Each sect has a distinct leader and maintains an accurate record of its genealogy. As a result, while each sect’s monasteries share some traits, they also have some unique qualities.

Even a non-religious person can comprehend and recognize the significance of these magnificent monasteries to Tibetan Buddhists.

The top ten Tibetan monasteries in Tibet that we advise you to visit for a spiritual journey are listed below. Which temples must be visited given that there is the largest Buddhist monastery in the world, the beginning of the reincarnation of living Buddhas, and the most sacred temple? The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Ganden Monastery, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Samye Monastery, Sakya Monastery, and other monasteries are among the most well-known.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Potala Palace:

On the Red Hill in the heart of Lhasa, the Potala Palace, the tallest ancient palace in the world, stands. Its highest point was 3700 m (12,139 ft) above sea level. Potala Palace, which has a rich cultural legacy, is a must-see location for any journey to Tibet.

The “pearl on the roof of the globe” is how people refer to Potala Palace. It serves as the snowy plateau’s primary landmark as well. In addition to being one of the most well-known ancient building wonders in China and the entire globe, Potala Palace is a well-known palace-style architectural complex and exceptional representative of Tibetan architecture, ranking as a 5A tourism destination on a national scale.

Since 1994, it has been included on the World Cultural Heritage List. Potala Palace, which has a strong Buddhist culture, draws a lot of pilgrims to pray there.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Jokhang Temple:

Jokhang Temple is situated in Barkhor Square in Lhasa as well. The beauty of this structure is derived from the fusion of Tibetan, Indian, and Nepalese patterns with other architectural traditions.

The tradition has it that a previous lake was turned into land just so that the temple could be constructed. For Tibetan Buddhists, it has an even deeper spiritual significance because it is home to one of the three remaining Sakyamuni Buddha sculptures.

The Gelug School is in charge of the temple, which is thought to be the holiest in all of Tibet. However, all sects are welcome there because the temple represents the very essence of Tibetan Buddhism.

There is a wide variety of people to be found both inside the temple and in the streets that surround it. Numerous Tibetan monks are lining the streets, and committed Buddhists from all over Tibet and elsewhere have come to see the location.

Along with Tibetans who are spiritually inclined, you will also witness tourists taking pictures and people hawking their goods on the streets. This place is genuinely unusual since the calm city bustle is permeated by a strong spiritual vibe. To adequately tour this stunning temple, at least half a day is needed.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Drepung Monastery:

About 10 kilometers to the west of Lhasa, on the hillside of the Gambo Utse Mountain’s south slope, is where you’ll find the Drepung Monastery. The Tibetan word “Drepung,” which means “rice collect,” derives from the monastery’s white architectural complex, which from a distance resembles a mound of rice.

With more than 10,000 monks living and studying there, Drepung is the largest monastery in the world. Before the 1950s, it had 3305 subsidiary branches, 141 manors, and more than 540 pastures. Drepung was founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choge Tashi Palden, one of the Tsongkhapa’s pupils. One of the must-see attractions in Lhasa is the Drpung, which is the capital of Tibet.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Ganden Monastery:

The Gelug School in Tibet takes its name from the Ganden Monastery and is a straightforward acronym for the phrase “Ganden Lug,” which meaning Ganden Tradition.

This stunning location nevertheless serves as a tribute to the unwavering dedication of the really spiritual despite its terrible past. Originally demolished, this university monastery has subsequently undergone partial reconstruction. It definitely is a sight to witness right now.

Every year, Ganden Monastery hosts the Buddha Thangka Unfolding Festival, which draws tens of thousands of Tibetan Buddhists and tourists from all over the world. The 17th-century Ganden Monastery is located around 40 kilometers northeast of Lhasa’s city center.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Sera Monastery:

This monastery, which can be found a short distance north of Lhasa, got its name from the wildflowers that used to blossom where it was situated. Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, founded in 1419. Sera is a sizable and stunning monastery in Lhasa.

Three universities offer Buddhism courses for Tibetan monks. Monks congregate in a courtyard for discussions on Buddhist subjects to put what they have learnt into practice. Every day, excluding Sunday, the debates are broadcast for viewers.

It belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, which has six main monasteries. Tsongkhapa, a Gelugpa master, once lived in this area and gave lectures in the monastery.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Samye Monastery:

The first Buddhist monastery in Tibet is called Samye. Indian teacher Padma Sambhava was called by Tibetan King Trisong Detsen to help found the monastery in the eighth century. The complex of monasteries is shaped like a universe-themed mandala.

Twelve encircling temples stand in for continents and subcontinents, with the Utse Temple in the center representing Mount Meru. The complex’s four sides are adorned with four sizable stupas in various colors.

The Indian abbot of Samye Monastery, Shantarakshita, ordained Tibet’s first seven monks here not long after the monastery was established, and Indian and Chinese experts were recruited to help in the translation of Buddhist texts into Tibetan.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Drak Yerpa Monastery & Caves:

Only a short drive from Lhasa, Tibet, Drak Yerpa is home to a monastery and several old meditation caves that once held roughly 300 monks. It is situated in Dagzê County atop a hill. On the northern bank of the Kyichu, about 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) northeast of Lhasa, is the entrance to the Yerpa Valley.

The distance to the well-known ancient meditation caves amid the stunning limestone cliffs of the Yerpa Valley is about 10 kilometers (6.2 mi) from there. Opposite the major caves are an ancient sky burial place.

The valley is supposed to have been visited by the illustrious legendary hero Gesar of Ling. The cliffs’ holes from his arrows are thought to be proof of his presence.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Palcho Monastery – The Only Tibet Monastery with Three Sects in One Temple:

Palcho Monastery, also known as the Pelkor Chode Monastery, is the only monastery in Tibet to house three of the four schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

The monastery was initially a Sakya monastery, with pieces of the main monastery being built by several local lords. It was created as an attempt to continue the Yarlung Dynasty of Tibetan Kings following the assassination of King Langdarma.

A number of structures were built as religious colleges for the Sakya, Kagyu, and Gelugpa sects. On a nearby hill, the well-known Gyantse Fortress was constructed in the 13th century and was a significant contribution to the region. The magnificent Gyantse Kumbum, a nine-tiered stupa that is the only one of its kind in Tibet, is also housed in the monastery.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery:

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is a sizable Tibetan Gelug Buddhist monastery in the U-Tsang region of Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, and is situated at the base of Niseri Mountain.

The first Dalai Lama Gedun Drupa, a follower of the Gelugpa Je Tsongkhapa, founded it in 1447, and it took 12 years to finish. Tashi Lhunpo Monastery has served as the traditional residence of succeeding Panchen Lamas ever since the Fourth Panchen Lama.

The Tibetan name for Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is “Auspicious Mount Sumeru.” It belongs to the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, which has six main monasteries. The remaining five monasteries are: Labrang Monastery, Ganden Monastery, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, and Ta’er Monastery.

Contact Us For Tour and Trekking Package

Norbulingka:

A little distance to the southwest of Potala Palace, Norbulingka Palace is located in the west of Lhasa. The largest man-made garden in Tibet, Norbulingka is said to be 36 hectares (89 acres) in size.

The three main buildings that make up the complete Norbulingka complex—Kelsang Phodrong, Golden Linka, and Takten Migyur Phodrong—combine for 374 rooms. As you enter the flower garden, the lush vegetation makes the buildings appear to be surrounded by tall trees.

You may take in the peacefulness around you as you stroll down the flagstone road, which is incredibly difficult to find in Tibet, especially in such a high-altitude region. From the 1780s until 1959, Norbulingka served as the Dalai Lamas’ summer retreat.