High up in the clouds and mountains to the West of China lies Tibet, a mystical land of mountains and monasteries. It shares many of its traditions with Mongolia and is a wonderful complement to Trans Siberian tours. Its capital, Lhasa, is home to the awe inspiring Potala Palace as well as many other sights. For those looking for adventure, the road trip to Kathmandu via Everest Base Camp from Lhasa ranks up there with the Trans-Siberian as one of the great overland excursions in the world.
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT TIBET
TIBET WEATHER AVERAGES
REASON TO VISIT TIBET
Tibet should be on the list for anyone who loves wild mountain scenery, deep culture and some breathtaking architecture. Not the easiest place to visit but absolutely worth it.
TIBET TRAVEL TIP
A visit to Tibet needs a good amount of forward planning as the permits required need to be applied for in advance (we do all that for you if booking a trip with us). To make the most of your time in Tibet the Lhasa to Kathmandu trip offers the best value and experience.
HIGHLIGHTS OF TIBET
In Lhasa The Potala Palace once home to the Dalai Lama and one of the architectural wonders of the world.
Barkhor Square area is a pilgrimage circuit (called a Kora) and is a mass of people from all over Tibet.
The Jokhang Temple, a 1,300 year old place of worship and the spiritual centre of Tibet. Its rooftop offers magnificent views over old Lhasa.
The Potala Kora which encircles the Potala Palace is a fascinating mixture of exotic people, market and religious worship – all to the scent of incense.
The Gyantse Dzong, or fortress, is the highest point in the city and well worth the climb for the view although there isn’t so much to see of the fortress once up there.
The Pelkor Chode Monastery is a sprawling complex containing many paintings and statues as well as being a fascinating place to wander around.
Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional home of the Panchen Lamma is the big draw and one of the few monasteries to escape the attention of the Cultural Revolution.
Shigatse Dzong (fort) is probably the first structure you will see as you approach Shigatse as it is strategically situated on a hill overlooking the town.
Everest Base Camp – This is a place to sit and contemplate the majesty of the scenery but you may also see Yak herders and their animals and climbing groups.
HAND PICKED TIBET ACCOMMODATION
The only place where there is real choice in accommodation in Tibet is the capital of Lhasa. Here we love the Dhood Gu and Kyichu Hotels for their traditional atmosphere and decoration as well as prime location near Barkhor Square in the centre of the old city. If you require luxury then the St Regis or newer Shangri La are both extraordinary properties. Outside of Lhasa we book the best options on offer although standards are average to poor getting more basic the further from Lhasa you travel.
We hold ATOL license 10287 so booking with us gives you 100% financial protection. We are also members of the Association of British Travel Agents. ABTA has strict membership requirements and we are required to adhere to the associations high standards. Our ABTA number is Y1699.
