Top Six Tour Sites in Tibet

As the roof of the world, Tibet has been always attractive for thousands of travelers from all corners of the earth.People may go after its splendid landscape or the unique religious charm that can pure the tired heart. No matter natural or cultural reason, Tibet is definitely a beautiful place worth visiting. So, where are the top 6 tour sites in Tibet you should not miss? With over 12 years’ experience, Great Tibet Tour had made the following list for all fans of Tibet tours.

1. The Potala Palace, Lhasa

Located in Lhasa, the Potala Palace is recognized as the symbol of Tibet Autonomous Region. It was built 1,300 years ago to celebrate the wedding of the 33rd. great King of Tibet - Srongtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng. In 1645, it was reconstructed and became the winter palace for Dalai Lamas. Up to now, it is the largest well-preserved ancient palace in Tibet and alsothe highest architecture in the world which is complex of palace, castle, and temple. In 1994, the Potala Palace was indexed into the list of world cultural heritage by United Nations Educational Scientific and Culture Organization. For local residents, Potala Palace is the pearl on Tibetan plateau which witnessed the history of Tibet. For tourists, it’s more like a museum where they can read stories and learn more about Tibetan culture.

2. Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, Lhasa

There is one word in Tibet, “Lhasa City appeared after Jokhang Temple was built”, from which you can see the supreme position of Jokhang Temple in Tibetan people’s heart. The golden statue of Sakyamuni at age 12 which was taken by Princess Wencheng is enshrined in it. Constant Buddhist devotees keep coming here to worship and do religious kora around Jokhang Temple and Barkhor street, where is also an old busy market. Tourists can buy traditional Tibetan handicrafts in those distinctive shops or join in the pilgrims to practice the Tibetan Buddhism personally.

3. Lake Namtso

Lake Namtso is one of the top three holy lakes in Tibet as well as the saltwater lake with the highest elevation in the world. In the Tibetan language, it was called “the lake from heaven”. The color of the water can be changed by light refraction. Sometimes it is peacock blue, while it turns to emerald green the next second. It’s totally amazing and you would admire the power of nature. But the most beautiful scenery at Namtso is the stunning view of the starry sky during the night. Just lie down and count the stars quietly, let the gentle breeze blow your troubles away. Experience the feeling of staying in fairyland.

4. Everest, Shigatse

This one is famous enough that everybody knows it is the highest mountain in the world and located on the border between Nepal and China. The challenge of climbing and its spectacular sight make the popularity of Mt. Everest tour never go down for years. But not all people know that if you visit Mt. Everest from China, you have to enter Tibet, and the best deck to appreciate its beauty is Rongbuk Monastery, which is at about 5,100 meters (16,733 feet) above sea level. The sunset you see from this highest monastery on earth is the most gorgeous and will never be forgotten.

5. Mountain Kailash, Transhimalya

Mountain Kailash is the paradise for devotees of Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Bon, and Jainism. According to the doctrines of the four religions, it is the center of the world and the cradle of world civilization. Doing a kora here, only one circle around Mt. Kailash, can get rid of all the sins you’ve made in the whole life. Ten circles can protect you from pain in the hell for 500 times, and 108 circles can make you become Buddha. That’s why the devotees will come here at least once in a life. Besides, the desolate but majestic sights of western Tibet will give you a different sense perception.

6. Yarlung Zangbu Grand Canyon, Nyingchi

With 504.6 kilometers in length and 6,009 meters (19,715 feet) at the deepest part, Yarlung Zangbu Grand Canyon is no doubt to be longest and deepest canyon in the world. It’s located in Nyingchi Prefecture and because of it, the climate of Nyingchi is very suitable for plants, which makes Nyingchi become the most beautiful region in Tibet. The pastoral scenery attracted many backpackers and photographers, especially for the blooming peach flowers in Spring. You would never know how awesome it is and why people call it “the Switzerland in Tibet” unless you were there in person.