Tibet
A journey to Tibet, the "rooftop of the world", steals your breath away, quite literally with a 12,000-foot capital city at Lhasa. Surrounding the peacefulness of the Dalai Lama's palace is the Bakhor market where shoppers bargain for colorful carpets and prayer wheels. In Tsedang, the 1200-year-old Samye monastery mimics the design of the ideal universe described in Buddhist scripture.
Highlights
- Potala Palace
This grand, palatial complex has served as the winter home of past Dalai Lamas, and was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994. It consists of 2 separate palaces - the White Palace, which was built in 1648, and the Red Palace, which was built in 1694. The White Palace served as the winter retreat for Dalai Lamas until the mid-1960s, and is the office for members of the Tibetan government. The Red Palace holds religious significance, and includes multiple chapels and the tombs of previous Dalai Lamas. The fortress sits atop a hill, and is guarded by stone walls, gates, and the Lhasa River. As you ascend the steps to the entrance of this holy site, don’t forget to stop and take in the incredible surroundings you can’t find anywhere else on Earth!- Mount Everest North Base Camp
As the tallest mountain in the world, it’s no wonder there are many ways to see Mt. Everest! 70% of the mountain lies in Tibet, while the remaining 30% lies in Nepal. You don’t have to be a mountaineer to get stunning views of this majestic mountain! A shuttle bus transports visitors to a lookout a little less than 3 miles from the base. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to it! You can still get clear, breathtaking views of Mt. Everest from the base camp (although the peak is often covered by clouds due to its great height). The base camp itself consists of a small village, and you can buy snacks to fuel your ascent.- Ganden Monastery
Ganden Monastery was established by Tsongkhapa, the founder of Gelug pa sect of Buddhist monks, in the early 1400s. Its official name, Ganden Namgyeling Monastery, means “Continent of Completely Victorious Happiness.” It’s the oldest university monastery in Tibet, and one of “The Great Three” university monasteries - the other 2 monasteries were founded by disciples of Tsongkhapa. Today, more than 200 monks call this monastery home. You can get incredible views of the city, surrounding mountains, and nearby Lhasa River thanks to the monastery’s location atop the Wangbur Mountain. Ganden Monastery is easily accessible from Lhasa, and you’ll take in some incredible scenery en route.- Yamdrok Lake
After touring Tibet’s many cultural and historical sites, journey to this stunning lake to rejuvenate. It’s twice as refreshing to be out in nature after spending time in the compressed city. Stand in awe of the glistening blue-green water, flanked by mountains. Breathe in the crisp air as you traverse down hillsides to dip your toes in the water. This freshwater lake isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s a power source for nearby villagers. It’s also significant to the people of Tibet, who believe that the lake is sacred. According to legend, the lake is the metamorphosis of a goddess.
Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Tibet? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Lhasa |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | According to the Center for Disease Control, there are no requirements for travel to Tibet. Some travelers may need to manage altitude sickness with various medications. Pack sunscreen as Ultraviolet rays get much stronger with increased altitude. Center for Disease Control This tour includes some time at high altitudes where travelers may suffer from varying degrees of altitude sickness. Please consult with your physician about any precautions before you depart. |
| Weather | Tibet is situated on a high altitude plateau surrounded by tall mountains. These mountains catch the rainfall before it reaches the plateau, making most of Tibet a desert steppe, tundra or permafrost. Tibet has large temperature differentials between the day and night and for six months out of the year, it experiences frost. |
| Tipping | It is not customary to tip taxi drivers and restaurant staff in Tibet, but tipping is expected for a variety of other services in Tibet and is a great way to give back to the community. Tour guides, drivers, hotel staff and porters expect to be tipped; this is especially true if they have worked very hard to provide tourists with the best service possible. Many Tibetans use their income to support not just their immediate family, but often their extended family as well. |
| Money & Credit Cards | ATMs are not widely available. Credit cards can only be used at some hotels in Tibet. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | The best shopping is often at public markets. Shop for Tibetan hats, jewelry (silver and gold), wooden items, clothing, quilts, fabrics, Tibetan rugs and carpets. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 220 volts. Plugs A, C & I. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit before your tour to China. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Tibet
- including closed packages