Tibet Attractions

Tibet is a paradise for those who prefer to travel off the beaten track. The region is unbeatable for natural beauty but there are also a number of cultural and historical tourist attractions to be discovered in the Tibet Autonomous Region.

Lhasa, the capital city, is a good place to start as it has been the global religious centre for Lamaist Buddhists since ancient times and offers an array of interesting things to see and do. The Jokhang Temple in Lhasa is arguably Tibet's most sacred and important temple and it is a popular pilgrimage destination. Lhasa is often quite full of pilgrims which adds to its atmosphere of devotion, peace and majesty. And just above the city looms the famous Polata Palace, for centuries the official residence of the Dalai Lama, and the greatest achievement of Tibetan architecture.

Many tours of Tibet include a visit to Shigatse, which is not far from Lhasa. On the way you can stop off at the Palkhor Monastery and Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. The Sakya Monastery in Shigatse is also popular with visitors.

Travellers interested in ancient civilizations and archeology can go further afield, to Guge in Zana County, where they'll find the truly enthralling remains of an ancient kingdom. Guge is more difficult to get to than some of the other sites but it's worth the extra effort if you like ancient ruins and prefer attractions that are off the main tourist route.

Of course, many travel to Tibet for the magnificent landscapes and mountains and in this regard the region will not disappoint. Apart from the notorious Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, there are innumerable scenic areas worth exploring. Stunning natural areas include Ranwu Lake and Valley in Basu County, and Basongcuo Lake Tourist Area in Gongbo'gyamda County. When it comes to breathtaking wilderness areas the traveller in Tibet is spoiled for choice.

Jokhang Temple

The Jokhang Temple lies in the heart of old Lhasa. It was built nearly 1,300 years ago but remains the spiritual centre…

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Lhasa

Lhasa is a holiday destination set in a marshy valley and dominated by surrounding mountain peaks. It is the capital…

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Mount Everest

The Shigatse prefecture is the gateway for climbers to the North Col climbing route of the world's highest mountain,…

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Palkhor Monastery

The unique Palkhor (Baiju) Monastery is situated about 143 miles (230 km) south of Lhasa and 62 miles (100 km) east of…

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Potala Palace

The vast Potala Palace stands on a cliff top above Lhasa, considered the greatest achievement of Tibetan architecture.…

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Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

Tashi Lhunpo is one of Tibet's most revered and influential monasteries, lying about a mile (2km) to the west of Shigatse…

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