Tibet

About Tibet

Tibet

Tibet

Tibet, an autonomous province of China, lies in Central Asia. The total area of Tibet is 2.5 sq. km with a combined population of 6 million people. Tibet comprises three provinces Amdo (now split into the provinces of Qinghai, Gansu, and Sichuan), Kham (provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Qinghai), and U-Tsang (together with western Kham, which is today referred to as the Tibet Autonomous Region or the TAR.

Tibet is considered the Land of Mount Kailash, homeof Gods and also the holiest pilgrimage site for Buddhist pilgrimswho follow the Bon religion. Tibet is one of the most beautiful countries inthe world and many foreigners visit the region every year to witness itsbeauty and behold the craft and architecture which date back hundredsof years back.

Also known as the roof of the world, Tibet is the highest elevated plateau on earth with an average altitude of 4500m. It is part of Western China and its south border is lined by the worlds tallest mountains, including Chomolungma or Mt. Everest. Tibet is extremely rich in history and culture and is predominantly a Buddhist country along with Bon (pre-Buddhist) tradition. The land is filled with ancient monasteries, chortens (stupa), magnificent palaces, the highest lakes, rivers, and rare wildlife. Most of the rivers of South Asia including Brahmaputra, Sutlej, Indus, and Karnali have their source in Tibet, specifically in Mt. Tise or Kailash. Tibet is no doubt regarded as the Water Tower of Asia.

Some of the most important natural and man-made landmarks of Tibet include Mt. Tise (Mt. Kailash), Qinghai Lake, Yamdrok Lake, Lake Mansarovar, 17th century Potala Palace, 8th century Jokhang Temple, Ganden Monastery among others.

The trek to Mt. Tise or Mt. Kailash has remained the most pious religious journey for Buddhists as well as Bons, Hindus, and Jains for thousands of years. It is a journey that comprises the most scenic and unique landscape on the face of the earth. In Nepal, the mountain is called Kailash, and Tibetans and Chinese call it Mt. Tise.

Trekkers and tourists have been allowed to cross Nepal-Tibet borders only since 1993 following the mutual agreement between China and Nepal. Humla is still a restricted area where only organized groups are allowed.

The best season to visit this region is from mid-May to late September since during winter it remains snowbound. There are no rescue facilities available on the Tibet side however Nepal can operate rescue helicopters from Hilsa. Arrangements for porters and food must be made well in advance just to have a smooth travel.

Lhasa (Capital of Tibet )

Lhasa in Tibet is regarded as one of the holiest places in Tibet. It is the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is home to some of the most beautiful and amazing Buddhist monasteries and palaces including Potala Palace, which has been an administrative seat of the successive Dalai Lamas for several centuries. Jokhang situated 2 Km east of Potala is a Tibetan spiritual center where locals often frequent to offer their worship and prayers. There are also monasteries all over Lhasa, the most important being the Gelugpa monasteries of Sera and Drepung which till today remain intact.

Similarly, Ganden Monastery, Nangkhor, Barkhor, and Lingkhor are famous for their artistic beauty, statues, and mural paintings.

From the 10th century till the early 17th century, Shigatse kings ruled supreme and were later defeated by the fifth Dalai Lama with Mongol support. The Lama moved to Lhasa and built the Potala Palace and ever since Lhasa has been the administrative and religious capital of Tibet. Most of the historical sights still standing today date to the latter century. The city is divided between the Western or Chinese section and the Eastern or Tibetan section.