Tours and holidays with added interest
Tibet (Xizang)
- Name in Chinese characters: 西藏自治区
- Name in Pinyin: Xīzàng Zìzhìqū
- Status: Autonomous Region
- Name in local script: བོད་རང་སྐྱོང་ལྗོངས
- Name in local Latin script: Bod.raṅ.skyoṅ.ljoṅs
- Capital: Lhasa
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Location within China
General Overview
Xizang Autonomous Region is better known in the west by the old country name - Tibet. This name evokes various meanings, mostly associated with deep faith, even mysticism.
Tibet lies on a high mountain plateau and much of it is still remote and inaccessible. Summer temperatures are pleasant but anyone considering a winter visit should be prepared for extreme old. The advantage being that this puts off other visitors meaning less crowded sites and perhaps even a more genuine feel.
Tibetan Culture is deeply rooted in its own form of Buddhist faith. The worship of Lamas, living Buddhas, distinguishes Tibetan Buddhism from other Mahayana Buddhist traditions and is only seen in Tibet and other countries influenced by Tibet in the past; Mongolia being a prime example. Tibetans believe that these lamas are reincarnated and play a vital role in transmitting true doctrine. Perhaps this explains why the faith has kept so strong.
Attractions For Visitors
Lhasa is the gateway to Tibet for almost all visitors. Lhasa is connected to several airports within China but notably Chengdu. It is also connected to Nepal with regular flights to Kathmandu. The Tibet Railway (aka Qingzang Railway) also connects Tibet with China - to various destinations but always through Golmud in Qinghai Province. There are plans to extend this line further into Tibet and even to the Nepalese border in the not-to-distant future. Travelling overland, other than by train, is very difficult to arrange and simply not an option for most visitors.
Visitors should remember that they need a permit to travel to Tibet in addition to a valid Chinese visa. This permit is most easily obtained by booking travel services with a reputable travel service in China. They will request copies of the necessary documents and you normally need do nothing other than provide these.
Visitors should also remember that Lhasa is situated at an altitude well in excess of 3000 metres and that the atmospheric oxygen is therefore available only in lower concentration than at sea level. It is best to spend at least the first day taking things easy. Perhaps sit on a rooftop cafe overlooking the Jokhang Monastery and read - whilst drinking plenty. Your body needs plenty of water to adapt properly. The local Masala Tea is ideal.
The top sites in Lhasa are the Potala Palace, the Norbulingka (Summer Palace), the Jokhang Temple (which forms the heart of the old town) and other monasteries in the hills such as Sera Monastery and Drepung Monastery. Visitors will certainly enjoy walking around the Barkhor Circuit with its interesting shops and arcades, and small groups of devout pilgrims, especially in the early morning.
It is possible to travel outside of Lhasa, though such trips are generally private and can be expensive. Shigatse and Gyantse make for interesting overnight stays. Those with only a day to spare may consider the beautiful lake, Yamdrok Tso.
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- Potala Palace: The Potala Palace is one of the most famous images associated with Tibet
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Current Comments
2 comments so far (post your own)Hi Chelsea
Please be aware that no permits are being issued to foreign travellers wishing to visit this region at the moment. This situation is expected to change within the coming week - but you should be aware and have alternate plans just in case.
To book a visit you will need a complete package from a local travel agency and it is they who will obtain the train tickets for you. Your best bet is therefore to select and contact an agency now for advice and timings. Without a package you cannot get a permit - even when they do become available again.
Posted by China Journeys on Thu 29 Mar, 2012
I want to take the train to Lhasa next month. How far in advance do I need to book the ticket?
Posted by Chelsea on Wed 28 Mar, 2012