Tibet

Tibet is one of the vast land masses that lie in Asia to the north of the Himalayas. An autonomous region of China, much of Tibet land is arid like desert that are sparsely populated by indigenous people such as Monpas, Lhobas, Tamaks and Hans. Having said that Tibet is home to beautiful lakes such as Qinghai, Namtso, Mansarovar (Drolmo), Sera and Drepung monasteries, picturesque Himalayan peak and ancient Tibetan culture. 

Tibet is a geological wonders of the world. Also called the water tower of Asia, the water that comes from Tibet feeds over a billion people in East and South Asia. Yangtze, Yellow River, Mekong, Ganges, Brahmaputra all have its source in Tibet.

Visiting Tibet is a challenge on its own. The average elevation here is 4000m and so the air is thinner as you go further up. The highest peak in the world Mt. Everest (8848m) straddles the border between Nepal and Tibet (China). The North side of Everest Base Camp is easily accessible from Tibet. 

The capital of Tibet is Lhasa, a major attraction for majority of tourists. Lhasa is home to impressive Potala Palace, the winter residence of Dalai Lama. Visiting medieval monasteries such as Drepung, and Jhokang and walking along Barkhor Street will take you back in time. Do not forget to attend cultural programs conducted by Tibetans and monks wearing their colorful dresses. 

Perhaps the most popular landmarks of all in Tibet is Mt. Kailash or Mt. Tise. It is a must for any one visiting Tibet. People from Bon, Buddhist, Hindu and Jain religion regard it as a sacred mountain. Making a kora or circumambulation of Mt. Tise is an important ritual among all travelers.