Experience The Wonders Of Tibet On Walking Holidays

Whenever the word Tibet is mentioned, most people think of Buddhist monks in fire-orange robes

. But this rugged, intriguing country located in the north-east of the Himalayas offers much more than an encounter with monksit is rich in history, culture and memorable people. There are great walking holidays that you can participate in to ensure a safe, enjoyable and unforgettable journey through the birthplace of the Dalai Lama.

Explore the Lhasa Region

As Tibet has been integrated with China, most walking holidays bound for Tibet almost always start in a major city in the mainland, such as Beijing. From there, its a matter of a series of train journeys across stunning plateaus and incredibly breathtaking landscapes until you begin the ascent to the high-altitude Lhasa region. The unique charm of Lhasa, Tibets capital, is incomparable. It is a very old city high up in the mountains with more than a thousand years of chequered history behind it. It is home to such world-renowned structures such as the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple and the Drepung Monastery. Guided walks through these important places are a must, lest you miss anything or unintentionally break some taboos. Inside the Potala Palace, for instance, youll be grateful for having your professional tour leaderthey will guide you regarding certain taboos in Tibetan Buddhism that you must not break, such as the wearing of a hat or sunglasses or stepping on a door sill.

Ascend the Heavenly Lake

The moment you arrive at Namtso Lake youll be struck by the same realisation experienced by countless others: the moniker heavenly lake is indeed justifiably fitting. Located in such a high altitude of close to 5000 metres, Namtso Lake is not only the biggest lake in Tibet, but it is also the worlds highest saltwater lake. Thats just one reason walking holidays spent through Tibet would be incomplete without a visit to the crystal-clear blue waters of the Namtso Lake. Tourists are not the only avid visitors to the areathe lakes expansive shores are home to many creatures, from the wild yaks, hares and other small animals looking for food, to the hundreds, if not thousands of migratory birds. So expect to be in good company if youre visiting in the summer.

Shop for Exotic Souvenirs in Shigatse

The name Shigatse roughly means the estate that fulfills ones wishes. It is the second biggest town in Tibet and is the centre of distribution of the various agricultural goods produced by local farmers and craftsmen. It is also home to the famous Tashilungpo Monastery, which was founded by the very first Dalai Lama in the 1400s. As such, there is a heady sense of religious fervor in the area (although the same can be said of the entire country). But walking holidays spent in the country would not be spiritually complete without the all-important souvenirs, and it is in Shigatses market at the foot of Shigatse Fortress ruins where you can find an exciting array of locally produced items and exotic products - from handicrafts featuring semi-precious stones, to Tibetan daggers and porcelain made in in China, to even the famous yak butter.

by: Tony Maniscalco

POST COMMENT

Giving Cookies As Gifts For The Holidays Luxury Holidays - Eudaimonia In The Exotic Treasures Of The Indian Ocean Holidays In Dog-friendly Devon Enjoy Your Holidays In Budapest, Hungary! Walking Holidays In The Pays Cathare Exploring The World On Walking Holidays Enjoy Holidays With Cheap Hotels In Killarney A Great Year For Wine Tasting Holidays Pack For Thailand Holidays To Get Mesmerised With Wondrous Nature Plan Your Holidays With Swiss Tours Highly Suitable Place To Spend Your Holidays With Swiss Tours Boat Holidays In Europe Singles Holidays - Cruising Could Be The Answer!