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Pioneer of Tibet Tourism for Overseas Travelers since 1984!
My fascination with Tibet has been growing for many years, ever since I began travelling through Asia and developing a deeper awareness of and appreciation for the Buddhist culture. Tibet had long captured my imagination, so finally being able to visit Tibet felt both surreal and exciting!
Capture panoramic views of the sacred Yamdrok Lake.
Enjoy a classic Lhasa monastery tour with a scenic visit to turquoise Yamdrok Lake.
Xining to Lhasa by Train: Crossing the Tibetan Plateau on an Unforgettable Overnight Journey
From start to finish, our expedition to Tibet was nothing short of phenomenal. Our epic journey to Lhasa began in Xining, where we spent the night to help acclimate to the altitude.
Here, we boarded the overnight train to Lhasa for an unforgettable passage over the Tibetan Plateau. We marveled at the scenery revealing itself outside our window, each mile bringing us closer to the legendary heart of Tibetan spirituality.
We were mesmerized by the intense blue of the enormous sky, the snow-covered mountains, and the stretches of untouched beauty. It is a strangely gradual and emotional journey as the train rolls along, and this rugged landscape becomes more remote and more Tibetan by the hour.
Inside the train, the atmosphere is calm and communal. This felt far more meaningful than simply flying, as it allowed our journey to unfold before our eyes. It created a sense of anticipation and perspective. The comfy bunks in our soft sleeper car were arranged by Tibet Vista, making this another leg of a well-planned adventure.
Enjoy a cozy, soft sleeper berth on the scenic journey to Lhasa.My First Day in Lhasa: Exploring Monastic Life and the Energetic Tibetan Monk Debate
Tibet is known as the “Roof of the World”. This 1.2-million-square-kilometre area holds great importance for its unique Tibetan Buddhist culture. The scale of the Tibetan Plateau is difficult to grasp until you see it in person. Much of it sits at extreme altitude surrounded by some of the world’s highest mountains.
Our first day in Lhasa took us to visit two monasteries: Drepung and Sera. I struggle to describe this unique and amazing experience. We were a small group of 12 tourists walking alongside the everyday rhythm of monks.
Being high in the mountains enhances the setting, providing a dramatic blend of isolation, peace, and sanctity. You feel a humbling sense of awe; however, although there is this awareness of the tranquility around you, it is mixed with vibrant energy.
We observed assemblies where they meditated and chanted. We witnessed an intense Tibetan monk debate filled with claps and stomps. They engage in this highly energetic, ritualized, dramatic exchange to test the understanding of Buddhist philosophy.
They emphasize personal investigation over blind faith. Although we had invaded their home, gathering areas, courtyards, and even their kitchen, the monks did not appear to mind one little bit.
I expected a more somber and serious bunch. I assumed we would spend the day in hushed tones in an effort to leave them undisturbed; however, it was quite the opposite. It didn’t feel as if they were on display. They genuinely welcomed us with smiles and nods.
Witness the iconic and energetic monk debate in Sera Monastery.
Our local guide demonstrates the meaning behind the monks’ gestures.
Stroll through the vast Drepung Monastery in Lhasa.From Morning Pilgrims at Jokhang to the Majestic Potala Palace Above Lhasa
On the second day, we visited the Jokhong Temple in central Lhasa. As we approached, we observed many devout followers in their morning rituals.
We then had the privilege of exploring the Potala Palace, and this majestic structure towers above Lhasa. The 13-storey building is a combination of administration and spiritual areas. They are mixing church and state, and it is working!
As you approach across the wide streets of Lhasa, the Potala Palace rises above the city like a giant fortress resting on Red Hill, layer upon layer of white walls climbing into the sky. The sheer scale is hard to process at first. It doesn’t feel like a single building, but more like an entire hillside carved into architecture. In the thin, crisp air of Lhasa, every step toward it feels slightly more deliberate, as if even the body instinctively slows down in respect.
Some climbers were using the readily available oxygen cans; however, we never felt the need for it. I kept my gait slow and easy, and it was a beautiful climb with stunning views. Again, I expected a stern atmosphere, and again, it was not. It was an inviting and inspiring setting.
Inside, the Potala reveals itself as a labyrinth of corridors, stairways, and dimly lit chambers that seem to fold endlessly into the mountain. The air shifts immediately, cooler, quieter, and heavy with the scent of butter lamps and centuries-old incense.
In one moment, you are walking through spaces that once served as administrative halls, where decisions shaping Tibet were made; in the next, you enter deeply spiritual rooms filled with golden stupas, sacred scriptures, and murals faded by time but still glowing with meaning.
It is here that the unique blend of governance and spirituality becomes tangible, history and faith not separated, but intertwined in the same living structure.
Spin prayer wheels on bustling Barkhor Street, among devoted local pilgrims.
Fellow travelers pause on the long Potala stairs, using oxygen canisters to catch their breath.
Our local guide brings every corner of the Potala Palace to life with rich stories and insight.
Enjoy a classic Lhasa monastery tour with a scenic visit to turquoise Yamdrok Lake.
Full Day Tour at Yamdrok Lake: A Journey Into Sacred Waters and Tibetan Life
On the third day, we were driven in lovely comfort out of the city and over the breathtaking Gambala Pass at 5000 metres to Lake Yamdrok. As you ascend, you are able to view the many kilometres of road just travelled as it winds and stretches beneath you, on the steep mountainside.
Yamdrok is one of the top three holy lakes in Tibet, having strong religious significance for Tibetans. Nestled in the Himalayan mountains, this freshwater lake has dramatic surroundings, shifting colours, and a mystical atmosphere.
Tibetan yaks were plentiful in this area, being the backbone of Tibetan life, offering essential sustainability on this high-altitude plateau. These walking treasure troves are used in all and every way. Our day included lunch with a local family, which was a delicious highlight of the trip!
Riding a Tibetan yak along the crystal-blue shores of Yamdrok Lake.
The shifting colors of sacred Yamdrok Lake feel almost unreal.
Stopping for a hearty Tibetan lunch at a local family-run restaurant by Yamdrok Lake.Why This Tibet Journey Changed My Mind About Guided Tours
I am not normally a guided tour kinda gal. Here we didn’t have a choice, but honestly, I would do this 5-day Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake small group tour all over in a heartbeat. The information and insight these guides provided was invaluable.
Lhasa is a gem of a city with a dynamic central old town. The people we met were open and welcoming. It was full of heart-warming experiences, giving me a sense of wonder that will stay with me for a lifetime.
Tibet is an inspiring combination of spiritual significance, natural beauty, and historical importance. I was overwhelmed by the positive experience. I am certain it will remain one of our top travel destinations for years to come.
Enjoying the Potala Palace reflected in the calm waters of a Lhasa park.
Enjoy a classic Lhasa monastery tour with a scenic visit to turquoise Yamdrok Lake.
"Journey from Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake: My Memorable 5-Day Adventure in Central Tibet"