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Tibet Spa & Massage: How to Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage during a Tibet Tour?
With 1,300 years of history, Tibetan spa and massage stand out for their unique use of Tibetan herbs. The centerpiece is Tibetan medicinal bathing, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2018. Combined with a special session like Himalayan singing bowl therapy, it makes for a must-try experience during your Tibet journey.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Tibetan spa and massage so special, the best times and places to enjoy them, and who should avoid certain treatments. Read on and let the spa and massage, with the aroma of Tibetan herbs, become part of your adventure.
What’s Special About Tibetan Spa and Massage? All Done with Tibetan Herbs
Where to Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage During a Tibet Trip?
When Is the Best Time to Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage?
Who Can’t Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage?
What’s Special About Tibetan Spa and Massage? All Done with Tibetan Herbs
The unique feature of Tibetan spa and massage is the medicinal bath that before the massage. Originally developed as a health and wellness practice for religious leaders and living Buddhas, this therapy is based on a blend of five Tibetan medicines: prickly juniper leaves, Rhododendron anthopogon, Tibetan ephedra, large-seeded wormwood, and Sabina branches.
The herbs are processed and fermented to create a medicinal liquid. When you soak in it, the active ingredients are absorbed through the skin. This therapy is commonly used to relieve rheumatic arthritis, gout, skin conditions, and other ailments, and it was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2018.
Generally, the whole Spa process takes around 2 hours. First, there is a 40-minute bathing and soaking session. Start with a quick shower, and then immerse yourself in a Tibetan herbal bath, as much as 12 different natural herbs and Tibetan flowers, including the above-mentioned 5 essentials, in Tibet.
Warm water infused with Tibetan herbs relaxes your body, making every pore feel alive and invigorated. During the bath, you’ll also be served tea brewed with Rhodiola and saffron. After the bath, you’ll be wrapped in towels to let your body sweat gently.
Next comes a 75-minute spa massage. Similar to a regular spa, the massage begins with acupressure on the head, then works through the abdomen, thighs, and feet. The professional therapist’s technique is exceptional, combining essential oils and hot stones, heated stones are applied with oil along the spine for extra relief for your Tibet tour.
You can also choose to add a singing bowl session to your spa and massage. The singing bowls originate from the Himalayan region and are made by hand from seven types of local metals and natural minerals. When struck or rubbed, the vibrations penetrate deeply into the body and mind. Some monks also use them for emotional balance, relaxation, and stress release.
Tibetan Herbs used in Tibetan Spa and Massage.
Join our 4-day Lhasa tour to discover the essence of the city and unwind with a Tibetan spa.
Where to Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage During a Tibet Trip?
Considering the location, service, quality, and price, we’ve selected two top places for you to enjoy a Tibetan spa and massage. The first is the Xingkong Tibetan Medicinal Bath, also known as “Kamariqu,” and the second is the Ganluqumi Tibetan Medicinal Bath. Both are excellent options to experience a traditional Tibetan medicinal bath during your Lhasa tour.
Xingkong Tibetan Medicinal Bath is located in Building 22 of the Tibetan Courtyard Style Street, Cijuelin Tibet Cultural Tourism Creative Park, in the southern part of Lhasa, about a 15-minute drive from the Potala Palace. It is also close to the venue of the Wencheng Princess musical show.
This is one of the best places in Tibet for a medicinal bath, with prices ranging from $30 to $200 depending on the package. Advance booking is recommended, as it is the most popular option.
Ganluqumi Tibetan Medicinal Bath is located on the 3rd floor of the Ganlu Building, west of Sera Road and north of Dangre Road, in Chengguan District, northern Lhasa. It is only a 10-minute drive from the Potala Palace. Prices are similar to those at Xingkong Tibetan Medicinal Bath.
To give our customers a better chance to experience the charm of Tibetan spa and massage, we have included it in all of our Tibet winter tour packages, from the end of October through the following March.
Whether you are on a 4-day Lhasa tour, an 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp journey, or a 7 days from Lhasa to Kathmandu, the warm herbal Tibetan spa and massage will surely be one of the highlights of your winter trip.
Another option is that , if you don’t need a spa and just want a massage in the hotel, in big cities like Lhasa and Shigatse you can request a blind massage service. It usually lasts about one and a half hours. Simply just tell our Tibetan guide, and they will help arrange it to relax your day.
Note: For the Tibetan spa and massage included in our Winter package: if your tour is only in Lhasa, you’ll enjoy it before leaving the city. If your trip continues to Everest Base Camp, you’ll enjoy the spa after returning to Lhasa from Everest.
Clear View of Mount Everest from Gawula Pass during a Tibet winter tour.
Join our most popular 8-day Lhasa to Everest Base Camp tour and experience Tibet in winter.
When Is the Best Time to Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage?
During your first one or two days in Tibet, it’s best to avoid bathing or soaking. This allows your body time to adapt to the high-altitude climate and helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness in Tibet. Rest and gentle activities are recommended at the beginning of your trip.
By the third day, after visiting the Potala Palace, you may consider a relaxing treatment. A simple foot massage is a good choice, or you can try a Tibetan medicinal bath. If you only plan to experience one treatment during your stay, we highly recommend the herbal medicinal bath.
Another perfect time to enjoy a Tibetan spa is after watching the Wencheng Princess musical show in Lhasa. The soothing therapies provide a wonderful way to unwind after the performance.
You can also treat yourself to a Tibetan spa or massage before leaving Lhasa. The warmth of a herbal bath or the comfort of a skilled massage will restore your energy, preparing you for the adventures ahead, whether it’s continuing on to the Tibet Everest Base Camp tour or returning home.
The staff is preparing for a Tibetan Spa and Massage.Who Can’t Enjoy Tibetan Spa and Massage?
Generally speaking, almost everyone can enjoy a Tibetan spa or massage, but certain groups of people should either avoid it or take extra precautions.
Those with heart problems or high blood pressure: Tibetan spa treatments often involve hot tubs, herbal baths, and deep, intensive massages. So they may not be suitable for those with heart conditions or hypertension.
People with infections skin conditions, or open wounds: Spa treatments can worsen existing infections, irritate open wounds, or even risk spreading contagious skin conditions to others.
Those with allergies or sensitive skin: Strong herbal oils, scrubs, or aromatherapy products can trigger allergic reactions or cause irritation in people with delicate or reactive skin.
Pregnant women: For safety reasons, Tibetan spa and massage therapies are generally not recommended during pregnancy, as some treatments may be too intense.
Visitors with severe altitude sickness: Tibetan spa and massage involve heat and sometimes intensive procedures, which may be too taxing for those struggling with altitude sickness.
But there’s no need to worry, professional doctors and spa therapists are always available to provide consultations and help determine whether a Tibetan spa or massage is suitable for you. With their guidance, you can enjoy this unique experience safely and comfortably.
Bathtubs and Himalayan singing bowl for Tibetan Spa and massage.More Insider Tips for Enjoying Tibetan Spa and Massage
1. It is important to choose an appropriate time for a medicinal bath. It is not advisable to take a medicinal bath immediately after meals. Taking it right after a meal may interfere with digestion and put additional strain on the heart.
2. After the bath, if you sweat heavily, you could drink beverages such as fruit juice or a sugar-and-salt solution. Avoid drinking, smoking, or consuming alcohol immediately. After the medicinal bath, rest in bed to relax your body and avoid catch cold.
3. Book in advance for the best experience. For example, at the Xingkong Tibetan Medicinal Bath, certain spots offer a stunning view of the Potala Palace right from your bath. Many quality spas also provide complimentary Tibetan buffets, so you can refuel and relax after your soak.
4. During the bath, it’s advisable to drink water to stay hydrated. Most shops also offer herbal Tibetan tea, and oxygen is available for anyone who may need it during the bath.
Conclusion
Tibetan spa and massage are the perfect way to relax and recharge during your Tibet trip. From herbal baths to massages and singing bowl therapy, these treatments soothe both body and mind, letting you unwind after exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural sites.
Plan ahead for the best experience, give your body time to adjust to the altitude, stay hydrated, and book in advance for prime spots. Adding a Tibetan spa to your journey leaves you refreshed, energized, and ready for the adventures ahead. Contact us to plan your Tibet tour now!
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