Tibet - Roof of the World

Introduction

Tibet was opened to tourism in 1985. Before this, it avoided influence from the West and this country developed its unique culture and religion independently. Since the spiritual leaders governed Tibet, monasteries and religious institutions were the backbone of power so the importance and prestige were shown by the size and magnificent architecture of these buildings.

Tibetan Buddhism contains many elements of their older religion, “Bon Po” which worshipped the sky, moon, sun, fire, soil and even evil spirits and this is why a monastery such as Tashilhunpo contains thousands of unique statues, paintings (Thangka), religious and historical books that to visit in detail would take weeks. Pilgrims who often travel long distances to fulfill their vows crowd monasteries and their emotions show that religion still holds a very important place in their daily lives.

Nowhere in the Himalayas can the immense height of Mount Everest, the highest peak on earth, be appreciated as one can from Tibet. The northern part of this grand mountain is unobstructed by neighboring peaks or ridges, allowing excellent views of the entire massif from Rongbuk Base Camp.

A good portion of the summit is even visible from several points along the Kathmandu - Lhasa highway, particularly from the Tingri plains. There are a few different routes between Tingri and Rongbuk, Everest Base Camp, the ones we follow are the most demanding, but also the most scenic. We walk over a high ridge with great views of Mount Everest, to the village of Zommug.

After finishing the trek we make our way towards Lhasa, in the towns of Shigatse and Gyantse where we explore monasteries and fully immerse ourselves in the Buddhist culture. Before we fly back to Kathmandu we spend a couple of Days in Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet and an object of devout pilgrimage, it is still a city of wonders.

The medieval push and shove of crowds, the street performers, the stalls hawking everything from prayer flags to jewel-encrusted yak skulls, and the devout tapping their foreheads to the ground at every step is an exotic brew that few newcomers can resist.

Everest Base Camp Trek