Lhasa, as the capital of Tibet, is showcased in its dense cultural and
spiritual atmosphere. It is usually the first window through which
travelers discover Tibet. The grand Potala Palace on the Red Hill, the
Jokhang Temple, the three greatest monasteries of Gelugpa - Drepung,
Ganden and Sera, and the Tibetan Museum are always popular tourist
destinations.
Shigatse, the second largest city of Tibet, features the most complete
natural sceneries. In this region lift Mt. Everest, the highest peak in
the world, and other 4 peaks above 8,000 m. (26,247 ft.) as well as 38
peaks above 7,000 m. (22,966 ft.), earning it the laudatory title of
'The Third Pole of the World' and with a magnetic effect on
mountaineers. The natural reserve here is also to the habitat of many
rare plants and wild animals. Other popular tourist sites include Dram
(Zhangmu) Town, which is a noisy port bordering Nepal, and the
Tashilhunpo Monastery, which is the throne of Panchen Lama.
Lhoka, the cradle of the ancient civilization of Tibet, is the place of
origin of the Tibetan legendary ancestors--a Raksasi and a monkey. The
first temple of Tibet, Samye Monastery , Graveyard of Tibetan Kings,
sacred Yamdrok Yumtso Lake and Lhamo Lhatso Lake, attract a continuous
stream of visitors who come to appreciate or pay tribute. Nyingchi,
located in the low southeast of Tibet, is a beautiful region with a mild
climate. The natural sceneries include the Great Canyon of the Yarlung
Tsangpo River, Bayi Town, Huge Cypress Nature Reserve, Mt. Bon-ri and
its fascinating cliff sculptures.
Ngari, known as 'Roof top of the World', features Mt. Kailash and Lake
Manasarovar, also known as the sacred mountain and the holy lake, which
are prime destinations for pilgrims of Bon, Buddhism and Hindus. Nakchu,
situated in the amazing northern plateau, is the seedbed of the early
cultures of ancient Shangshong Kingdom and Bon.
The traditional Kham Region Chamdo is located in the east rich land and
boasts Karub Ruins of Neolithic Age, some monasteries, mountains, lakes,
hot springs and other natural wonders.