Lhasa to Kathmandu vs. Kathmandu to Lhasa: Which Overland Route Should You Take?

Sunscreen Tips for Tibet: How to Apply It Right in Strong UV Rays

At high altitudes, the atmosphere is far less dense, so there's fewer particles to absorb or scatter UV radiation, which means you're closer to the sun, and the "filter" that shields you on the plains is drastically thinner. UVA rays, the ones that cause wrinkles and long-term skin damage, penetrate deep here, while UVB rays (responsible for sunburn) hit harder and faster. Skipping proper sun can lead to blistering burns that ruin your itinerary, or even increase your risk of skin cancer down the line. Trust me, no one wants to spend their dream Tibet tour hiding in a hotel room because their skin is too sore to go outside.

Things to Know about Tibetan Language

Walking through Lhasa's bustling Barkhor Street, your ears will catch the melodic tones of Tibetan, the mother tongue of the region's people. This ancient language, belonging to the Tibeto-Burman family, carries centuries of Buddhist philosophy, nomadic wisdom, and cultural identity. What many travelers don't realize is that Tibetan encompasses several distinct dialects that change with the geography.

What to Know Before Going to Tibet's Everest Base Camp: Must-Read Tips

Venturing to Everest Base Camp requires more than ordinary travel preparations; you are stepping into a realm of thin air and profound cold. To fully embrace this adventure of a lifetime, prioritize acclimatization, invest in quality cold-weather gear, and maintain a respectful awareness of the high-altitude environment.

Wind Horses in the Sky: Discovering Tibet's Sacred Longda

When you travel through the Tibetan Plateau—whether driving along the iconic Sichuan-Tibet Highway, standing beside Namtso Lake, or hiking near Mount Everest Base Camp—you'll likely spot bursts of colorful paper fluttering in the wind, or clusters of cloth squares tied to sacred rocks and bridges. They're Longda, carrying prayers and blessings across the mountains.

Monlam Chenmo: Tibet's Grand Great Prayer Festival

Monlam Chenmo has a rich history dating back to 1409, when it was founded by Tsongkhapa, the revered founder of Tibet's Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival was created to honor Sakyamuni Buddha, marking the anniversary of his enlightenment. What began as a small gathering of monks has grown into Tibet's largest religious festival, spanning from the 3rd to the 15th day of the first Tibetan lunar month (usually February or March on the Gregorian calendar). Tsongkhapa's vision was to unite the faithful in prayer, and today, that vision lives on—Monlam Chenmo is not just a celebration, but a powerful expression of Tibetan Buddhist faith, bringing together people from all walks of life to seek blessings, wisdom, and harmony.

Tibet Travel Permit: Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions

I've rounded up the most common and urgent questions foreign travelers ask, with straightforward, friendly answers to help you plan with confidence!

Pala Manor: Tibet's Timeless Noble Estate

If you're chasing an authentic taste of Tibet's rich heritage beyond Lhasa's iconic landmarks, Pala Manor in Gyantse County is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Nestled just 4 kilometers southwest of Gyantse town and a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Shigatse, this well-preserved noble residence is also easily accessible from Lhasa—a manageable 5-hour journey along the Lhasa-Shigatse Expressway. Far from being a remote detour, it fits seamlessly into any Tibet itinerary, offering a rare glimpse into the refined lifestyle of Tibet's noble families and the exquisite architectural fusion that defined their era.

Tibet 4000m+ Attractions You Should Know

Altitude sickness is a common concern during Tibet trip, but here's a pro tip: oxygen cylinders at remote attractions are not only pricey (often double or triple the city/town price) but can be hard to find when you need them most. So, stock up on oxygen in major hubs like Lhasa or Shigatse before venturing out—you'll save money and travel with peace of mind. Below, I've rounded up 20 of Tibet's most popular 4,000m+ attractions, each with a quick breakdown to help you visualize the adventure and plan your itinerary like a pro.