Tibet - A.K. Taylor International

Tibet

is a country that has long captured the imagination of the world outside its borders. Locked away in a fortress of the Himalayas between China and the Indian sub-continent, Tibet conjures up terms such as the 'Rooftop of the World,' the 'Land of Snows', and 'Shangri-La'. The sheer number of snow-capped mountaintops is astounding and one will have a difficult time ignoring and resisting the mysterious beauty and allure that surround these peaks.

The image most prevalent in the world's eyes is that it is home to the inspirational Dalai Lama, who brought the plight of the Tibetans out of the shadows of Everest and onto the worldwide stage. This country seems to captivate everyone that sets foot in it whether one comes to see monasteries, study Buddhism, or climb in the famed Himalayas.

The intrigues and tales that lie within the Himalayas are what typically entice people to visit, and that is for good reason. When one flies over these seemingly endless mountains, it is hard to imagine that people can survive in this terrain, but they do, and in incredible fashion. There are ancient monasteries that seem to be suspended in time as they sit perched amongst the mountains, exquisite stupas and temples, and even bustling curio markets.

Lhasa, an object of devout pilgrimage, is a city of wonders as it is considered the heart and soul of Tibet. The skyline is dominated by the Potala, which is a vast white and ochre fortress that serves as a testimonial to the Buddhism which pervades Tibetan life. It was once the seat of the Tibetan government and the location of the tombs of previous Dalai Lamas. But perhaps the most alluring site in this city is the sacred Jokhang Temple, which is considered to be the spiritual heart of the city. It is a memorable exotic brew of street performers, vendors selling goods from jewel encrusted yak skulls to prayer flags, and praying Buddhists. The combination of old and new seems to produce outlandish images that remain imprinted in one's mind's eye for years to come.

As one travels through the country, one is overwhelmed as sparkling snow capped peaks, mountain passes, and age-old monasteries fill one's view. In Xigaze, visit one of the most beautiful remaining examples of Tibetan architecture at the Tashilhumpo Monastery, seat of the Yellow-Hat Panchen Lamas. There are other treasure-houses of art and devotion, such as the sacred Kumbum Stupa in Gyantse which is considered to be the most exquisite example of Newari Design in Tibet.

Yaks survive better than cows at high altitudes.

A trip to Tibet would not be complete without a trek through its renowned mountains. One can see the full splendor of this country as one treks through alpine deserts and sub-tropical forests. One is rewarded with infinite views of sapphire lakes and looming peaks, including that of Everest. It is hard to determine what is more serene, the Tibetan Buddhists or the magical mountains.

POSSIBLE COMBINATIONS AND EXTENSIONS

We highly recommend a combination trip to China. China is home to many extraordinary marvels, such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and the Terra Cotta Warriors. A cruise down the Yangtze River through the Three Gorges will provide lasting impressions of beautiful scenery and insight into rural village life.

For those with a few days to spare, visit Nepal or Bhutan. Trek in the opposite side of the Himalayas and see the similarities and differences of cultures between these mountain locked countries.

For more information or questions, please contact us.

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