Introduction
Tibet also popular as 'Shangri La', 'the Rooftop of the World' - is well nestled in its Himalayan fortress. Tibetans are mainly Chinese immigrants settled in Tibet. The best time to visit Tibet is between May and early November. Lhasa, the heart of Tibet is an important pilgrimage also called the city of wonders. The Potala, the picturesque white fortress dominates the Lhasa's skyline. The Jokhang temple in Lhasa is the spiritual seat of the city and the country. Among Tibet's other tourist attractions are Shigatse, the seat of the Panchen Lama and Mt Kailash (the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism) are set amidst the beautiful range of peaks.
Gyantse in southwest of Lhasa is the least Chinese-influenced towns in Tibet and is worth a visit. The Palkhor Monastery, built in 1427, is known for its superb Kumbum (10,000 images) stupa. The dzong (old fort) that towers above the village offers a fine view over the valley. The approach to Mt Everest or Qomolangma (8848m/29,021ft) from Tibet provides far better access to the world's highest peak as compared to the approach from Nepal. Some 27,000 sq km around Everest has been designated as the Qomolangma Nature Preserve for preserving the environmental and the cultural traditions. The Everest Base Camp is the most popular trekking destination in Tibet. Sakya is 152km (94mi) in the west of Shigatse. The huge monastery here is one of the oldest monasteries, which is around 700 years old with the finest collection of Tibetan religious relics.