Tibet

Overview of Tibet Treks

If Earth were a building, its roof would be Tibet, which is called “the roof of the world.” It is called so because it is located in the Tibetan Plateau, which lies at a high altitude above 4,500 m. Moreover, it is surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the world. So, what comes to your mind when you hear Tibet? Likely, you envision towering Himalayan peaks, vast pristine landscapes, and centuries-old Buddhist monastries. You are not wrong.

Similarly, what comes to mind when you hear “Tibet Treks”? Is it Kailash Mountain, Everest Base Camp, pilgrimage sites, Mansarovar, Tibetan Buddhism, or remote villages? Tibet Trek is everything that crossed your mind. It is a high-altitude trek through the culturally rich land where Buddhism flourished. Trekking in Tibet is an experience of peace and beauty. As you walk in the footsteps of pilgrims, you experience the mysticism unique to Tibet.

Top Tibet Treks and Tours

If trekking in Nepal is a thrilling adventure through the diverse culture, trekking in Tibet is a blend of rich ancient cultural immersion and adventure. From arid landscape-like areas to the high Himalayas, Tibet offers treks suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Let us find out more about Tibet treks.

23 Days Mt. Kailash via Simikot Trek Package

• Total Duration: 23 days
• Highest Elevation: Dolma La Pass (5,630 m)
• Accommodations: Hotels and Camps

Mount Kailash is significant in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religions. In Hinduism, it is considered the abode of Lord Shiva. In Jainism, it is believed that their first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, attained moksha in Kailash. In Buddhism, it is supposed to be home to Buddha Demchok. In Bon religion, it is the place from where the founder, Thonpa Shenrab Miwo, came down to Earth from heaven. Mount Kailash is truly a symbol of religious diversity, inviting people from all around the world.

The 23-day Mt. Kailash via Simikot Trek takes you to the western region of Tibet and allows you to circumambulate Mount Kailash. Besides the mountains and remote settlements, Lake Mansarovar and Rakshas Taal are the major attractions of this trek. It is a challenging journey that doesn’t just include trekking in Tibet but also in the remote far western regions of Nepal. Combining both Nepal and Tibet treks, this package offers trekkers a blend of traditional Nepalese and Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Tibet Motorbike Tour Package

• Duration: 14 Days
• Highest Elevation: 5,200 m (Everest Base Camp)
• Accommodation: Lodges and Hotels

There are numerous faces to adventure. Not everyone wants to trek. Some people enjoy feeling the cool breeze against their faces while riding a motorbike amidst the fluttering prayer flags and the sights of the tall snow-capped mountains. The 14-day Tibet Motorbike Tour is for adventurers who prefer an exhilarating ride through the vast Tibetan Plateau. This motorbike journey will take you across high mountain passes and scenic valleys.

In this tour, you will visit ancient monasteries and palaces and observe Tibetan culture closely. The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the stunning Yamdrok Lake will also be seen. Not only that, but you will also reach the Everest Base Camp on your bike. Yes, on your bike! Unlike the Everest Base Camp in Nepal, the EBC base camp on the north Tibetan side is connected by road, and you can visit it during this biking tour.

Tibet Samye Monastery Trek

• Duration: 10 Days
• Highest Elevation: 5,200 m (Everest Base Camp)
• Accommodation: Lodges and Hotels

Samye Monastery, or the Samye Gompa, is the first Tibetan Buddhist and Nyingma monastery built in Tibet. Construction began in 763 during the reign of Trisong Deutsen and was completed in 779 when Padmasambhava tamed the local spirits. The Tibet Samye Monastery Trek takes you to this monastery, which has survived wars and a cultural revolution. If there is any actual cultural trek, it has to be this.

This 10-day trek takes you through the historic heartland of Tibetan Buddhism. It allows you to explore several centuries-old monasteries. The route follows an ancient pilgrimage route to the Samye Monastery, but it is not the only gompa you will encounter. Ganden Monastery, which is more than 600 years old, along with several other monasteries, is the major highlight of this trek. 

Mount Kailash Trek

• Total Duration: 18 days
• Highest Elevation: Dolma La Pass (5,630 m)
• Accommodations: Hotels and Camps

Now you know how vital Mount Kailsh is to devotees, Hindu, Buddhist, or Jain. However, did you know that reaching there via Simikot is not the only way? You can do the Mount Kailash Trek in about 18 days from Nepal via Kiyorng (Kerung in Nepali). Unlike trekking through the rugged trails of western Nepal, you will directly start this trek from Kiryong, where you will head towards Thong-La.

During this trek, there will be two acclimatizations, one in the Kerung and one in the Darchen. Your Kailash Kora (circumambulation) begins and ends at Darchen. The rugged path around Mount Kailash is about 52 Km. This journey combines a tour and trek, as you will mostly drive to reach Darchen and return to Kiryong.

Everest Expedition from Tibet

• Total Duration: 65 days
• Highest Elevation: Mount Everest (8,848 m)
• Accommodations: Hotels, Guest Houses, and Camps

Climbing Everest is not the only way to conquer it. You can also do so from Tibet via the North Col Route. In 1921, the first attempt to explore the vicinity of Mount Everest and, if possible, climb it was made from the Tibet side. So, the Everest Expedition from Tibet can be an alternative and equally challenging option to conquer the tallest mountain in the world. It is also called Chomolungma in Tibetan, which means mother Goddess of the world.

After meeting your uncle in the south col of Nepal, you will drive directly to the EBC in Tibet and acclimatize there. Then, your upcoming days will have multiple ascents and descents until you conquer the peak. Nepal’s route is not as crowded, but the challenges are equal. So remember, this expedition requires advanced mountaineering skills, a lot of acclimatization, and strong physical fitness. 

About Tibet

Tibet is located in the Himalayan regions of central Asia. It shares its border with China, Nepal, India, and Bhutan. It lies on the Tibetan Plateau, which is the highest and largest plateau in the world. The plateau lies above 4,500 meters from sea level, so most of the places in Tibet are above that level. The capital of Tibet is Lhasa, which was also known as the trade hub in the ancient period, as people from the Himalayas in Nepal would trade items in Lhasa.

Tibet has been a center of Buddhism since the 7th century when Buddhism was first fostered here. The Tibetan empire was also established during this time. Today, Buddhism is deeply rooted in its soil. Despite political instability, it managed to preserve its cultural and religious traditions.

Cultural Heritage of Tibet

As mentioned above, Tibetan Buddhism has shaped Tibet’s cultural heritage. It influences the architecture, festivals, arts, and even the daily lives of Tibetan people. The four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism—Nyingma, Sakya, Kagyu, and Gelug (of Dalai Lama)—contribute to Tibet’s rich cultural legacy. Below are a few aspects that reflect this cultural heritage.

• Monasteries—Monasteries are the hubs for Tibetan monks to practice meditation, pray, and engage in philosophical discourses. Saym, Ganden, and Tashilhunpo are some of the major monasteries in Tibet.
• Sacred Sites— As mentioned above, Mount Kailash is one of Tibet’s most holy places (mountain). Besides, places like Lake Namtso and Jhokang temple are also famous sacred sites.
• Festivals—Tibet’s festivals also reflect its rich cultural heritage. The significant parts of festivals are masked dance, prayer ceremonies, and traditional performances. Losar, Saga Dewa Festival, and Shoton Festival are festivals celebrated in Tibet.
• Tibetan Art and Architecture—Tibetan art is deeply influenced by Buddism, from its thangka paintings to the monasteries. The statues, murals, and mani walls echo Tibet’s cultural heritage.

Note: The Potala Palace, Jhokang Temple, and Norbulingka are three places in Tibet listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Do we need Permits to Trek in Tibet?

Trekking in Tibet requires multiple permits due to its political sensitivity. Besides, Tibet has multiple restricted places because it is a culturally rich place with a unique environment that needs to be protected. The Chinese government enforces these permits to regulate tourism and monitor foreign visitors. They also control the access near the border regions.

Note: If you are trekking to Kailash via Simikot, you will also need to obtain the Restricted Area Permit in Nepal, as a significant part of this trek involves trekking in the restricted regions of Nepal. You also need to get a Chinese visa to enter Tibet. 

Can a beginner trek to Tibet?

Yes, a beginner can trek to Tibet. But it is not that simple. Tibet Treks are different than Nepal. Various regions in Tibet can be accessed through roads, including Everest Base Camp. However, the trek itself is remote and in a rugged landscape. The treks are also high altitude, requiring you to reach elevations beyond 5,000 meters. Limited accommodations require you to stay either at a tent or a monastery. So, the trek can be tranquil but is equally challenging.

The Tibet Trek is tranquil because there aren’t many trekkers on the trail. So, you might find it peaceful while trekking. But the journey will be equally challenging. As a beginner, you must be prepared for challenges like altitude, unpredictable weather, remote terrains, lack of proper accommodations, and many more. Any beginner can trek in Tibet with the proper planning and adequate preparation. 

Tips for the Beginner Trekkers

Here are some of the tips you might find helpful as a beginner for the Tibet Trek:

• If you are a beginner, opt for shorter treks like the Samye Monastery Trek. If you want to go on a challenging trek like the Mount Kailash Trek, ensure you are physically fit.
• Because of the risk of altitude sickness, separate days are needed for acclimatization. Kiyrong and Drachen are some of the best places for acclimatization.
• To prepare yourself, focus on cardiovascular exercises and leg strengthening exercises.
• Always carry your documents with you.
• While at monasteries, ensure you follow the rules and maintain the silence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Trekking in Tibet means exploring the terrain’s ruggedness and the rich cultural history it has to offer. From traversing sacred sites like Mount Kailash to roaming around ancient cities like Lhasa, the Tibet Trek and tour allow you to look into yourself. However, remember that the journey is challenging. You must be physically and mentally prepared. Maybe you have seen all the floors; how about experiencing the roof now?