About Tibet

World's tallest mountains, adventurous treks, ancient monasteries and intriguing Tibetan Buddhists culture, sums up the dreamlike beauty of Tibet. It covers a major part of the world’s highest and largest plateau, Tibetan plateau, which is popularly called the 'Roof of the World'. Tibet is also noted for being an important pilgrimage site of Hindus and Buddhists due to the sacred mountain, Mount Kailash. The pristine hilly jewel is home to some of the world's tallest mountains like Mount Everest. Soak in the untouched beauty, experience adrenaline rush riding the highest motorable roads and explore the fascinating Tibetan Buddhist culture.

People and culture
The people of Tibet are passionate followers of Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan Muslims and Christians are also found in minorities. It is common to see people speaking the Tibetan language in a variety of dialects. Lhasa dialect also called Standard Tibetan is the most spoken dialect of all. The most grown crop in Tibet is barley and is eaten in various forms. Tsampa, momos (Tibetan dumplings) and Thukpa are common dishes relished by locals. The Tibetan cuisine is traditionally served with bamboo chopsticks. Butter tea is national beverage, perfect to keep the body warm at such high altitudes. The locals are experts in making handicrafts which also generate high income by selling to tourists. Tibetan rugs, carpets, hats, jewelry and quilts are popularly sold.

Festivals of Tibet
The carnival atmosphere of Tibet is best seen during the festive celebrations. Tibetan festivals are categorized into religious festivals and folk ones. Religious ones are held in the monasteries with large-scale chanting, etc.  Folk festivals are for ordinary people and are celebrated by dancing, singing and enjoying sports activities like yak racing. Tibetan New Year (Losar) is the most important festival in Tibet. People offer special offerings to deities, eat ‘Guthuk’ with family and go to monasteries.  Saga Dawa is another popular festival celebrated to mark the birth, enlightenment and Nirvana of Buddha. Sho Dun festival, also known as Yoghurt festival is celebrated with Tibetan opera performance and Buddha Thangka unfolding ceremony. Butter Lamp festival commemorates the victory of Shakyamuni Buddha against heretics. People light lamps made of butter and make butter sculptures of Buddha, animals, flowers and birds.

Top Attractions in Tibet
Lhasa is the capital city Tibet Autonomous Region and is home to two world heritage sites – the Potala Palace and Norbulingka. The Potala Palace - Palace of Art is a massive building complex and will fascinate you with the interesting collection of the museum. Norbulingka is a beautiful palace and former summer residence of Dalai Lama. It is noted for the grand celebration of Sho Dun festival held every year. Tibet is also famous for its temples and monasteries. Sakya Monastery represents Mongolian architecture and contains some of the most magnificent artwork in Tibet. Jokhang Temple is an important Buddhist temple located in Lhasa. It reflects a fine blend of Indian Vihara design, Tibetan and Nepalese design. Tibet is also known for its pristine nature. Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world, will sweep you off your feet with its splendid beauty.

Best time to visit
The ideal time to enjoy the picturesque scenery of Tibet is from May to October. The frigid temperatures rise up offering pleasant weather for sightseeing. If you want to visit this paradise for trekking, then it is recommended to visit during September and October.