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Pilgrimage to Lhasa: Tibet Shambhala Adventure in quenching your thirst in your spiritual quest.

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The conventional practice of pilgrimage to Lhasa can be traced back to those days where people not only from Kham (eastern Tibet) and Amdo (north eastern) but from every part of the country walking all the way to the city of Lhasa ( Central Tibet)  to pay their holy visit to Jokhang temple (Tsuk Lak Kang). Tsuk Lak Khang is believed to be one of the most sacred Buddhist center in Tibet. It acts as a focal point for pilgrims of Mahayana Buddhist followers. According to the Tibetan tradition, pilgrims visit Jokhang temple to get blessing from Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha which is the primary image of the Jokhang temple. Jokhang temple was built by the king Songtsen Gampo to enshrine the sacred statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, brought to Tibet by the princess Wencheng of the Tang dynasty. There are also other important Buddhist Monasteries like Drepung, Gaden and Sera which pilgrim aims to set their spiritual journey for.

 

Through pilgrimage, Tibetan people seek purification, accumulation of good deeds, and blessing which can be gained via rituals they perform along the way. The conventional way of pilgrimage to Lhasa features Tibetan people with walking sticks on the right hand and prayer beads on the other, carrying a backpack containing Tsampa (Tibetan traditional food) and other necessities during the pilgrimage. It also features Tibetan reciting Buddhist mantra (Om Mani Padme Hum) along their spiritual journey.

 

It is an astonishing fact that there are also Tibetan pilgrims in olden days, who do full prostration all the way to the holy city of Lhasa covering thousands of kilometers in their spiritual journey. Tibetan people believe that the prostration has physical, mental and spiritual benefits.

 

Due to rapid infrastructure and economic development in Tibet, the pilgrimage to Tibet has never been as rough as those of conventional days. The present day pilgrimage to Lhasa can be viewed as one of the most pleasant spiritual journey with airlines connecting from your city to Lhasa presenting the bird eye view of those great mountains of Himalaya. The Qinghai-Tibet express or commonly termed as “Sky Road” would let you experience the world highest express way connecting between city of Xining and Lhasa. Presenting you with the distant beauties of Snow-capped-Mountain, The bluest lake that the displays the perfect reflection of heavenly horizon.

 

The Mt. Kailash Pilgrimage is one another sacred destination which one should not miss to set the spiritual journey for. This part of the trans-Himalaya Tibet is viewed as sacred by other believers like Hinduism, Jainism etc. and attract thousands of the pilgrims every year.  Prostration and circumambulation is associated well with Mt. Kailash Pilgrimage which believes to purify the impurity in and around the pilgrims. Not very far from the Mt. Kailash, should the Mansarova pilgrimage be a must in your list of spiritual destination. It has its own spiritual significance in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism etc.

 

Are you a believer in spiritualism? I am sure you are. If you are about to set your spiritual journey, Travel to Tibet has been and will always be your perfect destination for your spiritual quest journey.

Make sure you don’t forget to visit www.shambhala-adventure.com to quench your thirst in your spiritual quest.

 

 

Consider Quirks, Perks Of Travel To Tibet Before Settling On Standard Vacation Destination

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With the official start of summer quickly approaching, those planning a getaway are most likely starting to consider where to go, how much it’s going to cost and what they are going to do once they get there. According to U.S. Bureau of Transportation figures, three percent of all summer trips between Memorial Day and Labor Day consist of international flights. What’s more, that figure represents a small subset of the more than 600 million long-distance summer vacations typically made by Americans each year.

For those researching possible destinations, let’s look at the typical options: The culture of European locales has long been a common draw and those looking to beat the heat head to coastal countries so they can  go for a swim. However, the unique attractions of what’s popularly known as the “Far East” should appeal to thrill-seekers the world over, especially those considering the possibility of travel to Tibet as a way to beat the crowds and obtain a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The nomadic nature of a visit to this mountain-laden region, where native tour guides and trip-planners can show you how to get around on foot, wheel or rail, is sure to please the adventurer in us all. Established Tibetan tour companies can guide your group on climbing expeditions, motorcycle trips through mountain ranges or a nearly 24-hour, 1,200-mile long train tour from mainland China.

The Tibet Shambhala Adventure train tour simultaneously gets you accustomed to the altitude in this region of the  world while transporting you past geographic wonders such as the Potala Palace, which has been recognized as a “wonder of the world” by the United Nations. According to those same federal statistics, 21 percent of vacations during summer months are for sightseeing purposes. As you can see, the sights in Tibet are a treat for those who commit to this kind of excursion.

Each of these unique outlets offers travelers the chance to get away from it all while immersing themselves in a culture they’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. For more information on travel to Tibet, visit shambhala-adventure.com.

Man, 85, Plans To Climb Mount Everest Again In Hopes Of Reclaiming ‘World’s Oldest’ Title

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No trip to Tibet would be complete without at least setting eyes upon the tallest and, as some would argue, most infamous land mass on Earth: Mount Everest. Following the first successful climb to the top in 1953, more than 200 people have risked life and limb to reach the peak and lost. For those planning on traveling to Tibet, we want to provide our readers with information regarding this headline-grabbing development regarding the 29,000-foot-tall peak.

Nepal man Min Bahadur Sherchan, who is 85 years old, told the Associated Press in mid-April 2017 that he plans to reach the top of Mount Everest – again – and regain his title as the oldest person to make the daunting ascent up the deadly peak. Sherchan first climbed the mountain in 2008 at the age of 76, but his record was shattered by an 80-year-old Japanese man in 2013. That man, Yuichiro Miura, actually skied down Everest as part of a 1970s expedition looking for a third primary route up the mountain. Miura would suffer major injuries during that trip, but later climbed the mountain successfully two times at age 70 and again at 80.

According to the Associated Press, Sherchan wants his trip to serve as an “inspiration for humankind” of all ages. The report adds that Sherchan, who will be accompanied by a team of six fellow mountaineers, hopes to travel the world and campaign for peace following his successful trip.

For the rest of us — who may not quite feel up for climbing 29,000 feet into the sky — trekking around Tibet should more than satisfy our inner nomad without having to ascend to the cruising altitude of a passenger jet liner. Experienced Tibetan travel agents and tour guides will, depending on your interests, point you in the right direction and get you to some of the most scenic and remote locations this region of the world has to offer. There are more than 800,000 square miles of trekking routes for visitors to explore.

Travel industry specialists suggest planning your visit to Tibet between spring and autumn for the best weather and visibility conditions. Specifically, mid-April to mid-November is ideal for visitors planning a trip to Tibet to see the famed mountain ranges of the area. For more information on traveling to Tibet, contact Tibet Shambhala Adventure.

Experience the World’s Highest Railway

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The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the world’s highest railway, connecting Xining, the capital of China’s Qinghai Province, and Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Known as “The Sky Road”, the magnificent Qinghai-Tibet Railway extends 1,956 kilometers on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and reaches 5,072 meters above sea level at its highest point of Tanggula Pass.  The world’s highest train takes 23 hours and 30 minutes to arrive at the final destination of Lhasa.

The railway is a wonder in of itself and passes through some of the region’s most breathtaking scenery. The train ride provides a once in a lifetime experience, which is why so many tourists choose this route to Lhasa. During the ride, you can peer out the window to witness the beauty of the distant snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, enormous grassland, nomad camps, and bountiful wildlife. The railway passes through Qinghai Lake, the Ngonpo Kunlun and Nyechen Thangla Mountain Ranges, and Potala Palace, one of the Seven Wonders of the World Heritage.

What also makes the railway so spectacular are the challenges that were overcome to build it. The harsh geographic conditions of the high plateau, including the lack of oxygen, delicate ecosystem, and permafrost, presented the biggest challenge. The construction of the railway despite the geographic and economic obstacles is part of what makes it so momentous.

When tourists plan their trips to Tibet with us, we encourage them to explore this one-of-a-kind experience. When you choose our tour, you’ll be able to experience the best stops along the way and enjoy a magical journey. This exciting tour allows you to discover Tibet’s unbeatable beauty, while also becoming more acclimated to the high altitude. Learn more about this tour here or contact us at +86-13908907271.

 

Seasonal Guide to Tibetan Trekking

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As thrill seeking adventures become more popular, people are turning more towards activities that are both physical and rewarding. There is something especially beautiful about traversing through lands and trails that pioneers and explorers once used. Carrying nothing but the pack on your back and your sense of adventure, trekking through Tibet allows you the opportunity to physically become one with nature.  Tibet travel is best in late autumn (from late September to late November) but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one of Tibet’s trekking trails all year long depending on your route.

Fall/Spring

August-October/April-May: As Tibetan tourism is opening back up during this time of year; fall and spring are two of the busier seasons for Tibet traveling. Ideally, these two seasons work best for trekking through the Tibetan mountainside. The weather is warm and the skies are considerably clear. You can expect some wind and little amounts of rain as the ice from the winter has melted, therefore unblocking routes that were once impassible weeks before during the winter months.

Winter

December-March: During these months, you can expect cooler temperatures, cool winds, and definitely snow. Even though the sun is still shining, it is still considerably cold during these months. During the winter, Tibet experiences 5-6 months of frost, creating less than ideal conditions for trekking. Visiting lower elevations like Lhasa may be your best bet during these months as fewer tourists will be around and the temperature is more moderate there during this time.

Summer

June-July: Due to the fact that Tibet is a high altitude plateau, you can still expect some snow to fall in the mountains. Some of your higher altitude treks may still see snow during the summer, as well. However, summer is still a good time for trekking as the weather is generally warm to cool and the oxygen content in the air is higher during the summer than most other seasons.

Since trekking involves climbing, going off roads, and venturing down various paths not often traveled, weather plays a vital role in the route you choose to take. For more information and to plan your trekking adventure contact .

Travel to Tibet with Tibet Shambhala Adventure

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Are you planning a trip to Tibet? Tibet is a fascinating place that attracts tons of visitors each year. In order to visit this tremendous region, travelers must work with a travel company from their home country, China or Tibet. Travelers also require a passport and Tibet Entry Permit, which your travel agency should help arrange for you.

To get the most of your trip to Tibet, you should choose Tibet Shambhala Adventure as your travel agency. As a Tibetan-owned and operated company, we provide travelers with the most authentic Tibet experience and offer a variety of great tours that can be customized to suit your unique needs and preferences. Read on to learn the perks of planning your trip to Tibet with Tibet Shambhala Adventure.

See Tibet from a Local’s Perspective

One of the best parts of traveling to a new place is immersing yourself in the local culture. As a Tibetan-owned and operated travel company, we know everything there is to know about Tibet and can provide you with the most authentic experience. The entire Tibet Shambhala Adventure team, including the guides, drivers, cooks, and office workers are Tibetan. When you travel with us, you can learn and see things that you wouldn’t be able to experience if you worked with a non-Tibetan company. With us, you can enjoy all those must-see tourist attractions, as well as those places that are equally as amazing but less popular.

Plan the Ultimate Trip to Tibet

At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, we offer a wide selection of ready-made tours to help you experience all that Tibet has to offer. While you can choose one of these tours, we are very flexible and can cater the tour to suit your specific requests. Whether you’re interested in touring the famous Tibetan monasteries or trekking to Mount Everest, we’ve got you covered! View our Tibet tours here.

Arranging Your Trip to Tibet

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Tibet is a truly amazing place that should be high on your bucket list. The region’s dreamy landscape and unique culture and traditions make it a destination that’s like no other. If you’re planning a trip to Tibet, consider the following tips to make the most out of your journey.

Work with a Tibetan Travel Agency

If you want to travel to Tibet, you’ll need to go through a travel agency. It’s important to choose an experienced and reputable Tibetan travel company to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Your agent will ensure you get the necessary travel permits (see next) and arrange your excursions and activities. It’s best to use a travel company that’s Tibetan owned and operated. At Tibet Shambhala Adventure, our entire staff— from the office workers and guides, to the drivers and cooks— is Tibetan to ensure an authentic and amazing trip to Tibet.

Apply for a Tibet Entry Permit

Unless you have a Chinese passport, you are required to obtain a Tibet Entry Permit. You need to apply for your permit at least 20 days prior to your trip. You will need a permit before your travel agency can book your flight or train into Tibet. If you plan on traveling around Tibet outside of Lhasa, you will also need an Alien’s Travel Permit. Diplomats, journalists, professional media photographers, and government officials cannot get Tibet travel permits and must instead go through the Tibet Foreign Affairs Office. If you are a foreigner traveling to Tibet from China, you will also need a Chinese tourist visa. Find out more about travel permits and visas here.

Avoid Altitude Sickness

Tibet’s elevation can reach 3,000 meters, or 2 miles, above sea level. There is lower oxygen pressure at higher altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness for travelers who are not used to the thinner air. Altitude sickness can cause headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Take it easy and go up slowing to help your body adjust to the higher altitude. You may also want to talk to your doctor about medication or natural remedies for altitude sickness before embarking on your trip to Tibet.

 

The must not miss Tibetan festivals when traveling to Tibet.

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The Shoton festival is heled in the middle of the summer in Lhasa and a lot of people from around Tibet gather in Lhasa. Even the government offices in Lhasa have holiday for a week. It is one of the best chances to see more local festivals, Tibetan opera, local traditional dances, locals are having picnic so you will have an authentic Tibetan experience if your Tibet travel is during the Tibetan Shoton Festival.
Shoton Festival is one of the grandest transitional festivals in Tibet. In local language, Sho refers to yogurt and Ton means banquet and eating. Therefore, Shoton Festival is namely a feast day to have yogurt.

In truth, this ‘yogurt festival’ was originally an utterly religious event, starting in mid-11th century. At that time, people sacrifice yogurt to monasteries. Since late 17th century, it had become an important festival with Tibetan opera and thangka unfolding ceremony, backed up by entertainment and religion activities. Since it was hosted by Lhasa government, it has changed into a famous celebration combining tradition and modernization.

The Shoton festival for 2016 was begun from 1st Sep and it will last long until 7th Sep 2016. During the great Shoton festival, a giant Buddha painting (thangka) unveiling ceremony in Drepung Monastery is the most remarkable. The 500-square-meter (598-square-yard) painting of Shakyamuni Buddha is gradually open on the hillside back of the monastery as the light in the very first morning strike on the large thangka at eight o’clock. The ceremony is called ‘Buddha basking in the sun’.
Tibetan Opera is another big draw which is to be carried on since the second day of the festival from eleven o’clock in the morning until dark. Shows can be admired in Norbulingka and Lukhang (Dragon King Pond) Park behind the Potala Palace. The locals sit on mat with families and friends, drink butter tea and chang ( the local Tibetan barley beer ) taste dessert and watch the opera while waving the prayer wheel or finger the rosary in hand. During the period, different schools of Tibetan opera will compete with each other, and teams from Qinghai, Gansu, Sichuan and Yunnan will come to the holy Lhasa to improve their skills by exchanges.

The Top Reasons to Travel to Tibet

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If you’re looking for a travel destination that offers unsurpassed beauty, rich culture, and a combination of thrill and relaxation, then Tibet is your go-to vacation spot.  One of the most mysterious and exciting places on Earth, Tibet enthralls tourists from China and all over the world. While there are countless reasons to journey to Tibet, we’re rounded up our favorites.

Scenic Beauty

While most popular travel destinations boast beautiful scenery, there’s nothing quite like the landscape of Tibet. From the snow-capped mountains and glaciers, to the mirror-like lakes and lush greenery, there’s beauty and mystery everywhere you turn. Experience Tibet’s unparalleled beauty on one of our train tours, where you’ll journey on the world’s highest train and witness the spectacular Qinghai Lake, Kunlun and Nyenchen Thangla mountain ranges, and Potala Palace, one of the Seven Wonders of the World Heritage sites.

Ancient Culture

Tibet’s culture is very unique and different from China’s. The Tibetan people are very religious and still follow ancient traditions. You can visit a variety of monasteries and other religious sites to witness these traditions and rituals firsthand. During your trip to Tibet, you have to visit the world-famous Potala Palace, as well as Sera Monastery, Palkor Monastery, and Rongbuk Monastery, which is located on the peak of Mount Everest.

Mental & Spiritual Rejuvenation

With its serene and pure environment, Tibet is an ideal place for mental and spiritual rejuvenation. Your trip to Tibet can provide an escape from modern life and allow you to contemplate your spirituality. You can stay at a monastery and engage in Tibetan religious rituals. Even just being around the peaceful landscape can be enough to feel rejuvenated.

Adrenaline Rush

Tibet offers a ton of opportunities to get your adrenaline pumping, including trekking, hiking, biking, and much more. By taking part in these recreational activities you can get off the beaten path and better explore Tibet.

To plan the ultimate trip to Tibet, call on Tibet Shambhala Adventure. We offer a wide range of Tibet tours catered to your unique needs and preferences, so that you can have the adventure of a lifetime.

 

 

Three Must-See Sites When Traveling to Tibet

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With its magnificent landscape and unique culture and religious traditions, Tibet attracts and enchants tourists from all over the globe. While the region has so much to see and offer, here are three amazing sites you don’t want to miss when traveling to Tibet.

Potala Palace

Situated atop the Red Hill in central Lhasa, the world famous Potala Palace is the highest ancient palace on earth. The grand palace is 13 stories high, reaches over 3,700m at its highest point, and houses over a thousand rooms.  Tibet’s chief landmark and pilgrimage site, the Potala Palace has been the winter residence of the Dalia Lamas since the 17th century and was once the seat of the Tibetan government. Due to its magnificence and major role in Tibetan Buddhism and history, the Potala Palace is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Sera Monastery

Also located in Lhasa is the Sera Monastery, one of the three famous monasteries in the city. Built in 1419, the Sera Monastery is dedicated to the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monks gather at the monastery’s Debate Courtyard for a debating session on Buddhist doctrines. The debates are open to tourists and held every day at 3 p.m., except Sunday.

Mount Everest

Often called the “Roof of the World”, Tibet is one of the highest regions in the world and surrounded my spectacular mountain ranges, including Mount Everest— the tallest mountain on Earth. Mt. Everest is located in the Mahalangur Mountain Range in Tibet and Nepal, and its peak is over 8,800 meters above sea level. The mountain is a sacred place for the Tibetans and Nepalese, as well as a sought-after destination for mountaineering, hiking, sightseeing, and photography.

Plan the ultimate trip to Tibet with the help of Tibet Shambhala Adventure. We are a Tibet-owned travel company based in Lhasa that will introduce you to all of the wonders of the region. Visit us online at www.shambhala-adventure.com or call +86-13908907271 to plan the perfect adventure.