Tibet

Tibet Autonomous Region: The Absolute Essentials

This selection highlights the architectural and spiritual landmarks of the Tibet Autonomous Region. It features the Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, and the 7th-century Jokhang Monastery, the spiritual center of Lhasa. The list includes major monastic universities like Sera and Tashilhunpo, the seat of the State Oracle at Nechung, and the ancient Tradruk Temple in the Yarlung Valley. For natural significance, it encompasses Mount Kailash, a sacred pilgrimage site in the remote Ngari Prefecture.

Potala Palace

Historic palace and fortress that served as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its religious and cultural significance.

Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace

A UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Monastery, and the Norbulingka summer palace. These locations represent the historical center of Tibetan administration and religious life.

Jokhang Monastery

The Jokhang, or the Ra sa 'phrul snang gtsug lag khang, or Qoikang Monastery, or Zuglagkang, is considered the "heart of Lhasa".

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery is an historically and culturally important monastery in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet.

Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a mountain in Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Sera Monastery

Sera Monastery is one of the "great three" Gelug university monasteries of Tibet, located 1.25 miles north of Lhasa and about 5 km north of…

Nechung Monastery

Nechung Monastery, Nechung Gompa or Nechung Chok, is the seat of the State Oracle of Tibet.

Changzhug

Tradruk Temple in the Yarlung Valley is the earliest great geomantic temple after the Jokhang and some sources say it predates that temple.