Shigatse is located in the south of Tibet, north of the grand Himalaya mountains, and the middles reach of the Yarlung Zangbo River. As a prosperous, traditional cultural city in Tibet, Shigatse is a center for Tibetan Buddhism. It is used as the residence of the Panchen Lama. With thousands of years’history, Shigatse was the center for Tibetan politics and culture. That’s why you can see a great number of grand architectures in this city. In the past, those buildings were the symbol of power. But now, it has been remolded as scenic spots and highlights.
Temples and monasteries are here and there, which show the history of Shigatse, and the importance of Buddhism in Tibetans' daily lives, such as Yungdrungling Monastery, Rongbuk Monastery, Nartang Monastery, Shalu Monastery, Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, etc. Besides those Buddhist buildings, you can also enjoy the charming natural scenery in this Tibetan plateau. Sightseeing by the bank of Yamdrok Lake, Peikutso Lake, seeing the sunrise and sunset at Everest Base Camp, enjoying the shining Karola Glacier, and exploring the mysterious Milarepa's Meditation Cave are the best experiences.
The best time to visit Shigatse is from April to October. The rainy season will last from July to August. If you want to do a trek, you’d better avoid the two months because the roads may be blocked by natural disasters such as the landslide. Winter is too chilly to travel. The roads will be covered by heavy snows.
Everest Base Camp
Yamdroktso Lake
Tashilhunpo Monastery
Sakya Monastery
Karola Glacier
Gyantse Dzong
Shalu Monastery
Peikutso Lake
Nartang Monastery
Natang Monastery
Rongbuk Monastery
Shegar Dzong
Gyirong Valley
Shishapangma
Yungdrungling Monastery
Recommended Tour Itineraries in Shigatse Prefecture
This is a relatively easy route for travelers. After 2 days of essential sightseeing tour in Lhasa, tourists will go to Shigatse passing through Gyantse, then stay overnight at the lakeside of Namtso - the holiest lake in Tibet. At last, enjoy a hot spring bath in Yampachen on the way back to Lhasa.
With a history of more than 600 years, the Gyantse Horse Racing Festival is a reflection of the distinctive cultures and religious tradition of Tibet. Not only that, you’ll also visit most of the famous scenic spots in Lhasa and Shigatse in the trip.
For the 12-day tour, you will travel from Chengdu to Lhasa and then to Kathmandu. In Tibet, you will have a good chance to visit the famous monasteries, charming natural landscape, and awe-inspiring Mount Everest.
Get More Itineraries in Shigatse Prefecture
