In the southwest of Tibet, there is a plain formed by the confluence of the Yarlung Tsangpo River and Nyainchu River. Shigatse - the second largest city in Tibet comes after Lhasa, is sitting there. With an average elevation from 3,840 to 4,464 meters, Shigatse owns various of landscapes: endless meadow, fruitful cropland, and spectacular snow-covered mountain....you can find all the awe-inspiring scene that impresses you in Shigatse. Besides, the pleasant climate and fertile land provide a stable life for the local people, therefore, it is regarded as “the Manor of Happiness”.
The highlight of Shigatse is the highest mountain on earth – Mt. Everest, which attracts thousands of travelers to come every year and makes Shigatse a popular travel destination. Apart from natural attractions, Shigatse has many religious scenic spots as well. After all, it’s been a city for over 600 years and the domain of Panchen Lama. The famous Tashilhunpo Monastery, Phalkor Monastery, and Sakya Monastery…are all located here. It’s definitely a place where you can explore Tibetan Buddhism more deeply.
Shigatse is the highest city in Tibet which attracts lots of travelers with its charming views. Majestic Everest, ancient Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, crystal-like Peikutso Lake, shining Karola Glacier and so on are all recommended places to go. Set foot on this beautiful high plateau, and explore the highlights by yourself. View more>>
At present, there are two main gateways for travelers to get to Shigatse - Lhasa and Nepal.
If you choose an overland route from Lhasa to Shigatse, you can take a car or bus. The distance between Lhasa and Shigatse is about 271 kilometers, and it takes five hours to arrive at the destination. What’s more, taking a train to Shigatse from Lhasa is available now because of the extension of the Qinghai - Tibet Railway. The railway distance from Lhasa to Shigatse is about 197 kilometers, and it takes travelers 2:55 hours to arrive.
Some travelers will take Nepal as an entry point. If you prefer an overland tour, the G318 Friendship Highway via Gyirong Port is available. Currently, there is neither flight nor train heading from Kathmandu to Shigatse. According to the official announcement, a railway between Kathmandu and Shigatse will be built in the coming years. Before entering the border of Tibet, you should prepare a certain permit named China Group Visa in advance, which equals China Visa and just for travelers getting to Tibet from Kathmandu. View more >>
As the reason for the high altitude, the main characteristics of Shigatse weather are thin air, strong UV rays, low air pressure, and low oxygen content. The division between the wet season and the dry season is clear. Normally, from October to April in the next year is the dry season. From May to September belongs to the wet season. The rainfall reaches the highest point around the year in June and August. The best time to visit Shigatse is from June to November when the weather is warmer and visibility is better. View more >>
Shigatse is the second-largest city in Tibet, where there are more accommodation options. There are 4-star hotels, 3-star hotels, and guesthouses. We suggest our customers stay in the urban area of Shigatse for better accommodation. The recommended hotels are Qomolangzong Hotel and Gesar Grand Hotel New Building. The peak season price is around 500-1000 yuan per night, and the low season is about 400-600 yuan per night.
There are only tents and guesthouses at Everest Base Camp. You can choose to stay in Tingri if you won't like it either. However, in the winter, the weather in Tingri county is very cold and the water pipes are frozen. View more >>
The food in Shigatse is similar to other places in Tibet, mainly Tibetan food like Zanba and butter tea. There is special food in Shigatse, called "Pengbi" in Tibetan, which is a snack made from peas. In addition, Sichuan restaurants are very popular in Shigatse. Each meal is about 50 yuan per person.
Here are two popular Shigatse tour routes: Lhasa → Yamdrok Lake → Gyantse → Shigatse; Lhasa → Gyantse → Shigatse → Mount Everest. The former route shows you the best views in Lhasa, enjoy the alpine lakes, and majestic monasteries in Gyantse and Shigatse. The latter route takes you to see the stunning sunset and sunrise of the highest mountain Everest in addition.
The priory permit is the Tibet Travel Permit. All foreigners should hold this permit when entering the Tibetan border. Besides that, in certain areas such as Mt Everest, you must apply for Alien Travel Permit. Please keep them well, because the application of those permits is very complex.
Compared with other places in Tibet, the altitude of the attractions in Shigatse is higher. Therefore, the chance to suffer from altitude sickness is greater. You'd better pay more attention to it. Usually we will let travelers stay several days in Lhasa city before heading to Shigatse for better adaption. High altitude sickness often happens when they arrive at Everest Base Camp. Do not take fierce activities such as jumping, running, etc. Drink more water and have more fruits and vegetables. Once you feel uncomfortable, you should decline the altitude.
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Great Tibet Tour is a local tour company based in Lhasa, Tibet. It was founded in 2005 and recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the best reputed local Tibet travel agencies.
With the great responsibility, professional know-how and passion for innovation, Great Tibet Tour endeavors to provide you with enjoyable, thoughtful service, and authentic culture discovery.
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| inquiry@greattibettour.com | |
| Dava Private House, No. 8, Dang Re Road, Lhasa, Tibet, China |
