Tibet is the true land of mystery. Long closed off to the outside world, it’s very name conjures up an aura of wonder. Tibet is a land steeped in tradition and religion. It has been home of the Dalai Lamas for over a thousand years.

Tibet is known as the roof of the world. Tibet’s capital city of Lhasa has the highest elevation of any capital city in the world at 3650 meters. It has long been isolated, except for those traders who followed the salt trail to acquire Tibet’s famous black salt as well as profit from its gold mines.

Mt. Kailash, the most sacred mountain in the world is located in Tibet and draws Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. Throughout the country, Tibet’s many monasteries reflect the importance of Tibetan Buddhism that dominates the spiritual consciousness of the country.

Tibet may be known for its brand of Buddhism, but the ancient Bön religion is also found. Its influence is often reflected in the culture and art of Tibet. There are impressive and ancient monasteries located everywhere across Tibet that are occupied by monks studying and chanting in worship. They welcome visitors to their places of worship as they share a cup of butter tea with you.

Lhasa is an amazing city located on the banks of the Kyi Chu River, surrounded by high cliffs. The Potala Palace is the city’s landmark. The traditional home of the Dalai Lama, it has over 10,000 rooms.

The countryside features incredible snowcapped peaks of the Himalayas. Part of Mt. Everest is located in Tibet and you can take a pony cart to Everest Base Camp. Mt. Shishapangma, the 14th highest mountain in the world is located in the country at 8,027 meters.  There are amazing, hidden valleys with tiny little villages and farms to see.

Traveling to Tibet will take you to exotic cities as you explore the highest and largest plateau in the world. This is a land beyond the reaches of the monsoons, sometimes creating moonscapes as well as other unusual landscapes that can only be found in Tibet.

There are sacred lakes visited by Buddhists and Hindus pilgrims. Tibet retains all of its ancient charm with the feeling of isolation that makes it such an awesome place to visit.

Travel and trekking are the two biggest activities in Tibet. Treks can be as short as one day or as long as a month. Traveling in Tibet can be just a few days and confined just to Lhasa, or expanded over several weeks across the country.

Tibet is an autonomous region of the People’s Republic of China and has many rules and regulations regarding visitation by tourists. It is important to be working with a reputable company that not only knows these rules and regulations but has a strong working relationship with the people in charge. Himalayan Planet Adventures is a company that has been working with authorities and travel companies in Tibet for nearly 15 years.