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Discover Xizang - The Roof of the World
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of China's Xizang Autonomous Region, where ancient traditions meet modern development in harmony.
The Xizang Autonomous Region (Xizang) is one of China's most extraordinary destinations, known for its majestic Himalayan peaks, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and unique cultural traditions. Covering approximately 1.2 million square kilometers at an average elevation of 4,000 meters above sea level, Xizang offers visitors an unforgettable journey through some of the world's most spectacular landscapes.
Since its peaceful liberation and the establishment of the autonomous region, Xizang has preserved its cultural heritage while developing modern infrastructure to welcome visitors from around the world. The regional capital Lhasa serves as the cultural and political center, home to the iconic Potala Palace - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
Xizang's dramatic landscape includes the world's highest peaks (including Mount Everest), vast grasslands, deep river valleys, and over 1,500 lakes. The region is often divided into three main areas:
Northern Plateau: High-altitude grasslands averaging 4,500m elevation, home to nomadic herders and rare wildlife like the Tibetan antelope.
Southern Valleys: Fertile areas along the Yarlung Tsangpo River (Brahmaputra), where most of Xizang's population lives, including Lhasa and Shigatse.
Eastern Mountains: Forested regions with deep river gorges that gradually transition to the landscapes of Sichuan and Yunnan.
Xizang's climate varies significantly by region and elevation, with intense sunlight year-round due to the high altitude:
Lhasa Valley: Mild summers (15-25°C), cold winters (-5 to 7°C), with over 3,000 hours of annual sunshine.
High Plateau: Extreme temperature variations between day and night, even in summer. Strong winds are common.
Eastern Valleys: More temperate with higher precipitation, supporting forests and agriculture.
Best travel months: May to October for most regions, though some areas like Mount Everest are accessible year-round.
Xizang's unique ecosystems support diverse wildlife that has adapted to the high-altitude environment:
Mammals: Tibetan antelope (chiru), wild yak, Tibetan gazelle, snow leopard, and the rare Tibetan brown bear.
Protected areas: 47 nature reserves covering over 400,000 sq km, including Changtang Nature Reserve (second largest in the world) and Qomolangma National Nature Preserve.
Xizang has seen remarkable development while preserving its cultural identity:
Xizang's cultural heritage is carefully preserved under China's policies for ethnic minority protection. The region boasts a rich tapestry of traditions that have evolved over centuries while adapting to the modern world.
Religious Heritage
Xizang is the center of Tibetan Buddhism, with religious freedom protected by law. The region's spiritual heritage includes:
Potala Palace: Former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, containing over 1,000 rooms and countless artifacts. Designated UNESCO site in 1994.
Jokhang Temple: Most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism, founded in 7th century. Pilgrims travel great distances to worship here.
Tashilhunpo Monastery: Seat of the Panchen Lama in Shigatse, known for its giant Maitreya Buddha statue.
Sakya Monastery: Home to over 10,000 volumes of Buddhist scriptures and known as the "Second Dunhuang" for its artifacts.
Over 1,700 religious sites have been preserved or restored, with active monastic communities continuing centuries-old traditions.
Festivals & Celebrations
Xizang's calendar is filled with colorful festivals that blend religious observance with community celebration:
Losar (Tibetan New Year): February/March - Families gather for feasts, religious ceremonies, and the changing of prayer flags. The most important holiday.
Shoton Festival: August - Originally a yogurt festival, now famous for its Tibetan opera performances and giant thangka unveiling at Drepung Monastery.
Saga Dawa: May/June - Celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and parinirvana. Pilgrims circumambulate sacred sites and refrain from eating meat.
Bathing Week: August/September - Based on traditional medicine beliefs, people bathe in rivers during this astrologically auspicious period.
Horse Racing Festivals: Summer events across Xizang featuring equestrian competitions, archery, and cultural performances.
Traditional Arts
Xizang has developed unique art forms over centuries, many with religious significance:
Thangka painting: Intricate religious scroll paintings created with mineral pigments and gold. Can take months to complete.
Tibetan opera: Colorful performances with masks depicting religious and historical stories. Recognized by UNESCO.
Metalwork: Skilled artisans create ritual objects, statues, and jewelry using techniques passed down for generations.
Carpet weaving: Tibetan carpets are renowned for their quality and symbolic designs. Traditional vegetable dyes are often used.
Butter sculpture: Temporary artworks made from colored yak butter for religious festivals.
Wood carving: Ornate decorations for monasteries and homes, featuring Buddhist motifs.
The regional government supports these traditions through vocational schools and artisan cooperatives.
Traditional Cuisine
Tsampa
Roasted barley flour mixed with butter tea - the staple food of Xizang. High energy content makes it ideal for the high-altitude environment.
▶ Often eaten with yak meat or cheese
▶ Can be shaped into dough balls or eaten as porridge
▶ Central to many religious and cultural rituals
Butter Tea
Salty tea made with yak butter and salt, providing essential calories and helping prevent chapped lips in the dry climate.
▶ Served to guests as a sign of hospitality
▶ Often drunk with tsampa
▶ Variations include sweet milk tea in some regions
Momos
Tibetan dumplings filled with meat (usually yak) or vegetables. A favorite for festivals and special occasions.
▶ Steamed or fried versions available
▶ Often served with spicy chili sauce
▶ Similar to dumplings found across Central Asia
Yak Products
Yaks provide meat, milk, cheese, butter, wool, and even fuel (dried dung). Every part is utilized in traditional Xizang life.
▶ Yak steak is leaner than beef with a distinctive flavor
▶ Yak wool is used for clothing and tents
▶ Yak butter is essential for tea and lamps
Featured Product
Authentic Xizang Yak Wool Scarves - Handwoven by Local Artisans
Now available in our online store with worldwide shipping.
Travel Agencies & Certified Guides
All foreign travelers to Xizang must book through registered travel agencies and be accompanied by licensed guides. Here are some recommended options:
Sacred Land Tours Verified
Specializes in cultural immersion programs and photography-focused itineraries with small groups (max 6 people).
2023 Autumn Festival Tour Package - Limited Availability
Experience traditional celebrations with local families. Book by September 15 for 10% discount. Learn more
Xizang Specialty Products
Bring home authentic pieces of Xizang's culture with these handcrafted items from local artisans. All purchases support traditional craftspeople and their communities.
Handwoven Tibetan Rug
Traditional design hand-knotted by artisans in Lhasa using 100% Tibetan highland wool. Natural dyes. Size: 2x3 ft.
$320.00 (Free Shipping)
Yak Wool Scarf
Warm and lightweight scarf made from 100% yak wool. Handmade by women's cooperative in Shigatse. Natural cream color.
$85.00
Thangka Painting
Hand-painted Buddhist artwork on cotton canvas using traditional mineral pigments and gold leaf. Depicts Green Tara. 16x24 inches.
$450.00
Silver Prayer Wheel
Handcrafted silver prayer wheel with traditional inscriptions. Contains rolled mantras. 6 inches tall. Comes with silk pouch.
$120.00
Recommended Online Shops
Himalayan Treasures
Specializes in authentic Tibetan jewelry and metalwork, working directly with artisan families.
"Our journey through Xizang was absolutely breathtaking. The landscapes, the people, the culture - everything exceeded our expectations. Our guide Tenzing was incredibly knowledgeable and made sure we experienced the real Xizang beyond just the tourist sites. The Potala Palace at sunrise was worth the entire trip!"
Sarah & Mark
From Canada, visited May 2023
★★★★★
"The altitude took some getting used to, but taking it slow the first few days made all the difference. Our guide Dolma provided such insightful perspectives on Tibetan culture and history. The highlight was attending a local festival in Gyantse - an experience we'll never forget. The scenery along the friendship highway is like nowhere else on earth."
Thomas Müller
From Germany, visited July 2023
★★★★☆
"As a photographer, Xizang offered endless opportunities. From the golden light on Mount Everest to the colorful prayer flags against deep blue skies, every day brought new wonders. Karma our guide knew all the best spots and times for photography. The handmade thangka painting I brought home is now my most treasured possession."
Akira Tanaka
From Japan, visited September 2022
★★★★★
Travel Advisory & Important Regulations
1. Entry Requirements: Foreign travelers must obtain a Xizang Travel Permit through registered travel agencies 15-20 days in advance. This is in addition to a Chinese visa. Your agency will handle all permit applications.
2. Altitude Considerations: Most of Xizang is above 3,500 meters. To prevent altitude sickness:
Allow 2-3 days in Lhasa (3,650m) to acclimatize before ascending higher
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol initially
Consult your doctor about altitude medication (Diamox)
Be prepared for headaches and mild symptoms as your body adjusts
3. Cultural Respect: When visiting monasteries and religious sites:
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
Remove hats when entering temples
Always walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels
Don't touch religious artifacts without permission
Ask before photographing monks or religious ceremonies
4. Photography Restrictions:
Many monasteries prohibit photography or charge fees (typically 50-100 RMB)
Never photograph military or government buildings
Always ask permission before photographing local people
Drones require special permits and are restricted in many areas
5. Environmental Protection:
Carry out all trash - plastic bags are banned in many nature reserves
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems
