May 16th, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Xining, known as Siling in Tibetan, is the start of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway and the gateway to the Amdo region of Tibet. Just outside the city are many famous monasteries, national parks, and nomadic grasslands worth visiting. Here are some of the best day trips from Xining: _____________________________________________________________________________________ Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Si) Kumbum, one of […]
May 4th, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Lhasa is most famous for its historic monasteries and temples. But what about the other sites that give you insight into the culture and life of Tibetans? While visiting Lhasa, take the time to check out these markets, schools, art galleries, handicraft workshops, and traditional nightclubs. They’ll give you an idea of what it means […]
April 22nd, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
There are many locations near Lhasa that are worth visiting for a day or two. These sights give you a chance to experience the beauty of Tibetan land and culture outside the city.
April 5th, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Trying to get a better idea of where your itinerary will lead you? Want to map out your trip or plan the best order to visit different sites? Check out these maps, which are all published by the China National Tourism Administration.
April 4th, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Are you interested in an intimate, service-learning experience in Tibet? Try volunteering. Teach English at a primary school in a nomadic area or spend some time helping fix up an orphanage. Join in on NGO projects or find other ways to give back to local Tibetan communities. Here are a few ideas to get you […]
April 3rd, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Join pilgrims from all corners of Tibet in lighting butter candles, burning incense, and offering khata scarves to blessed statues. Visit the Potala Palace
April 2nd, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Camping with nomads offers a unique opportunity to learn about an ancient way of life while intimately experiencing Tibetan culture.
March 7th, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations
Qinghai Province, which is located in northwestern China, borders the Tibet Autonomous Region and is home to many ethnic minorities, including Tibetans, Hui Muslims, Mongolians, Tu, and Salar. Its capital, Xining, is the gateway to the Amdo Tibetan region. In this region, there are many rolling grasslands, famous monasteries, holy snow mountains, and precious lakes. […]
March 1st, 2010 | by snowlion | published in Destinations, Field Notes
For centuries, Tibetans have been traveling to holy mountains as an act of pilgrimage. In Buddhism, pilgrimage refers to the journey from ignorance to enlightenment, from preoccupation with material concerns to a deeper awareness of the interconnectedness of all life. In Tibetan, the word for pilgrimage, nekhor, means to circle around a sacred place. Through […]