Tibet
Sacred. Magnetic. Devout. The ‘Roof of the World’ is a spiritual awakening.
At once both strikingly beautiful and forlorn. As a subjugated Chinese colony, the restrictions and unwelcome development are clear to see. And yet the massive Tibetan plateau – isolated by gigantic mountains – is filled with warm, welcoming and deeply religious people. From the sparsely populated rocky desert, to the heavily forested east, and temperate southern valleys traversed by nomads — Tibet’s variety and stoicism is staggering.
Experiences
Trek to Tibet’s most sacred peak, Mt. Kailash, on a 3-day walk among devote pilgrims; head to the source of four of Asia’s greatest rivers, which begin in and near the glaciers of this special mountain; encounter wild yak, antelope and wolves in the remote wilderness; journey to the birthing ground of the endangered Tibetan antelope, high above Tibet’s most northern steppe in the Kunlun Mountains; discover the meaning of ancient texts written on the walls of a recently discovered cave complex, accompanied by educated pilgrims and spiritual leaders.
Where to Stay
The finest five-star hotels; specially set-up traditional camps, gers and yurts that have been designed and enhanced with luxury in mind.
When to Go
The prime time to visit Tibet is from May through to September. In March the country is closed to visitors while locals celebrate Tibetan New Year.