Tibet: places, people, meanings
Articles and podcasts about travelling in Tibet, the Kailash kora and the monasteries, the traditions and the people we meet along the way. Routes, sights and everything worth knowing before the trip. We share our experience, explore the meaning behind it all and talk about what each of us is looking for and takes home.
Tibet: A Journey That Can Change You from Within
A land of contrasts: ancient monasteries and modern cities, rugged wilderness and comfort, simple food and deep spiritual traditions. From Lhasa to Everest Base Camp and the pilgrimage route around Mount Kailash.
The Golden Triangle of Tibet
Lhasa, Gyantse, and Shigatse. The Potala Palace, ancient monasteries, and Lake Yamdrok. What to see, when to go, and what kind of weather to expect along the way.
The Bark of Kailash: A Day-by-Day Itinerary and the Inner Meaning of the Journey
Acclimatization in Lhasa, the journey from Darchen to Darchen—how long it takes, how they pace themselves, and where they spend the night. And also—why the three days of the trek are compared to the past, present, and future.
Schools of Tibetan Buddhism: Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug
How the Nyingma, Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug schools of Tibetan Buddhism differ: history, teachers, spiritual practices, and monasteries along travel routes in Tibet.
Sacred Sites of Kailash: Top 10 Sacred Places Along the Kora Route
What you'll encounter on this three-day trek: ancient monasteries, the Shivatsal Sky Cemetery, the Drolma-La Pass, the Axe of Karma rock, and other points of interest. The legends and significance of each.
On the “Sky Train” to Lhasa: The Highest and Most Beautiful Railroad Route on the Planet
What the trip from Xining to Lhasa on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway is like: mountain scenery, the Tangla Pass, oxygen supply in the train cars, and the history of its construction.
Tibetan Cuisine: What People Eat on the Roof of the World
Three Culinary Facets of Tibet: Traditional Dishes, Chinese and Nepalese Influences. From simple, familiar fare to local delicacies.
Lhasa in Three Days: Top 8 Must-See Places
What to See in Lhasa: the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Sera Monastery, and Norbulingka Gardens. Ideas for walks and exploring Tibetan culture.
What to Bring Back from Tibet: 20+ Best Souvenirs and Gifts
Tibetan singing bowls, dzis, thangkas, and tea: price guides and tips for choosing. Where to buy souvenirs in Lhasa and what to watch out for.
Therma on the Road: A Guide to “Enlightenment” in Tibet
What is a “therma” in Tibetan Buddhism, and who are the “tertons”? How does the tradition of “hidden treasures” help us gain a deeper understanding of Tibet, the crust of Mount Kailash, and ourselves.
Everest Base Camp in Tibet: To the Roof of the World by Bus
How to see Mount Everest without a multi-day trek: paved roads through Tibet, comfort at an altitude of 5,000+ meters, Rongbuk Monastery, and the world’s highest post office.
Pilgrimage to Kailash: Through Nepal or Tibet? A Comparison of Routes, Safety, and Acclimatization
To Kailash from Kathmandu and Lhasa: How the Routes Differ—Roads, Elevation Gain, and Itineraries. What Matters Most When Choosing a Route.
Above 5,000 m: how to prepare
Acclimatisation matters more than fitness. What works above 5,000 m, and what is a myth.
Permits, visa and the logistics of Tibet
Tibet cannot be visited independently. How the permits work and how long they take.
Manasarovar: the lake where the kora begins
A lake at 4,590 m where pilgrims stop before circling the mountain — and why the pause matters.
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