Tibet Vacations, China

North of the Himalayas, in western China, lies the self-governing land of Tibet. The Tibetan Plateau is the highest populated region on the planet and stands at an average elevation of 16,000 feet. To the north lie the imposing Kunlun Shan mountains, providing a natural border.

At one of the last great outposts is the isolated Argin Shan Reserve, the largest nature reserve in China. The large herds of hooved animals present in this wilderness have led to its nickname 'Serengeti of Asia'. The snow leopard is a frequent visitor to the reserve but unfortunately excessive hunting means it is now an endangered species.

Such imposing platformed territory offers source to some of the most powerful rivers in Asia including the Indus, Brahmaputra, Ganges, Salween and Mekong. The Yangtze twists and turns through the broad green valleys flowing eastwards across China and ultimately the East China Sea.

Many folk of Tibet are nomads and move their entire families around the country. Skin tents are popular living domains allowing easy departure should circumstances dictate. Rural life reigns in Tibet and starkly contradicts many westerners lifestyles. Religion is practised passionately with many a young boy aspiring to become a Buddhist monk.

Eager to preserve their nomadic way of life, summer chores must be completed by fall before the severe winter weather prevents passage through the mountains. The mountain trails are fundamental to trading and pattern a working myriad of paths during the more clement months of the year.

Much of Tibet is barren land scattered with modest neighbourhoods labouring arduously to earn a livelihood from the land. This is compensated some part however by the beautiful scenery in which these nomadic folk live. Soaring peaks bathe in cloud as colossal mountains command the horizon throughout this noble ground. In this pollution-free atmosphere the pure, brisk air permits unhindered panorama for miles on every side.

The brief spring and summer months bring an explosion of colour. Greenery is rife as efflorescence emerge almost overnight to complement the vivid territory. The outbreak of bloom however is short lived. The onset of winter blankets all in a sheet of white, as snow and ice mask the landscape.

Uncompromising winter months bring much Tibetan activity to a pause, as the elements seize a grip of the environment. The brief term of mild weather is crucial to the livelihood of the farmers. Livestock must be put to pasture and fattened up in time for winter.

About the Author:

Steven Cronin writes articles, poetry and short stories predominantly concerning travel as well as issues that influence the world in which we live. For further literature visit http://www.sargas.co.uk

Things To Do in Tibet

Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet
The residence of the Dalai Lama is an immense religious

structure and a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture.
Attraction type: Castle; Architectural building; Religious site

Jokhang Temple, Lhasa, Tibet
This ancient temple, dating from the 7th century, is the spiritual heart of

Tibet and was built as a shrine for a Buddha statue called Jobo,

which is richly decorated in jewels, brocade and silk bands.
Attraction type: Religious site

Barkhor Street, Lhasa, Tibet
Located in the heart of old Lhasa, this circular route is the oldest

street in the city dating back to the foundation of the Jokhang.
Attraction type: Historic walking area; Street

Drepung Monastery (Zhebang Si), Lhasa, Tibet
Built in 1416, this is considered one of the largest monasteries in the world with

more than 10,000 monks living inside its walls during the height of its activities.
Attraction type: Historic site; Religious site

Norbulingka (Precious Stone Garden), Lhasa, Tibet
Built on the orders of the seventh Dali Lama in the 18th century,

this palace complex now serves as a summer residence for the Dalai Lama.

The New Summer Palace (circa 1956) is considered the best preserved

palace on the entire site.
Attraction type: Historic site

Palkhor Monastery and Kumbum Stupa, Gyangze, Tibet
Built in 1414, this monastery consists of 17 Dratsang (colleges) that

belong to the three sects of Sagya, Kadam and Gelug. Palkhor also has the spectacular Bodhi stupa, or Kumbum in Tibetan, which was built in 1412.
Attraction type: Historic site; Religious site

Dzong Fortress, Gyangze, Tibet
Attraction type: Castle; Landmark/point of interest

Pala Manor, Gyangze, Tibet
Attraction type: Museum; Historic village

Gyangze Old Street, Gyangze, Tibet
Attraction type: Historic walking area; Neighborhood; Street