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LhasaCity/Region: Tibet
Set in a marshy valley and dominated by surrounding mountain peaks, the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region, Lhasa, is one of the highest cities in the world at an elevation of 12,000ft (3,658m). It has long been the religious, cultural and political center of Tibet, sheltered from the harsh winds of the Tibetan plateau, in a spot that has been inhabited from at least 1,500BC. Today the city has a population of 400,000. Being the religious center for Lamaist Buddhists since ancient times, flocks of pilgrims have made their way to Lhasa
over the centuries to worship at the feet of the Dalai Lama. Now tourists are following in their wake to explore the surrounding mountains and investigate Tibet's unique culture and long history. In 1959 Lhasa saw several days of warfare in a revolt against communist reforms being imposed by the Chinese administration. The Dalai Lama fled to India and communism was instituted in Tibet. Many historic and religious buildings were destroyed, and Tibetan traditional culture discouraged. With political reform having taken root in China, however, economic progress has reached Lhasa as well and the city is currently enjoying a period of rapid modernization, while retaining its importance as a holy city for the realm of Lamaist Buddhism. The remaining historic buildings are drawcards for visitors.
ShigatseCity/Region: Tibet
Shigatse is Tibet's second largest city, situated about 190 miles (300km) from Lhasa at the confluence of the Yarlong Tsangpo and Nyangchu Rivers in the south of the region. Although it has undergone rapid development in recent years it offers few tourist facilities, but is nevertheless a popular destination for adventure travelers and mountaineers, being within reach of Mount Everest. It is also a haven for pilgrims traveling from western Tibet to Lhasa. The city is 600 years old and is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, an important Tibetan spiritual leader and abbot of the Tashilhunpo Monastery. The city offers some interesting monasteries in its vicinity; the old quarter is also worth a visit as is its colorful market.
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