Landmarks of Tibet 

Tibet, a mesmerizing land on top of great, misty mountains, is full of beautiful historical & natural landmarks. With rich history and unique nature, it is home to beautiful Tibetan cultures and Buddhist beliefs. It covers 1,221,600 square kilometers and entire land is filled with world’s tallest peaks, holy lakes, unique fauna and high value of spirituality. The mystical culture of Tibet has been succesfully preserved to this day thanks to its remoteness and isolation. Without further ado, let’s explore the landmarks of this mysterious land. 

Himalayan Mountains 

Like we said before, Tibet is home to world’s tallest peaks, including mighty Mount Everest. Hence the Tibetan Plateau is called the “Roof of the World.” Himalayas are separating the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau, and crosses six countries: Nepal, China, Pakistan, Bhutan, India and Afghanistan. It has hundreds of peaks exceeding elevations of 7,200 meters above sea level, and most of them are sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism. Himalayas have hundreds of lakes, and the temperate ones provide habitat for migratory birds. It also homes animals like Himalayan tahr, red panda and snow leopard.

Potala Palace 

Built in 1649, Potala Palace is the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, spiritual leader and head of Tibetan Buddhism. It has more than thousand rooms filled with thousands of statues. Its white and red colors symbolize peace and power, and it is named after Mount Potalaka, which is the mythical dwelling of the Boddhisattva Avalokiteśvara. It is home to holy relics and treasures of Buddhism, including ancient scriptures, thangkas and most importantly, golden stupa (sacred shrine) of the Fifth Dalai Lama. It is also a religious center, and one of the most important pilgrimage sites within Tibetan Buddhism, with thousands of pilgrims annually. It stays as a representation of spiritualism and culture of Tibet.

Tashi Lhunpo Monastery 

Founded in 1447 by the First Dalai Lama, Tashi Lhunpo is one of the most important monasteries of Tibet. It is traditionally the home to Panchen Lama, the second-most important figure of Tibetan Buddhism and has been a center of Tibetan Buddhism for nearly six centuries. It is home to the captivating, giant statue of Maitreya Buddha, known as the “Lord of Love.” Tashi Lhunpo is a mesmerizing building, with golden roof and walls with red and white colors, similar to Potala Palace. It is an active site for praying and meditation and one of the most important places for Tibetan buddhists. Moreover, it also contributes literature and philosophical studies for centuries, making it an important cultural center of Tibet.

Namtso Lake 

In Tibet, every single body of nature has a sacred characteristics or cultural importance, and Namtso Lake is not an exception. Located in Northern Tbetan Highlands, Namtso, the Sky Lake, is the biggest freshwater lake in Tibet, and it lies more than 4,000 meters above sea level. To the south of the lake, there is a mountain called Nyenchen Thanglha, the sacred abode of an important God by the same name. There are many monasteries and caves around the lake, making it an important pilgrimage and meditation site. It is believed that just being in this place is a blessing, and offering prayer here can purify all your previous sins.