Their monasteries rest in clouds, and the monks keep secrets for centuries. Not every traveler is able to end up in Tibet. A special decision from the Chinese government, long flights and altitude sickness are just some of the obstacles on the way there. Pilgrimage around the clock at the residence of the Dalai Lama in the capital of Tibet, Lhasa - also crowds of travelers. Thousands of believers come here every day, however, the most spiritual favorite has not been here for more than fifty years.
Speaking for the autonomy of Tibet from China, the Dalai Lama, the fourteenth, found himself in exile in India. The official position of the government: he will return to the fatherland, only renouncing the idea of Tibet’s autonomy.
It is worth to look at the following attractions of Tibet with an explanation in the photos.
Jokhang Temple
One of the main shrines of Buddhist pilgrims. Built in 647, geographically located in the city of Lhasa. The name of the attractions of Tibet, the photo and description of which is presented, means "Buddha's house." The building has four floors, its roof is covered with bronze tiles. The area of the temple complex is 25,000 square meters. In the central hall is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, as well as sculptures of Chinese princesses Wencheng and Bhrikuti and King Songtsen Gampo.
Mount Yaowang
Many travelers believe that, according to legend, it can only be seen in a dream, but it actually exists. From afar, it visually resembles a large tent with a white dome at the top. The height of this mountain is 3725 meters. On its eastern side is a small temple, tourists can watch and take part in prayers. In the southeast of the mountain there are old caves, on the walls of which ancient Tibetan writings are engraved. The top offers stunning views of the surrounding nature and the historical part of the city.
Geopark
Located in the Yanbajing area. The total area together with the adjacent territory is 2500 square meters. The construction of the park continues today, as it began relatively recently - in 2008. At the moment, there is a geological museum and a large park area in the territory.
Potala Palace
Geographical location - the city of Lhasa. This palace was previously the main residence of the Dalai Lama and the main attraction of Tibet. The total area of the building and the surrounding area is 360,000 square meters. The palace is located in the Lhasa Valley, on a mountain hill with a height of 3700 meters. The two main buildings of the complex are the White and Red Palace. The first was erected as a living space for the Dalai Lama, and the second - for religious rituals and prayers. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tashilhunpo Monastery
Located in the city of Shigatse. It was founded in 1447 and is still operating. The name translates as "all happiness and prosperity is collected here." The monastery is the burial place of the first Dalai Lama. The largest statue of Maitreya Buddha is stored on the territory of the building. Its height is 26 meters. Almost 300 kg of gold and silver, 1000 pearls and 100 diamonds, as well as about 100 tons of bronze were spent on decorating the statue. Currently, the eleventh Panchen Lama lives in the monastery.
Norbulinka Palace
It was built in 1754 as a summer residence for the Dalai Lamas. At the moment, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions. It is located in the western part of Lhasa. The total area with adjacent parkland is 36 acres. Reconstruction was carried out in 1954-1956.
Rongbuk Monastery
The landmark of Tibet is located at an altitude of 5100 meters in the Shigatse district, at the foot of Mount Jomolungma. It also has other names - Zarong or Zarongpu. This monastery is the highest in the world. Rongbuk was founded in 1902 by one of the Nyingma Lamas. In 1974, during the Chinese Cultural Revolution, the monastery was destroyed; restoration began in 1983. According to CNN's Great Places of Hermit Rankings (compiled in 2011), Rongbook ranks first.
Mapam Yumzo Lake
Located 950 km west of Lhasa. It is considered one of the highest fresh lakes in the world, as it is located at an altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level. The total area covers 520 square kilometers, the greatest depth is 82 meters. The lake is a place of pilgrimage, it is believed that its water is able to heal from diseases and save from sins.
Monastery of Sir
Located 10 kilometers from Lhasa. Belongs to the monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. One of the most popular shrines for pilgrimage. Sakya Yeshi was founded in 1419. Previously, Sarah was home to five thousand Tibetan monks. At the moment, it is transformed into a museum, but more than a hundred monks live in the territory.
Yerpa Monastery
Located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, near Lhasa. It was founded in 1056. On the territory there is a temple and ancient natural caves for religious rituals and prayers. The monastery remains active in our time, about 300 Buddhist monks live in it.