http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175 <em>Tibet is a plateau region in Asia, north-east of the Himalayas. It is the traditional homeland of the Tibetan people as well as some other ethnic groups such as Monpas, Qiang, and Lhobas, and is now also inhabited by considerable numbers of Han and Hui people. Tibet is the highest region on earth, with an average elevation of 4,900 metres (16,000 ft).</em><br/><em>All of modern China, including Tibet, is considered a part of East Asia. Historically, some European sources also considered parts of Tibet to lie in Central Asia. Tibet is west of the Central China plain, and within mainland China, Tibet is regarded as "the Western section", meaning "Western China".</em><br/><em>Tibet has some of the world's tallest mountains, with several of them making the top ten list. Mount Everest, at 8,848 metres (29,029 ft), is the highest mountain on earth, located on the border with Nepal. Several major rivers have their source in the Tibetan Plateau (mostly in present-day Qinghai Province). These include Yangtze, Yellow River, Indus River, Mekong, Ganges, Salween and the Yarlung Zangbo River (Brahmaputra River). The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, along the Yarlung Zangbo River, is among the deepest and longest canyons in the world.</em><br/><em>The Indus and Brahmaputra rivers originate from a lake (Tib: Tso Mapham) in Western Tibet, near Mount Kailash. The mountain is a holy pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Tibetans. The Hindus consider the mountain to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The Tibetan name for Mt. Kailash is Khang Rinpoche. Tibet has numerous high-altitude lakes referred to in Tibetan as tso or co. These include Qinghai Lake, Lake Manasarovar, Namtso, Pangong Tso, Yamdrok Lake, Siling Co, Lhamo La-tso, Lumajangdong Co, Lake Puma Yumco, Lake Paiku, Lake Rakshastal, Dagze Co and Dong Co. The Qinghai Lake (Koko Nor) is the largest lake in the People's Republic of China.</em><br/><em>Humans inhabited the Tibetan Plateau at least 21,000 years ago. This population was largely replaced around 3,000 BP by Neolithic immigrants from northern China. However there is a "partial genetic continuity between the Paleolithic inhabitants and the contemporary Tibetan populations".</em><br/><em>The earliest Tibetan historical texts identify the Zhang Zhung culture as a people who migrated from the Amdo region into what is now the region of Guge in western Tibet. Zhang Zhung is considered to be the original home of the Bön religion. By the 1st century BCE, a neighboring kingdom arose in the Yarlung valley, and the Yarlung king, Drigum Tsenpo, attempted to remove the influence of the Zhang Zhung by expelling the Zhang's Bön priests from Yarlung. He was assassinated and Zhang Zhung continued its dominance of the region until it was annexed by Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century.</em><br/><em>Prior to Songtsän Gampo, the kings of Tibet were more mythological than factual, and there is insufficient evidence of their existence.</em><br/><em> Tibet emerged in the 7th century as a unified empire, but it soon divided into a variety of territories. The bulk of western and central Tibet were often at least nominally unified under a series of Tibetan governments in Lhasa, Shigatse, or nearby locations; these governments were at various times under Mongol and Chinese overlordship.</em><br/><em>The first Europeans to arrive in Tibet were the Portuguese missionaries António de Andrade and Manuel Marques in 1624. They were welcomed by the King and Queen of Guge, and were allowed to build a church and to introduce Christian belief. The king of Guge eagerly accepted Christianity as an offsetting religious influence to dilute the thriving Gelugpa and to counterbalance his potential rivals and consolidate his position. All missionaries were expelled in 1745.</em><br/><em>Emerging with control over most of mainland China after the Chinese Civil War, the People's Republic of China incorporated Tibet in 1950 and negotiated the Seventeen Point Agreement with the newly crowned 14th Dalai Lama's government, affirming the People's Republic of China's sovereignty but granting the area autonomy. After the Dalai Lama government fled to Dharamsala, India during the 1959 Tibetan Rebellion, it established a rival government-in-exile. Afterwards, the Central People's Government in Beijing renounced the agreement and began implementation of the halted social and political reforms. During the Great Leap Forward between 200 thousand and 1 million Tibetans died, and approximately 6,000 monasteries were destroyed around the Cultural Revolution. In 1962 China and India fought a brief war over the disputed South Tibet and Aksai Chin regions. Although China won the war, Chinese troops withdrew north of the McMahon Line, effectively ceding South Tibet back to India.</em><br/><em>In 1980, General Secretary and reformist Hu Yaobang visited Tibet, and ushered in a period of social, political, and economic liberalization. At the end of the decade, however analogously to the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, monks in the Drepung and Sera monasteries started protesting for independence, and so the government halted reforms and started an anti-separatist campaign. Human rights organisations have been critical of the Beijing and Lhasa governments' approach to human rights in the region when cracking down on separatist convulsions that have occurred around monasteries and cities, most recently in the 2008 Tibetan unrest.</em><br/><em>Linguists generally classify the Tibetan language as a Tibeto-Burman language of the Sino-Tibetan language family although the boundaries between 'Tibetan' and certain other Himalayan languages can be unclear.</em> en-us (C) Nora Photos nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:10:21 GMT Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:31 GMT Tibet Asia Travel and Places http://www.noraphotos.com/img/s11/v29/p806048419-10.jpg http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175 120 87 http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AF3FCCA

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Crossing over the Himalayas. Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AF3FCCA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3BC0FA2A

]]>In Sanskrit it literally means the "abode of snow" The Himalayas stretch across six countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Some of the world's major rivers, the Indus, the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Yangtze, rise in the Himalayas, and their combined drainage basin is home to some 1.3 billion people, including the people of Bangladesh. The Himalayas have profoundly shaped the cultures of South Asia; many Himalayan peaks are sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Himalayas. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3BC0FA2A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E9C505B

]]>In Sanskrit it literally means the "abode of snow" The Himalayas stretch across six countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Some of the world's major rivers, the Indus, the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Yangtze, rise in the Himalayas, and their combined drainage basin is home to some 1.3 billion people, including the people of Bangladesh. The Himalayas have profoundly shaped the cultures of South Asia; many Himalayan peaks are sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Himalayas. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E9C505B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34BCE4FB

]]>In Sanskrit it literally means the "abode of snow" The Himalayas stretch across six countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Some of the world's major rivers, the Indus, the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Yangtze, rise in the Himalayas, and their combined drainage basin is home to some 1.3 billion people, including the people of Bangladesh. The Himalayas have profoundly shaped the cultures of South Asia; many Himalayan peaks are sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Himalayas. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34BCE4FB Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:23 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e33AD2560

]]>In Sanskrit it literally means the "abode of snow" The Himalayas stretch across six countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Some of the world's major rivers, the Indus, the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Yangtze, rise in the Himalayas, and their combined drainage basin is home to some 1.3 billion people, including the people of Bangladesh. The Himalayas have profoundly shaped the cultures of South Asia; many Himalayan peaks are sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Himalayas. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e33AD2560 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:27 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e237F6A37

]]>In Sanskrit it literally means the "abode of snow" The Himalayas stretch across six countries: Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Some of the world's major rivers, the Indus, the Ganges, the Brahmaputra, and the Yangtze, rise in the Himalayas, and their combined drainage basin is home to some 1.3 billion people, including the people of Bangladesh. The Himalayas have profoundly shaped the cultures of South Asia; many Himalayan peaks are sacred in both Hinduism and Buddhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Himalayas. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e237F6A37 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B1EAB27

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B1EAB27 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:37 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34A54370

]]>On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest seen from Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34A54370 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:40 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2D39668E

]]>On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest seen from Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2D39668E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:46 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3929F444

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3929F444 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:12:56 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2803F7C5

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2803F7C5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:22 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31DD525F

]]>
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31DD525F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:25 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2DA2B7CC

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2DA2B7CC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:40 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2706FC38

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2706FC38 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B589B3C

]]>
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B589B3C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:48 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e35ECAED6

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e35ECAED6 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:13:51 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e29144E21

]]>
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e29144E21 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2C969E0A

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2C969E0A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:15 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e226AF4A7

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e226AF4A7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:17 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3A682E52

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.


Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. Everest Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3A682E52 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:36 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e29E44F02

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.


Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. Everest Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e29E44F02 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e25986B76

]]>
Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e25986B76 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:14:58 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D2DAA8B

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D2DAA8B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:04 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AA931CA

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AA931CA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3CEBCCE1

]]>Rongbuk monastery lies by the foot of the Rongbuk Glacier at 5,100m above sea level, the highest monastery in the world. It is only 200m lower than the north side Everest Base Camp of Mount Everest. The temple houses thirty Buddhist monks and thirty nuns.
Climbers must pass through Rongbuk in order to reach the highest peak of Mount Everest via the North Face. It has been described as having some of the most dramatic views in the world, presenting a panorama of the Shishapangma, Mount Everest, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang peaks to visitors. Is accessible by dirt road - a two to three hour drive from the Friendship Highway, soon after kilometer marker 5145.
The Rongbuk Monastery itself was founded in 1902 by a Nyingmapa Lama in an area of meditation huts that had been in use by monks and hermits for over 400 years. Hermitage meditation caves dot the cliff walls all around the monastery complex and up and down the valley. Many walls and stones, carved with sacred syllables and prayers, line the paths. It was the Rongbuk Lama who gave Namgyal Wangdi the name Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, or Tenzing Norgay, as a young child.
In previous times, the Monastery became very active with the teachings at certain times of the year. It was, and is, the destination of special Buddhist pilgrimages where annual ceremonies are held for spectators coming from as far as Nepal and Mongolia. These ceremonies were shared with the satellite monasteries across the Himalaya also founded by the Rongbuk Lama.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Rongbuk Monastery. Everest Base Camp One. The North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3CEBCCE1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e342892A4

]]>Rongbuk monastery lies by the foot of the Rongbuk Glacier at 5,100m above sea level, the highest monastery in the world. It is only 200m lower than the north side Everest Base Camp of Mount Everest. The temple houses thirty Buddhist monks and thirty nuns.
Climbers must pass through Rongbuk in order to reach the highest peak of Mount Everest via the North Face. It has been described as having some of the most dramatic views in the world, presenting a panorama of the Shishapangma, Mount Everest, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang peaks to visitors. Is accessible by dirt road - a two to three hour drive from the Friendship Highway, soon after kilometer marker 5145.
The Rongbuk Monastery itself was founded in 1902 by a Nyingmapa Lama in an area of meditation huts that had been in use by monks and hermits for over 400 years. Hermitage meditation caves dot the cliff walls all around the monastery complex and up and down the valley. Many walls and stones, carved with sacred syllables and prayers, line the paths. It was the Rongbuk Lama who gave Namgyal Wangdi the name Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, or Tenzing Norgay, as a young child.
In previous times, the Monastery became very active with the teachings at certain times of the year. It was, and is, the destination of special Buddhist pilgrimages where annual ceremonies are held for spectators coming from as far as Nepal and Mongolia. These ceremonies were shared with the satellite monasteries across the Himalaya also founded by the Rongbuk Lama.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Rongbuk Monastery. Everest Base Camp One. The North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e342892A4 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:27 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e300B52A3

]]>Rongbuk monastery lies by the foot of the Rongbuk Glacier at 5,100m above sea level, the highest monastery in the world. It is only 200m lower than the north side Everest Base Camp of Mount Everest. The temple houses thirty Buddhist monks and thirty nuns.
Climbers must pass through Rongbuk in order to reach the highest peak of Mount Everest via the North Face. It has been described as having some of the most dramatic views in the world, presenting a panorama of the Shishapangma, Mount Everest, Cho Oyu and Gyachung Kang peaks to visitors. Is accessible by dirt road - a two to three hour drive from the Friendship Highway, soon after kilometer marker 5145.
The Rongbuk Monastery itself was founded in 1902 by a Nyingmapa Lama in an area of meditation huts that had been in use by monks and hermits for over 400 years. Hermitage meditation caves dot the cliff walls all around the monastery complex and up and down the valley. Many walls and stones, carved with sacred syllables and prayers, line the paths. It was the Rongbuk Lama who gave Namgyal Wangdi the name Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, or Tenzing Norgay, as a young child.
In previous times, the Monastery became very active with the teachings at certain times of the year. It was, and is, the destination of special Buddhist pilgrimages where annual ceremonies are held for spectators coming from as far as Nepal and Mongolia. These ceremonies were shared with the satellite monasteries across the Himalaya also founded by the Rongbuk Lama.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Rongbuk Monastery. Everest Base Camp One. The North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e300B52A3 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:34 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e325325AC

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Mount Chomolungma – Everest. The highest mountain on Earth. Base Camp One, the North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e325325AC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:43 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e289A4336

]]>
The city of Lhasa contains three concentric paths used by pilgrims to circumambulate (walk around) the sacred Johkhang Temple, many of whom make full or partial prostrations along these routes in order to gain spiritual merit. The innermost, the Nangkor circle, is contained within the Jokhang Temple, and surrounds the sanctuary of the Jowo Shakyamuni, the most sacred statue in Tibetan Buddhism. The middle circumambulatory, the Barkor, passes through the Old Town and surrounds the Jokhang Temple and various other buildings in its vicinity. The outer Lingkor encircles the entire traditional city of Lhasa.
The Barkhor is an area of narrow streets and a public square located around Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet.
The Barkor was the most popular devotional circumabulation for pilgrims and locals. The walk was about one kilometer long and encircled the entire Jokhang, the former seat of the State Oracle in Lhasa called the Muru Nyingba Monastery, and a number of nobles' houses including Tromzikhang and Jamkhang. There were four large incense burners (sangkangs) in the four cardinal directions, with incense burning constantly, to please the gods protecting the Jokhang. Most of the old streets and buildings have been demolished in recent and replaced with wider streets and new buildings. According to the International Committee of Lawyers for Tibet, these modifications were performed by Chinese authorities to control political demonstrations, as the narrow streets allowed Tibetans to escape police gunfire.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Jokhang Temple and the Sacred Barkhor Square. Lhasa. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e289A4336 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:46 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2558056C

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Everest Base Camp One. The North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2558056C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:15:52 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3417B04E

]]>
A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour-long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500m high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here.
The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley seen from Ganden Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3417B04E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:02 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2936531E

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Everest Base Camp One. The North Face. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2936531E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:06 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3648C557

]]>Ganden Namgyeling is one of the 'great three' Gelukpa, (The Yellow Hat Sect), university monasteries of Tibet, located at the top of Wangbur Mountain, at an altitude of 4,300m.

A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500-meter high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here. The walk introduces many aspects of a Tibetan pilgrimage route. The path is signposted by a rich array of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Either side, rock faces are rubbed with yak butter offerings and small shrines in rock fissures are filled with tsha-tshas, small religious offering tablets made of clay deposited by pilgrims.

Some pilgrims prostrate at every step, others before holy emblems or as tradition demands; for example, at the sky burial site it is customary to roll over on the ground to rid oneself of sin.

Ganden Monastery consisted of two principal original colleges.
It contained more than two dozen major chapels with large Buddha statues. The largest chapel was capable of seating 3,500 monks. Tenzin Gyatso, the present Dalai Lama (born 1935), took his final degree examination in Ganden in 1958 and he claims to feel a particularly close connection with Tsongkhapa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Ganden Monastery. The Yellow Hat Sect. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3648C557 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e327F5384

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e327F5384 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:16 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e318C3574

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e318C3574 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:19 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AE2A0D0

]]>Ganden Namgyeling is one of the 'great three' Gelukpa, (The Yellow Hat Sect), university monasteries of Tibet, located at the top of Wangbur Mountain, at an altitude of 4,300m.

A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500-meter high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here. The walk introduces many aspects of a Tibetan pilgrimage route. The path is signposted by a rich array of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Either side, rock faces are rubbed with yak butter offerings and small shrines in rock fissures are filled with tsha-tshas, small religious offering tablets made of clay deposited by pilgrims.

Some pilgrims prostrate at every step, others before holy emblems or as tradition demands; for example, at the sky burial site it is customary to roll over on the ground to rid oneself of sin.

Ganden Monastery consisted of two principal original colleges.
It contained more than two dozen major chapels with large Buddha statues. The largest chapel was capable of seating 3,500 monks. Tenzin Gyatso, the present Dalai Lama (born 1935), took his final degree examination in Ganden in 1958 and he claims to feel a particularly close connection with Tsongkhapa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Ganden Monastery. The Yellow Hat Sect. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AE2A0D0 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:34 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e286E15BA

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e286E15BA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:58 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3A024E61

]]>

A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour-long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500m high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here.
The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley seen from Ganden Monastery and Prayer Flags. The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3A024E61 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:16:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e314B9FBE

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e314B9FBE Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31F8A414

]]>
A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour-long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500m high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here.
The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley seen from Ganden Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31F8A414 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:10 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e299FC8F3

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e299FC8F3 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:16 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2CF11202

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2CF11202 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:33 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e282C21B1

]]>
A visit to Ganden Monastery is incomplete without walking its hour-long pilgrimage route. The beauty of the views over the Lhasa River Valley from this 4,500m high peak, pays a rich tribute to Tsongkhapa's prudence in locating his monastery here.
The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley seen from Ganden Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e282C21B1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:50 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D1DE405

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D1DE405 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:17:58 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e20DCD730

]]>"The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place served as the traditional summer residence of the successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s up until the Chinese takeover in the late 1950s. The palace is located three kilometers west of the Potala Palace, which was the Winter Palace. The garden surrounding the palace is the biggest man-made garden in Tibet covering an area of 360,000 square meters. Norbulingka consists of several palace complexes and it reflects the ethnical, religious features of the Tibetan people and embodies the architecture style of inland China. It is of great cultural value and was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2001 as an extension of Potala Palace.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Norbulingka, "The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place. Lhasa, Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e20DCD730 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2F80CA8B

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2F80CA8B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B05D2E4

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B05D2E4 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:36 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e33C4BED7

]]>"The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place served as the traditional summer residence of the successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s up until the Chinese takeover in the late 1950s. The palace is located three kilometers west of the Potala Palace, which was the Winter Palace. The garden surrounding the palace is the biggest man-made garden in Tibet covering an area of 360,000 square meters. Norbulingka consists of several palace complexes and it reflects the ethnical, religious features of the Tibetan people and embodies the architecture style of inland China. It is of great cultural value and was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2001 as an extension of Potala Palace.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Norbulingka, "The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place. Lhasa, Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e33C4BED7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34F01ADA

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34F01ADA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:51 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3111E0A0

]]>"The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place served as the traditional summer residence of the successive Dalai Lamas from the 1780s up until the Chinese takeover in the late 1950s. The palace is located three kilometers west of the Potala Palace, which was the Winter Palace. The garden surrounding the palace is the biggest man-made garden in Tibet covering an area of 360,000 square meters. Norbulingka consists of several palace complexes and it reflects the ethnical, religious features of the Tibetan people and embodies the architecture style of inland China. It is of great cultural value and was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2001 as an extension of Potala Palace.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Norbulingka, "The Jewelled Park" or The Summer Place. Lhasa, Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3111E0A0 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:18:53 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e39E0B1F1

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e39E0B1F1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:19:00 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3FA14A7E

]]>It is reputedly the oldest building in Tibet, looking like and a beautiful castle-like dwelling and monastery, dramatically perched on a spur looking out over the fertile valley below.

According to a legend of followers of the Bon religion, Yumbulagang was erected in the second century B.C. for the first Tibetan king Nyatri Tsenpo, who descended from the sky. It was also the first palace ever to be built in Tibet. Yungbulakang stands on a hill on the eastern bank of the Yalung River. It is also named "The Mosher and Song Holy Hall" as the Yalong tribe gradually expanded in power and conquered other important tribes in the area.
Later, Yumbulagang became a summer palace, and later a shrine and under the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama, a monastery of the Gelugpa school, the Yellow Hat Sect.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places View over Lhasa Valley from Yumbulagang Palace/Monastery. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3FA14A7E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:19:33 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AF8B535

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AF8B535 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:19:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E454C1B

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E454C1B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:19:54 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31B7D1AA

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31B7D1AA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:01 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B3B79C5

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2B3B79C5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3BCCB376

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3BCCB376 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:21 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2495D683

]]>Camping a few kilometres from Damxung on the Friendship Highway.
The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 (from Lhasa to Lhazê, and from Lhazê to the Nepalese border at Zhangmu), and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219 (from Lhazê to Gar in western Tibet).
The highway itself starts (as part of China National Highway 318) from Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, passing the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, before connecting to Shigatse, the home of the Panchen Lama, via Gyantse. Farther west, at Lhazê, the road forks, with one branch continuing west as China National Highway 219 to the city of Ali (Gar) in western Tibet. The other branch (maintaining the Hwy 318 number) continues southwest and then south, past Shegar, New Shegar, and to Rongphu Monastery near Everest Base Camp. From here the road continues on to Zhangmu, the Friendship Bridge at the Nepali border. The road on the Nepalese side of the border, to Kathmandu, is known in Nepal as Arniko Rajmarg.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Damxung Camp. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2495D683 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:22 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AFC5116

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2AFC5116 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:28 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D9B5332

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3D9B5332 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:35 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e23B9720D

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e23B9720D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:20:53 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3130AE5A

]]>Camping a few kilometres from Damxung on the Friendship Highway.
The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 (from Lhasa to Lhazê, and from Lhazê to the Nepalese border at Zhangmu), and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219 (from Lhazê to Gar in western Tibet).
The highway itself starts (as part of China National Highway 318) from Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, passing the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, before connecting to Shigatse, the home of the Panchen Lama, via Gyantse. Farther west, at Lhazê, the road forks, with one branch continuing west as China National Highway 219 to the city of Ali (Gar) in western Tibet. The other branch (maintaining the Hwy 318 number) continues southwest and then south, past Shegar, New Shegar, and to Rongphu Monastery near Everest Base Camp. From here the road continues on to Zhangmu, the Friendship Bridge at the Nepali border. The road on the Nepalese side of the border, to Kathmandu, is known in Nepal as Arniko Rajmarg.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Damxung Camp. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3130AE5A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:21:26 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34B088AB

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e34B088AB Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:21:32 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e27C44120

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e27C44120 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:21:42 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e330C5D36

]]>Camping a few kilometres from Damxung on the Friendship Highway.
The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 (from Lhasa to Lhazê, and from Lhazê to the Nepalese border at Zhangmu), and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219 (from Lhazê to Gar in western Tibet).
The highway itself starts (as part of China National Highway 318) from Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, passing the turquoise Yamdrok Lake, before connecting to Shigatse, the home of the Panchen Lama, via Gyantse. Farther west, at Lhazê, the road forks, with one branch continuing west as China National Highway 219 to the city of Ali (Gar) in western Tibet. The other branch (maintaining the Hwy 318 number) continues southwest and then south, past Shegar, New Shegar, and to Rongphu Monastery near Everest Base Camp. From here the road continues on to Zhangmu, the Friendship Bridge at the Nepali border. The road on the Nepalese side of the border, to Kathmandu, is known in Nepal as Arniko Rajmarg.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Damxung Camp. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e330C5D36 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:13 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e22BC500F

]]>Surrounded by spectacular snow-covered mountains, Namtso Lake on the Tibetan plateau is a place of desolate beauty and the site of a holy hermitage that draws pilgrims from all over Tibet. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," and at an elevation of more than 15,000 feet, this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
This extraordinary trek, will follow an ancient salt trade caravan route across the glaciated valleys and mountains of the Nyenchen Thanglha range to the pebbled shores of the lake, through sacred spots, holy shrines, and passing nomadic herdsmen along the way. The deep blue Tibetan sky encompassed barren, craggy, rocky peaks, full of spectacular geological structures typical of the Tibetan plateau.

'Religious stones' from the 300m long wall
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags.
According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and small 'gompas', Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves approximately 15 to 20m deep and 5 to10m high in limestone remnants surrounding the lake.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places 'Gompas', Buddhist Shrines or The Cave Temples Temples at Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e22BC500F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:19 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3FB20A3A

]]>Gyatso la Pass (5220m), Friendship Highway. The way to Everest Base Camp. After that is the descending to Shegar.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Gyatso la Pass (5220m), Friendship Highway. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3FB20A3A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:21 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e22E8ED8F

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e22E8ED8F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:27 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3841B345

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3841B345 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:30 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E20DDAC

]]>Surrounded by spectacular snow-covered mountains, Namtso Lake on the Tibetan plateau is a place of desolate beauty and the site of a holy hermitage that draws pilgrims from all over Tibet. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," and at an elevation of more than 15,000 feet, this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
This extraordinary trek, will follow an ancient salt trade caravan route across the glaciated valleys and mountains of the Nyenchen Thanglha range to the pebbled shores of the lake, through sacred spots, holy shrines, and passing nomadic herdsmen along the way. The deep blue Tibetan sky encompassed barren, craggy, rocky peaks, full of spectacular geological structures typical of the Tibetan plateau.

'Religious stones' from the 300m long wall
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags.
According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and small 'gompas', Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves approximately 15 to 20m deep and 5 to10m high in limestone remnants surrounding the lake.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Carved Religious Rocks at Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2E20DDAC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:32 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3637F83B

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3637F83B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:58 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2F52097E

]]>Surrounded by spectacular snow-covered mountains, Namtso Lake on the Tibetan plateau is a place of desolate beauty and the site of a holy hermitage that draws pilgrims from all over Tibet. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," and at an elevation of more than 15,000 feet, this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
This extraordinary trek, will follow an ancient salt trade caravan route across the glaciated valleys and mountains of the Nyenchen Thanglha range to the pebbled shores of the lake, through sacred spots, holy shrines, and passing nomadic herdsmen along the way. The deep blue Tibetan sky encompassed barren, craggy, rocky peaks, full of spectacular geological structures typical of the Tibetan plateau.

'Religious stones' from the 300m long wall
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags.
According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and small 'gompas', Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves approximately 15 to 20m deep and 5 to10m high in limestone remnants surrounding the lake.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Carved Religious Rocks at Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2F52097E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:22:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e20788671

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tsuo La Pass. Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e20788671 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e28A6CDBC

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads inside Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e28A6CDBC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:26 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3B371FA5

]]>Stupa, literally meaning "heap", is a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics, typically the remains of Buddha, used by Buddhists as a place of worship.
Stupa is the oldest Buddhist religious monument and was originally only a simple mound of mud or clay to cover supposed relics of the Buddha (cetiya). After the parinirvana of the Buddha, his remains were cremated and the ashes divided and buried under eight stupas with two further stupas encasing the urn and the embers. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been possible to identify the original ten monuments.
To build a stupa, transmissions and ceremonies from a Buddhist teacher is necessary. Which kind of Stupa to be constructed in a certain area is decided together with the teacher assisting in the construction. Sometimes the type of stupa chosen is directly connected with events that have taken place in the area.
Treasury
All stupas contain a treasury filled with various objects. Small offerings called Tsa-Tsas fill a major part of the treasury. Creation of various types of Tsa-Tsas is a ceremony itself. Mantras written on paper are rolled into thin rolls, and put into these small clay stupas. Filling the treasury, one layer of Tsa-Tsas are placed, and the empty space between is filled with dry sand. On the new surface appearing, another layer is made, until the entire space of a treasury is full.
The number of Tsa-Tsas are dependent on the size of both the treasury and Tsa-Tsa, since it should be completely filled. For example, the Kalachakra stupa in southern Spain has approximately 14 000 Tsa-Tsas within.
Jewellery and other "precious" objects are also placed in the treasury. It is not necessary that the jewellery be expensive, since it is the symbolic value that is important, not the market price.[5] It is believed that the more objects placed into the stupa, the stronger the energy of the Stupa will be.
Tree of Life
A very important element in every Stupa is the Tree of Life. It is a wooden pole covered with gems and thousands of mantras, and placed in the central channel of the stupa. It is placed here during a ceremony or initiation, where the participants hold colorful ribbons connected to the Tree of Life. Together the participants make their most positive and powerful wishes, which are stored in the Tree of Life. In this way the stupa is charged up, and will start to function.
Benefits
Building a stupa is considered extremely beneficial, leaving very positive karmic imprints in the mind. Future benefits from this action will result in fortunate rebirths. Fortunate worldly benefits will be the result, such as being born into a rich family, having a beautiful body, a nice voice, and being attractive and bringing joy to others and having a long and happy life, in which one's wishes are fulfilled quickly. On the absolute level, one will also be able to reach enlightenment, the goal of Buddhism, quickly.
Destroying a stupa on the other hand, is considered an extremely negative deed, similar to killing. Such an action is explained to create massive negative karmic imprints, leading to massive future problems. It is said this action will leave the mind in a state of paranoia after death has occurred, leading to totally unfortunate rebirths.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Large Stupas on the shore of Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3B371FA5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:40 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e25966DE1

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e25966DE1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:50 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2ADC9068

]]>Stupa, literally meaning "heap", is a mound-like structure containing Buddhist relics, typically the remains of Buddha, used by Buddhists as a place of worship.
Stupa is the oldest Buddhist religious monument and was originally only a simple mound of mud or clay to cover supposed relics of the Buddha (cetiya). After the parinirvana of the Buddha, his remains were cremated and the ashes divided and buried under eight stupas with two further stupas encasing the urn and the embers. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been possible to identify the original ten monuments.
To build a stupa, transmissions and ceremonies from a Buddhist teacher is necessary. Which kind of Stupa to be constructed in a certain area is decided together with the teacher assisting in the construction. Sometimes the type of stupa chosen is directly connected with events that have taken place in the area.
Treasury
All stupas contain a treasury filled with various objects. Small offerings called Tsa-Tsas fill a major part of the treasury. Creation of various types of Tsa-Tsas is a ceremony itself. Mantras written on paper are rolled into thin rolls, and put into these small clay stupas. Filling the treasury, one layer of Tsa-Tsas are placed, and the empty space between is filled with dry sand. On the new surface appearing, another layer is made, until the entire space of a treasury is full.
The number of Tsa-Tsas are dependent on the size of both the treasury and Tsa-Tsa, since it should be completely filled. For example, the Kalachakra stupa in southern Spain has approximately 14 000 Tsa-Tsas within.
Jewellery and other "precious" objects are also placed in the treasury. It is not necessary that the jewellery be expensive, since it is the symbolic value that is important, not the market price.[5] It is believed that the more objects placed into the stupa, the stronger the energy of the Stupa will be.
Tree of Life
A very important element in every Stupa is the Tree of Life. It is a wooden pole covered with gems and thousands of mantras, and placed in the central channel of the stupa. It is placed here during a ceremony or initiation, where the participants hold colorful ribbons connected to the Tree of Life. Together the participants make their most positive and powerful wishes, which are stored in the Tree of Life. In this way the stupa is charged up, and will start to function.
Benefits
Building a stupa is considered extremely beneficial, leaving very positive karmic imprints in the mind. Future benefits from this action will result in fortunate rebirths. Fortunate worldly benefits will be the result, such as being born into a rich family, having a beautiful body, a nice voice, and being attractive and bringing joy to others and having a long and happy life, in which one's wishes are fulfilled quickly. On the absolute level, one will also be able to reach enlightenment, the goal of Buddhism, quickly.
Destroying a stupa on the other hand, is considered an extremely negative deed, similar to killing. Such an action is explained to create massive negative karmic imprints, leading to massive future problems. It is said this action will leave the mind in a state of paranoia after death has occurred, leading to totally unfortunate rebirths.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Large Stupas on the shore of Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2ADC9068 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:52 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e27B322DC

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e27B322DC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:23:53 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17877C38

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17877C38 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:24:26 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18D5601F

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads inside Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18D5601F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:24:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e38C5B25

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads inside Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e38C5B25 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:24:50 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB3EFA72

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB3EFA72 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:24:52 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB95589C

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads inside Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB95589C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:25:00 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB8B64CD

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB8B64CD Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:25:24 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7B1A9D1

]]>Also called Mount Chomolungma - is the highest mountain on Earth, and the highest point on the Earth: 8,848 meters (29,029 ft). It is part of the Himalaya range in Asia, being located on the border between Sagarmatha Zone, Nepal, and Tibet, China.
The northeast ridge route begins from the north side of Everest in Tibet. Expeditions trek to the Rongbuk Glacier, setting up Base Camp at 5,180 m (16,990 ft) on gravel plain just below the glacier. Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: : blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers which would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.
Many local names existed, with perhaps the best known in Tibet for several centuries being Chomolungma, which had appeared on a 1733 map published in Paris by the French geographer D'Anville. So, he decided that Peak XV should be named after George Everest, his predecessor as Surveyor General.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads inside Mount Chomolungma – Everest National Park (4500m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7B1A9D1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:25:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e78E5E79

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e78E5E79 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:25:40 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e849DCC0

]]>The valley in which Lhasa is situated is formed by the river Kyichu, the Kyi River (or Kyi Chu), a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River (which is known as the Brahmaputra in India). The dominant peaks surrounding Lhasa range between 4400m and 5300m above sea level, while the city itself is built on a plain of marshy grounds, dominated by the three hills, Marpori ("red mountain"), Chakpori ("iron mountain") and Barmari ("rabbit mountain"). The Lhasa valley is sheltered from the harsh winds that roam much of the Tibetan plateau, and the city benefits from a micro-climate that can be termed moderate. Located at the bottom of a small basin surrounded by the Himalaya Mountains, Lhasa has an elevation of about 3,600 m (11,800 ft) and lies in the centre of the Tibetan Plateau with the surrounding mountains rising to 5,500 m (18,000 ft). The air only contains 68% of the oxygen compared to sea level.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lhasa Valley. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e849DCC0 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:25:48 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18BF3BC4

]]>
On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18BF3BC4 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eCF29FDA

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River Shores - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eCF29FDA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:06 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e89FAD15

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e89FAD15 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:25 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eD7CEEB7

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River Shores - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eD7CEEB7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13AC35F4

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13AC35F4 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:46 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eAFA2378

]]>On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eAFA2378 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:26:56 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e150B7D63

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e150B7D63 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:27:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8D0DCB8

]]>On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8D0DCB8 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:27:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eBEE8230

]]>
On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eBEE8230 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:27:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12A8FFE7

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River Shores - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12A8FFE7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:27:52 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8AFDBE8

]]>
On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8AFDBE8 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:27:56 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e190409EE

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e190409EE Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7B75E35

]]>
On a clear day one could have a magnificent panorama of Everest, Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Gyachung Kang and Makalu.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal.
Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pang La Pass (5120m). South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7B75E35 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:10 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e26FFE73

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e26FFE73 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:22 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e83DE8A7

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e83DE8A7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:24 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e483A403

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e483A403 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA9B18CF

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA9B18CF Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e4D724F5

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e4D724F5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e84FF234

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e84FF234 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:42 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7514D95

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7514D95 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:49 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E383B1D

]]>Yarlung Zangbo Jiang originates upstream from the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, in Tibet. Downstream from Arunachal Pradesh in India, the river becomes wider and at this point is called the Brahmaputra River. Southwards, in Bangladesh it meets the Ganges River.
The Yarlung Zangbo River is the highest river in the world. In Tibet the river flows through the South Tibet Valley, which is approximately 1200 kilometres long and 300 kilometers wide. The valley descends from 4500 meters above sea level to 3000 meters. As it descends, the surrounding vegetation changes from cold desert to arid steppe to deciduous scrub vegetation. It ultimately transitions into a conifer and rhododendron forest. Sedimentary sandstone rocks found near the Tibetan capital of Lhasa contain grains of magnetic minerals that record the Earth's alternating magnetic field current.
The Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, is the deepest, and possibly longest canyon in the world.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Yarlung Zangbo River - Brahmaputra. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E383B1D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:56 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eE1A64FF

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eE1A64FF Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:28:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2789DFD

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2789DFD Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:11 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18F8B108

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18F8B108 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:21 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17B8A190

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17B8A190 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:26 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16268202

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16268202 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eE2D4BD4

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eE2D4BD4 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:33 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1882C20F

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1882C20F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9746B2E

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9746B2E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:49 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eEBB6FEA

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eEBB6FEA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:29:54 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11104C13

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo. The Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11104C13 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e175D7A88

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The quiet and peaceful park, pond, and chapel behind the Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e175D7A88 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:16 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14D49A4B

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14D49A4B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:25 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e5CF00C1

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo. The Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e5CF00C1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:28 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1612C49D

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1612C49D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:39 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e153EF065

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e153EF065 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:30:49 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1B415116

]]>Nomadic herders are known as drokpa. They make up about 25 percent of Tibetans in Tibet. In some Tibetan counties they make up 90 percent of the population. Herding families tend to be very poor, with a family typically getting by on an income of between $100 and $300 a year. Trading animals for grain or selling them or their meat for money earn money. Some traders and pilgrims are regarded as nomads.
There are an estimated 2 million Tibetans in the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas that practice some form of nomadism. For centuries these nomads have ranged across the grasslands of the Tibetan plateau with their grazing herds of sheep, cattle, goats and yaks.
For the Tibetan nomads, life is indeed a struggle in the harsh environment of the high plateau. The yak, which the people have herded and placed at the center of their culture for at least two thousand years, is still the key to their survival on the Tibetan plateau.
A visit to a nomad's tent illustrates this point. The tent itself is made from yak hair. Upon entering, the center of the tent is warmed by the fire of yak dung. Yak butter candles illuminate the tent, and their blankets are made from yak hair. They eat yak meat and yak blood, butter, cheese, and yoghurt; they use yaks for transport and weave clothing, blankets, shelters, and even boats out of yak hair. Their staple dish is tsampa, made of salted tea pounded together with yak butter, to which toasted barley flour is added and mixed by hand before eating.
From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads at Laken La Pass. Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1B415116 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:00 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14972F41

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14972F41 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e129AA443

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The quiet and peaceful park, pond, and chapel behind the Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e129AA443 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eAA98785

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eAA98785 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eCB70408

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Monk spreading Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses, over the Himalayas. Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eCB70408 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1260F3D1

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1260F3D1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:31:48 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e37B967F

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e37B967F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16997F84

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16997F84 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:13 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3CFD8F9

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3CFD8F9 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:24 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18E0332

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18E0332 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:34 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C19DC34

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The quiet and peaceful park, pond, and chapel behind the Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C19DC34 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:42 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eD8395BC

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eD8395BC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1BC6C88D

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1BC6C88D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:53 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16CEEA6C

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.

Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake and the Tibetan Buddhist Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16CEEA6C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:55 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e198A877A

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo. The Potala Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e198A877A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:32:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e117D8A95

]]>From the top of the Laken La Pass, 5200m, one of the passes, which crosses the Nyenchen Tanglha range, one could get the first breathtaking view over the great Namtso Lake, Tibet’s largest lake at an altitude of 4720m, 80km long. The Nyenchen Tangla range surrounds the lake, with peaks over 7000m. It was over these mountains that Heinrich Harrer and Peter Aufschneiter crossed on their incredible journey to Lhasa.
The lake lies at an elevation of 4,718 m, and has a surface area of 1,870 square kilometers. It is the highest salt lake in the world, and largest salt lake in the Tibet. Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims. The weather at Namtso is subject to abrupt sudden change and snowstorms are very common. In Tibetan, Namtso means "sky" or "heavenly lake," this vast sapphire sea is perfectly named.
Beside the road there are piles of carved religious rocks and a pole with many fluttering prayer flags. According to local nomads, the lake requires about 20 days to circumnavigate on horseback, known also as a full kora. The lake is surrounded by a number of holy places and Buddhist shrines or small temples built mostly within small caves.
Namtso has five uninhabited islands of reasonable size, in addition to one or two rocky outcrops. Pilgrims, who walk over the lake’s frozen surface at the end of winter, carrying their food with them, have used the islands for spiritual retreat. They spend the summer there, unable to return to shore again until the water freezes the following winter. This practice is no longer permitted under the Communist Chinese regime in Tibet.
The largest of the islands is in the north-west corner of the lake, and is about 2,100 m long and 800 m wide, rising to just over 100 m in the middle. At its closest point it is about 3.1 km from the shore.
Namtso is renowned as one of the most beautiful places in the Nyainqêntanglha mountain range. Its cave hermitages have for centuries been the destination of Tibetan pilgrims.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Namtso Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e117D8A95 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB894B1C

]]>Is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. It is over 72 km long. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.
According to local mythology, Yamdok Yumtso Lake is the transformation of a goddess. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers makes pilgrimages there. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be presided by a female re-incarnation, Dorje Pamo, the only female Lama in Tibet.
The lake (621 km² in area, of depth unknown) is fan-shaped, spreading to the south but narrowing up to the north. The mountainous lakeshore is highly crenellated, with numerous bays and inlets. The lake has dozens of islands. Lake Yamdrok freezes in winter. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers make pilgrimages there. The others such lakes are Lhamo La-tso, Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The largest lake in southern Tibet, it is said that if its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be headed by a female re-incarnation. Since it is not a nunnery, its female abbot heads a community of about thirty monks and nuns. Samding Monastery is where Dorje Pakmo, the only female Lama in Tibet, stayed and presided, and stands to the south of Lake Yamdrok Yumtso.
KAMBA LA PASS
4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Kamba La Pass. The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB894B1C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:09 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e108097D

]]>Is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. It is over 72 km long. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.
According to local mythology, Yamdok Yumtso Lake is the transformation of a goddess. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers makes pilgrimages there. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be presided by a female re-incarnation, Dorje Pamo, the only female Lama in Tibet.
The lake (621 km² in area, of depth unknown) is fan-shaped, spreading to the south but narrowing up to the north. The mountainous lakeshore is highly crenellated, with numerous bays and inlets. The lake has dozens of islands. Lake Yamdrok freezes in winter. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers make pilgrimages there. The others such lakes are Lhamo La-tso, Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The largest lake in southern Tibet, it is said that if its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be headed by a female re-incarnation. Since it is not a nunnery, its female abbot heads a community of about thirty monks and nuns. Samding Monastery is where Dorje Pakmo, the only female Lama in Tibet, stayed and presided, and stands to the south of Lake Yamdrok Yumtso.

KAMBA LA PASS

4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e108097D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:14 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e120435EF

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e120435EF Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:16 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2678540

]]>The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace, was the main residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to Dharamsala, India, after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1950, followed by the massacre of 1.5 million Tibetan people and the destruction of 2000 Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries. Today the Chinese has converted the Potala Palace into a museum.
It contains containing over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 shrines and about 200,000 statues and raises over thirteen floors on top of Marpo Ri, the "Red Hill". Tradition has it that the three main hills of Lhasa represent the "Three Protectors of Tibet." In the middle of the Potala Palace the Red Palace exists. Lhasa literally means "place of the gods", and in ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions the place was called Rasa. It is situated on KYi river, a tributary of the Yarlung Zangbo River, which later becomes Brahmaputra River. The site was used as a meditation retreat by King Songsten Gampo, who in 637 built the first palace there in order to greet his bride Princess Wen Cheng of the Tang Dynasty of China.
The Potala Palace was inscribed to the UNESC World Heritage List in 1994. In 2000 and 2001, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka were added to the list as extensions to the sites. Rapid modernization has been a concern for UNESCO, however, which expressed concern over the building of modern structures immediately around the palace, which threaten the palace's unique atmosphere.
Perched upon Marpo Ri hill, 130 meters above the Lhasa valley, the Potala Palace rises a further 170 meters and is the greatest monumental structure in all of Tibet. Early legends concerning the rocky hill tell of a sacred cave, considered to be the dwelling place of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara) that was used as a meditation retreat by Emperor Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century AD.
From as early as the eleventh century the palace was called Potala. This name probably derives from Mt. Potala, the mythological mountain abode of the Bodhisattva Chenresi (Avilokiteshvara / Kuan Yin) in southern India. The Potala Palace is an immense structure, its interior space being in excess of 130,000 square meters. Fulfilling numerous functions, the Potala was first and foremost the residence of the Dalai Lama and his large staff. In addition, it was the seat of Tibetan government, where all ceremonies of state were held; it housed a school for religious training of monks and administrators; and it was one of Tibet's major pilgrimage destinations because of the tombs of past Dalai Lamas.
The White Palace or Potrang Karpo is the part of the Potala Palace that makes up the living quarters of the Dalai Lama. The palace was for secular uses and contained the living quarters, offices, the seminary and the printing house. A central, yellow-painted courtyard known as a Deyangshar separates the living quarters of the Lama and his monks with the Red Palace, the other side of the sacred Potala, which is completely devoted to religious study and prayer. It contains the sacred gold stupas—the tombs of eight Dalai Lamas—the monks' assembly hall, numerous chapels and shrines, and libraries for the important Buddhist scriptures, the Kangyur in 108 volumes and the Tengyur with 225. The yellow building at the side of the White Palace in the courtyard between the main palaces houses giant banners embroidered with holy symbols, which hung across the south face of the Potala during New Year festivals.
The Red Palace or Potrang Marpo is part of the Potala palace that is completely devoted to religious study and Buddhist prayer. It consists of a complicated layout of many different halls, chapels and libraries on many different levels with a complex array of smaller galleries and winding passages.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Potala Palace or The Winter Palace. Lhasa, The Capital of Tibet. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2678540 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:20 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e15FDB12C

]]>Is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. It is over 72 km long. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.
According to local mythology, Yamdok Yumtso Lake is the transformation of a goddess. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers makes pilgrimages there. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be presided by a female re-incarnation, Dorje Pamo, the only female Lama in Tibet.
The lake (621 km² in area, of depth unknown) is fan-shaped, spreading to the south but narrowing up to the north. The mountainous lakeshore is highly crenellated, with numerous bays and inlets. The lake has dozens of islands. Lake Yamdrok freezes in winter. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers make pilgrimages there. The others such lakes are Lhamo La-tso, Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The largest lake in southern Tibet, it is said that if its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be headed by a female re-incarnation. Since it is not a nunnery, its female abbot heads a community of about thirty monks and nuns. Samding Monastery is where Dorje Pakmo, the only female Lama in Tibet, stayed and presided, and stands to the south of Lake Yamdrok Yumtso.

KAMBA LA PASS

4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e15FDB12C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:32 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1EADCB06

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1EADCB06 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:33 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1981F47E

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1981F47E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:36 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e270FABE

]]>Is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. It is over 72 km long. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.
According to local mythology, Yamdok Yumtso Lake is the transformation of a goddess. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers makes pilgrimages there. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be presided by a female re-incarnation, Dorje Pamo, the only female Lama in Tibet.
The lake (621 km² in area, of depth unknown) is fan-shaped, spreading to the south but narrowing up to the north. The mountainous lakeshore is highly crenellated, with numerous bays and inlets. The lake has dozens of islands. Lake Yamdrok freezes in winter. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers make pilgrimages there. The others such lakes are Lhamo La-tso, Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The largest lake in southern Tibet, it is said that if its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be headed by a female re-incarnation. Since it is not a nunnery, its female abbot heads a community of about thirty monks and nuns. Samding Monastery is where Dorje Pakmo, the only female Lama in Tibet, stayed and presided, and stands to the south of Lake Yamdrok Yumtso.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e270FABE Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1DBD4295

]]>From Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake (4350m), we gazed down on a beautiful dam-made lake, looking back towards Nojin Kangtsang.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake and Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1DBD4295 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:53 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16583D47

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e16583D47 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:57 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13E7F4EE

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13E7F4EE Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:33:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7F1B095

]]>Is one of the three largest sacred lakes in Tibet. It is over 72 km long. The lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and is fed by numerous small streams.
According to local mythology, Yamdok Yumtso Lake is the transformation of a goddess. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers makes pilgrimages there. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be presided by a female re-incarnation, Dorje Pamo, the only female Lama in Tibet.
The lake (621 km² in area, of depth unknown) is fan-shaped, spreading to the south but narrowing up to the north. The mountainous lakeshore is highly crenellated, with numerous bays and inlets. The lake has dozens of islands. Lake Yamdrok freezes in winter. Like mountains, lakes are considered sacred by Tibetan people, the principle being that they are the dwelling places of protective deities and therefore invested with special spiritual powers. Yamdrok Lake is one of four particularly holy lakes, thought to be divinatory; everyone from the Dalai Lama to local villagers make pilgrimages there. The others such lakes are Lhamo La-tso, Namtso and Manasarovar. The lake is revered as a talisman and is said to be part of the life-spirit of the Tibetan nation. The largest lake in southern Tibet, it is said that if its waters dry, Tibet will no longer be habitable. The lake has nine islands, of which one houses the famous Samding Monastery. This monastery is the only Tibetan monastery to be headed by a female re-incarnation. Since it is not a nunnery, its female abbot heads a community of about thirty monks and nuns. Samding Monastery is where Dorje Pakmo, the only female Lama in Tibet, stayed and presided, and stands to the south of Lake Yamdrok Yumtso.
KAMBA LA PASS
4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads selling precious gems at The Kamba La Pass. The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7F1B095 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1081E798

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1081E798 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:20 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8D3E993

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e8D3E993 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:21 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1811B014

]]>4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places The Kamba La Pass. The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1811B014 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:22 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e15BD6A4E

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e15BD6A4E Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF1B2258

]]>The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF1B2258 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:39 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF212E89

]]>KAMBA LA PASS
4,794m coming to The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake on the road from Lhasa to Gyantse, Tibet.
The Kamba La Pass is traditionally the divide between the ‘front’ and ‘back’ Tibet. At the top is a splendid panorama with the Yarlung Tsangpo, behind, while in front is a superb vista of the stunning The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake and the peaks along Souther Tibet.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Tibetan Nomads selling precious gems at The Kamba La Pass. The Scorpion Lake - Yamdok Yumtso Lake. The Sapphire Lake. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF212E89 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e10D04FBC

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e10D04FBC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1371E20

]]>From Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake (4350m), we gazed down on a beautiful dam-made lake, looking back towards Nojin Kangtsang.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake and Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1371E20 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e192146C7

]]>
From Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake (4350m), we gazed down on a beautiful dam-made lake, looking back towards Nojin Kangtsang.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake and Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e192146C7 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:51 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14D6767F

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14D6767F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:34:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1946B7D6

]]>
From Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake (4350m), we gazed down on a beautiful dam-made lake, looking back towards Nojin Kangtsang.
Prayer flags or Wind Horses are spread all around the Himalayas. Their six colors represent the six elements of the universe: blue (space), white (water), red (fire), green (air), yellow (earth). Traditionally they contained intricate scripts, blessings and prayers that would be delivered by the wind horses drawn on them. At the beginning of each expedition, an altar for burning juniper incense is set up at Mt. Everest base camp to appeal to Goddess Chomolungma for protection in climbing the summit. Everyone puts their equipment (such as ice axes, harnesses, crampons, and candy) next to the altar so that they'll be blessed with good fortune.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Glacial Blue Water of the Simi La Lake and Prayer Flags, The Wind Horses. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1946B7D6 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:01 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e278B39C

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e278B39C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12ABE619

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12ABE619 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12F5C8DB

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e12F5C8DB Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:27 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C44DE17

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C44DE17 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e169C7A04

]]>Gyantse - is a town located in Gyantse County, Shigatse. Gyantse was the third largest city in Tibet before being overtaken by Chamdo. It is often referred to as the "Hero City" because during the British Younghusband expedition of 1904, the 500 soldiers of the Gyantse dzong held the fort for several days before the British forces overcame them.
Gyantse town was established between the 14th and 15th centuries as a feudatory, with the Sakya sect playing a crucial overlord role. During this period, the Buddhist monuments were also built with the Dzong (the old fort) followed by the Kumbum and the Pekor monastery. All three structures have been dated. Prince Rabton Kunzang Phak between 1418–25, built Tsuklakhang monastery. However, Gyantse's historical importance declined by the end of the 15th century.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places On the road to Gyantse Village. Shigatse County. Friendship Highway, South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e169C7A04 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2D938E3

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2D938E3 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11A1346

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11A1346 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:47 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB0A5DE8

]]>The imposing castle, Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong", was probably built in the 15th century. It looked something like a smaller version of the Potala, and had turret-like fortifications at the ends and a central Red Palace. It used to be the seat of the kings of Ü-Tsang and the capital of the province of Ü-Tsang or Tsang.

The castle was totally dismantled, rock by rock, by hundreds of Tibetans at the instigation of the Chinese in 1961.[10][11] Between 2005 and 2007, the building was reconstructed, financed by donations from Shanghai. The basis of the reconstruction were old photos, yet reconstruction was executed in cement/concrete.[12] Afterwards, the outside was to be wainscotted with natural stones. The dzong which, in the 17th century, clearly was taken as example when the Potala palace was constructed in Lhasa, is set to become a museum for Tibetan culture. Shigatse was previously known as Samdruptse.

The city is located at an altitude of 3,840 meters, at the confluence of the Yarlung Zangbo, Brahmaputra, and Nianchuhe rivers in west Tibet and was the ancient capital of Ü-Tsang province. In the 19th century the "Tashi" or Panchen Lama had temporal power over Tashilhunpo Monastery and three small districts, which was administered by two Prefects appointed from Lhasa. It is one of the great centers of Tibetan Budhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong" Castle/ Fortress. Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB0A5DE8 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:35:51 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11A9700A

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e11A9700A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:04 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1AFD162A

]]>The imposing castle, Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong", was probably built in the 15th century. It looked something like a smaller version of the Potala, and had turret-like fortifications at the ends and a central Red Palace. It used to be the seat of the kings of Ü-Tsang and the capital of the province of Ü-Tsang or Tsang.

The castle was totally dismantled, rock by rock, by hundreds of Tibetans at the instigation of the Chinese in 1961.[10][11] Between 2005 and 2007, the building was reconstructed, financed by donations from Shanghai. The basis of the reconstruction were old photos, yet reconstruction was executed in cement/concrete.[12] Afterwards, the outside was to be wainscotted with natural stones. The dzong which, in the 17th century, clearly was taken as example when the Potala palace was constructed in Lhasa, is set to become a museum for Tibetan culture. Shigatse was previously known as Samdruptse.

The city is located at an altitude of 3,840 meters, at the confluence of the Yarlung Zangbo, Brahmaputra, and Nianchuhe rivers in west Tibet and was the ancient capital of Ü-Tsang province. In the 19th century the "Tashi" or Panchen Lama had temporal power over Tashilhunpo Monastery and three small districts, which was administered by two Prefects appointed from Lhasa. It is one of the great centers of Tibetan Budhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong" Castle/ Fortress. Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1AFD162A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:10 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2BD7650

]]>The imposing castle, Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong", was probably built in the 15th century. It looked something like a smaller version of the Potala, and had turret-like fortifications at the ends and a central Red Palace. It used to be the seat of the kings of Ü-Tsang and the capital of the province of Ü-Tsang or Tsang.

The castle was totally dismantled, rock by rock, by hundreds of Tibetans at the instigation of the Chinese in 1961.[10][11] Between 2005 and 2007, the building was reconstructed, financed by donations from Shanghai. The basis of the reconstruction were old photos, yet reconstruction was executed in cement/concrete.[12] Afterwards, the outside was to be wainscotted with natural stones. The dzong which, in the 17th century, clearly was taken as example when the Potala palace was constructed in Lhasa, is set to become a museum for Tibetan culture. Shigatse was previously known as Samdruptse.

The city is located at an altitude of 3,840 meters, at the confluence of the Yarlung Zangbo, Brahmaputra, and Nianchuhe rivers in west Tibet and was the ancient capital of Ü-Tsang province. In the 19th century the "Tashi" or Panchen Lama had temporal power over Tashilhunpo Monastery and three small districts, which was administered by two Prefects appointed from Lhasa. It is one of the great centers of Tibetan Budhism.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Samdrubtse Dzong or "Shigatse Dzong" Castle/ Fortress. Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2BD7650 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e10609B

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e10609B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13FEE6D

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Gyantse Fort or Gyantse Dzong (Jiangzi Dzong) built on the rugged hills surrounding the Gyantze town (once the third largest town in Tibet) has an arresting presence behind the town. The fortress is dated to 1268 and a castle was also built in side by local prince Phakpa Pelzangpo (1318–1370) who was influential with the Sakyapa overlords. Buddhist guru Butan Rinchen Drub of Zhalu resided here at the invitation of the prince and made it his religious seat. Later, in the 14th century, the palace was moved from the fort to the Gyantse town where Kunga Phakpa had built a larger complex of buildings and monasteries. During this period, he also built a temple on the hill top called the Sampel Rinchenling. However, this is seen only in ruins now except for some murals made in genuine Newari and Gyantse Tibetan styles.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Gyantse Fort or Gyantse Dzong (Jiangzi Dzong). Shigatse County. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13FEE6D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:23 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e36E3F36

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e36E3F36 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e43D170D

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Gyantse is notable for its magnificent tiered Kumbum (literally, '100,000 images') of the Palcho Monastery, the largest chörten in Tibet. The Kumbum was commissioned by a Gyantse prince in 1427 and was an important centre of the Sakya school of Tibetan Buddhism. This religious structure contains 77 chapels in its six floors, and is illustrated with over 10,000 murals, many showing a strong Nepali influence which have survived pretty well intact. They are the last of this type in Tibet. Many of the restored clay statues are of less artistry than the destroyed originals - but they are still spectacular.
The monastery precinct is a complex of structures, which, apart from the Tsuklakhang Monastery, also includes its Kumbum, believed to be the largest such structure in Tibet, that is most notable for its 108 chapels in its several floors and the old Dzong or fort.
Architecturally, Pelkhor monastery is a fusion of Han, Tibetan and Nepali architecture. The most striking architecture in the complex, a symbol of Gyantse, is the Bodhi Dagoba (Tibetan name: Pelkhor Choede), popularly called as the 'Kumbum'. It is a 32 metres high structure, a nine-tier building with 108 gates (108 interpreted as nine-tier structure representing space multiplied by the time element of 12 zodiac signs), and 76 chapels and shrines; out of the nine floors, the first five are square in shape while the rest are circular giving it a pyramidal appearance. It is also given the name “the Ten Thousand Buddha Pagodas”, as it has enshrined about ten thousand figures of Buddhas as images and murals. The chapels have the finest display of Tibetan art in "vibrant colour and naturalistic style"; in the faces of the murals Chinese images are discerned. It is considered the largest of the three Kumbums in Tibet; the other two Kumbams are the Jonang Kumbum and Ching Riwoche.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Pelke Code or Palcho (Pelkor) Monastery. Gyantse. Shigatse County. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e43D170D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:31 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1CF0DC6C

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1CF0DC6C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:39 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7E4CDE5

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Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e7E4CDE5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:41 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9375C69

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9375C69 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:45 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6ADDFE3

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6ADDFE3 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:57 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF2A85F3

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eF2A85F3 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:36:58 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1CCA5467

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1CCA5467 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18ED720A

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18ED720A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:03 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31B9A38

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e31B9A38 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:05 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1A2AFD8C

]]>
Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1A2AFD8C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:08 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eDD3BEBB

]]>
Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eDD3BEBB Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:17 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2ADD6F6

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It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2ADD6F6 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:25 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13AA08A2

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e13AA08A2 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:36 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e181563F5

]]>
Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e181563F5 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:41 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14441F51

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14441F51 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:44 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6E7695F

]]>
Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6E7695F Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:51 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6CB0894

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e6CB0894 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:55 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA43869A

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

Also known as Pal Sa skya or Pel Sakya ("White Earth" or "Pale Earth"). The seat of the Sakya or Sakyapa school of Tibetan Buddhism, it was founded in 1073, by Konchok Gyelpo (1034-1102), originally a Nyingmapa monk of the powerful noble family of the Tsang and became the first Sakya Trizin. Its powerful abbots governed Tibet during the whole of the 13th century after the downfall of the kings until they were eclipsed by the rise of the new Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its medieval Mongolian architecture is quite different from that of temples in Lhasa and Yarlung. As to the great library of Sakya, it is on shelves along the walls of the great hall of the Lhakhang chen-po. There are preserved here many volumes written in gold letters; the pages are six feet long by eighteen inches in breadth. In the margin of each page are illuminations, and the first four volumes have in them pictures of the thousand Buddhas. These books are bound in iron. They were prepared under orders of the Emperor Kublai Khan, and presented to the Phagpa lama on his second visit to Beijing.
A huge library of as many as 84,000 scrolls were found sealed up in a wall 60m long and 10m high at Sakya Monastery in 2003. It is expected that most of them will prove to be Buddhist scriptures although they may well also include works of literature, and on history, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics and art. They are thought to have remained untouched for hundreds of years. They are being examined by the Tibetan Academy of Social Sciences.
In the 13th century Sakya was the effective capital of Tibet, because of its close links with the Mongols, the most important power in eastern Asia at the time. The monastery is best known for its magnificent statues, as well as several fine silver stupas and some superb wall paintings.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA43869A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:55 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1D0776BB

]]>It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1D0776BB Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:56 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e5CD43B1

]]>Beautiful views on the Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya. Impressive rock formations crossing the Hymalayas.

Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway on the way to Sakya Monastery - "White Earth" or "Pale Earth". South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e5CD43B1 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:37:59 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E1F932A

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E1F932A Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:02 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14E50038

]]>It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e14E50038 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:08 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2CA14C6

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e2CA14C6 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:10 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3846061

]]>It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e3846061 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:16 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e156E1E57

]]>
It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Through the Hymalayas on the way to Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e156E1E57 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:43 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9C9D214

]]>It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e9C9D214 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:48 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18509955

]]>It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Shekar Dorje Dzong. Tingri County, Shigatse. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e18509955 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:49 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA05F572

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eA05F572 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:50 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB83BA4D

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB83BA4D Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:38:57 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C4C5ECC

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C4C5ECC Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:04 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17A26738

]]>On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway to Old Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17A26738 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:12 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E07AE27

]]>On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway to Old Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E07AE27 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB03123

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eB03123 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:36 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17509944

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e17509944 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:39 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C54067B

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1C54067B Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:39:43 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eFABDCAA

]]>Shegar It is located in Tingri County, Shigatse, and southern Tibet. It is often used as a base by mountain climbers preparing to ascend Mount Everest. Tingri Shekar is a small town approximately 60km northwest of Mount Everest and just over 50 km from the Nepali border.
The old Shekar Dorje Dzong, or fort, is above the new town and used to enclose Shekar Chode, a Gelug monastery which was completely destroyed but is being restored. It is known for its spectacular views of Mount Everest, Mount Lhotse and Mount Makalu, which lie around in what is the highest mountain group in the world. Tingri used to be an important trading post where Sherpas from Nepal exchanged rice, grain and iron for Tibetan wool, livestock and salt.
In this trek from Tingri to the Everest base camp, you traverse along the centuries old nomadic territories, fortified villages, alpine valleys, nomadic settlements, barley fields and succession of glaciated mountain passes. You are sure to get mesmerized by the surreally sculpted Rongbuk glaciers, on our way up to the Everest Base Camp.
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Friendship Highway to Shegar-New Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/eFABDCAA Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:13 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e4878968

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e4878968 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:18 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e711E13C

]]>
On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e711E13C Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:23 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1DFA0C30

]]>On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway to Old Tingri. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1DFA0C30 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:29 GMT http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E0ACA00

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On the Friendship Highway descending from Old Tingri towards the border with Nepal. Most amazing panoramic views of the Himalaya. The Friendship Highway is a celebrated route in the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its scenic wonders. It includes the westernmost section of China National Highway 318 and the southernmost section of China National Highway 219.
The scenery on the highway features inspired vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, vast grasslands and meadows, and other unforgettable sights. The road is also important to pilgrims who make their way from all around Tibet to the spiritual center in Lhasa.

]]> nora@noraphotos.com (Nora Photos) Tibet Asia Travel and Places Lalung La Pass on the Friendship Highway on the way back to Nepal. South-Western Tibet 2011© Nora de Angelli / www.noraphotos.com http://www.noraphotos.com/p272538175/e1E0ACA00 Thu, 03 Nov 2011 03:40:31 GMT