The 25th day of the 10th month in the Tibetan lunar calendar marks one of the most significant traditional religious events in Tibet: Ganden Ngamchoe, or the “Festival of Lights.” This day commemorates the parinirvana (passing) of Lama Tsongkhapa, the revered founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The Meaning of Ganden Ngamchoe In...Read More

The Tea-Horse Road was one of Asia’s most significant trade networks, and its triangular region—formed by Zhongdian (now Shangri-La) in Yunnan, Chamdo in Tibet, and Kangding in Sichuan—stood out as its most intricate hub. This dense web of routes facilitated a thriving exchange of goods, including tea, horses, and cultural artifacts. Let’s explore the major...Read More

The Dokde Hydroelectric Power Plant stands as a testament to Tibet’s efforts to modernize during the early 20th century under the progressive vision of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thupten Gyatso. This innovative project, initiated in 1925, marked a pivotal step in introducing modern infrastructure, such as electricity, telecommunications, and civil engineering capabilities, to the Tibetan...Read More

In the golden era of spiritual masters, eastern India witnessed the rise of an accomplished practitioner every day. Among the countless enlightened beings of that time, 52 exceptional scholars with extraordinary qualities resided in the renowned Odantapuri Monastery. Among these luminaries, the most unparalleled, a true crown jewel of wisdom, was Atisha Dipamkara Shrijnana. Born...Read More

Explore the growth of Tibet’s education system, from primary schooling to universities. In 2024, Tibet's seven universities, 11 vocational schools, and hundreds of primary and secondary institutions enrolled thousands, offering education in fields like Tibetan medicine, agriculture, and more. Discover key enrollment stats and Tibet's dedication to public education.Read More

On November 12, at 22:41, Maldro Gongkar County in Lhasa, Tibet, experienced a mild earthquake of 3.4 magnitude, as confirmed by the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). This article delves into the details of this seismic event, including precise parameters, location, depth, and the historical context of earthquakes in this region over the past five...Read More

Desi Sangye Gyatso: A Visionary Leader Desi Sangye Gyatso, the fifth Desi (regent) of Tibet, was a remarkable figure whose influence spanned both the political and religious realms. Raised under the guidance of the Fifth Dalai Lama, Sangye Gyatso was cherished like a son and given an extensive education that prepared him to navigate Tibet’s...Read More

Discover the legacy of the Fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, a revered leader who unified Tibet, established the Ganden Phodrang government, and built the iconic Potala Palace. Learn about his strategic alliances, cultural contributions, and enduring influence on Tibetan history.Read More

The Dakpo Kagyu school, one of Tibetan Buddhism’s renowned lineages, traces its origins to Marpa the Translator and Milarepa, two highly revered masters. Though they laid the foundation of the Kagyu tradition, neither Marpa nor Milarepa established temples or formal monastic orders. The real momentum for Dakpo Kagyu started with their disciple, Gampopa (1079–1153), who...Read More

The Shangpa Kagyu (ཤངས་པ་བཀའ་བརྒྱུད) school of Tibetan Buddhism has a unique and fascinating history that traces its roots to one of Tibet’s early spiritual figures, Khyungpo Naljor. This tradition, distinct from other Kagyu branches, is known for its teachings on advanced meditation practices, including Mahamudra and Dzogchen, and for its emphasis on the transmission of...Read More

The Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its deep meditative practices and emphasis on direct oral teachings, emerged during the Later Transmission period of Buddhism in Tibet in the 11th and 12th centuries. This tradition, part of the “New Translation” schools of Tibetan Buddhism, was founded by two influential masters: Khyungpo Naljor, (990-1140) and...Read More

The Tibetan script, known as “the script written on the world’s rooftop,” is a unique cultural bridge and a vital part of Tibetan heritage. Thonmi Sambhota is honored for transforming Tibetan language and culture. His creation of the Tibetan script brought new light and wisdom to Tibet, sparking a cultural legacy that continues to shape...Read More

Experience Tibet Like a Local with Our Tibetan Travel Agency Welcome to Local Tibetan Travel Agency, where your journey to the heart of Tibet’s mystical landscapes begins. As a team of dedicated, native Tibetan guides, we offer an immersive travel experience unlike any other. Our mission is to help you explore Tibet’s breathtaking scenery, rich...Read More

Exploring Mount Everest from the Tibetan side offers an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With a variety of tour options, you can find a journey that fits your schedule and travel style. This guide breaks down popular tour itineraries from Lhasa to Everest Base Camp, detailing each day’s activities to help...Read More

Experience Tibet with this carefully crafted itinerary, designed to provide an accessible, inspiring, and scenic route across this breathtaking region. Begin with acclimatization in Nyingchi, known as the “Little river Valley of Tibet,” and travel to Lhasa through some of Tibet’s most famous landscapes. Key Tips for Travel Preparation Altitude Adjustment: High-altitude reactions are common,...Read More

The Potala Palace rises majestically above Lhasa, symbolizing Tibetan Buddhism and political history. Built on Red Hill, it includes three main areas: a palace fortress on the mountaintop, a bustling town square at its base, and the serene Dragon King Pool Garden tucked behind the mountain. Blending religious, administrative, and architectural functions, the Potala Palace...Read More

The Kagyu school is a major lineage in Tibetan Buddhism, known for its strong focus on oral transmission and practical meditation. In Tibetan, “Kagyu” means “teaching transmission,” where “Ka” refers to the Buddha’s words and “gyu” signifies lineage. This focus on direct, spoken teachings distinguishes the Kagyu school, especially in its emphasis on esoteric practices...Read More

Planning a journey to Tibet, the “Roof of the World,” requires specific steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. As Tibet is a unique travel destination with distinct regulations, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines, particularly regarding visas and permits. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to prepare for your...Read More

The tradition of seal usage in Tibet holds a deep-rooted history, reflecting a sophisticated culture of identity, authority, and record-keeping. Throughout Tibet’s long history, seals have served as symbols of power and legitimacy, used across various social strata and purposes, including politics, economics, religion, and cultural affairs. These seals, ranging from personal to official, were...Read More

Piku Tso is a serene and picturesque lake nestled in the shadows of Shishapangma, the 14th highest mountain in the world. This stunning lake is the only 8,000-meter peak that lies entirely within Tibet, making the surrounding area a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural significance. Here, traditional Tibetan life flourishes against...Read More