Tsangnyön Heruka (Tibetan: གཙང་སྨྱོན་ཧེ་རུ་ཀ), also known as the “Madman of Tsang,” was the first person to organize and rewrite Milarepa’s life story into two separate, well-structured texts. Before him, Milarepa’s biography existed as a collection of scattered narratives. Tsangnyön Heruka selected and shaped them into two major works: The Life of Milarepa, later translated and...Read More
Mount Kailash, known in Tibetan as Gang Rinpoche, is a renowned sacred mountain in Tibet. In Tibetan, its name means “Precious Snow Mountain,” “King of Snow Mountains,” or “Mountain of Deities.” In Sanskrit, it is referred to as the “Abode of Shiva”—the heavenly dwelling of the Hindu god Shiva. Situated in Baga Township, north of...Read More
Mapam Yutso (Tibetan: ma-pham-gyu-mtsho), also known by various names such as Mapham Yumtso, Mabang Yongcuo, Mafan Lake, and Mapinmudalai Pond, is one of Tibet’s three great sacred lakes and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. It lies in Bangre Township, Hor region, northeast of Purang County, in western Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture. Sitting...Read More
Ramoche Temple, also known as the Smaller Jokhang Temple, is a lesser-known yet historically significant Gelugpa temple located in the northern part of Lhasa, Tibet. Once a thriving center for esoteric Buddhist transmission in Upper Tibet, Ramoche holds deep cultural and spiritual ties to the ancient Tibetan Empire and the Tang Dynasty of China. A...Read More
Puntsokling Monastery (彭措林寺, also spelled Phuntsokling or Phun-tshogs-gling) is a historic Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Lhatse County, on the southern bank of the Yarlung Tsangpo River, within Shigatse City, Tibet Autonomous Region. Situated at an elevation of 4,100 meters, the monastery is a remarkable spiritual and architectural treasure with deep religious significance. A Sacred...Read More
Top 5 Scenic Routes to Tibet from Canada Tibet, also known as the “Roof of the World,” is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and spiritual significance. Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Tibet is a dream destination for many travelers. And for those coming from Canada, there are several scenic routes that...Read More
Jowo Shakyamuni: The Sacred Statue Crafted in the Time of the Buddha This sacred image was created during the lifetime of the Buddha Shakyamuni. At that time, his disciples earnestly requested that a statue be made to preserve the Buddha’s true appearance for future generations. Upon hearing their plea, the Buddha responded with a silent,...Read More
There is one paramount reason why Jokhang Temple is regarded as the holiest destination for pilgrims: it enshrines the most revered and rare statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in the world — the Jowo Buddha. In Tibetan, this sacred image is called Jowo Rinpoche, where Jowo means “Supreme Lord” and Rinpoche means “Precious One” — together...Read More
Planning a trip to Tibet from the USA opens the door to an extraordinary adventure in the “Roof of the World.” This mystical destination captivates travelers with its ancient monasteries, dramatic Himalayan landscapes, and rich Buddhist culture. Your journey requires careful preparation and understanding of specific requirements. You’ll need to secure necessary permits, plan your...Read More
Introduction to Mount Everest Mount Everest, the tallest mountain on Earth, stands at an impressive height of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet), a measurement confirmed by authorities in 2020. This monumental peak is a part of the Himalayas, a vast mountain range that stretches across five countries: Bhutan, India, Nepal, China, and Pakistan. Positioned on the...Read More
Origins and Symbolism Avalokiteshvara, known as the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion, finds his roots in early Mahayana Buddhism, prominently featured in sacred texts such as the Lotus Sutra and the Karandavyuha Sutra. These scriptures elaborate on his profound commitment to compassion—referred to in Sanskrit as Karuṇā. This concept embodies the essence of Avalokiteshvara’s existence, as...Read More
Shenrab Miwoche (birth and death dates unknown) — “Shen” is the name of his clan, “rab” means supreme or excellent, “miwo” means man, and “che” means great. Altogether, his name can be interpreted as “The Supreme and Great One from the Shen Clan.” He is also known by the title “Dampa Shenrab,” meaning “Master Shenrab.”...Read More
Bon religion, also known as “Bonpo” or “Bonpo religion,” was a widespread ancient religion in Tibet before the introduction of Buddhism. It is often regarded as Tibet’s native spiritual tradition. During its height, Bon was divided into three branches: “Do Bon,” “Chya Bon,” and “Gyu Bon,” and further categorized into two sects known as “Black...Read More
The Government of India has officially announced the resumption of the revered Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025. After a five-year pause due to geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian pilgrims will once again have the opportunity to travel to the sacred peaks of Mount Kailash and the tranquil waters of Lake Manasarovar in Tibet....Read More
Introduction to December in Tibet December marks a significant transition in Tibet as winter fully envelops this remarkable region. Traditionally recognized as one of the coldest months, December sees temperatures plummeting, particularly in the capital city, Lhasa, where the average temperature hovers around -2°C (28°F) during the day, often dropping further at night. The high-altitude...Read More
Introduction to November in Tibet Traveling to Tibet in November offers a unique experience that is markedly different from the peak tourist seasons. As autumn transitions into winter, the weather in November is characterized by dryness and cold temperatures, which can dip significantly at night. Daytime highs rarely exceed 12°C (54°F), while nighttime lows can...Read More
Introduction to Visiting Tibet in October Tibet, often referred to as the “Roof of the World,” is a destination that captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Visiting Tibet in October is particularly enchanting, as this month marks the transition from the monsoon to the dry season. During October, the weather in...Read More
Introduction to September in Tibet September in Tibet marks a transitional period that offers a unique opportunity for travelers. As the monsoon season recedes, this month brings forth a refreshing climate characterized by clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures. The post-monsoon environment creates an ideal setting for outdoor activities, facilitating an enriching experience in both...Read More
Introduction to Tibet in August Traveling to Tibet in August offers a unique opportunity to experience this mystical region during one of its most vibrant months. August falls right in the middle of summer, a time when the landscape is in full bloom, characterized by lush green valleys, clear blue skies, and the majestic peaks...Read More
Introduction to July in Tibet Visiting Tibet in July offers a unique experience shaped by both its climate and rich cultural aspects. July is recognized as the warmest month of the year in this stunning region, with Lhasa witnessing daytime temperatures averaging between 12°C and 26°C. This makes it an attractive time for travelers to...Read More
