Xigatse (prefecture) Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Xigatse (prefecture), featuring places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Xigatse (Prefecture)

Located in Tibet, Southwest China, Xigatse (also spelled Shigatse) prefecture is a fascinating destination that offers a perfect blend of culture and nature. It is the second-largest city in Tibet and is home to numerous Tibetan monasteries that date back to ancient times. The landscapes in Xigatse are breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and pristine lakes scattered around the region.

With its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage, Xigatse is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. The city’s captivating history, enriched traditions, and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal destination for those seeking to experience the authentic spirit of Tibet.

In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Xigatse, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, where to stay, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Xigatse (Prefecture)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tashilhunpo Monastery: This monastery is one of the most important landmarks in Xigatse and has a history of over 600 years. It is home to numerous Tibetan Buddhist artifacts, including a 26-meter high statue of Maitreya, and has a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

  • Sakya Monastery: This monastery is one of the oldest cultural and religious sites in Tibet, located in Sakya county in Xigatse. The monastery houses a large collection of Buddhist scriptures and artifacts, with some dating back to the 11th century.

  • Xigatse Fortress: This fortress, also known as Xigatse Dzong, is located on a hill that overlooks the city. The fortress was built in 1648 and served as the seat of the Xigatse government for several centuries. It now houses a museum that displays various historical artifacts and cultural treasures.

Natural Attractions of Xigatse (Prefecture): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Everest: The world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest, lies on the border of Nepal and Tibet. Tourists can visit the Everest Base Camp in Tingri County, which offers a spectacular view of the mountain and surrounding peaks.

  • Yamdrok Lake: A beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Nangartse County of Xigatse prefecture. The lake is surrounded by high mountains and offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.

  • Rongbuk Glacier: This glacier is located on the northern slope of Mount Everest and is considered one of the largest glaciers in the world. The glacier is accessible through a hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xigatse (Prefecture)

  • Tingri to Everest Base Camp: This 70 km trek is considered one of the most spectacular hikes in Tibet, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and valleys. The trek takes around 4 days to complete and requires a good level of physical fitness.

  • Sakya to Shelkar: This 50 km biking route offers a scenic ride through the Tibetan countryside, passing by numerous small monasteries and picturesque towns. The route takes around 2 days to complete and can be challenging in some sections.

Best Things to Do in Xigatse (Prefecture): Activities and Tours

  • Tibetan Culture Show: This show offers a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of Tibet, featuring dance, music, and acrobatics. The show is performed daily in the Tashilhunpo Monastery.

  • Homestay Experience: Visitors can experience the authentic Tibetan lifestyle by staying with local families in rural areas around Xigatse. This immersive experience includes traditional meals, village walks, and interaction with locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xigatse (Prefecture)

Day Activity
1 Tashilhunpo Monastery and Xigatse city walk
2 Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier excursion
3 Hike from Old Tingri to Everest Base Camp
4 Everest Base Camp visit and Rongbuk Monastery
5 Sakya Monastery visit and cycling from Sakya to Shelkar
6 Shelkar town exploration and hike to Gyantse Dzong
7 Gyantse town and Kumbum Monastery visit

Food and Drink Scene of Xigatse (Prefecture)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thenthuk: A traditional Tibetan noodle soup, usually made with vegetables or meat and served with homemade noodles.

  • Tsampa: A roasted barley flour dish that is a staple in the Tibetan diet. It is usually mixed with butter tea and served with a variety of side dishes.

  • Lhasa Beer: A locally brewed beer that is refreshing and perfect for a night out in Xigatse city.

Local Beverages

  • Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from yak butter, tea leaves, salt, and water. It is usually served hot and is a great way to warm up during the cold winter months.

  • Chang: A fermented barley beer that is very popular in Tibet. It is usually served in large wooden bowls and is a staple at Tibetan festivals and celebrations.

Where to Stay in Xigatse (Prefecture): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tashi Choten Hotel: A 4-star hotel that is located in the heart of Xigatse city. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Everest Hotel: A budget-friendly option that is located near the Tashilhunpo Monastery. The hotel offers cozy rooms with basic amenities and a good location for exploring the city.

  • Jilu Guesthouse: A homely guesthouse that is located in Tingri county, near the Everest Base Camp. The guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with traditional Tibetan decor and homemade meals.

What to Buy in Xigatse (Prefecture): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tibetan Thangka paintings: Intricately woven paintings that depict Buddhist deities, landscapes, and religious events. They are a popular souvenir among tourists.

  • Yak wool products: Warm and cozy blankets, scarves, and gloves made from the wool of yak. They are perfect for keeping warm during the cold Tibetan winters.

  • Prayer wheels: Small handheld wheels that are used by Tibetans for prayer and meditation. They are made from metal or wood and are usually inscribed with Buddhist mantras.

Local Culture and Customs of Xigatse (Prefecture)

  • Respect monks and their beliefs: Monasteries are sacred places for Tibetans, and visitors are expected to show respect for the monks and their beliefs. Dress modestly and avoid taking photos inside the monastery.

  • Remove shoes before entering a home: It is customary to remove shoes before entering a Tibetan home as a sign of respect.

  • Avoid touching people’s heads: In Tibetan culture, the head is considered sacred, and touching it is seen as a sign of disrespect.

Best Time to Visit Xigatse (Prefecture)

The best time to visit Xigatse is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. The winter months (December to February) can be very cold and snowy, and some roads and attractions may be closed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Xigatse (Prefecture)

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Dress modestly and appropriately when visiting monasteries and other religious sites.

  • Learn a few basic Tibetan phrases to show your respect and appreciation for the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Touch religious artifacts or sculptures.

  • Speak loudly or use your phone inside monasteries and other religious sites.

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xigatse (Prefecture)

Xigatse is a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take precautions when traveling in remote areas. It is recommended to travel with a local guide and be aware of any altitude sickness symptoms when traveling to high-altitude areas.

Health in Xigatse (Prefecture)

Visitors to Xigatse should take precautionary measures to avoid altitude sickness, which can result from the high altitude of many areas in Tibet. It is recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities, and acclimate to the altitude gradually. Visitors should also carry their prescription medications and adequate travel insurance.

Getting to Xigatse (Prefecture): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xigatse (Prefecture)

The closest airport to Xigatse is the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, which is located about 300 km away. From there, visitors can take a bus or hire a car to reach Xigatse.

Bus Stations Near Xigatse (Prefecture)

Xigatse Bus Station offers regular bus services to Lhasa and other destinations around Tibet. Buses are usually crowded, and advanced booking is recommended.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire private cars or join a tour group to reach Xigatse from Lhasa.

How to Get Around in Xigatse (Prefecture)

Bus and taxi services are available in Xigatse city and are the most common modes of transportation for tourists. Private cars and motorbikes can also be rented from local agencies, but visitors should be aware of the road conditions in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Xigatse (Prefecture): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lhasa: Known as the heart of Tibet, Lhasa is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and bustling markets.

  • Namtso Lake: A pristine lake located about 250 km from Xigatse, with crystal-clear waters and breath-taking mountain landscapes.

  • Nyingchi: Located in the southeastern part of Tibet, Nyingchi is known for its spectacular natural scenery, including high mountains, deep valleys, and vast forests.

Conclusion

Xigatse prefecture is a unique destination that offers a perfect combination of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Visitors to Xigatse can explore ancient monasteries, hike through stunning mountain landscapes, and immerse themselves in the authentic life of Tibetans. The region’s mesmerizing landscapes, rich culture, and tranquil surroundings make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.



    Gyantse
    Qomolangma
    Sakya
    Shelkar
    Tingri