Shelkar Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich destination of Shelkar, Tibet. Discover the top attractions, best things to do, local culture, and travel logistics for an unforgettable trip.


Introduction to Shelkar

Shelkar, also known as New Tingri, is a remote town in the Xigatse prefecture of Tibet, situated in Southwest China. Known for its remote location and rugged terrain, Shelkar offers travelers an off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning natural vistas and rich cultural and historical attractions. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts who seek a unique travel experience.

List of Places to Visit in Shelkar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sakya Monastery

Dating back to the ninth century, Sakya Monastery is a renowned and revered Buddhist Monastery with roots in the Sakya sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is famous for its historical architecture, sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts, representing the Tibetan cultural heritage.

Portala Palace

Perched atop a hill in Xigatse, Portala Palace boasts stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains. It was once the residence of the Dalai Lama and now serves as a popular museum, showcasing Tibetan art, culture, and history.

Natural Attractions of Shelkar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Everest Base Camp

Shelkar, being the starting point for many treks to Mount Everest, gives travelers a chance to visit the world’s highest mountain. Travelers can take trekking or hiking excursions to the Base Camp and experience the pristine beauty of the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan mountains.

Rongbuk Glacier

Located at the foot of Mount Everest, Rongbuk Glacier is the largest glacier in the Himalayas. Visitors can explore its unique beauty, witness the majesty of the surrounding mountains, and experience the sheer enormity of the glacier.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shelkar

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Starting from Shelkar, the five-day trek to the Mount Everest Base Camp takes visitors through stunning natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and valleys before culminating at the Base Camp of the world’s highest mountain.

Best Things to Do in Shelkar: Activities and Tours

Trekking at the Mount Everest Base Camp

Trek through the scenic beauty of the Himalayas and experience the pristine beauty of the surroundings on the popular trek to the Mount Everest Base Camp.

Visit the Sakya Monastery

Take a spiritual tour of the iconic Sakya Monastery and explore its historical and cultural significance.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shelkar

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Shelkar and explore the town’s scenery
Day 2-5 Trek to the Everest Base Camp
Day 6 Visit the Sakya Monastery
Day 7 Depart from Shelkar

Food and Drink Scene of Shelkar

Must-Try Dishes

Momos

Momos are Tibet’s signature dish, and Shelkar offers some of the best momos in Tibet, made with seasoned minced meat or vegetables and served with savory or spicy sauces.

Thukpa

Thukpa is a famous Tibetan noodle soup, made with meat or vegetables, and served with herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

Butter tea

A traditional Tibetan beverage made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. It’s an acquired taste, but one that represents the heart of Tibetan culture.

Chang

Chang is a local Tibetan beer made from fermented barley, served cold, and best enjoyed with momos or thukpa.

Where to Stay in Shelkar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yulong Hotel

The Yulong Hotel offers visitors a comfortable stay amidst a serene natural setting with mountain views.

Tingri Everest Hotel

Located close to the hiking trails to the Mount Everest Base Camp, Tingri Everest Hotel is a comfortable stay option for travelers looking for adventure.

What to Buy in Shelkar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Tibetan Carpet/Thangka

Tibetan Carpets and Thangka are locally made products that represent Tibetan art and culture, and make perfect souvenirs to bring back home.

Traditional Tibetan Clothes

Tibetan Clothes are a vivid representation of the Tibetan culture and are exquisite in design and embroidery.

Local Culture and Customs of Shelkar

Tibetan culture is deeply rooted in Buddhist beliefs and is symbolized by music, dance, art, and architecture. Shedrup Ling Monastery celebrates Losar, the Tibetan New Year, with joyous festivals and the famous Cham dance.

Best Time to Visit Shelkar

The best time to visit Shelkar is during the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is mild and perfect for trekking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shelkar

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs, and seek permission before taking photographs or videos of the locals.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately to show respect to the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take pictures of religious artifacts or shrines without permission as it is considered disrespectful.
  • Avoid engaging in any political discussions as it may lead to deportation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shelkar

Shelkar is a safe destination for tourists, but trekkers are advised to choose a reputable trekking agency and carry necessary gear to ensure safety during the trek.

Health in Shelkar

The high altitude of Shelkar can cause altitude sickness or other health issues, but with necessary precautions and acclimatization, visitors can avoid any health risks.

Getting to Shelkar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shelkar

The nearest airport to Shelkar is Lhasa Gonggar Airport, located approximately 520 kilometers away. Travelers can take a flight to Lhasa and then a bus to Shelkar.

Bus Stations Near Shelkar

Shelkar Bus Station is the main bus station in the town, providing bus services to nearby destinations.

Other Options

Tourists can also take a train to Xigatse, which is connected to major cities in China, and then take a bus to Shelkar.

How to Get Around in Shelkar

Shelkar is a small town, and most attractions are accessible on foot. Taxis are also available for hire for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Shelkar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gyantse

Located 100 kilometers from Shelkar, Gyantse is a culturally rich town known for its iconic Gyantse Kumbum, a religious structure with exquisite art and carvings.

Lhasa

A historic and cultural hub of Tibet, Lhasa is a must-visit destination known for its iconic Potala Palace, Norbulingka Palace, and Jokhang Temple.

Conclusion

Shelkar is a hidden gem of Tibet, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and cultural richness. With its remote location and strenuous terrain, it’s the perfect spot for adventure seekers and travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination. Explore Shelkar’s stunning natural vistas, immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture and spirituality, and create unforgettable memories on your journey to this remarkable destination.