Happy TravellerWelcome to Shigatse, officially known as Xigazê, a prefecture-level city located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China. With an area of 182,000 km2, Shigatse is the second-largest city in Tibet and is home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, traditionally the seat of the Panchen Lama. Let’s explore this fascinating city and discover all it has to offer.
One of the main attractions in Shigatse is the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which was founded in 1447 by Gendun Drup, the First Dalai Lama. The monastery is home to many precious relics, including a statue of Maitreya Buddha that stands at 26.2 meters tall, making it the largest gilded statue in the world. Visitors can also witness the daily chanting and prayer rituals performed by the monks.
Another must-see attraction in Shigatse is the Sakya Monastery, which is located in the town of Sakya. The monastery was founded in 1073 and is known for its unique architecture and extensive collection of Buddhist scriptures. Visitors can also witness the daily life of the monks and learn about their traditions and customs.
For those interested in history, the Shigatse Fortress is a must-visit. The fortress was built in the 17th century and played an important role in defending Tibet against foreign invasions. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its history and significance.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Shigatse also boasts stunning natural scenery. The Mount Everest Base Camp is located in Tingri County, which is part of the Shigatse prefecture. Visitors can take a trek to the base camp and enjoy breathtaking views of the world’s highest mountain.
Getting to Shigatse is easy thanks to its well-developed transportation system. The Lhasa-Xigazê Railway connects Shigatse with Lhasa and further connects with Qinghai via Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It takes about three hours to travel between Lhasa and Shigatse by train. Shigatse Peace Airport is also located nearby and is capable of supporting 230,000 passengers annually by 2020.
In terms of climate, Shigatse has an elevation-influenced humid continental climate. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and dry.
We hope this guide has inspired you to visit Shigatse and explore all it has to offer. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty, Shigatse is a destination that should not be missed.
