Southern Tibet (largely the area around Shigatse), is a beautiful highland region, located close to where the Yaruzhangbu river joins the Lichu river.

The former capital of Tibet, Shigatse stands 3800 meters above sea level and is now the second largest urban center in Tibet, aided greatly by the fact that this is one of the few places in the area with good transport links to and from Lhasa. Shigatse has always been an important trade and administration center and also has political and religious significance, once being the seat of the Panchen Lama. The town is essentially divided into two parts: the old Tibetan style area in the city and the concrete, modern Chinese part of the town. The older streets and alleys here are very pleasant to wander and there are a few sights of interest to warrant a stay of a day or two.

There is little to see or do in Shigatse other than marvel at the Tashilunpo Monastery. It is said that the PSB office here is better disposed towards travellers wishing to extend their visa permits than in Lhasa. There are no further money changing facilities until the Nepalese border, so stock up on cash here.

Lhatse [4050m] is a grotty trucker's stop, with nothing to see or do other than stop to eat a bowl over over-priced noodles. The worst of it is that by the time you arrive you will be desperate for it. The place simply breaks the journey to Tingri.

Next