Shigatse (日喀则) is both a city and a vast prefecture in western Tibet, second only to Lhasa in size and importance. Located about 250 km southwest of Lhasa, this high-altitude city (3,850 meters) sits at the meeting point of the Yarlung Tsangpo and Nyang rivers. The broader Shigatse Prefecture includes 17 counties and one border fort—Zhangmu.
Whether you’re drawn by ancient monasteries, scenic drives, or routes to Mount Everest, Shigatse makes an unforgettable base for exploring Tibetan culture and landscapes. This Shigatse Travel Guide will help you explore it all. Let’s hit the road and discover it together!
1. Scenic Drive: Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake (110 km)
On a late August morning, our journey toward Shigatse began with one of the most stunning drives I’ve ever taken—Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake (羊卓雍措). It’s just 110 km, but it felt like entering another world.
Yamdrok Lake (also called Yamdrok-Tso or Yamdrok Yumtso) is one of Tibet’s three holy lakes. As we climbed out of Lhasa, the road wound higher into the mountains. Soon, we reached the legendary Gangkala Pass (岗巴拉山口), at nearly 4990 meters. The moment we stepped out of the car, the view left us speechless.
Below us stretched Yamdrok Lake, gleaming like a turquoise jewel beneath the sky. The water looked unreal—calm, clear, and so intensely blue it almost hurt to look at. Surrounded by snowy peaks, including the towering Mount Nojin Kangsang 宁金抗沙峰 (7,191 m) in the distance, it felt sacred. And in Tibet, it is.
Locals believe Yamdrok is the female guardian spirit of Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims and travelers from all over come here to pay respect or simply take in the beauty.
Next, we stopped at the Yamdrok Lake Scenic Area Parking Lot, where most visitors hop out for photos. You can wander along the viewpoint, take in the vastness of the lake, or even pose with a Tibetan mastiff if you’re up for it.
The lake itself stretches over 130 km east to west, with a surface area of more than 600 square kilometers. It’s fed by glacial melt, making the water unbelievably pure.
This drive isn’t just a route—it’s a memory. And it’s only the beginning of the adventure to Shigatse.
2. Scenic Drive: Nagarzê to Gyantse (96 km)
After soaking in the beauty of Yamdrok Lake, we continued our journey toward Shigatse. About 50 kilometers down the road, we reached Nagarzê 浪卡子(also known as Nangartse or Langkazi)—a sleepy town tucked between Lhasa and Gyantse.
The town was small, quiet, and practical. It had a few restaurants and some very basic guesthouses. While many Chinese tour groups paused here for a snack or restroom break, we pushed on toward Gyantse (江孜) for lunch, just two hours farther.
Soon after leaving Nagarzê, we began the climb toward Karola Pass (卡若拉山口), sitting at a dizzying 5,042 meters. This pass marked the border between Nagarzê County and Gyantse County, opening the next chapter of our Shigatse adventure.
As we drove, the landscape changed quickly. Towering ahead of us was Mount Noijin Kangsang (宁金抗沙峰)—a snow-capped giant rising 7,206 meters into the sky. It’s the highest peak in the Lhagoi Kangri Range (拉轨岗日山) and one of Tibet’s most revered mountains.
Next came a jaw-dropping moment: the Karola Glacier (卡若拉冰川) appeared right beside the road. We literally drove beneath a glacier! Hanging off the side of Noijin Kangsang, the glacier sparkled like frozen waves. It felt surreal.
The viewing spot sat around 5,400 meters in elevation. From there, we saw the glacier’s massive tongue stretching close to the road, shaped by time and wind.
We continued along Provincial Highway 307, with prayer flags fluttering beside us and the vast Tibetan plateau stretching endlessly ahead.
This leg of the drive between Nagarzê and Gyantse was wild, windy, and unforgettable—just one more reason why traveling through Shigatse left such a lasting impression.
3. Scenic Drive: Gyantse to Shigatse (100 km)
After a scenic morning of mountain passes and glaciers, we finally rolled into Gyantse (江孜) around 2:20 p.m. We were all tired, dusty, and very hungry. It had been hours since breakfast, with only the mountain air keeping us going.
We headed straight to Gyantse Kitchen, a cozy spot known for its Nepalese dishes. The food hit the spot—flavorful, warm, and just what we needed before continuing toward Shigatse.
Gyantse is more than a lunch stop, though. Historically, it’s one of Tibet’s most important towns. Now part of Shigatse Prefecture, it lies 100 km southeast of Shigatse City and about 250 km southwest of Lhasa.
Surrounded by barley fields and framed by the Nyang Chu River (年楚河), Gyantse felt both ancient and alive. The massive Gyantse Dzong Fortress (江孜古堡) loomed above the town—a reminder of the region’s once-powerful military presence. No matter where you stood, you could see it watching over everything.
After lunch, we made a quick visit to Palha Manor (帕拉庄园), just 2 km outside town. Crossing a bridge over the river, we entered what used to be one of Tibet’s great noble estates. The manor, with its 82 rooms, once housed lords, serfs, and butlers. Walking through its quiet halls gave me a glimpse into the old Tibetan aristocratic life.
Then, we hit the road again—this time toward Shigatse.
The final stretch was smooth and beautiful. Barley fields rolled past. Tall trees lined the roadside. The paved road made the 100 km drive a breeze. In just under two hours, we reached Shigatse City, ready for the next chapter of our Tibetan journey.
4. Arriving at Shigatse and Visiting Tashilhunpo Monastery
We arrived in Shigatse City late in the afternoon, just as the sun dipped behind the rooftops. Our guide urged us to hurry. The ticket counter at Tashilhunpo Monastery (扎什伦布寺) closed at 6:00 p.m., and we were cutting it close.
We drove fast, weaving through the quieter streets of Shigatse, hoping to make it in time. The next morning, our guide would head to the local police station to process our Alien Travel Permit (外国人旅行证), required for foreigners heading toward Mount Everest and Zhangmu Fort. Without the permit, we couldn’t go any farther west.
Thankfully, we reached the monastery just in time. A monk checked our tickets at the gate and waved us through.
Tashilhunpo Monastery stood quietly against the hillside in the western part of Shigatse City. It was majestic—whitewashed walls, golden roofs, and layers of history. Founded in 1447 by the First Dalai Lama, it later became the seat of the Panchen Lama. At its peak, over 4,000 monks lived here. Today, about 1,000 still study and chant within its walls.
We first entered the Temple of Maitreya, home to a 27-meter-high statue of the future Buddha. Built in 1914, it was stunning. Photography wasn’t allowed unless we paid a fee, so we simply stood and took it all in.
Next, we wandered through halls holding the tombs of past Panchen Lamas. The most impressive was the golden pagoda built for the 10th Panchen Lama—crafted with over 600 kg of gold and thousands of gems.
Finally, we entered the Main Chanting Hall. Monks were mid-prayer, their deep voices echoing through the space. We quietly walked among them, feeling both welcomed and humbled.
This visit made me feel the heartbeat of Shigatse—still strong, still sacred.
5. Exploring Shigatse on Foot: Streets, Stays, and First Impressions
The next morning, our guide left early to sort out the travel permits. We needed the Alien Travel Permit for Everest and the Zhangmu border area. While the group stayed in, I decided to take a slow walk and explore Shigatse City on my own.
Even though it’s the second largest city in Tibet, Shigatse felt compact and easy to navigate. I quickly found that the city’s main streets ran north to south—Shandong Street, Shanghai Street, Heilongjiang Street, and Nyanchue Road. Yarlung Zangbo River is on the east of the city. These streets give Shigatse a very grid-like layout, which made walking around simple.
Next, I followed the east-west roads: Xueqiang Street, Qingdao Street, and the memorably named Mt. Everest Road (or Zhufeng Road). Each one offered something different—local restaurants, quiet cafés, and views of everyday Tibetan life.
The Xi Ge Zi Walking Street (喜格孜步行街), located near Tashilhunpo Monastery, was a highlight. Lined with shops selling prayer flags, incense, and local snacks, it buzzed with both locals and tourists. I wandered through slowly, soaking in the sights and sounds.
Later, I turned north and caught a glimpse of the Shigatse Fortress—still under construction at the time. It stood quietly in the distance, hinting at the city’s proud past.
We stayed at the Shen Kang Hotel, conveniently located near Shandong Street and just steps from the Walking Street. It was simple but comfortable. Other travelers might prefer the more upscale Shigatse Hotel on Shanghai Street or the Shigatse Tian Lin Grand Hotel along Mt. Everest Road.
For a walkable city with hidden gems and friendly faces, Shigatse impressed me more than I expected.
6. My Shigatse Travel Tips: When to Go, What to Eat & Local Etiquette
After exploring Shigatse City, I gathered a few tips that I wish someone had shared with me earlier. So here’s my personal take on how to make the most of your time in this historic Tibetan city.
1) Best Time to Visit Shigatse
If you’re planning your trip, timing matters. According to locals and my own experience, the best travel season runs from April to October.
From May to September, Shigatse sees the most visitors. However, May and June offered clearer skies and cooler temperatures—perfect for photography, especially of Everest’s famous “banner cloud.”
July and August brought more rain, especially at night. Meanwhile, April and October gave a quieter, cooler experience. Just avoid Golden Week (Oct 1–7) unless you enjoy large crowds.
2) Must-Try Local Food
Shigatse has some truly unique flavors. I tried a little bit of everything:
- Pongbi – A local cold jelly made from bean juice. Each version had a different spice blend.
- Tibetan noodles – Served hot in yak bone broth. Comforting and flavorful.
- Butter tea – Rich, salty, and served traditionally by hand.
- Yak yogurt – Tangy and thick. I added sugar to balance the sourness.
- Roast Tibetan pork – Crispy outside, tender inside, best paired with barley wine.
- Mason cake – A sweet, buttery treat made with cheese and barley.
- Shangzhai stew – Lamb simmered with spices and potatoes. So satisfying.
- Barley wine – A mellow, slightly sweet drink you’ll likely sip at least once.
3) Cultural Dos & Don’ts
First, never point at Buddha statues or touch them. Remove your hat and sunglasses when entering temples. Walk clockwise around prayer wheels and stupas. And if you’re caught taking photos inside—especially with flash—expect to be asked to delete them and apologize.
4) Tashilhunpo Monastery Info
- Tickets: ¥100 (May–Oct); ¥55 (Nov–Apr); free for locals. No online booking.
- Hours: 09:00–19:30. Important: Temples close for lunch from 12:00 to 14:00. Some halls shut earlier—go in the morning if possible.
5) Transport Tips
- Taxis inside Shigatse City cost around ¥10. From the train station, expect ¥30.
- High-speed trains run from Lhasa to Shigatse in just 90 minutes.
- The Shigatse Heping Airport also offers limited flights to Lhasa.
- If you’re heading south to Everest or Zhangmu, don’t forget to apply for your Alien Travel Permit in Shigatse.
This part of my Shigatse Travel Guide helped me slow down, take in the details, and really connect with the rhythm of Tibetan life.
7.Driving from Shigatse to Tingri via Lhatse 240km
Leaving Shigatse after breakfast, we began the 240 km drive to Tingri County (定日), with a quick pass through Lhatse (拉孜) . The road—part of the iconic Highway 318—was mostly smooth, though a few sections got a bit bumpy.
First, we crossed the Tsola Pass (错拉山) at 4,700 meters. It marked the boundary between Shigatse County and Lhatse County. At the top, colorful prayer flags danced in the wind. A large plaque greeted us: “The Chinese Folk Artist County Welcomes You!” It felt surreal.
We passed a fork in the road leading to Sakya Monastery (萨迦寺), about 25 km southeast from here. But this time, we skipped it and stayed on course toward Tingri.
Next came Chawuxiang Village (查务乡), where Highway 219 veered off toward Ali. We stayed on Highway 318, which also leads to Zhangmu via Tingri.
Then, we reached the highlight of the drive—Gyatsola Pass (嘉措拉山口) at 5,248 meters. This high-altitude gateway divides Lhatse from Tingri County and enters the Qomolangma National Nature Reserve. The views were unforgettable.
From here, we could see not just Mt.Everest, but also Lhotse (洛子峰), Makalu (马卡鲁峰), and Cho Oyu (卓奥友峰)—all towering above 8,000 meters. It was rare and awe-inspiring to spot four Himalayan giants from a single pass.
By 3:30 p.m., we arrived at Baiba Village 白坝村 (Pelbar) in Shegar Town (协格尔镇) in Tingri, our final stop for the day. We stayed at Gomolangma Hotel, a simple but welcoming place near the main street.
Later, I strolled through town, grabbed some snacks, and stocked up on water—and yes, bottled oxygen—for tomorrow’s big push to Everest Base Camp.
For more information on the road trip to Everest, check out my next post: Our Bus Drive from Tingri to Everest Base Camp.
🌟Further Reading
Lhasa Travel Guide: Map, Highlights and Travel Tips
Tingri Travel Guide: Map, Mt. Everest Routes & Travel Tips
How to Book Lhasa Attraction Tickets: All You Need to Know
How to Plan a Trip to Drak Yerpa in Lhasa – 9 Tips for your Visit
The Best Lhasa Tour Itinerary
Our Bus Driving Experience from Tingri to Mt. Everest Base Camp
How to Visit Mount Kailash in Tibet – Ruqin China Travel
How to Visit Mount Everest (Qomolangma) – Ruqin China Travel
