Name: Shigatse

Chinese Name: 日喀则

Region: Tibet Autonomous Region

Status: Prefectural city

Population: 640,000 inhabitants

Area: 176,000 km²

Shigatse is Tibet's second largest city after Lhassa. Still predominantly inhabited by Tibetans, a stay in Shigatse offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Tibetan culture.

History

The city boasts a history stretching back 600 years. Once a sacred city and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of Tibet's foremost spiritual leaders, Shigatse long remained in a primitive state of development.

During the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368), Shigatse fell under the jurisdiction of the Lord of Xialu. In the 14th century, Tibet's political center shifted near Xialu to Shigatse.

In the mid-15th century, the first Dalai Lama initiated the construction of the Tashilhunpo Monastery, which allowed the city to flourish.

Today

Tibet's second city, Shigatse, situated at the confluence of the Yarlung Zangbo River and the Nianchu He stream, stands as an important waypoint during a journey through Tibet.

Predominantly Tibetan in character, its remarkably peaceful and laid-back atmosphere contrasts sharply with the hustle of Lhassa. The pace of life here is more measured, and locals appear less hurried.

At an elevation of 3,700 meters, Shigatse is surrounded by an extraordinary natural landscape ideal for mountain trekking.

During a stop in Shigatse, don't miss the Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama. This monastery ranks among the six great Gelugpa institutions in the Tibetan world and still houses nearly 600 monks. It contains an impressive 27-meter-tall Buddha statue as well as the mausoleum of the fourth Panchen Lama.

Just 300 km from Mount Everest, Shigatse also serves as a prime launching point for treks. It's likewise a crucial transit point for reaching Tibet's largest lakes.

Climate

The Shigatse region enjoys various climate types. To the south, Shigatse benefits from a relatively mild and humid climate with a monsoon season. To the north, across the Tibetan plateau, conditions are colder and drier. In Shigatse's Himalayan region, the climate turns colder and more arid, again with a monsoon season.

Summer is the best season to explore Shigatse and its surroundings. Temperatures are cool and pleasant. Winters are severe, making travel difficult during this period.

Train

Recently, the Lhassa–Shigatse railway line has made traveling between the two cities easier. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Bus

Bus is the most common way to reach Shigatse from Lhassa. Various bus types operate with different standards.

Multiple options are available for getting around the city and its surroundings.

Numerous cycle-rickshaws offer pleasant and authentic rides through the city's narrow streets.

Taxis also provide affordable fares for exploring the city and reaching points of interest.

To visit the surrounding areas, it's possible to rent 4×4 vehicles.

What to Do in Shigatse?

• Wander through Shigatse's streets and soak in Tibetan culture.
• Journey back in time and meet Tibetan monks at the Tashilhunpo Monastery.
• Rest before your departure for Mount Everest.
• Head to the surrounding hills to take in the panoramic views of the city and mountains.

Explore all attractions in Shigatse and its surroundings.