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Mount Everest (Qomolangma)
For most of us, a trip to Mount Everest！better called by its Tibetan name, Qomolangma！means a stay at Everest Base Camp (EBC) and a few tentative forays in the general direction of the world's highest peak, which towers 8,848 meters (29,028 feet) above sea level. If you're fit enough and have acclimated to the altitude, you might manage to make it to a higher camp, though this level of adventuring is only advised for those with serious mountaineering experience and equipment, not to mention the necessary permissions from the regulating authorities.
Regardless, Qomolangma is a sight to behold, and EBC is a fine place from which to view the mountain whose Tibetan name translates as "Goddess Mother of the Universe." Most arrive at the camp via Land Rover from Shigatse (a two-day drive); a newly constructed road (and a rather controversial one, considering cultural and environmental sensitivities) provides easy access from nearby Rongphu Monastery (4,890 m above sea level), which boasts a commanding view of Qomolangma's north face as well as a popular guesthouse, the Monastery Guesthouse. Another approach！and a more spectacular one！is to trek in from Tingri on the Friendship Highway, a three or four day hike.
From Rongphu, you can either pay for a ride or make the roughly hour-and-a-half hike to EBC, though you should definitely give yourself time to acclimate if you intend to make this！or any！hikes without problems (adjusting generally takes a couple of days).
EBC itself is home to a spring, post office, and a slew of tents, some of which serve tea and snacks, and others of which belong to climbing expeditions. Climbing Everest is no joke！over 200 climbers have lost their lives attempting the feat. But, since sherpa Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary made the first documented ascent in 1953, over 3,000 climbers have successfully topped Qomolangma.
If you're interested in climbing, if only to a higher camp, the best time is in May before the monsoon season brings storms. Between May and November the temperature is most pleasant. July and August are the best months for the Tibet-side north face, during its brief respite from subzero temperatures.
With the 2008 Olympic Torch expected to pass through the area as it makes its way to Beijing, security is likely to tighten in the area, so unless you're hoping for a glimpse of the torch, pick another time to visit.
Pelkor Chode Monastery
Southwest of Shigatse, in the small town of Gyantse, is the Pelkor Chode Monastery home to several hundred monks. The site is actually a collection of monasteries that were founded in 1418. There is a temple inside the complex with a large collection of unique Buddhist art inside and monks practicing their daily prayers and mantras. Although the monastery compound used to house many more monks than it does today the site is well maintained by the Gelugpa sect and the monks that still reside at the Pelkor Chode. The halls and chapels of the monastery are not lit so it's a good idea to bring a flashlight.
Rongphu Monastery
Located at the foot of Mount Everest, Rongphu has earned the title of the world's highest monastery standing at 4,980 meters high. It might go without saying, the views of Mount Everest from within are spectacular. The monastery, originally built in 1902 by Nyingma Lama, housed more than 500 monks but today, just 50 monks and nuns remain. Renovated in 1983, the monastery has a wonderful collection of murals and paintings adorning the walls. It is now possible for travelers to stay at the monastery (the rooms are quite basic) or pitch a tent outside. There is a small shop and a good restaurant also located on site. Located just two hours (by foot) from Everest Base Camp, the hike through the valleys and alongside the world's tallest mountain is a breathtaking and memorable hike. Or you can drive alongside hikers and arrive at Base Camp in about 15 minutes.
Shalu Monastery
Although Shalu Monastery is one of the most difficult sights in the region to visit, it is worth the effort if you have a few days to spend in the area. Originally built in the 11th century, Shalu became famous in the 14th century due to its in-house Sanskrit translator, the 11th Abbot Buton Rinchen Drub, one of the foremost scholars of Buddhist text translations.
The monastery blends Tibetan and Han style architecture dating back to the 10th century. The interior walls of the monastery are adorned with 14th Century Chinese and Nepalese murals and there are many historical and religious relics on display.
Tashilunpo Monastery
Traditionally home to the Panchen Lama, the monastery was built in 1447. It miraculously escaped much Cultural Revolution-era destruction, so it's a refreshing sight for reconstruction-sore eyes. Tashilunpo is large enough to seem like a small walled town, and there's plenty to see. Highlights include massive collections of jewels and gold Buddha statues, the Assembly Hall and its colorful unfurled thangkas, and the shrines and thrones of each of the Panchen Lamas, many of whom are buried on site. Due to the controversy revolving around the Panchen Lama, neither the Gyancain Norbu (recognized and appointed by the Chinese government) nor Gedhun Choekyi Nyima (identified and recognized by the Dalai Lama) live here today, but there are a few hundred resident monks.
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