Losar: Tibetan New Year
Beijing - Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Lhasa

Tiananmen, the Gate of Heavenly Peace shields the elaborate grandeur of the Forbidden City from the vast expanse of the great square. 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled from within its impressive walls.

The new high altitude rail line to Lhasa offers a unique view of the vast Tibetan Plateau - the scenery is simply awesome. The Golmud-Lhasa section of this epic rail journey opened in July 2005. The tracks zig zag 1142 km. across the Kunlun and Tanggula mountain ranges - reaching over 5000meters at its highest point.

The lure of Lhasa, capital on the roof of the world, cannot be under-estimated and it is truly a fascinating city, fully justifying its reputation. Dominated by the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Potala Palace and bustling with pilgrims circling the sacred Jokhang Temple it is a feast for the senses.

Be invited into the home of a Tibetan family to eat with them and share the celebration of the new year.

Cross the spectacular Khamba-La (pass) with the turquoise waters of the sacred lake, Yamdrok-tso, spread below. Prayer flags, glaciers, snow covered mountain ranges - the scenery is incredible!Gyantse stands at the junction of trade routes from India and retains the feel of a Tibetan town. The forts and well-protected monasteries of Gyantse and Shigatse reveal a not always peaceful history - the riches within, testament to past glory.

Tashilhunpo Monastery, seat of the Panchen Lama and one of the most important monasteries of the Gelukpa order, dominates the hillside behind the town - its golden roofs glittering in the afternoon sun.

Follow the Brahmaputra east to the airport for your departure flight.