Tibet Road Trip: Lhasa to Shigatse

Dangerous Road Trip through Rural Tibet (-20 celcius)

Destination:ChinaProvince:TibetCity:Lhasa
Dangerous Road Trip through Rural Tibet (-20 celcius)
Two Mad Explorers2025-05-0136 min

Today we are driving over 8 hours through rural Tibet from Lhasa to Shigatse. This trip takes us through mountain passes of over 5,000 metres plus and freezing cold road conditions. Join us on our hectic adventure across Tibet.

--- Two Mad Explorers
May 1, 2025, Spring in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Lhasa to Shigatse journey begins
  2. 0:13Reaching 4,280m altitude
  3. 1:39Yamdrok Lake: turquoise beauty
  4. 2:21Lhasa to Shigatse: second largest city
  5. 3:29Six-hour drive through mountains
  6. 4:15Yamdok Yumtso village
  7. 10:58Karola Glacier and Nojin Kangsang pass
  8. 14:52Simila Pass: breathtaking views
  9. 17:12Garze county and Belchuk Monastery
  10. 21:28Kumbum stupa exploration
  11. 29:02Shigatse hotel and nighttime stroll

Two Mad Explorers' Tibetan road trip: stunning mountain passes, sacred lakes, and heartwarming encounters. A journey of breathtaking beauty and peaceful solitude.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Embrace the journey as the destination, especially in Tibet. The landscapes and cultural experiences are what truly matter. (2:13)
  2. Tip 2When visiting Shigatse, explore local life, food, and significant monasteries and temples to gain an authentic experience. (3:43)
  3. Tip 3For a deeper cultural immersion, consider undertaking the kora, a circumambulation around Yamdrok Lake, a significant pilgrimage for Tibetans. (4:39)
  4. Tip 4Practice Leave No Trace principles as a tourist. Respect the environment and avoid littering, especially with items like oxygen cans and bottles. (14:09)
  5. Tip 5It's rare to be allowed inside a stupa, so cherish the experience and be respectful of the sacred space. (22:22)
  6. Tip 6If you're visiting Tibet, make time to experience the Belchuk Monastery; it's a truly special place with a unique history and stunning architecture. (27:27)

Two Mad Explorers embark on an unforgettable road trip through rural Tibet, braving freezing temperatures and high altitudes. Their journey from Lhasa to Shigatse is filled with breathtaking views of sacred lakes, snow-capped mountains, and remote villages. Witness their awe at the turquoise Yamdrok Lake and their encounter with a friendly monastery dog. This adventure is a testament to the power of experiencing the simple life and the unparalleled beauty of the Tibetan landscape.

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Dangerous Road Trip through Rural Tibet (-20 celcius)

This video documents Two Mad Explorers' incredible road trip through rural Tibet, from Lhasa to Shigatse. The journey takes them across high mountain passes exceeding 5,000 meters, where the thin air presents a physical challenge. Despite the altitude, the travelers are awestruck by the panoramic views, particularly of the Yamdrok Lake, a sacred turquoise expanse nestled amidst snow-capped peaks.

The video beautifully captures the essence of Tibetan culture. We see prayer flags fluttering in the wind, carrying prayers across the sacred mountains, a testament to the deep spiritual significance of the landscape. Two Mad Explorers share their experience of walking at a slower pace due to the altitude, highlighting the unique physicality of the journey.

Their adventure extends beyond the majestic scenery. They interact with locals, sample high-altitude sausages, and explore the vibrant culture of Shigatse. The video emphasizes the tranquility and peacefulness of the region, contrasting it with the fast-paced lives many of us lead. The travelers' genuine awe and appreciation for the simple life shine through.

The trip also includes a visit to the Belchuk Monastery, a site with a fascinating history involving a past conflict with the British. The monastery's architecture and the intricate details of its paintings are highlighted, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Tibet. Two Mad Explorers' visit concludes with a stay at a quirky hotel in Shigatse, adding a touch of unexpected humor to their adventure. The video ends with a promise of a second part, exploring Shigatse further. Throughout, the unique details, personal insights, and emotional moments make this a captivating journey into the heart of Tibet.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What's the air like at such high altitudes?
A: The air is thin, and you have to walk much slower. It feels like you're jogging after just a short distance.
Q: What's the most memorable part of the journey?
A: The views are absolutely out of this world, especially Yamdrok Lake. It's heaven on earth, pure peace and tranquility.
Q: What was the Belchuk Monastery like?
A: Absolutely beautiful! It's got a fascinating history, with a war against the British, and the inside is jaw-droppingly beautiful.
Q: What's the food like in Tibet?
A: We had yak and potatoes, which was very tasty and tender. I also tried stir-fried lamb with Tibetan bread, which was my absolute favorite.
Q: What's the hotel like in Shigatse?
A: It's one of the quirkiest hotels we've ever been in! Very funky and vibrant, with a unique Tibetan style, although a little creepy at night.

Tibet Road Trip: Lhasa to Shigatse

Today we are driving over 8 hours through rural Tibet from Lhasa to Shigatse. This trip takes us through mountain passes of over 5,000 metres plus and freezing cold road conditions. Join us on our hectic adventure across Tibet. 🔴 We would like to thank our channel members, this is only possible...

Tibet Road Trip: Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake

Two Mad Explorers embark on a thrilling 8-hour road trip across rural Tibet, from Lhasa to Shigatse. Brave the freezing temperatures and challenging mountain passes exceeding 5,000 meters. This adventurous journey showcases the raw beauty and unpredictable nature of the Tibetan landscape. Experience the excitement and challenges of navigating this demanding terrain firsthand.

Attractions in this video: Yamdrok Lake, Belchuk Monastery, Kumbum Stupa