The Roof of
the World

Rising to the pinnacle of the Earth, the Tibetan plateau bestows the source of many major rivers of the region, including the Yangtze, Indus, Mekong, Ganges, and Brahmaputra—creating astonishing canyons and valleys cut through with pure waters below soaring ridgelines. This daunting land of frozen peaks and windy flatlands is warmed by hospitable and gentle-hearted people. The traditional homeland of the ethnic groups of Sherpa, Monpa, Tamang, Qiang, and Lhoba people—and today including Chinese Han and Hui peoples—Tibet traces its history back to Neolithic inhabitants emigrating from China.

This Himalayan wonderland is steeped in Tibetan Buddhism, introduced in Sanskrit from northern India, and has flourished over the centuries—heartily enduring despite nearly all of their beloved monasteries being destroyed during China’s Cultural Revolution.

You will find prayer flags streaming over high mountain passes and prayer wheels lining important passageways, as well as stylized hemispherical monuments known as chortens gloriously whitewashed and gilded. The sacred temples, structures, and monasteries that remain are wonders to behold—such as Samye, the first monastery built in Tibet; Drepung, at one time the world’s largest monastery, housing 10,000 monks; and the colossal hilltop dzong fortress Potala Palace, for more than three centuries the winter home for Dalai Lamas.

Nomadic Expeditions uniquely bring you inside the heart of this ancient and mysterious region, ushering you among its many places of discovery and introducing you to its people and customs. Our tours and expertise include local guides and staff with intimate knowledge of the land, languages, and customs. Our support and participation in global organizations that safeguard the planet’s heritage and communities also involve us in the International Campaign for Tibet, the most extensive support group for Tibetans working peacefully toward democracy, human rights, and the preservation of their ancient national heritage.

Come discover the compelling secrets of Tibet—from exploring the exotic bazaars of Lhasa to following a segment of the old silk and salt caravan route to stopping by holy lakes and remote monasteries, and coming to know Mount Everest—what Tibetans call Chomolungma, “Goddess Mother of the World.”