Rising to the pinnacle of the Earth, the Tibetan Plateau bestows the source of many major rivers in the region, including the Yangtze, Indus, Mekong, Ganges, and Brahmaputra. These rivers create astonishing canyons and valleys, carved by 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 Sherpa, Monpa, Tamang, Qiang, and Lhoba—and today including Chinese Han and Hui peoples—Tibet traces its history back to Neolithic inhabitants who emigrated from China.

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

You will find prayer flags streaming over high mountain passes, prayer wheels lining important passageways, and 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, once the world’s largest monastery, housing 10,000 monks; and the colossal hilltop dzong fortress Potala Palace, which for more than three centuries served as the winter home of the Dalai Lamas.

Nomadic Expeditions uniquely brings 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 safeguard the planet’s heritage and communities, involving 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, visiting holy lakes and remote monasteries, and coming to know Mount Everest—what Tibetans call Chomolungma, “Goddess Mother of the World.”