Shigatse

What are the most recommended things to do in Shigatse?

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the historic seat of the Panchen Lama.
Explore Shigatse Dzong (old fortress) for historical and cultural insights.
Stroll through the local markets to experience Tibetan daily life.
Take photography tours to capture traditional Tibetan architecture and surrounding landscapes.
Day trips to nearby villages and monasteries to observe local customs and handicrafts.

Introducing Shigatse

Shigatse, a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of the Tibet Autonomous Region and Tibet's second-largest city, is approximately 300 kilometers from Lhasa. It was the seat of successive Panchen Erdeni and boasts numerous renowned temples, including Tashilhunpo Monastery, Sakya Monastery, Palkor Monastery, and Shalu Monastery, creating a rich religious culture encompassing numerous sects.

The snow-capped mountains headed by Mount Everest, the beautiful virgin forest belt, the sacred mountains, holy lakes and grasslands that complement each other, the famous temples full of mystery and legends, and the unique culture and customs of the western Tibet make Shigatse known as the "most perfect and beautiful manor".

Climate and best time to travel

Shigatse is suitable for tourism in all seasons, and May to July is the best time to visit Mount Everest.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Going up the Yarlung Zangbo River from Lhasa, you will see Yamdrok Lake, one of the three sacred lakes in Tibet, nestled among the mountains.

Tashilhunpo Monastery

The symbol of Shigatse, the temple is built on the mountain, magnificent and majestic, comparable to the Potala Palace, and is the residence of successive Panchen Lamas.

Baiju Monastery in Gyangze

With many pagodas, it is known as the "King of Pagodas in Tibet". The murals in the temple are coherent in overall structure and harmonious in details.

Sakya Monastery

Palkor Monastery and Tibet's cultural treasure house are both religious centers of Tibet.

Recommended number of days for visiting: about 2 days

Most Popular FAQs for Shigatse

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Shigatse is Tibet’s second-largest city and historically significant as the seat of the Panchen Lama at Tashilhunpo Monastery. It has been a key political, religious, and trade center in the region for centuries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Shigatse is located about 280 km southwest of Lhasa. Access is mainly by road via bus, private car, or taxi. There is also a train connection from Lhasa (Lhasa–Shigatse Railway). Walking is only feasible within city limits and the monastery areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Tashilhunpo Monastery: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Shigatse Dzong: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Best months to visit: April to October, with mild weather and clearer skies.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Tashilhunpo Monastery: approximately 100 CNY per adult; tickets bought on-site.
Shigatse Dzong: around 50 CNY; tickets purchased offline at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is optional but recommended during peak tourist season (summer months). A few days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days are enough to explore Shigatse, including the monasteries, Dzong, and local markets.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Tashilhunpo Monastery, including the Golden Hall and Panchen Lama’s tombs.
Shigatse Dzong (old fortress).
Local Tibetan markets and craft shops.
Nearby villages for traditional Tibetan architecture and culture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Chinese. Audio guides are not common; guides usually provide personal explanations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Golden Hall and monastery courtyards at Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Shigatse Dzong hilltop for panoramic city views.
Traditional Tibetan streets and market areas for cultural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Tashilhunpo Monastery in the morning.
Walk through the local market for lunch and cultural experience.
Visit Shigatse Dzong in the afternoon.
Optionally, take a short excursion to nearby villages.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are generally not available. Evening visits to streets and local markets are possible.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Shigatse is moderately visited. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded, avoiding peak tourist holidays in Tibet.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets are available at major attractions.
Restaurants and small cafes near monasteries and city streets.
Shops selling souvenirs and snacks.
Limited rest areas at Dzong and monasteries.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Elderly and children can visit with care. Some areas in monasteries and Dzong require climbing stairs, making access challenging for disabled visitors.