Tibet

Tibet — officially the Tibet Autonomous Region of China since 1965 — covers 1.2 million km² at an average elevation of 4,500 metres. It is the largest and highest plateau on Earth, the source of Asia's great rivers (Yangtze, Mekong, Brahmaputra, Indus), and the spiritual cradle of Vajrayana Buddhism.

Lhasa — the capital at 3,656 m — was founded in the 7th century. The Potala Palace was the seat of the Dalai Lamas from the 17th century until 1959. The Jokhang Temple remains Tibetan Buddhism's holiest building. From Lhasa, classic itineraries head south to Everest Base Camp (north side) or west to Mount Kailash — the sacred mountain at the centre of the universe for Hindus, Buddhists and Bon practitioners.

All foreign visitors require a Tibet Travel Permit and must travel with a licensed guide. Swotah Travel arranges Tibet as a multi-country add-on with Nepal — the overland Friendship Highway is the most photogenic way in.