Shigatse 3-Day Travel Guide: Tashilhunpo Monastery, Everest Base Camp, Tibetan Heartland

Shigatse (Xigaze), Tibet's second city and traditional capital of Tsang province. Tashilhunpo Monastery is the Panchen Lama's seat, with the world's largest gilded bronze Buddha. Everest Base Camp (Tibetan side) is within reach. Three days at the roof of the world.

🚶 Day 1: Tashilhunpo Monastery (¥100) — Founded 1447, seat of the Panchen Lama. 26m gilded Maitreya Buddha, ancient thangkas, monk debates. Allow 3-4 hours. Shigatse old town walk.

🚶 Day 2: Everest Base Camp (¥180 vehicle entry + ¥160 per person) — 6-7 hours drive. Rongbuk Monastery (highest monastery at 5,150m). View of Everest's north face. Stay at tent guesthouse (¥50-100).

🚶 Day 3: Return to Shigatse. Sakya Monastery (¥45, en route) — "Second Dunhuang" with massive Tibetan scripture library.

🍜 Tibetan Yak Meat ¥25-40 | Tsampa ¥5-10 | Butter Tea ¥5-10 | Sweet Tea ¥3-5

🚄 Lhasa 3hrs by train | Altitude 3,800m+ | Budget ¥300-600/day