The majestic building - temple, palace and fortress - seems to be one with the rock on which it stands. Broad stairs lead up to the residence of the Tibetan god kings. It is a trove of immeasurable wealth. The heart of the old city is the Jokhang. Buddhist prayer flags flutter in the wind and juniper fires appease the gods. Mingling with the Tibetan pilgrims you will wander around the Jokhang, Some even prostrate the whole length of the way around the temple. We visit Tsurphu Monastery, head monastery of the Kagyupa sect, as well as Drepung, Sera and Ganden, important monasteries of the Gelugpa and once flourishing centers of Buddhist spirituality.
Then we embark on our 9-day trek. In Rutok, east of Lhasa, our crew is anticipating us. For 6 days we trek eastward passing settlements and the black yak hair tents of the nomads. Pastures dotted with flowers lead us across passes to the oracle lake.

Amongst the holy lakes of Tibet Lhamo Latso takes a special place. It is a pilgrimage destination for the god kings. At least once in their life every Dalai Lama and high authorities comes here to meditate and experience visions. It as here, that they looked for signs of the coming incarnation of a Dalai Lama. A place of utter peacefulness and serenity. On our way back we pass through the village of Gyatso Chu, home of the best walnuts in Tibet, and cross a pass leading to Tsetang. We visit the Yarlung valley, the birthplace of Tibetan civilization, on a day trip. A visit of Samye, the very first monastery of Tibet, concludes our journey.