The ride to Kamba La Pass is as thrilling as it is breathtaking—literally. As the vehicle winds its way up the steep, twisting road, the air grows noticeably thinner, and the effects of high altitude begin to set in. At 4,794 metres (15,728 feet) above sea level, altitude sickness is a real concern, especially for…
The Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towering over Lhasa, Tibet. Originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, it was later expanded in the 17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama, becoming the primary residence of successive Dalai Lamas until the 14th fled to India in…
Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is the most sacred and important temple in Tibetan Buddhism. Located in Lhasa, it was built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo to house a sacred statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, believed to be one of the most revered images of Buddha. A mix of Tibetan, Nepalese,…
Step into a Tibetan monastery, and the air hits you with a thick, unmistakable scent—earthy, rancid, smoky, and oddly rich. That’s yak butter candles at work. These traditional butter lamps, burning day and night as offerings, fill the temples with a dense aroma that clings to the ancient wooden beams and centuries-old murals. Yak butter,…
Drepung Monastery, perched on the outskirts of Lhasa, Tibet, is a sprawling labyrinth of whitewashed walls and golden roofs. Once the largest monastery in the world, it was home to nearly 10,000 monks in its heyday, making it a bustling hub of Tibetan Buddhist learning and debate. Today, it’s quieter but no less awe-inspiring, with…
At some hotels in Lhasa, including the more altitude-savvy ones, you might find an oversized balloon filled with oxygen on offer. Yes, a literal lifesaver in latex form, designed for guests struggling with the high-altitude thin air. These O2 balloons are often kept handy at reception or even sent to your room if you’re feeling…
Touching down in Lhasa feels like stepping onto another planet, and not just because the city sits at a dizzying 3,656 metres above sea level. The moment your plane door pops open, you’ll feel the high-altitude air smack you in the lungs. Cabin pressure during the flight keeps things manageable, but as soon as you…
Geysir and Strokkur, nestled in Iceland’s geothermal heartland, are nature’s ultimate boiling points. Geysir, the granddaddy of all geysers, is mostly dormant now, but its historic significance remains; it’s the namesake for every other geyser on Earth. Nearby, Strokkur has taken the spotlight, delighting visitors with its reliable eruptions every 5–10 minutes. In winter, this…
Gullfoss waterfall in winter is a mesmerising display of Iceland’s raw power frozen in time. The mighty Hvítá River crashes down into the canyon, partially encased in thick layers of ice and snow. The water still flows, but frost clings to the edges of the falls, creating sparkling icicles and frosty sculptures that glint in…
Kerio volcanic crater in winter is like stepping into a frozen postcard. The red volcanic slopes are dusted with snow, creating a stark contrast against the icy blue lake that often freezes over in the cold. The usual vibrancy of the crater is muted, replaced by a serene and frosty landscape that feels almost otherworldly….
Reykjavik Airport in winter is a mix of practicality and icy charm. Surrounded by snow-dusted landscapes and often a dramatic backdrop of low-hanging clouds, the airport feels like a gateway to Iceland’s raw, untamed beauty. Inside, it’s warm and minimal, with Scandinavian design touches that keep things sleek and functional. Expect boots stomping off snow…