4 First-Time Tibet Visitors Enjoy Tibetan Family Life & Crafts Untouched by 90% Tourists

"We don't want the usual...... We want to meet Tibet in depth."

In September 2023, I received two American couples who were curious about Tibet and wanted to spend 10 days getting to know Tibet like the locals, focusing on not going around the traditional tourist routes, they were looking forward to experiencing the local customs in depth, and during the trip, it would be best to stay in comfortable hotels and taste good quality food.

I realized that it was their first time in Tibet, and I had to design a Tibet tour with special features for them.

This is my initial motivation for travel. So, I finalized an in-depth itinerary covering Lhasa, Nyingchi, Shigatse, Mount Everest, etc.

Visit Tibetan Family & Experience Tibetan Handicrafts

During the trip, they could visit local Tibetan families.

Stepping into traditional Tibetan homes, they curiously observed the thick walls and small windows of the Tibetan architecture, designed to resist the cold winds. They saw auspicious patterns like lotus flowers and lucky clouds carved into the wooden beams.

Inside, gilded copper bowls and butter lamps were displayed, hand-woven wool blankets covered the low Tibetan beds, and walls were adorned with thangkas depicting Buddhist stories.

The Tibetan family's hostess warmly prepared butter tea on the spot and offered bowls of tsampa, and they all toasted with "Tashi Delek."

Tibetan calligraphy and incense making were other surprises I prepared for them. The two couples sat cross-legged at Tibetan wooden tables, using sharpened bamboo pens to write auspicious Tibetan phrases on yellowish Tibetan paper. They didn't mind the soot ink smudged on their fingertips, so focused were they.

Similarly, when making incense, they concentrated on kneading the warm spice paste with their bare hands, shaping it into thin incense sticks in silver bowls.

When I saw the four of them chatting intimately with local families or focused on Tibetan handicrafts, their surprised eyes and satisfied smiles are what I wanted to see and share with you who are reading this!

A Spiritual Wash at Yerpa Monastery

The unique mystery of Tibet is difficult to truly appreciate unless you come here. To let them experience this feeling, I arranged a visit to Yerpa Monastery for them. This monastery, built into a cliffside, requires you to bend and bow to explore fully.

The semi-suspended meditation cave where Songtsen Gampo practiced has a naturally meditative atmosphere. This place holds a natural magic that calms the soul. My guests were also touched by the atmosphere. They really enjoyed gazing out at the distant scenery from the cliffside observation platform, finding peace of mind.

Beyond the scheduled attractions, altitude sickness was a challenge we tackled together. Especially as we got closer to the must-see Mt. Everest. Beyond the usual prevention tips and oxygen, I built in plenty of rest time, constantly checking on everyone's well-being. Keeping them healthy was my top priority.

I also paid close attention to their meals. Knowing a sudden switch to local high-altitude food could be tough, I mixed familiar dishes with local treats like Tsampa, giving them a taste of Tibet without overwhelming their palates.

Kind Feedback Across the Pacific

After their trip, I received amazing feedback:

Mr. Michael Johnson: "This Tibet trip was beyond our wildest dreams! The itinerary was perfect, the scenery was breathtaking, and the guide's care was exceptional. We felt safe and comfortable at high altitude."

Mr. James Brown: "The hotels and food were fantastic. Everything was top-notch. We felt relaxed and comfortable the entire time."

Mrs. Emily Johnson: "Visiting the Tibetan families and trying the crafts was unforgettable. These authentic experiences are something you just can't get on a regular tour. Thank you for creating such a special trip."

Mrs. Olivia Brown: "This trip gave us a whole new perspective on Tibet. We were so impressed with the professionalism and care. We'll definitely be back!"

I'm so grateful for their kind words. That's what makes all the hard work worth it, and it shows how much we know our stuff at Asia Odyssey Travel, especially here in Tibet!

After they went home, they said they'd like to visit China again. I'm really looking forward to our next meeting!