Travelling on the highest train line in the world, made for an exciting experience! We spent two days gazing out at the unfolding scenery and two nights sleeping quite well . The only draw back was the toilet. There was supposed to be one Western toilet and one Asian squat toilet, for each carriage, but unfortunately the Western toilet was out of action the whole trip! We survived of course.

We were met at the train station by our Tibet guide, Ngawang, and taken to the extremely comfortable Yak Hotel, right in the centre of the city and almost spitting distance from the Potala Palace and Jokham temple.

The Potala Place is breathtaking and you can never tire of seeing it, as it rises above Lhasa. It is an immense 117 metres high with 13 floors in total and is constructed out of stone and timber. The roof glistens with gold. Tourist numbers are restricted. You are only allowed one hour inside and it must be with a Tibetan guide.

While in Lhasa, we also enjoyed the varying sites of Jokhang Temple, Deprung Monastery and Sera Monastery. The food is delicious and Yak has featured highly . We also enjoyed walking the streets, listening to the sounds and enjoying people watching, but always are eyes kept looking up to the amazing Potala Palace that defines Lhasa.

Now it is time for two full days of travel, to reach Mt. Everest Base Camp.

Footnote: Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa are UNESCO World Heritage listed. Lhasa Tibet also features in the book Unforgettable Places to See before you die.

Travel Tip: For authentic information on Tibet or tours contact our licensed guide Ngawang Tenzin Email; LSNB88@yahoo.com.au or nwt.88@yahoo.com phone 13618995652.