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Shigatse, also Xigatse, means "fertile
land" and stands at the junction of the Yarlong Tsangpo and
Nyangchu River. It used to be the capital of Tsang and now is the
capital of Shigatse prefecture. The 600 year old city is the traditional
seat of the Panchen Lama, who is one of the two prestigious spiritual
leaders in Tibet and the abbot of the Tashilhunpo Monastery. About
300 km from Lhasa, it is an important stop between Lhasa and west
Tibet where pilgrims and tourists often wander. Shigatse has a population
of over 80,000, of which 97% are Tibetan. It is the second largest
city within Tibet has undergone large scale development. Most tourist
facilities stand along Jiefang Dong Lu, Beijing Bei Lu, Zhufeng
Lu and Shandong Lu. West of the market and below the Dzong is the
old Tibetan quarter where many people like to visit.
Climate:
Summer is usually mild and wet, and brings most of the annual rainfall.
Winter is cold, dry and windy.
Feature: There are wonderful monasteries comparable with those in
Lhasa, like Tashilhunpo, Sakya and Shalu. The highlight of Shigatse
is surprisingly high snow capped peaks. Most of the highest peaks
in Tibet, including Mt. Everest, are around Shigatse, in Shigatse
prefecture.
Accommodations: Although Shigatse is the second
largest city in Tibet, the accommodation options are limited. Shigatse
Hotel (Tel: 0892-8825525 Fax: 0892-8821900) is the best (3 star)
hotel in town and is found on Jiefang Zhong. Lu. Zhufeng Friendship
Hotel (Tel: 0892-8821929) on Dechen Potrang Lu is another good choice
although it is some distance from the center of the city. Sangzhuzi
Hotel (Tel: 0892-8822252) and Tenzin Hotel are hostels, providing
basic accommodation. Tenzin has recently undergone renovations.
Shigatse Post Hotel and Fruit Orchard are other choices. The Fruit
Orchard is just opposite to Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Restaurants: Restaurants can be found on Kesang Ke Lu, Zhufeng Lu,
and Tsendu Lu.
Entertainment: At present there is little tourist
entertainment in Shigatse. On Shandong Lu, there is an internet
access where there are about 20 PCs.
Practical tips: This is your last chance to stock
up some Chinese money before you reach Zhangmu. The Bank of China
near Shigatse Hotel accepts travelers' cheques but does not accept
credit cards. The post office handles international letters and
faxes, but does not accept parcels. Shopping in the open market
is an interesting experience for most people.
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