Trekking at Lhoka, Tibet

Boasting numerous firsts during its long history, Tsedang has been called "the hub of Tibetan civilization". For example, the first king Natri Tsanpo; the first palace Yumbulakang Palace; the first cropland Suodang; the first Buddhist sutra Panghonchaja and the first Tibetan opera Pakghapu are all associated with Tsedang.

Of the four sacred mountains of Tibet, three are located in Tsedang, namely Chowori in Gonggarchasam; Hapori in Samye; and Gongpori in Tsedang. Tsedang is also renowned throughout Tibet for its two sacred lakes Yumdruk Yumtso and Lhamo Nhatso.

First trekking area -- Chingpu: 15 kilometers north to the Samye Monastery, Chingpu is a sacred place for Tibetan Buddhist followers to make their meditation. In Tibet history some of senior Lamas used to meditate here.

Second trekking area -- the sacred lake Lhamo Lhatso: Lhamo Lhatso, meaning Goddess lake in Tibetan, covers about one square kilometers, in Gyantse county of Lhoka Tibet. Viewing from the snow clab peaks which is 5,100 meters above sea level, the holy lake seems to be a skull shaped mirror. It is surrounded by high mountains, it is said that the holy lake will show pictures of future events and reveal one's future fortune if one piously stares at the lake. The reincarnations of successive Dalai Lama were always sought under the enlightenment of the Holy Lake, and they came to pray for it once in their life time. As a precious mirror for the masses to pursue fortune, the lake is widely known in Tibet and has been attracting innumerable pilgrims. The Holy Lake is well known through Tibet for its mystery and holiness. During the pilgrimage, travelers find themselves circling on high mountains; and passing through forests; sometimes strolling on the grassland; sometime marching forward by streams. The piles of Mani stone along the way, are like road signs with no words, guide them to the destination.