LHASA

For the first time on our trip we join a small tour group to visit 

Drepung Monastery at the foot of Mount Gephel.

Prayer wheels

Covering an area of 250,000 square meters, it held 7,700 monks in total and 

possessed 141 fazendas and 540 pastures in its heyday.

The ground of the monastery is organized on the caves and temples for Jamyang Qoigyi, 

together with two magnificent white pagodas,

 along with many cultural relics and statues.

Next stop the Potala Palace, built in the 7th century and extended 

to it's present size by the 5th Dalai Lama.

It is in two parts, the White Palace and the Red Palace.

 It is thirteen stories high and includes living quarters, temples, 

tomb stupas and monk dormitories.

 Monks debating

Wonderful view from the top and a perfectly clear sky apart from these 3 little clouds!

The people are so photogenic

Rickshaw ride back to the hotel

 through the many attractive old buildings lining the main street,

There are also many interesting little cafes and bars.

Evening meal in a typical Tibetan restuarant with our small tour group.  

Great night out with folk from around the world; Singapore, Russia, Iran, America and Wales.