Lhasa, Gyantse and Shigatse are the places that attract most of the Tibet travelers. Lhasa, which meant "sacred earth" in Tibetan language, used to be the most reclusive city on earth and remain shrouded in mystery and secrecy until early 20 th century. Today, Lhasa has gone through a vast technological change but the mystique still exists in the palaces of Dalai Lamas, monasteries and Tibetan quarters. After 3 days touring in and around Lhasa, by then you are properly acclimatized, you will set out on China ( Tibet)-Nepal friendship highway, exit Lhasa by crossing Tsangbo Bridge and wind up to Kamba La ( 15,700ft), that offers dazzling views of the Himalayas as well as Yamdrok Tso-the turquoise green water lake several hundred feet below. Follow the bank of Yamdrok Tso for more than 40 miles before you reach Nangkartse, a small Tibetan roadside-town and take a chance of side trip to Samding Monastery of Bodong sect, 5 miles off the highway in the lakeshore. The road again climbs over Karo La (16,500 ft) and heads towards Gyantse. Visit Kumbum Stupa-the landmark of Gyantse and adjoining Pekor Chode Monastery and time permitting, you would like to hike up to the Dzong, overlooking the Gyatnse town. From Lhasa to Gyantse, its about 6 ½ hrs drive by 4 WD. Shigatse-the second largest city of Tibet is further 50 miles and is a drive of 2 hours. En route, time permitting, visit the prominent Shalu Monastery which is an amalgamation of Tibetan, Nepali and Chinese architecture. Shigatse-largely a Chinese commercial town has little to offer the culture-hungry tourists but Tashilunbo Monastery-the principal seat of Panchen Lama is one of the highlights of this trip. From Shigatse, return to Lhasa via northern route, also called New Road, following the Yarlungdzangbo River. If you have interest in ancient Bon religion, visit Yungdrungling monastery.