The Tibet Guide: Central and Western Tibet [Paperback]

Stephen Batchelor (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 25, 1998

The best available companion for travelers to Tibet--The New York Times Review of Books

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

The opening of Tibet to tourism means a need for guidebooks. One is tempted to recommend this title for the stunning photographs alone; but, it must be noted, the text introduces one only to temples, monasteries, and pilgrimage areas. No mention is made of the unique ecological or scenic wonders of Tibet. Further, although there are several maps, none is given of Lhasa, thus denying readers insights into spatial orientation to the capital. Libraries are cautioned that the text in several places advises readers to disregard government rules and regulations. Armchair travelers will like this work and enjoy the illustrations. The traveler to Tibet may have difficulties if relying only on it. Donald Clay Johnson, Univ. of Minnesota Libs., Minneapolis
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From the Back Cover

Tibet, the Forbidden Kingdom, Shangri-La, The Land of Snows, is here revealed in all its beauty, magic, and mystery. This completely revised and updated edition of the award-winning Tibet Guide contains an illustrated iconographical guide, a phrase book, and a glossary of terms. Lavishly illustrated with color photographs, maps, monastery floor plans, and rare photos of historic places as they once were, The Tibet Guide provides answers to questions about travel logistics as well as explanations of the history, politics, and Buddhist culture of Tibet. A treasure for actual and "armchair" travelers alike, this definitive guide to Tibet, past and present, supplies detailed, practical advice on how to get the most out of both real and imagined trips to the Roof of the World.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 424 pages
• Publisher: Wisdom Publications; Revised edition (February 25, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0861711343
• ISBN-13: 978-0861711345
• Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 5.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #186,010 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #19 in Books > Travel > Asia > Tibet

More About the Author

Stephen Batchelor is a former monk in the Tibetan and Zen traditions. He has translated Shantideva's A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life and is the author of Alone with Others, The Faith to Doubt, The Tibet Guide, The Awakening of the West, Buddhism without Beliefs, and Verses from the Center. He is a contributing editor of Tricycle magazine, a guiding teacher at Gaia House Retreat Centre, and cofounder of Sharpham College for Buddhist Studies and Contemporary Inquiry in Devon, England. He lives in southwest France and lectures and conducts meditation retreats worldwide.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book, April 24, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: The Tibet Guide: Central and Western Tibet (Paperback)

This is a very handsome and extremely useful guide for all who want to know more from a real insider in Tibet and in Tibetan Buhhism. Easy to carry and to read. Highly recommended!

5.0 out of 5 stars Focusing on Tibet, March 8, 2010

By 

CRL "Hollis59" (Peoria, Illinois, USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Tibet Guide: Central and Western Tibet (Paperback)

Most guide books will incorporate Tibet into a review of China. On one level this makes sense as the Chinese government considers Tibet part of its political jurisdiction. But for many, Tibet is land onto itself with its own unique history, culture, religion and people. I found it refreshing to have a book devoted to just Tibet and will feel better prepared to understand this land when we visit it later this year.

It also contains good practical information on this portion of China, including the acknowledgment of the high altitude and how to avoid being a rude visitor.

There are nice color photos clustered throughout the book which further adds to text. Its size is compact and will be easy to take with us. Good book and recommended.

1 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Comprehensive and beautifully illustrated., June 20, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Tibet Guide: Central and Western Tibet (Paperback)

This book is beautifully illustrated. It contains information that cannot be found in a typical information guide about Tibet. Writer includes the mystique and aura surrounding this mysterious place.