In the morning, a quick look at Tashilunpo monastery. This is the seat of the Panchen Lama. Many locals were prostrating themselves but were closely watched by the police.
It was a few hours drive to Lhasa but as soon as we arrived we went into the old part of town - here the moslem butcher with his yak meat.
The Jhokang Temple, holiest place in Tibet. There were very few western tourists and I was amazed at the military and police presence.
Essentially there is a massive clampdown going on because of recent protests by Tibetans. This has taken the form of self immolation by monks and nuns. So far this year 29 have burnt themselves to death. It was therefore a little 'in your face' to see squads of soldiers patrolling the Barkhor (in the wrong direction) armed with sticks and fire extinguishers!
I was on the look out for these things. They are the medicinal 'caterpillar fungus', Cordyseps Sinensis. These little fellows cost $375 per gram. Almost 7 times more expensive than the current gold price!
Rounded off the afternoon with some Yak Butter Tea - an aquired taste.
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