Tibet

Tibet is a region on the high Tibetan Plateau in the Himalayas of Asia. In the contemporary state system, the People’s Republic of China administers the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), established in 1965 as one of China’s five autonomous regions. The term Tibet can also refer to a broader cultural and geographic area that includes parts of Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan. The regional capital is Lhasa, and the TAR borders India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and several Chinese provinces.

Geographically, the region sits at elevations around 4,000 meters on average, making it one of the highest areas on Earth. It features major ranges including the Himalayas, sacred peaks such as Kailash, and high-altitude lakes like Namtso and Yamdrok. The climate is cold and arid, with a short growing season and strong winds. The environment is fragile and subject to climate change and human pressures, supporting pastoralism and unique biodiversity.

The TAR has about 3.5 to 3.7 million inhabitants, predominantly ethnic Tibetans. Standard Tibetan is the most widely spoken language, with Amdo Tibetan and other dialects spoken in adjacent areas. Tibetan Buddhism is the dominant religion, alongside the Bon tradition, and the region is known for its monasteries, festivals, and monastic architecture.

Historically, Tibet comprised independent polities and cultural institutions before coming under the influence of the People’s Republic of China in the mid-20th century. In 1950 Chinese authorities asserted control, and the 1951 Seventeen-Point Agreement outlined governance under Chinese sovereignty with promises of autonomy. The TAR was created in 1965 within China’s administrative framework. Contemporary governance operates under PRC law with regional authorities; debates persist about autonomy, human rights, and cultural preservation.

Economy relies on animal husbandry, agriculture in river valleys, mining, hydropower, and tourism. Infrastructure improvements, including the Qinghai–Tibet Railway, connect Lhasa with other parts of China. Tourism, heritage sites such as the Potala Palace, and natural landscapes are major draws, while environmental and social challenges continue to shape policy.