Day 1 – Arrival in Lhasa
Upon arrival in Lhasa, you’ll be collected by your Tibetan guide and driver, and driven for around an hour to the old town, where you will be staying for the next three nights. Lhasa sits at 3,600 metres, which is actually the lowest point in Tibet. Due to the high altitude, many travellers experience headaches or mild altitude sickness when they arrive, so it’s important to make sure you drink lots of water (around three litres is recommended) on your first day. Your guide will hold onto your passport to register for your tickets to Potala Palace the next day, and you should receive it back the same day or the next. Once you’re checked into your hotel, take a stroll or sit in one of the charming nearby restaurants around Barkhor Market.
Day 2 – Visit Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple
Today, you’ll visit two of Lhasa’s most iconic sites, the Potala Palace and the Jokhang Temple. You’ll most likely start at the Potala Palace, a 17th-century … that was once the seat of the Dalai Lama. Wander through the maze of chapels and grandly decorated halls, learning all about the rich history and its significance in Tibetan Buddhism. Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Jokhang Temple, known for the circular path(Barkhor kora) that surrounds it and draws pilgrims from all over Tibet. You’ll also find the Barkhor Bazaar here, where the streets are lined with vibrant stalls and shops selling prayer flags, incense and traditional Tibetan fabrics. Enjoy a tasty dinner at a local Tibetan restaurant and try the freshly made momo dumplings.
Day 3 – Visit Drepung & Sera Monastery and Norbulingka
This morning, you’ll visit Drepung Monastery, which was once the largest monastery in the world. Perched on the mountainside, just outside Lhasa, this 15th-century complex was home to thousands of monks, as well as being the residence of the Dalai Lama before the Potala Palace was built. Next, you’ll explore Norbilingka, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lama. Wander through the beautiful palaces, colourful murals and willow tree gardens, and admire the intricate details of traditional Tibetan architecture. At Sera Monastery, you can witness a “debating session” with the monks (usually between 3-5 pm), where you can watch them engage in lively discussions and complex philosophical questions. Later in the afternoon, you’ll return to your hotel for your final night in Lhasa.
Day 4 – Onward journey
Today, you’ll say goodbye to Lhasa as you’ll be continuing on your journey in Tibet. Dive deeper into Tibetan culture and journey to Gyantse and Shigatse, or travel back to China, and fly home from there.
Accommodation
