Lhasa China 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Culinary & Cultural Journey: A Taste of Lhasa

This itinerary focuses on exploring the rich culture and delicious cuisine Lhasa has to offer while allowing you flexibility to adjust based on your personal preferences.

Day 1:

  • Arrival in Lhasa: Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) or Lhasa Railway Station.

  • Things to know:

    • Be prepared for the altitude! Lhasa is at 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), so acclimatizing to the high altitude is crucial. Drink plenty of water and take it easy on your first day.

  • Activities:

    • Relax and acclimate to the altitude at your hotel.
    • Enjoy a leisurely evening with a traditional Tibetan meal at The Jokhang Temple Restaurant (known for its authentic cuisine and ambiance) or Tibetan Family Kitchen (a more casual setting offering home-cooked Tibetan dishes).

  • Where to stay:

    • The Yak Hotel: A cozy, mid-range option with a great location near the Potala Palace.

  • Things to do:

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the Potala Palace, the iconic winter palace of the Dalai Lama. Explore the architecture and history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the bustling streets of Barkhor Street and witness the vibrant Tibetan culture firsthand.

Things to know:

  • The Potala Palace is a massive structure, so wear comfortable shoes for walking around.
  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions while visiting religious sites.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries.

Activities:

  • Explore the Barkhor Street Circuit: Stroll along the traditional route for pilgrims, experiencing the energy of Lhasa’s heart and observing locals circling the Kora (sacred circuit) around the Potala Palace.
  • Visit a Tibetan restaurant: Enjoy the local delicacy of Tsampa, a roasted barley flour that is mixed with tea to make a porridge-like dish, or Momos, steamed dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.

Day 3:

  • Explore the Lhasa Food Street: Wander through this vibrant street, trying traditional Tibetan snacks like yak butter tea, roasted bread (Tingmo), and local delicacies.
  • Experience Tibetan cuisine: Indulge in delicious Tibetan cuisine on the streets of Lhasa, like a steaming bowl of Thukpa (noodle soup) from a local vendor or a plate of Thenthuk (hand-pulled noodle soup) at a restaurant.

Activities:

  • Visit the Potala Palace: Take a guided tour and learn about the history and significance of this majestic structure.

Day 4:

Option A: Exploring the Spiritual Side

  • Morning: Visit the Sera Monastery for its breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Afternoon:

Things to know:

  • Dress respectfully: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

Day 5:

  • Visit the Potala Palace: Explore the Potala Palace’s unique architecture and cultural significance.

Activities:

  • Experience Tibetan Buddhism: Discover the intricate details of Buddhist practices through a visit to the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet.
  • Enjoy Lhasa’s nightlife: Visit a local bar or club for drinks, dancing, and live music.

Day 6:

  • Departure: Depart from the Potala Palace with a sense of peace and tranquility, carrying the spirit of Tibet with you.

Things to know:

  • Altitude sickness: Even if you’ve acclimated, it’s a good idea to take things easy on your last day in Lhasa and stay hydrated.
  • Cultural sensitivity: Remember to be respectful of the Tibetan culture and customs when visiting the temple.

Tips:

  • Drink plenty of water: Lhasa is at a high altitude and it is important to stay hydrated.

Accommodation (for your “Where to Stay” section):

  • Budget:
    • Lhasa Youth Hostel: Offers affordable dorm beds and private rooms, perfect for backpackers looking to connect with fellow travelers.
  • Mid-range:
    • The Barkhor Guesthouse: A traditional Tibetan guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

Food:

  • Tashi Tsering Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Tibetan dishes in a more upscale setting.
  • Tibetan Cuisine Cooking Class: Participate in a cooking class to learn the art of making traditional Tibetan food like momos (dumplings) or thukpa (noodle soup).

Day 6 Activities:

  • Lhasa Food Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene.
  • Local Markets: Explore vibrant local markets and sample fresh, local ingredients.
  • Visit a Tibetan restaurant: Try a traditional Tibetan dish like Yak Butter Tea, Tingmo (a type of steamed bread), or momos filled with yak meat and vegetables.

Remember:

  • Climate: Lhasa experiences high altitude and cold weather for most of the year. Pack warm clothes, including layers, hats, gloves, scarves, a warm hat, and warm gloves.
  • Currency: The currency in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). Make sure to have some cash on hand as ATMs are not always reliable.

Food Options:

  • The Tibetan Kitchen: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Tibetan dishes with a modern twist.
  • Tsampa Restaurant: Experience authentic Tibetan cuisine at this restaurant that specializes in the local staple, Ting.

Other Activities:

  • Explore Lhasa’s Museums: Visit the Tibet Museum or the Norbulingka Palace to learn about Tibetan history and art.

  • Visit a Local Monastery: Experience traditional Tibetan culture and spirituality firsthand by visiting a monastery and learning about their practices and rituals.

  • Shop for Traditional Crafts: Find unique souvenirs like Tibetan prayer flags, hand-carved jewelry, and intricately woven carpets in Lhasa’s bustling marketplaces.

Other things to consider:

  • Visa requirements: Tourists need a special Tibet Travel Permit to enter the region. Make sure to apply through a reputable travel agency.
  • Language barrier: While Tibetan is the official language of the region, Chinese is also widely spoken. It’s helpful to learn some basic Tibetan phrases or have a translator app handy.

Accommodation Options:

  • The Yak & Yeti Hotel: A luxurious hotel with traditional Tibetan architecture and amenities.

  • Tibet Lhasa Hotel: Located in a convenient spot for exploring the city, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a variety of dining options.

Important note: It’s crucial to be aware of the ethical considerations when traveling to Tibet. Consider researching the impact of tourism on the region and its people, and choose tour operators who prioritize responsible travel practices.