Lhasa Tibet 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Tibet - Lhasa

This itinerary is designed for travelers interested in experiencing the rich culture, history, and spirituality of Lhasa.

Things To Know Before You Go:

  • Altitude Sickness: Lhasa sits at over 12,000 feet (3,650 meters). Acclimatize slowly by staying hydrated, taking it easy on the first few days, and considering altitude sickness medication.
  • Permit Requirements: Foreigners need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet. This must be obtained through a registered travel agency.

Transportation:

  • Within Lhasa: Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Walking is also a great way to explore the old city.

Accommodation:

  • Budget:
    • Lhasa Gang Gyan Hotel: Clean, basic rooms with friendly staff.
    • Tibetan Family Guesthouses: Immerse yourself in local culture by staying with a Tibetan family (arrange through your tour agency).
  • Mid-Range:
    • The Yak Hotel: Comfortable rooms with Tibetan decor and a rooftop terrace offering city views.
  • Luxury:
    • St. Regis Lhasa Resort: 5-star luxury with stunning views of the Potala Palace.

Food:

  • Local Specialties: Try momos (Tibetan dumplings), tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak butter tea, and Tibetan noodles.
  • Restaurants:
    • The Mandala Restaurant: Upscale dining with traditional Tibetan cuisine.
    • Lhasa Kitchen: Casual eatery serving a variety of dishes including Western options.

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimatization

  • Arrive in Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) and transfer to your hotel.
  • Relax and acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Stroll around Barkhor Street, Lhasa’s bustling market area, and soak in the atmosphere.

Day 2: Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama, and explore its vast complex of religious halls and royal chambers.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Tibetan spirituality at the Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most sacred temple.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner with cultural performances.

Day 3: Sera Monastery & Drepung Monastery

  • Morning: Visit Sera Monastery, known for its lively debates among monks and stunning architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore Drepung Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Tibet and home to thousands of monks.

Day 4: Day Trip to Namtso Lake

  • Take a breathtaking day trip to Namtso Lake, a high-altitude lake known for its turquoise waters and serene surroundings.
  • Enjoy hiking, photography, and soaking in the stunning scenery.

Day 5: Tibetan Medicine & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Tibetan Medical Institute to learn about traditional Tibetan medicine practices.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tibet Museum to gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan history and culture.
  • Evening: Attend a Tibetan opera performance for a unique cultural experience.

Day 6: Barkhor Street & Shopping

  • Spend the morning exploring Barkhor Street, browsing through its shops selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, and religious items.
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants along the street.

Day 7: Departure

  • Depart from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA).

Additional Tips:

  • Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of Tibetan culture and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering temples, and ask permission before taking photographs of people.
  • Bargain Respectfully: Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely and with a smile.
  • Learn Basic Tibetan Phrases: Learning a few basic Tibetan phrases will enhance your interactions with locals.

Optional Activities:

  • Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails around Lhasa, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Mountaineering: For adventurous travelers, Tibet offers opportunities for high-altitude mountaineering expeditions.
  • Photography Tours: Capture the beauty of Lhasa and its surroundings with a photography tour led by a local expert.