Tibet 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Tibet Itinerary: Exploring the Roof of the World

This itinerary focuses on cultural experiences and highlights within Tibet. Remember, this is just a starting point - you can customize it based on your interests and time!

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa & Potala Palace Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Gonggar Airport (LXA) in Lhasa. Be prepared for potential altitude sickness by taking it easy upon arrival.
  • Afternoon: Acclimatize to the altitude in Lhasa. Explore your surroundings, acclimatize yourself to the thin air and enjoy the vibrant city. Visit a local market like the Barkhor Street Market to experience everyday Tibetan life or wander through the streets and explore the architecture and history of the ancient city.

Day 2: Immerse Yourself in History and Culture

  • Morning: Explore the ancient Potala Palace, the iconic former residence of the Dalai Lama.
  • Afternoon: Discover the serene beauty of Sera Monastery, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its stunning architecture and vibrant debates.

Day 3-4:

  • Day 3: Visit the Jokhang Temple, the holiest shrine in Tibet, and experience the bustling Barkhor Street with its pilgrims and vendors. Afterward, explore the ancient streets of Lhasa, immersing yourself in the city’s history and culture by strolling around and observing the local way of life.

  • Day 4: Venture beyond the city walls and visit the Drepung Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Tibet, or the breathtaking Jokhang Temple, a must-see for its architectural beauty and religious significance.

Day 5: Spiritual Journey to Jokhang Temple

  • Day 5: Visit the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

Day 5-7: Exploration Beyond Lhasa (Optional)

  • Day 6: Hike the serene trails of the Lhasa valley, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and experiencing the Tibetan culture and spirituality firsthand.

  • Day 7: Explore a local market to purchase souvenirs or traditional Tibetan goods.

  • Consider:

    • Tibetan Travel Permits: Ensure you have your Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit and any necessary additional permits for specific regions. Remember, you’ll need these to travel in Tibet!

    • Accommodation: Choose from a variety of hotels and guesthouses catering to tourists in Lhasa.

    • Transportation:

      • Lhasa: Explore the city on foot, experiencing its traditional Tibetan charm. Taxis and public transportation are readily available for venturing further.

      • Tibetan Travel Guide: Consider hiring a local guide who can help navigate the cultural nuances of the region and navigate travel logistics.

      • Altitude Awareness:

        • Acclimatize slowly and stay hydrated.
        • Avoid strenuous activity in the first few days.
        • Rest often and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.

  • Tibetan Cuisine: Indulge in traditional Tibetan dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and yak butter tea, a staple beverage with a unique flavor.

Day 3: Explore the Drepung Monastery and its history.

  • Things to know:
    • Respectful Behavior: Remember that Tibet is a deeply religious region. Dress modestly, avoid loud conversations near sacred sites, and refrain from pointing or touching monks and statues with your feet or fingers.

Day 4: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture.

  • Visit the Barkhor Street Market: Experience the vibrant cultural and spiritual heart of Lhasa.

  • Respect for the Sacred:

    • Tibetan Buddhism: Learn about the fundamental aspects of Tibetan Buddhist teachings and practices.
    • Tibetan Culture: Observe the traditional Tibetan way of life, from the monks’ daily rituals to the local markets and cuisine.

Things to consider for Days 6 & 7:

  • Tibetan Culture:

    • Monasteries: Explore the unique architecture, traditions, and art of the Tibetan monasteries.
    • Local Markets: Experience the bustling atmosphere and vibrant stalls offering traditional Tibetan goods like prayer wheels, thangka paintings, and hand-woven crafts.

Accommodation:

  • Variety: Lhasa offers a range of accommodation options for tourists, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

Things to note:

  • Tibetan Culture: Tibetan culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, with many monasteries and temples playing a crucial role in daily life.
  • Tibetan Culture:
    • Respectful Dress: Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (especially for women).
    • Photography: Be respectful of the sacred nature of the sites and people. Some locations may have restrictions on photography, so always ask before taking pictures.

Things to know:

  • Tibet Travel Regulations: Remember that Tibet has strict travel regulations for foreigners. You’ll need a special permit (Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit) to enter and travel within the region.

Important:

  • Tibetan Tourism Bureau (TTB): It is crucial to book your tour through a reputable agency, as they can help you obtain the necessary permits and navigate the complexities of traveling in this region.
  • Acclimatization: Spend some time acclimatizing to the altitude before venturing into the Tibetan plateau.

Tibetan Travel Permits:

  • Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB): This is a crucial step!

  • Tibetan Culture:

    • Travel Permit: Required for travel in Tibet, and you’ll need this even to explore Lhasa.

    • Altitude Sickness:

      • High Altitude Sickness: The T