Trip Itinerary

• 01 Fly: Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,650m)

  After a hearty breakfast in Kathmandu, your journey continues as you transfer to the airport and take a flight to Lhasa. Upon arrival at Gonggar Airport, your dedicated Tibet Guide will warmly welcome you. Once immigration formalities are completed, a comfortable drive will take you to Lhasa, situated at an elevation of 3650 meters. The drive to the old city lasts approximately 45 minutes.

  Upon reaching your hotel and completing the check-in process, it's recommended to take some time to rest and acclimatize to Lhasa's high altitude. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking ample fluids. This gentle adjustment period is crucial for allowing your body to adapt to the elevated altitude. It's important to note that no specific activities are scheduled for today, giving you the opportunity to unwind and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

• 02 Lhasa City Tour

  Following a nourishing breakfast, you will receive a detailed overview of the day's itinerary. An experienced guide will lead you through a captivating exploration of Lhasa's notable sites.

  • Sera Monastery: Insights into Tibetan Buddhism: Commence your day with a visit to the renowned Sera Monastery. Here, you will gain valuable insights into the core elements of Tibetan Buddhism, guided by the expertise of your knowledgeable guide.
  • Norbulingka: Dalai Lama's Summer Retreat: Your journey continues to Norbulingka, the splendid summer retreat that once hosted the Dalai Lama. This striking structure, adorned with intricate Tibetan carvings and paintings, was completed in 1956, and your guide will provide you with a glimpse into its history and significance.
  • Jokhang Temple: Cultural Heritage Unveiled: The revered Jokhang Temple awaits, offering yet another window into Tibet's rich cultural heritage. This sacred site holds deep spiritual importance, and your guide will illuminate its historical and cultural significance.
  • Barkhor Square: Lively Hub of Lhasa: Embark on a stroll through the bustling Barkhor Square, the vibrant heart of Lhasa. This central hub pulsates with activity and serves as a captivating center of local life.

  After a fulfilling day of exploration, your guide will escort you back to your hotel. Reflect on the cultural wonders you've encountered and prepare for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

• 03 Lhasa City Tour

  Begin your day with an early breakfast, ready to embark on a remarkable journey led by your guide to the captivating Potala Palace. This magnificent structure commands attention against the Lhasa skyline.

  • Potala Palace: Majestic Wonder
    Guided by your expert, you'll venture to the grand Potala Palace. Its striking presence dominates Lhasa's views. As you explore its ancient chambers, you'll be immersed in the finest Tibetan artistry. The palace boasts intricate murals showcasing Tibetan craftsmanship, alongside stunning statues that offer insights into Tibet's rich heritage. During your visit, you'll even have the privilege to witness the resting places of the eight Dalai Lamas, an experience of profound historical and cultural importance.
  • Drepung Monastery: Tranquil Sanctuary
    Continuing your exploration, you'll visit the serene Drepung Monastery. Here, you can absorb the tranquil atmosphere while observing monks and nuns engaged in spiritual practices like chanting and religious discussions. The monastery's serene surroundings further enhance the sense of peace.

  After a fulfilling day of cultural immersion, your guide will escort you back to your hotel for rest and rejuvenation. Use this time to reflect on the enriching experiences you've encountered, preparing for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

  Note: The Potala Palace has a daily visitor limit, which may affect the sightseeing order. Trust your guide to craft a captivating experience, adjusting based on the available opportunities.

• 04 Driving from Lhasa to Ganden Monastery (3,800m)

  Begin your day with an early breakfast, ready to embark on a remarkable journey led by your guide to the captivating Ganden Monastery. 

  Ganden Monastery is situated on Wangbur Mountain, on the southern bank of the Lhasa River in Tagtse County, approximately 47 kilometers (29 miles) from Lhasa City. It ranks among the earliest and most extensive Buddhist monastic complexes in Tibet and holds a prominent position among the six renowned temples of the Gelugpa tradition, a branch of Tibetan Buddhism. Its multifaceted significance, encompassing religious, artistic, political, and cultural aspects, led to its inclusion in the National Key Cultural Relic Preservation scheme in 1961. Today, it is revered as one of the 'Three Great Temples,' alongside the Sera Monastery and the Drepung Monastery.

  After a fulfilling day of cultural immersion, your guide will escort you back to your hotel for rest and rejuvenation. Use this time to reflect on the enriching experiences you've encountered, preparing for the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

• 05 Drive to Namtso Lake. Drive back to Lhasa

  In the morning, your guide will pick you up at your hotel, and we'll head to Namtso Lake, one of Tibet's sacred lakes known for its immense size – over 70 kilometers long and 30 kilometers wide, with a depth of 35 meters at its lowest point.

  Please keep in mind that Namtso Lake is situated at a high altitude of 4730 meters, so it's essential to acclimatize in and around Lhasa for a few days before visiting to avoid altitude sickness, which can be a concern for overnight stays by the lake.

  During the day, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning beauty of Namtso Lake, including its ever-changing watercolors. This remarkable lake is not only the world's highest but is also sustained by rain and melted snow from the surrounding mountains. Moreover, Namtso is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site, home to the Zhaxi Temple. A visit to this enchanting lake is a must for anyone exploring Tibet.

• 06 Drive to Tsedang (3,658m)

  In the morning, we'll journey to Tsedang, the capital of Shannan Prefecture, southeast of Lhasa. After a scenic 2.5-hour drive, we'll reach Yumbulhakhang, the first Tibetan king's historic palace atop a rocky hill. Explore relics showcasing Tibetan Buddhist history and culture while listening to monks' chants. The panoramic view of Yarlung Valley from the hill is breathtaking.

  Next, we'll visit Trandruk Monastery, built by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo over 1,300 years ago. Admire vibrant murals and precious Thangka art made with pearls, reflecting the grandeur of Songtsen Gampo's era.

  Tsedang, the capital of Shannan Prefecture, is also Tibet's fourth-largest city and is considered the Cradle of Tibetan Civilization. Our Tsedang exploration includes Yumbulakang, Tibet's first palace with ancient sculptures and paintings, and Trundruk Monastery, known for its Thangka art adorned with 29,026 pearls. We'll spend the night in Tsedang.

• 07 Visit Samye. Drive back to Lhasa

  Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and deep spirituality of Samye Monastery, Tibet's first Buddhist monastery founded in the 8th century. Climb to the top of the three-story monastery for a clear view of its unique mandala design, representing the Buddhist universe.

  The central temple symbolizes Mt. Meru, the mythical center of the Buddhist universe, while the four continents are depicted by four cardinal temples, each with two smaller temples representing islands in the ocean. Experience the profound spiritual ambiance of this sacred Buddhist site.

  If time permits, you can take a meditative walk (kora) to Hepori Hill's summit, offering a stunning panoramic view of Samye Monastery. Finally, we'll arrange your return to Lhasa.

• 08 Fly: Lhasa to Kathmandu

  After having breakfast in Lhasa, you will be driven to Gonggar Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu. Anticipate arriving in Kathmandu around mid-day. Subsequently, a transfer will be coordinated to escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu, providing a seamless and comfortable conclusion to your journey.