Holy City and Holy Lake — Refresh Your Soul!
This 5-day Tibet tour is a good choice for first-time Tibet visitors who would like to not only experience the most essential Tibetan culture attractions, but also enjoy a jewel of the plateau's scenery.
Besides the classic sightseeing, we have also sought out some places for you to discover the hidden beauties of Tibet. A hotel with a great location and Potala Palace views, selected restaurants with local features, and your Tibet Travel Permits are also included.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Discover the Stories and the Secrets of Building the Potala Palace
Discover the architectural miracle when you step up into the Potala Palace. Survey the impressive Buddhist artwork housed in the palace and listen to the stories behind it. But also view the palace from a less touristy angles.
Watch Monks Debate and Take In Rock Thangka Views
Catch a unique study activity of Tibetan monks with a timely visit to Sera Monastery. A monk debate is unlikely to be seen in other monasteries. Explore the hill behind, which is usually unknown to tourists to enjoy the thangka on the big rocks and the monastery outlook.
Follow in the Footsteps of Pilgrims at Barkhor Street
Feel the piety of Tibetan people in Jokhang Temple. Experience Tibetan daily life in a local market. Get to know the history of Lhasa as you visit the most famous traditional Tibetan architecture. Enjoy a cup of Tibetan sweet tea in less-touristy Ani Tsangkhung Nunnery.
Enjoy the Unbelievable Beauty of the Holy Lake Yamdrok
Pilgrimage to the holy lake and enjoy a picnic on the bank with an great view of the lake.
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Your private driver and guide will be ready for you when you arrive in Lhasa. Sit back in a comfortable vehicle, leave the hassles to your guide, and enjoy a trouble-free transfer and check-in to your hotel.
Visit Norbulingka ("Lhasa's Summer Palace")in the morning. As you stroll in the park with the local Tibetans, the oxygenating plants might help you get used to the altitude quicker. Then visit Drepung Monastery — the biggest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Learn about the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.
In the afternoon, you'll watch monks debating over age-old scriptures in a courtyard of Sera Monastery. Enjoy the thangka-like murals painted on big rocks on the "back hill", which are overlooked by most tourists..
Pilgrimage to the Potala Palace in the morning. Discover this architectural marvel and cultural treasure-house. View the palace from four expertly-chosen angles to fully enjoy its beauty.
Enjoy a walking tour in the afternoon. Be moved by the devoted pilgrims prostrating themselves at Jokhang Temple.
Then walk along Barkhor Street to experience Tibetan daily life in a local market. Learn the history of Tibet at a Qing Dynasty ministerial office site and a wealthy merchant's residence — the Pandatsang Compound.
Finally, have a rest and enjoy a cup of Tibetan sweet tea in less-touristy Ani Tsangkhung Nunnery at the end of the day's touring.
Note: We suggest visiting the Potala Palace on the third day, just in case that you need some time to get used to the altitude after arriving in Lhasa in readiness to climb about 360 steps.
You will be driven about 2 hours from Lhasa to Lake Yamdrok. After viewing the lake from the popular platform, you will enjoy a picnic on the bank of the lake if the weather is ok.
After breakfast, your private guide and driver will take you to the airport for your departure.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Tibet Travel Permits
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: xz-1b
