Lhasa 5 Day Itinerary
5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Lhasa
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
Places to Go:
- Potala Palace: The former residence of the Dalai Lama, this palace is a must-visit in Lhasa. Be sure to explore its various temples, chapels, and halls.
- Jokhang Temple: A sacred site for Buddhists, Jokhang Temple is one of the oldest and most revered places in Lhasa.
Activities:
- Walk around Barkhor Street: This historic street is a great place to experience local culture. Try some traditional snacks and explore the various shops selling Buddhist souvenirs.
- Explore the surrounding areas: Take time to walk around the nearby streets and alleys, which are filled with ancient buildings, temples, and prayer flags.
Where to Eat:
- Drak Restaurant: This restaurant serves a mix of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Try their famous Tibetan momos (dumplings) for lunch.
- Tibet Kitchen: For dinner, head to Tibet Kitchen, which offers a variety of traditional Tibetan dishes in a cozy setting.
Where to Stay:
- Lhasa Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Lhasa and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It’s also within walking distance to many attractions.
- Tibet Hotel: Another great option is Tibet Hotel, which features modern rooms with traditional Tibetan decor.
Things to Know:
- Altitude sickness: Be aware that Lhasa is located at high altitude (3,650 meters above sea level). Take time to acclimatize and drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
- Respect local culture: Remember to dress modestly and respect local customs. Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes.
Transportation:
- Walking: Lhasa is a small city, and walking is the best way to explore its narrow streets and alleys.
- Cycling: Rent a bike for a fun and environmentally friendly way to get around town.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available but be aware that many drivers may not speak English.
Tips:
- Bargain when shopping: When buying souvenirs, don’t be afraid to bargain. This is a common practice in Tibet.
- Try local snacks: Lhasa has many delicious and unique snacks. Be sure to try some during your visit.
Day 2: Explore the Surrounding Areas
Places to Go:
- Nam Tso Lake: A beautiful lake located about an hour’s drive from Lhasa, Nam Tso is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Tingri: This small town is home to many ancient temples and monasteries. It’s a great place to explore Tibetan culture.
Activities:
- Visit the Nam Tso Lake: Take time to walk around the lake, try local snacks, and enjoy the scenery.
- Explore Tingri: Visit the various temples and monasteries in Tingri, which are filled with ancient artifacts and beautiful paintings.
Day 3: Cultural Experiences
Places to Go:
- Ganden Monastery: This monastery is one of the largest and most important in Tibet. Be sure to explore its many chapels and halls.
- Tashi Lhunpo Monastery: Another great place to visit, Tashi Lhunpo is home to many ancient artifacts and beautiful paintings.
Activities:
- Attend a prayer ceremony: Experience Tibetan culture by attending a prayer ceremony at one of the monasteries. Be sure to dress modestly and respect local customs.
- Try traditional Tibetan medicine: Visit a local doctor who practices traditional Tibetan medicine, which is known for its unique healing methods.
Day 4: Nature and Adventure
Places to Go:
- Nam Tso Lake (again!): Take time to explore the surrounding area of Nam Tso Lake. Try some water sports or simply relax in nature.
- Kangpa La Pass: This mountain pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for hiking and photography.
Activities:
- Try water sports at Nam Tso Lake: Rent a boat or try your hand at water skiing.
- Hike to Kangpa La Pass: Take time to hike to the top of Kangpa La Pass, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure
Places to Go:
- Barkhor Street: This historic street is a great place to buy last-minute souvenirs or try some traditional snacks.
- Potala Palace (again!): Take time to revisit Potala Palace, which is one of the most important sites in Tibet.
Activities:
- Do some last-minute shopping: Try to find some unique souvenirs or gifts for your friends and family.
- Prepare for departure: Make sure you have all necessary documents and plan your transportation back home.