Lhasa, China-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Lhasa’s Spiritual Heart

Morning (8:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Jokhang Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Explore the temple’s intricate architecture and see the famous Jowo Sakyamuni statue.
  • Barkhor Circuit: A sacred path surrounding the Jokhang Temple, where you can walk clockwise while reciting prayers or taking in the sights.

Activities:

  • Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of Tibetan pilgrims performing prostrations and circumambulations around the Barkhor Circuit.
  • Consider hiring a guide for a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and historical context surrounding these sites.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 6:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Potala Palace: The former residence of the Dalai Lama, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its grandeur and explore its many rooms filled with artifacts.
  • Norbulingka: A former summer palace for the Dalai Lamas. Admire its architecture and learn about the history behind it.

Activities:

  • Be prepared for crowds of tourists and locals visiting these sites, especially during peak season.
  • Take breaks to rest your feet and enjoy some refreshments at one of the cafes nearby.

Evening (7:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

Where to Eat:

  • Mingma’s Kitchen: For authentic Tibetan dishes in a cozy setting. Try their momos and thukpa.
  • Tibetan Restaurant near Jokhang Temple: Offers a variety of traditional Tibetan cuisine.

Transportation:

  • Walk or take a taxi from your hotel to the various destinations listed above, as traffic can be unpredictable in Lhasa.

Tips & Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples.
  • Bring layers for changing weather conditions; it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop significantly at night.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your day.

Day 2: Exploring Lhasa’s Natural Beauty

Morning (8:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Nam Tso Lake: A sacred lake in a beautiful natural setting. It’s ideal for picnics, photography, and reflection.
  • Drak Yerpa Cave: A cave complex carved into the side of a mountain, offering scenic views.

Activities:

  • If you have time, consider taking a horseback ride around Nam Tso Lake or hike to one of its many scenic spots.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery and perhaps even catch some local wildlife like Tibetan antelopes.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 6:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Tsang Tsong Temple: A temple dedicated to a saint known for his wisdom. It’s located on the way back from Nam Tso Lake.
  • Sera Monastery: One of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet, where you can see monks debating and performing rituals.

Activities:

  • Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and its practices by attending a monk debate or watching a ritual at Sera Monastery.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Tsang Tsong Temple and take time to reflect on your journey so far.

Evening (7:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

Where to Eat:

  • Nam Tso Lake: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy eating by the lake. Alternatively, you can try some Tibetan snacks from street vendors.
  • Sera Monastery’s Tea House: For a simple dinner in a serene environment.

Transportation & Tips:

  • Consider hiring a car or joining a guided tour for the day to visit Nam Tso Lake due to its remote location and unpredictable road conditions.
  • Be mindful of your physical condition when hiking to scenic spots around Nam Tso Lake, as the altitude can be challenging.
  • Respect local customs at Tsang Tsong Temple and Sera Monastery.

Where to Stay

Lhasa offers a wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some recommended options include:

  • The Tibet Hotel: A hotel located near Jokhang Temple, offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
  • Ganden Hotel: Situated in the heart of Lhasa, providing easy access to main attractions and good dining options.

Additional Tips

  • Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid any issues related to tap water consumption at high altitudes.
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and bring a portable charger for your devices.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers altitude sickness, as the high elevation in Lhasa can be unpredictable.

Getting There & Around

The closest airport is Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA), which receives flights from major cities across China. From the airport, you can take a taxi or join a guided tour to your hotel and other destinations around Lhasa.

Note: This itinerary assumes normal health conditions and does not account for altitude sickness. If you experience symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, it is crucial that you seek medical attention immediately and consult with a doctor before engaging in any strenuous activities or travel plans.