Lhasa, China-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lhasa

  • 9:00 AM - Arrival in Lhasa
    • Arrive at Gonggar Airport (LXA) and take a taxi or bus to your hotel
  • 10:00 AM - Potala Palace
    • Visit the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site ($20 CNY admission fee)
    • Take in the stunning views of the city from the palace’s courtyard
  • 1:00 PM - Lunch at Lhasa Kitchen
    • Try some traditional Tibetan cuisine at this popular restaurant (average cost $10-$15 CNY per meal)
    • Be sure to try the thukpa, a hearty noodle soup
  • 2:30 PM - Jokhang Temple
    • Visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, one of Tibet’s most important pilgrimage sites
    • Explore the temple complex and its many shrines and chapels
  • 5:00 PM - Barkhor Street
    • Take a leisurely walk around Barkhor Street, a historic circuit that surrounds the Jokhang Temple
    • Browse the local shops and stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs
  • 7:00 PM - Dinner at Na Cafe
    • Enjoy dinner at this cozy cafe serving a mix of Tibetan and international cuisine (average cost $15-$20 CNY per meal)

Day 2: Discovering Lhasa’s Hidden Gems

  • 9:00 AM - Namtso Lake (optional)
    • Take a day trip to the stunning Namtso Lake, located about an hour outside of Lhasa
    • Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and its surrounding mountains (cost $20-$30 CNY for transportation)
  • 1:00 PM - Lunch at Momo Cafe
    • Try some delicious momos (Tibetan dumplings) at this popular cafe (average cost $10-$15 CNY per meal)
  • 2:30 PM - Sera Monastery
    • Visit the serene Sera Monastery, a major seat of Tibetan Buddhism
    • Watch the monks engaging in debates and rituals
  • 5:00 PM - Tea House at the Tsingha Hotel
    • Relax with a cup of tea at this cozy hotel’s tea house (free admission)
    • Take in the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys

Day 3: Shopping and Departure

  • 9:00 AM - Barkhor Street Shopping
    • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts on Barkhor Street
    • Be sure to try some local snacks and drinks while you’re there
  • 12:00 PM - Lunch at the Tsingha Hotel Restaurant
    • Enjoy lunch at this hotel’s restaurant, serving a mix of Tibetan and international cuisine (average cost $15-$20 CNY per meal)
  • 1:30 PM - Departure from Lhasa
    • Take a taxi or bus back to Gonggar Airport for your departure flight

Where to Stay

  • Tsingha Hotel (4-star, average cost $60-$80 CNY per night)
  • Gangnam Hotel (3-star, average cost $40-$60 CNY per night)

Things to Know

  • Lhasa is located at a high altitude of 11,975 feet (3,650 meters), so be prepared for possible altitude sickness
  • The weather in Lhasa can be unpredictable and sudden changes are common
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and monasteries
  • Be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your surroundings

Transportation

  • Taxi: average cost $10-$15 CNY per ride
  • Bus: average cost $1-$2 CNY per ride
  • Renting a car or motorbike is not recommended due to the high altitude and unpredictable weather

Tips

  • Try some local snacks and drinks, such as thukpa and butter tea
  • Learn a few basic Tibetan phrases, such as “Kashi” (hello) and “Domo” (thank you)
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sunlight
  • Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather

Other Things of Interest

  • The annual Shoton Festival (August-September), which features traditional Tibetan music, dance, and cultural performances
  • The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the top of Potala Palace or Jokhang Temple
  • Trying some local handicrafts and souvenirs on Barkhor Street