Lhasa, China-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Lhasa, China

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

  • Morning: Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) and take a taxi or bus ( approx. ¥20-30) to your hotel

  • Afternoon: Visit the Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of Dalai Lama, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; entrance fee: ¥45)

  • Evening: Explore the nearby streets and try some local Tibetan snacks like “tsamba” (high-altitude tea) at Kangba Canteen or Tibetan Restaurant

  • Where to Stay: Consider staying in the city center, near the Jokhang Temple, at a hotel like Hotel Tashi Chhoeten or Gyama Hotel, which offer comfortable rooms and great service

  • Things to Know:

    • Lhasa is at an altitude of 3,650 meters; take your time to acclimatize
    • Be prepared for potential altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, nausea, or fatigue

Day 2: Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Potala Palace (open daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; entrance fee: ¥99), the former residence of Dalai Lama

  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Jokhang Temple (open daily 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM; entrance free), a sacred site for Tibetans and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Evening: Enjoy local Tibetan cuisine at Nam Tso Restaurant or Tsangzhuo Restaurant, which offer delicious dishes like “momo” (Tibetan dumplings) and “tsampa” (high-altitude tea)

  • Transportation:

    • Use the public bus system to get around Lhasa
    • Consider hiring a private car for more convenience

Day 3: Barkhor Street and Nam Tso Lake

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Barkhor Street, a popular destination for shopping, eating, and people-watching (open daily; entrance free)

  • Afternoon: Take a day trip to the nearby Nam Tso Lake ( approx. ¥80-100 per person), the highest saltwater lake in the world

  • Evening: Enjoy the sunset at Nam Tso Lake or return to Lhasa for dinner and relaxation

  • Tips:

    • Be mindful of your belongings when shopping on Barkhor Street
    • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during prayer sessions

Day 4: Tibet Museum and Shigatse Day Trip (optional)

  • Morning: Visit the Tibet Museum (open daily; entrance fee: ¥20), which showcases the history, culture, and art of Tibet

  • Afternoon (optional): Take a day trip to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet ( approx. ¥150-200 per person), known for its stunning monastery and scenic views

  • Evening: Return to Lhasa for dinner and relaxation

  • Things to Know:

    • Be prepared for potential altitude sickness symptoms during high-altitude activities

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the last morning exploring any remaining sights or shopping on Barkhor Street
  • Afternoon: Depart from Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA) and bid farewell to this enchanting city