Lhasa, China-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

Places to Go:

  • Lhasa Gongga Airport: Arrive at the Lhasa Gongga Airport (LXA), located about 89 km south of Lhasa city.
  • Hotel or Guesthouse: Check-in at a hotel or guesthouse that suits your budget. Consider places in the center of town for easier access to restaurants and amenities.

Activities:

  • Acclimatize yourself to the high altitude (3,650 meters above sea level) by taking it easy. Avoid strenuous activities.
  • Explore the local surroundings, get familiar with the city’s atmosphere, and try some light physical exercise to help your body adjust.

Where to Eat:

  • Try Tibetan Cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like thukpa (a noodle soup), momos (Tibetan dumplings), or tsampa porridge. There are many restaurants near your hotel serving these meals.
  • Restaurants in Lhasa: Some popular dining options include the Lhasa Old Town Restaurant, Tibetan Kitchen Restaurant, and Momo Cafe.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: A convenient way to get around Lhasa city, but be prepared for a bit of traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Rent a Bike or Hire a Driver: For easier travel and more exploration time, consider renting a bike or hiring a local driver familiar with the area.

Things to Know:

  • Altitude Sickness: Be aware of potential altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. If severe, seek medical attention.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or monasteries, and respect local traditions by not pointing at people with your feet.

Tips:

  • Bring sunscreen for high-altitude sun exposure.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Be prepared for possible power outages and internet connectivity issues.

Day 2: Explore the Lhasa Old Town

Places to Go:

  • Jokhang Temple: A sacred temple for Tibetans, located in the heart of the old town. It’s a great place to observe local pilgrims’ activities.
  • Barkhor Street: Take a leisurely stroll around this vibrant street filled with shops selling handicrafts and local food.
  • Nagartse Monastery: A beautiful monastery known for its peaceful environment.

Activities:

  • Visit the Jokhang Temple and learn about Tibetan Buddhism from monks or pilgrims.
  • Shop for souvenirs on Barkhor Street, but be mindful of your shopping behavior due to local customs.
  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Nagartse Monastery.

Where to Eat:

  • Local Food: Continue exploring traditional dishes like tsampa porridge and momos. Try new places along Barkhor Street or in nearby alleys.
  • Restaurants near Jokhang Temple: Find cafes serving Tibetan cuisine within walking distance of the temple.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Convenient for reaching distant areas but may be crowded during peak hours.
  • Walk around the old town to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and see local life up close.

Day 3: Visit Palaces and Parks

Places to Go:

  • Potala Palace: The former residence of Dalai Lamas, offering a glimpse into Tibetan royal history.
  • Norbulingka Park: A peaceful park featuring gardens and fountains.

Activities:

  • Explore the vast complex of the Potala Palace, taking note of its architectural style and historical significance.
  • Relax in Norbulingka Park for some tranquility amidst lush greenery.

Where to Eat:

  • Cafes near Palaces: Restaurants along streets leading to these attractions serve quick bites or light meals.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: A convenient way to reach both places, though traffic may be heavy during peak hours.
  • Public Bus: A more affordable option for reaching the palaces, but plan ahead as services can be infrequent.

Day 4: Monasteries and Lakes

Places to Go:

  • Drepung Monastery: One of Tibet’s largest monastic complexes, known for its educational institutions.
  • Nam Tso Lake: Take a scenic drive or walk to the shores of this high-altitude lake.

Activities:

  • Explore Drepung Monastery’s architecture and observe daily activities within the complex.
  • Visit Nam Tso Lake for serene surroundings, offering great photo opportunities.

Where to Eat:

  • Restaurants near Monasteries: Enjoy meals at local eateries near Drepung Monastery or on your way to Nam Tso Lake.
  • Snacks by the Lake: Find vendors selling snacks around Nam Tso Lake.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: A convenient but possibly expensive option, especially if traveling between places in Lhasa city.
  • Public Bus and Hire a Car: More cost-effective for reaching monasteries and lakes outside of town.

Day 5: Market Days and Relaxation

Places to Go:

  • Lhasa Street Market: Visit this bustling street market selling everything from local food to handicrafts.
  • Kundeling Temple: Explore the tranquil atmosphere of this peaceful temple, often less crowded than others in Lhasa.

Activities:

  • Spend a day shopping for gifts or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the Lhasa Street Market.
  • Visit Kundeling Temple for peace and reflection, taking photos to capture its serene beauty.

Where to Eat:

  • Local Food: Sample street food at the market for affordable options, such as momos, thukpa, and more.
  • Restaurants nearby: Restaurants serving local cuisine in the vicinity of both attractions.

Day 6: Departure from Lhasa

Places to Go:

  • Return to your hotel to pack and check out.
  • Lhasa Gongga Airport: Depart for your next destination, reflecting on your time in this unique city.

Activities:

  • Last-minute shopping for souvenirs or trying local dishes one last time.
  • Begin your journey back home with unforgettable memories of Lhasa.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: A straightforward way to reach the airport from most areas of Lhasa.
  • Public Bus: An economical option, though timing may vary.

General Information

  • Weather in Lhasa: Check the weather forecast for your travel dates. The best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
  • Altitude Sickness Prevention Kit: Consider purchasing a kit from pharmacies or online that includes essentials like pain relievers, band-aids, and medication for altitude sickness.
  • Stay at Lower Altitudes: If feeling unwell due to altitude sickness, stay at lower altitudes until symptoms subside. Consult medical professionals if necessary.

Additional Tips

  • Language Barrier: Learn basic Tibetan phrases or carry a translation guide to communicate effectively with locals.
  • Budget and Money: Familiarize yourself with the local currency (RMB) and have enough for your stay, considering dining options and transportation costs.
  • Safety First: Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Stay informed about any local health issues.

Additional Resources

  • Official Websites: Visit official websites for attractions like Potala Palace or Drepung Monastery to learn more about their history and daily activities.
  • Online Guides: Follow travel bloggers, online forums, or social media groups focused on Lhasa travel experiences for insider tips and advice.

Remember to plan ahead according to your specific interests, budget, and time constraints. Have a wonderful journey in Lhasa!