Lhasa, Tibet-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lhasa

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Arrive in Lhasa, Tibet (elevation 3,650 meters)
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Jokhang Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. This historic temple is home to a statue of Buddha brought from India.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the surrounding streets and alleys of Jokhang Temple, which are filled with local shops selling traditional goods.

Lunch

  • Head to Café Tibet, a popular spot among locals and tourists for traditional Tibetan dishes like thukpa (noodle soup) and momos (Tibetan dumplings).

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Visit the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see, but be prepared for crowds.
  • 4:00 PM: Take some time to explore the palace’s surrounding streets and take in the views of the city.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Nyx Restaurant, which serves international cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Try their Tibetan-style BBQ!

Where to Stay

  • The Tashichho Palace Hotel is a comfortable option, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Hotel Lhasa Garden is another good choice, with cozy rooms and a peaceful atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Rent a taxi or take a ride-hailing service (such as DiDi) to get around town. Be prepared for traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • If you’re feeling adventurous, try a motorbike taxi (known as an “oto” in Tibetan).

Day 2: Visit the Barkhor and Explore Local Markets

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Barkhor Street, a sacred circuit around Jokhang Temple. This bustling street is filled with pilgrims, monks, and locals selling traditional goods.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the nearby Sera Monastery, home to some of the best butter tea and snacks in town.

Lunch

  • Try some authentic Tibetan food at Tibet Kitchen Restaurant.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Namtso Lake, a stunning spot about 90 minutes outside Lhasa. Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Dorje Drag Monastery, which is famous for its murals depicting the life of Buddha.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Tibet’s Kitchen Restaurant in Lhasa, which serves delicious Tibetan cuisine with a modern twist.

Things to Know

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try to learn some basic Tibetan phrases (such as “Tashi delek” - hello!).
  • Bring layers for the thin air, even during peak summer months.

Day 3: Explore Lhasa’s Hidden Gems

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Chokhor Valley, a hidden gem about an hour outside Lhasa. Take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Ganden Monastery, one of the six great monasteries in Tibet.

Lunch

  • Try some traditional Tibetan snacks at Tibet’s Kitchen Restaurant.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Nam Tso Lake, a stunning spot about 90 minutes outside Lhasa. Take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Taktse Monastery, which is famous for its murals depicting the life of Buddha.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Café Tibet in Lhasa, which serves delicious Tibetan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on individual preferences and time constraints. Make sure to check any necessary travel documents and health certificates before traveling to Tibet.