Lhasa, Tibet-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

  • Arrival: Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA)
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel (approximately 10-15 minutes, ¥20-30 per person)
  • Hotel: Check-in at Hotel Shambhala or similar (starts from around ¥500 per night)
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Tibetan food at Tashi’s Restaurant, located in the heart of Lhasa Old Town
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama (¥100 per person)
    • Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Tibetan architecture
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Gyallap Cafe, a popular spot for local cuisine

Day 2: Lhasa Old Town

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your hotel or try some street food at the local market
  • Morning:
    • Visit the Jokhang Temple, one of the most sacred sites in Tibetan Buddhism (¥50 per person)
    • Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Tibetan architecture
  • Lunch: Try some more traditional Tibetan food at Tsangba Cafe
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Barkhor Street, a famous walking street that surrounds the Jokhang Temple (free admission)
    • Explore the local shops and stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and Tibetan tea
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Kailash Restaurant, serving local cuisine

Day 3: Lhasa’s Surroundings

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your hotel or try some street food at the local market
  • Morning:
    • Take a day trip to Nam Tso Lake, one of the highest salt lakes in Tibet (approximately ¥100-200 per person, including transportation and entrance fees)
    • Enjoy the scenic views and take a short hike around the lake
  • Lunch: Try some local food at the lake or bring a picnic lunch with you
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to Lhasa and visit the Sera Monastery, another famous Tibetan monastery (¥50 per person)
    • Watch a traditional Buddhist debate performance (free admission)

Day 4: Trekking

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your hotel or try some street food at the local market
  • Morning:
    • Take a trek to Tsurphu Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa Lama (approximately ¥100-200 per person, including transportation and entrance fees)
    • Enjoy the scenic views and take a short hike around the monastery
  • Lunch: Try some local food at the monastery or bring a picnic lunch with you
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to Lhasa and visit the Gyantse Fort, one of the most impressive fortresses in Tibet (¥50 per person)
    • Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Tibetan architecture

Day 5: Shopping

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your hotel or try some street food at the local market
  • Morning:
    • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts in Lhasa Old Town (free admission)
    • Visit the Tibetan Arts Museum, showcasing traditional Tibetan art and culture (¥20 per person)
  • Lunch: Try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Lhasa
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Nagqu Tibetan Cultural Center, showcasing the unique customs and traditions of Tibetans (free admission)
    • Explore the surrounding streets and alleys, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Tibetan architecture

Day 6: Departure

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your hotel or try some street food at the local market
  • Morning:
    • Visit any last-minute attractions or shops before departing Lhasa (free admission)
    • Return to the airport for your departure flight
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle bus back to the airport (approximately 10-15 minutes, ¥20-30 per person)

Things to know:

  • Altitude sickness: Be aware of altitude sickness, especially if you’re not acclimated to high altitudes. Consult your doctor before traveling.
  • Weather: Weather conditions in Lhasa can be unpredictable. Pack layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons.
  • Respect local customs: Respect the local culture and traditions by dressing modestly and avoiding photography inside temples or monasteries.

Tips:

  • Bring a camera: Don’t miss out on capturing the breathtaking scenery, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of Lhasa.
  • Try local cuisine: Experiment with traditional Tibetan dishes and enjoy the unique flavors of this fascinating region.
  • Learn some basic Tibetan phrases: Show respect for the local culture by learning to say hello (Tashi delek!), thank you (kye che), and goodbye (tashida).

Additional tips:

  • Bring a portable charger: With all the photo opportunities, your phone’s battery might drain quickly. Bring a portable charger to keep your devices charged.
  • Pack layers: Lhasa’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when exploring the city.

Hotel options:

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the season.