Lhasa, Tibet-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

  • Morning: Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (also known as Lhasa Shigatse Airport)
  • Afternoon: Take a taxi or bus (around 50-70 RMB) to your hotel
  • Places to visit:
    • Jokhang Temple, one of the most sacred sites in Tibetan Buddhism
    • Barkhor Street, a pilgrimage circuit for Tibetans and tourists alike
  • Where to eat: Try some traditional Tibetan tea and snacks at one of the many street stalls or cafes on Barkhor Street
  • Where to stay:
    • Hotel Nam-tso (mid-range) - around 300-400 RMB per night
    • Hotel Shambhala (budget-friendly) - around 200-300 RMB per night
  • Things to know: Take a deep breath and get used to the high altitude (around 3,650 meters)
  • Transportation: Taxi or bus from the airport to your hotel
  • Tips: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Remove shoes when entering temples or homes.

Day 2: Explore Lhasa

  • Morning: Visit Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama ( ticket price around 100 RMB)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Norbulingka Palace, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama (ticket price around 80 RMB)
  • Places to visit:
    • Ganden Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Tibet
    • Nam-tso Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake with breathtaking views (optional day trip, around 2-3 hours by car)
  • Where to eat: Try some local Tibetan cuisine at a restaurant near Potala Palace, such as the famous “Tibetan Kitchen”
  • Where to stay:
    • Same options as Day 1
  • Things to know: Be prepared for large crowds and long lines at popular attractions like Potala Palace.
  • Transportation: Walk or take a taxi between attractions
  • Tips: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the Himalayas.

Day 3: Lhasa’s Spiritual Heart

  • Morning: Visit Sera Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Tibet (free admission)
  • Afternoon: Explore Drepung Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former seat of the Dalai Lama (ticket price around 80 RMB)
  • Places to visit:
    • Tashichho Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Tibet
    • Jokhang Temple’s surrounding streets, lined with shops selling traditional Tibetan goods
  • Where to eat: Try some local food at a restaurant near Sera Monastery, such as “Sera Restaurant”
  • Where to stay:
    • Same options as Day 1
  • Things to know: Be prepared for the high altitude and take regular breaks to rest.
  • Transportation: Taxi or walk between attractions
  • Tips: Learn some basic Tibetan phrases like “Tashi delek” (hello) and “Zangpo gyälwa” (thank you).

Day 4: Lhasa’s Cultural Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Tibet Museum, showcasing the history and culture of Tibet (free admission)
  • Afternoon: Explore the beautiful surroundings of Norbulingka Palace
  • Places to visit:
    • The Tibetan Art Museum, featuring traditional Tibetan art and crafts
    • The Nam-tso Lake area (optional day trip, around 2-3 hours by car)
  • Where to eat: Try some local snacks at a street stall near the Tibet Museum
  • Where to stay:
    • Same options as Day 1
  • Things to know: Don’t miss the stunning sunset views from Nam-tso Lake (if you take the day trip).
  • Transportation: Taxi or walk between attractions
  • Tips: Learn some basic Tibetan tea-making skills at a traditional teahouse.

Day 5: Trekking and Adventure

  • Morning: Take a guided trek to the nearby hills, offering breathtaking views of Lhasa (optional, around 200-300 RMB per person)
  • Afternoon: Visit the local market in the town of Jokhang Temple
  • Places to visit:
    • The scenic valleys and villages surrounding Lhasa
    • The majestic Himalayas, visible from many areas around Lhasa (if you take a trek or day trip)
  • Where to eat: Try some traditional Tibetan cuisine on your trekking tour
  • Where to stay:
    • Same options as Day 1
  • Things to know: Don’t forget to bring snacks and water for the trek.
  • Transportation: Take a guided trek with an experienced guide (around 200-300 RMB per person)
  • Tips: Bring your camera and binoculars to capture stunning views.

Day 6: Local Markets and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Jokhang Temple market, selling traditional Tibetan goods
  • Afternoon: Explore the shopping streets around Barkhor Street, offering a wide range of local souvenirs
  • Places to visit:
    • The famous Nam-tso Lake area (optional day trip, around 2-3 hours by car)
    • The scenic valleys and villages surrounding Lhasa (if you take a trek or day trip)
  • Where to eat: Try some local snacks at one of the many street stalls near Jokhang Temple
  • Where to stay:
    • Same options as Day 1
  • Things to know: Don’t miss the last-minute shopping for souvenirs before departing Lhasa.
  • Transportation: Taxi or walk between attractions
  • Tips: Haggle and negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.

Day 7: Departure from Lhasa

  • Morning: Spend some time relaxing in your hotel or exploring the surrounding area
  • Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for departure
  • Transportation: Taxi or bus back to the airport (around 50-70 RMB)
  • Tips: Don’t forget to exchange any remaining currency before departing Tibet.

Note: The above itinerary is a suggestion only, and you may adjust it based on your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints. Additionally, please respect local customs and traditions when traveling in Lhasa, Tibet.